Gaming laptops have come a long way. Gone are the days when you had to shell out a small fortune to enjoy high-quality gaming on the go.
Today, you can find a variety of gaming laptops under $1,000 that pack impressive performance, decent build quality, and enough features to keep most gamers satisfied.
In this article, I’ll dive into the best gaming laptops in this price range, highlighting their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks of The Best Gaming Laptops for Under $1,000
- Supercharged Process: The 13th Gen. Intel Core i7 processor delivers the ultimate immersive experience in gameplay, multi-task work and productivity.
- Simplistic Design: Enjoy the latest generation of Windows 11 Home for your everyday needs. *MSI recommends Windows 11 Pro for business use.
- Beyond Performance: Empower your gaming and creativity with the Nitro V 15, combining an Intel Core i7-13620H processor with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU
- More Games. More Fun. Windows is the GOAT of gaming. We have more game titles than any other OS. Windows has more triple-A game titles than any other OS, play popular releases solo or with friends – because you know victory is sweeter when its shared.
- READY FOR ANYTHING – Jump straight into the action with Windows 11, a 12th Intel Core i5-12500H processor, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU at 95W Max TGP.
- FAST MEMORY AND STORAGE – Multitask quickly with 8GB of DDR4-3200MHz memory and speed up loading times with 1TB of PCIe Gen3. Upgrading the storage is a breeze with the addition SSD slot.
- Beyond Performance: Empower your gaming and creativity with the Nitro V 15, combining a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13420H processor with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU
- More Games. More Fun. Windows is the GOAT of gaming. We have more game titles than any other OS. Windows has more triple-A game titles than any other OS, play popular releases solo or with friends – because you know victory is sweeter when its shared.*
- READY FOR ANYTHING – Jump right into the action with Windows 11, an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 Laptop GPU (up to 70W TGP with Dynamic Boost).
- SWIFT MEMORY AND STORAGE – Multitask faster with 8GB of DDR5-5600MHz memory and speed up loading times with 512GB of PCIe 4.0.
- [High Speed RAM And Enormous Space] 16GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive allows to fast bootup and data transfer
- [Processor] Intel Core i5-12450H Processor (8 Cores, 12 Threads, 12MB L3 Cache, Base Frequency at 1.5 GHz, Up to 4.4 GHz at Max Turbo Frequency), NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 (4 GB GDDR6)
- 【ENGINEERED FOR SPEED】The KAIGERR 2025 RX16 laptop is equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor (8C/16T, up to 4.9GHz), delivering superior performance and responsiveness. This upgraded hardware ensures a smooth experience, fast loading times, and high-quality visuals. It provides an immersive, lag-free experience. Its performance is far moere than 30% better than AMD R7 5700U/5800U/5825U/6600HX.
- 【16″ High-Definition IPS Screen】With its wide color gamut and high refresh rate, this laptop delivers smoother visuals and sharper detail, offering a more vivid and accurate representation than standard displays. This enhanced clarity brings a stunning and immersive visual experience, making every scene more dynamic.
- 【Memory & Storage】16GB high-bandwidth DDR5 RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 512GB PCIe M.2 Solid State Drive allows to fast bootup and speedy data transfer
- 【AMD Processor】AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS ( 3.3 GHz base clock, up to 4.55 GHz max boost clock, 16 MB cache, 6 cores, 12 threads)
- 【AMD Ryzen 5 6600H 660M 6 nm Processor 6 Cores】 Powered by the cutting-edge AMD Ryzen 5 6600H 660M 6 nm ( 6 Cores 12 Threads, based at 3.3 GHz , up to 4.5 GHz). 660m GPU built by the modern 6nm process，have 6 GPU cores and 1900mhz out performance.Get the Job Done with Ease, Fast, Sleek, and Portable.
- 【15.6 FHD IPS & Fingerprint 】This 15.6 inch Nimo laptop computer features an innovative thin-bezel display that provides more usable onscreen space for immersive FHD viewing. Fingerprint Reader with built-in fingerprint sensor on the touchpad, there’s no need to type in your password every time-just a single touch is all it takes.
- 【Enhanced Your Experience】The ACEMAGIC 2025 AX16PRO laptop is equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor (8C/16T, up to 4.3GHz), delivering superior performance and responsiveness. Experience buttery-smooth browse, instant app launches, and seamless multitasking – whether you’re crushing AAA titles or streaming high-res content. Say goodbye to lag spikes and hello to uninterrupted domination.
- 【16.1″ High-Definition IPS Screen】With its wide color gamut and high refresh rate, this laptop delivers smoother visuals and sharper detail, offering a more vivid and accurate representation than standard displays. This enhanced clarity brings a stunning and immersive visual experience, making every scene more dynamic. From shadowy RPG dungeons to sunlit racing tracks, enjoy pixel-perfect clarity that keeps you laser-focused on victory.
