Best Gaming Laptop Under $700: Top Picks for Budget Gamers in 2023‍

The best gaming laptops under $700 are:

1. ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Laptop
2. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 - 2022
3. HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop
4. Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop
5. MSI GF63 Thin Gaming Laptop
6. HP 2022 14" FHD Laptop
7. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15.6" FHD LED Gaming Laptop
8. HP Pavilion Laptop (2022 Model)
9. ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Laptop (2022 Model)

Gaming laptops have become increasingly popular due to their portability and the ability to keep up with the latest game releases. For those gaming enthusiasts who are on a budget, finding the best gaming laptop under $700 can be quite a challenge.

With so many options available, it's essential to know what components make a reliable and high-performing machine within this price range.

The heart of any gaming laptop is the combination of the processor and graphics card. A fast processor ensures smooth gameplay, while a powerful graphics card is responsible for rendering images with minimal lag.

Within the $700 budget, it is realistic to expect a mid-range processor and decent graphics card capable of running most modern games at medium settings.

When purchasing a gaming laptop, it is also crucial to consider factors such as display quality, battery life, and storage capacity. A sharp display with good color accuracy can enhance the gaming experience, and having sufficient storage is important for keeping all your games and files organized, for an amazing experience when you play games.

Additionally, a laptop with a long battery life will come in handy when you're gaming on the go or experiencing a power outage.

After thoroughly researching and analyzing various gaming laptops in the market, I've rounded up some top contenders to help you find the perfect gaming laptop under $700 that provides excellent performance and desirable features.

Prepare to take your gaming escapades to the next level with my carefully curated selections.

Best Gaming Laptops Under $700

I've put together a list of the best gaming laptops under $700 that offer an amazing experience without breaking the bank. Check them out below!

ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Laptop

This ASUS TUF Gaming F15 is a solid gaming laptop under $700 that packs performance and reliability into a durable design.

Pros

• Powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics

• Smooth 144Hz Full HD display

• Reliable military-grade durability

Cons

• Limited battery life

• Only 8GB RAM

• No optical drive

Buy ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

As a gamer on a budget, I was pleasantly surprised by the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, especially its stunning NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics.

It delivered silky smooth gameplay for my favorite titles, and the 144Hz 15.6” Full HD display kept everything visually sharp and smooth.

Under the hood, the Intel Core i5-11400H with 12M Cache and 4.5 GHz definitely packed enough power for my multitasking needs, but I did feel the 8GB of DDR4 RAM slightly limiting at times. With a quick upgrade, though, I'm sure this machine would handle even more demanding tasks with ease.

I appreciated the ample 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage for my gaming library, and having the laptop tested against military-grade standards like drops, vibration, and extreme temperatures added some peace of mind when using it daily.

One drawback I noticed was the battery life, which didn't last too long during intense gaming sessions. However, this is quite common with powerful gaming laptops like this. Additionally, there’s no optical drive, but that's something I could live without given that most of my games are digital nowadays.

In conclusion, the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Laptop offers excellent performance and durability for gamers on a budget. With a few minor upgrades, this machine can be an excellent companion for both gaming and productivity tasks. If you're interested, also check out this list of the best laptops for World of Warcraft, too.

Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 - 2022

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for a solid gaming experience under $700.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 6600H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics

• Impressive 120Hz FHD IPS display for smooth gaming visuals

• Signature Lenovo gaming keyboard with convenient media controls

Cons

• Limited storage capacity at 256GB NVMe SSD

• Might need to upgrade RAM for better performance

• Rear I/O notch may take time to get used to

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3, and I must say, this gaming laptop is an absolute steal for under $700.

The combination of the AMD Ryzen 5 6600H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card ensures that I can enjoy smooth gaming visuals on its crisp 120Hz 15.6-inch FHD IPS screen.

The signature Lenovo gaming keyboard is a delight to use, loaded with media controls and number pad features that make gaming and multitasking a breeze.

However, I found that the 256GB storage might be insufficient for those with extensive game libraries, so consider upgrading if you need more space. Also, you may want to add more RAM to improve performance further, as it comes with 8GB of DDR5 RAM.

The rear I/O notch took some time to get used to, but I appreciate the sleek and slim design of this gaming laptop. Additionally, it has excellent battery life, enabling me to game on the go, and Rapid Charge can boost the battery by 40% in just 15 minutes when needed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a reliable gaming laptop under $700, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is an excellent choice.

With a powerful processor, stunning display, and a fantastic keyboard, you won't be disappointed with its performance. Though it may need a few upgrades to reach its full potential, it's a solid choice for gamers on a budget. If you want to stream your games while playing, check out this list of the HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop

I recommend the HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop for gamers on a budget, as it offers solid performance and a sleek design.

Pros

• Powerful 12th Generation Intel Core i5 Processor

• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics

• Comfortable backlit keyboard

Cons

• Battery life could be better

• Fans can get loud during gaming sessions

• Limited RAM (but upgradable)

Buy HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop on Amazon

In my recent experience with the HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop, I found it to be a fantastic choice for gamers looking for a budget-friendly option. The 15.6-inch FHD display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and 9 ms response time provides a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The laptop's sleek design is also a plus, as it looks modern and unobtrusive.

What I appreciate about this laptop is its upgradability, as the RAM can be expanded up to 32GB, making it even more powerful. This allows for better multitasking and running more demanding games.

However, one downside I noticed during my time using the laptop was that the battery life was not the best. The battery tends to drain quickly, especially when running demanding games, which could be an issue for those who enjoy gaming on the go.

Another downside to the HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop is the noise level of the fans during gaming sessions. While it ensures that the laptop is adequately cooled, it can get quite loud, which may be a distraction for some users. The limited RAM that comes with the laptop is also a downside, but as I mentioned earlier, it is upgradable, offering substantial room for improvement.

In conclusion, the HP Victus 15.6" Gaming Laptop is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly gaming laptop.

Its powerful processor, dedicated graphics, and sleek design make it a strong contender in this price range. However, potential buyers should be aware of all the laptops' downsides, such as the lesser battery life and loud fans, to make an informed decision.

Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop

This laptop is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers, delivering performance and features well worth the price.

Pros

• Great performance with Intel Core i5-9300H and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650

• Full HD IPS display for stunning visuals

• Upgradable memory and storage

Cons

• Comes with only 8GB of RAM, may need upgrading for demanding games

• Battery life of up to 8 hours may not be sufficient for long gaming sessions

• Weighs 4.85lbs, slightly on the heavier side for portability

Buy Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop, and boy, was I impressed with what it has to offer. The Intel Core i5-9300H processor, combined with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, ensures smooth performance even for the most demanding games. Plus, with a 15.6" Full HD IPS display, this machine provides stunning visuals that will definitely enhance your gaming experience.

While using it, I noticed that the 8GB of DDR4 RAM might be a limitation for some games, but the good news is that the Acer Nitro 5 comes with an open M.2 slot and an available hard drive bay, making it easy to upgrade the storage and memory. That definitely adds points for flexibility and future-proofing.

One thing that amazed me was how well the Acer Cool Boost technology works to keep the laptop's temperature in check during intense gameplay.

The twin fans and dual exhaust ports do a great job of dissipating heat, ensuring optimal performance and preventing uncomfortable heat build-up. The backlit keyboard, on the other hand, is a great addition for late-night gaming sessions.

Although the Acer Nitro 5 boasts a battery life of up to 8 hours, I found that it may not be sufficient for extended gaming marathons. However, the trade-off is worth it considering the performance it delivers.

It's also a bit heavier than I would like for ease of transportation, but that's a small price to pay for such a powerful machine at an affordable price.

To wrap it up, the Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop offers impressive performance and a slew of useful features at an affordable price, making it a fantastic choice for gamers on a budget. Just be prepared to potentially invest a bit more for upgrades and bear the weight if you plan on taking it on-the-go.

MSI GF63 Thin Gaming Laptop

I absolutely recommend the MSI GF63 Thin for gamers on a budget who still want a solid performance.

Pros

• Excellent value for the price

• Decent gaming performance

• Durable and quiet keyboard

Cons

• Limited storage capacity

• Battery life could be better

• No additional M.2 slot for upgrades

Buy MSI GF63 Thin Gaming Laptop on Amazon

Upon unboxing and testing the MSI GF63 Thin, I was pleasantly surprised with what it had to offer given its affordable price. It strikes a great balance between cost-effectiveness and decent performance, which is not always easy to find in budget gaming laptops.

The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics surely contributed to the enjoyable gaming experience I had using this machine.

The moment I started typing, I noticed that the keyboard was not only durable but also relatively quiet, which is a nice bonus for gaming in shared spaces. The 15.6-inch IPS display was also quite immersive with a 1920 x 1080 resolution which made my gaming session truly enjoyable.

However, I did find the 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD to be a bit limiting, especially for installing multiple games and applications. It would be wise to have an external drive handy for any extra storage needs. One downside to this laptop is that there's no M.2 slot for upgrading the storage.

During my time with the MSI GF63 Thin, I realized that the battery life could have been better. It's not a huge issue since gaming laptops are often plugged in during use for maximum performance, but it's something to keep in mind if you plan on using it on-the-go.

In conclusion, the MSI GF63 Thin is an excellent choice for those looking for a capable gaming laptop under $700. Its performance and durability make it a great value option, but be prepared to deal with limited storage capacity and an average battery life.

HP 2022 14" FHD Laptop

This gaming laptop is an affordable choice for those who want solid performance without breaking the bank.

Pros

• Impressive 14" FHD display

• Smooth performance with 32GB RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD

• AMD Radeon graphics for casual gaming

Cons

• Battery life could be better

• Sound quality with headsets might not be impressive

• May not suit hardcore gamers

Buy HP 2022 14" FHD Laptop on Amazon

The HP 2022 14" FHD laptop really surprised me with its excellent screen quality and overall performance. The display boasts an impressive 1920 x 1080 resolution, giving me great color and clarity while gaming and even for general use. For its price, I wasn't expecting such a vivid screen, so this was a pleasant surprise.

With 32GB of RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, this an excellent gaming laptop that offers smooth operation while running games and multiple programs.

I could effortlessly use it for my daily tasks and enjoy some casual gaming without experiencing lags or slowdowns. However, if you're a hardcore gamer, this might not be the perfect option for you as it is limited by the AMD Radeon graphics.

One thing I didn't quite like about this laptop was its battery life. I found myself having to charge it quite often, which can be an inconvenience for some people. Additionally, the sound quality when using headsets might not be up to the mark for some users.

Overall, the HP 2022 14" FHD laptop is a decent choice for those looking for a gaming laptop under $700. Its stunning display, smooth performance, and casual gaming capabilities make it a worthy contender in this price range. Just be prepared for the somewhat short battery life and potentially underwhelming sound quality while using headsets.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15.6" FHD LED Gaming Laptop

A solid choice for gamers on a budget, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers impressive performance and features for under $700.

Pros

• Powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i5-11300H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card

• Comfortable backlit keyboard

Cons

• Limited storage at 256GB SSD

• Not the lightest at 4.96 lbs

• Short battery life at around 6 hours

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad 3 on Amazon

Having just used the Lenovo IdeaPad 3, I can definitely say it performs well for gaming on a budget. The 11th Gen Intel Core i5-11300H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card work together to deliver a smooth gaming experience with excellent visuals.

The 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display is also anti-glare, making it easier on the eyes during those long gaming sessions.

The backlit keyboard is comfortable to use, and I found myself enjoying the tactile response when typing or gaming. While 8GB RAM might be enough for most users, you have the option to upgrade if necessary. In addition, the included USB 3.0 hub provides extra connectivity for your other gaming peripherals.

However, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is not without its drawbacks. The 256GB SSD storage may be limiting for those who have large game libraries or require space for additional files. Additionally, the laptop weighs in at 4.96 pounds, which is not the lightest in its class.

Lastly, the average battery life is estimated at around 6 hours, which may not be sufficient for those who want a gaming laptop that can last throughout the day without needing a charge.

In summary, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a great value for the same price range, offering solid gaming performance and features for under $700. While it has a few limitations, the pros definitely outweigh the cons for budget-conscious gamers.

HP Pavilion Laptop (2022 Model)

This HP Pavilion Laptop is a solid choice for gamers on a budget who need a reliable machine for light gaming and everyday tasks.

Pros

• Solid performance with Intel Celeron Quad-Core Processor

• 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking

• 1TB SSD for fast bootup and data transfer

Cons

• Basic display with only 1366 x 768 resolution

• Integrated graphics may limit gaming options

• No backlit keyboard or light-up power button

Buy HP Pavilion Laptop on Amazon

I recently started using the HP Pavilion Laptop (2022 Model), and I have to say, it packs a punch for its price range. Despite being under $700, it doesn't compromise on performance with its Intel Celeron Quad-Core Processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM.

I can easily multitask without any hiccups, making it perfect for running multiple applications or browser tabs at once.

The 1TB SSD provides speedy bootup and data transfer, which is a great advantage for a budget gaming laptop. The 15.6" HD display is decent, but the 1366 x 768 resolution may not be suitable for gamers who require vibrant, crisp visuals.

Also, the integrated graphics card might limit the range of games you can play smoothly, so keep that in mind while considering it for gaming purposes.

One thing I found slightly underwhelming was the absence of a backlit keyboard and a light-up power button, which can prove inconvenient in dimly lit environments. However, it's not a deal-breaker for me, as the laptop still offers a good overall experience.

In conclusion, the HP Pavilion Laptop (2022 Model) is a smart buy if you're looking for a budget gaming laptop with decent performance. While it may not have all the flashy features of high-end gaming laptops, it provides reliable performance and value for money.

ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Laptop (2022 Model)

The ASUS VivoBook is a budget-friendly gaming laptop under $700, perfectly suited for casual gamers seeking reliable performance.

Pros

• Powerful Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor

• 20GB DDR4 RAM for seamless multitasking

• 512GB SSD for fast boot-up and data transfer

Cons

• Display limited to HD resolution

• Lacks a dedicated graphics card

• Non-backlit keyboard

Buy ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to use this ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Laptop, and I must say, it's an impressive option for casual gamers in need of a budget-friendly option. The 10th gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor, coupled with the 20GB DDR4 RAM, ensures a smooth gaming experience without any hiccups or lag.

Although the 15.6-inch HD display may not offer the highest resolution available in the market, it still provides reasonably sharp visuals and a decent screen-to-body ratio of 83%. The anti-glare coating on the screen helps reduce reflections and eye strain, especially during extended gaming sessions.

The 512GB M.2 Solid State Drive offers enough space to store your favorite games and load them quickly, resulting in an enjoyable gaming experience.

In terms of connectivity, it's equipped with a variety of ports, including USB Type-C and HDMI. As someone who appreciates convenience and functionality, I found this laptop's versatility to be genuinely useful.

One drawback of this ASUS VivoBook is the lack of a dedicated graphics card. While the integrated Intel UHD Graphics can handle most casual games, it may struggle with more demanding titles or graphics-intensive tasks. Additionally, the non-backlit keyboard might be a drawback for those who frequently game in dimly lit environments.

In conclusion, the ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Laptop is a solid choice for casual gamers seeking an affordable gaming laptop under $700. While it isn't perfect and some compromises have been made to meet the price point, its pros outweigh the cons, ensuring a decent entry-level gaming experience.

Buying Guide

When I'm on the hunt for a gaming laptop under $700, there are some essential laptop features to keep in mind. Let me guide you through the key aspects to consider while choosing the best product for your needs.

Performance

A good gaming laptop should have enough power to run the latest games efficiently. Some important factors include the processor, graphics card, and RAM. These components should work together to deliver smooth gameplay and clear graphics.

• Processor: Look for at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent AMD Ryzen processor.

• Graphics card: A dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX or AMD Radeon GPU will provide better gaming performance.

• RAM: Aim for at least 8GB of RAM to ensure smoother multitasking and quick load times.

Display

The display can significantly impact your gaming experience. Here are a few things I look for:

• Resolution: A 1920x1080 Full HD screen is ideal to enjoy crisp graphics in games.

• Refresh rate: A higher refresh rate (such as 120Hz or higher) reduces screen tearing and provides a smoother gaming experience.

Keyboard and Touchpad

Comfortable and responsive input devices are essential for long hours of gaming. When considering a laptop's keyboard and touchpad, pay attention to:

• Key travel: A suitable key travel distance (around 1.5mm) ensures comfortable typing and improved feedback.

• Backlighting: Backlit keyboards assist in gaming sessions in low-light conditions.

Storage

While choosing the storage for your gaming laptop, opt for a balance between speed and capacity.

• Speed: A Solid State Drive (SSD) provides faster load times than a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD).

• Capacity: Keep an eye out for at least a 256GB SSD or a 1TB HDD to store several games and multimedia files.

Remember to consider all these factors while selecting a gaming laptop under $700. By focusing on these essential features, you'll likely land yourself best budget gaming laptops at a great deal that suits your needs without breaking the bank. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top gaming laptops for under $700?

In my opinion, some of the best gaming laptops under $700 include the Acer Nitro 5, ASUS TUF Dash 15, and Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3. These are affordable gaming laptops that offer solid performance and great value for your money.

What's the most affordable yet powerful gaming laptop?

The most affordable yet powerful gaming laptop that I've come across is the Acer Nitro 5. It usually costs around $600 and offers a good balance of gaming power and affordability, with specs like an Intel Core i5 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card.

How do I choose the best budget gaming laptop?

To choose a suitable gaming laptop or the best budget gaming laptop, consider the following factors: performance, display quality, keyboard and touchpad, battery life, and build quality. Always check the suitable gaming laptop's specs like the processor, GPU, RAM, storage, and screen resolution before making a decision.

What are my options for a student-friendly gaming laptop under $700?

As a student, you would want a laptop that's not only good for gaming but also excellent for productivity. Some good options for cheapest gaming laptops under $700 include the ASUS TUF Dash 15, Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3, and Dell G3 15.

Looking for gaming laptops around $600, any recommendations?

If you're searching for a gaming laptop around $600, I'd recommend checking out the Acer Nitro 5, ASUS TUF FX505DT, and HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop. These laptops offer decent gaming performance within a tight budget.

Which gaming laptop has the best performance-to-price ratio?

In my view, the ASUS TUF Dash 15 has one of the best performance-to-price ratios. It's a budget-friendly gaming laptop with powerful internals that handle most modern games without breaking a sweat.