- 【Born For Speed】 ACEMAGIC AX16PRO laptop is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor (8C16T, up to 4.3GHz). Its performance is powerful, not only does it process faster to unleash your work/study potential, but it can also handle multiple tasks at the same time. Make your work and life more efficient, easier, and happier.
- 【Unique & Practical Design】 This traditional laptop computer is designed with the metal shell that effectively resists pressure and shock, making it sturdy and durable. The 16.1-inch high-definition computer screen brings you a more comfortable use. The backlit keyboard and numeric keypad allow you to operate with ease at your fingertips.
- Purposeful Design: Travel with ease and look great doing it with the Aspire’s 3 thin, light design.
- Ready-to-Go Performance: The Aspire 3 is ready-to-go with the latest AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor with Radeon Graphics—ideal for the entire family, with performance and productivity at the core.
The Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000
This list represents some of the most balanced and budget-friendly gaming laptops currently available. Each model has been chosen for its unique strengths, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Acer Nitro V 16 – Best overall
Why we like the Acer Nitro V 16
The Acer Nitro V 16 offers a fantastic mix of power, design, and affordability. Equipped with a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, this laptop handles most modern games with ease. The 16.1-inch Full HD display provides crisp visuals, and the 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. Its cooling system also performs well under pressure, keeping the machine from overheating during intense sessions.
Who should buy the Acer Nitro V 16
This laptop is perfect for gamers who want a well-rounded experience without breaking the bank. It’s also a great choice for those who occasionally dabble in creative tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.
Pros:
- Excellent performance for the price
- 144Hz display for smooth gameplay
- Solid cooling system
- Decent build quality
Cons:
- Slightly bulky design
- Average battery life
MSI Thin GF63 (2023) – Most portable
Why we like the MSI Thin GF63
The MSI Thin GF63 is a standout for its portability. Weighing just over 4 pounds, it’s one of the lightest gaming laptops in this category. Powered by an Intel Core i5 processor and an NVIDIA GTX 1650 GPU, it delivers respectable gaming performance for casual and mid-level gamers. The thin bezels around the 15.6-inch display add a modern touch, and its compact design makes it easy to carry.
Who should buy the MSI Thin GF63
This laptop is ideal for gamers who are always on the move. Its lightweight design and decent gaming capabilities make it a great choice for students or professionals who want a gaming device that doubles as a work machine.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Sleek design
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Limited GPU power compared to competitors
- Middling battery life
Acer Nitro V 15 – Best connectivity
Why we like the Acer Nitro V 15
The Acer Nitro V 15 shines with its versatile connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, HDMI, and a Thunderbolt 4 port. This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX 3050 GPU, providing solid performance for most modern games. The 15.6-inch Full HD display is vibrant and responsive, while its RGB keyboard adds a touch of flair.
Who should buy the Acer Nitro V 15
If you value connectivity and want a machine that can handle both gaming and multitasking, the Nitro V 15 is a great choice. It’s also a solid pick for gamers who like to connect their laptops to external monitors or peripherals.
Pros:
- Excellent connectivity options
- Strong gaming performance
- RGB keyboard customization
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Fans can get loud under load
Dell Inspiron 16 Plus – If you’re willing to spend a little more…
Why we like the Dell Inspiron Plus 16 7630
The Dell Inspiron 16 Plus offers premium features at a slightly higher price point. Its Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti GPU make it capable of running demanding games and creative software. The 16-inch 3K display is a visual treat, offering excellent color accuracy and sharpness.
Who should buy the Dell Inspiron Plus 16 7630
This is a great option for gamers who want a laptop that doubles as a productivity powerhouse. It’s especially appealing to those who prioritize display quality for content creation.
Pros:
- Stunning 3K display
- Strong performance
- Premium build quality
Cons:
- Slightly over budget for some
- Heavy and bulky
Dell G16 (7630)
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i7
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060
- Display: 16-inch QHD+
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Reasons to buy
- Exceptional performance
- High-resolution display
- Robust cooling system
Reasons to avoid
- Expensive compared to others on this list
- Shorter battery life
An AMD gaming laptop under $1,000
Acer Nitro 16
Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5
- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1650
- Display: 16-inch Full HD
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Reasons to buy
- Reliable AMD processor
- Affordable price
- Decent gaming performance
Reasons to avoid
- Lower RAM capacity
- Basic design
MSI Katana 15
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Reasons to buy
- Strong performance for the price
- Solid build quality
- Ample storage
Reasons to avoid
- Plain design
- Loud fans
What to Expect From the Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000
When shopping for gaming laptops in this price range, you’ll often find models with mid-range GPUs like the NVIDIA GTX 1650 or RTX 3050. While these aren’t top-of-the-line, they’re more than capable of handling most modern games at medium to high settings. Additionally, these laptops often come with decent build quality and a range of connectivity options, though you may have to compromise on battery life and advanced features.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000: Bottom Line
Finding a gaming laptop under $1,000 doesn’t mean settling for mediocrity. With options like the Acer Nitro V 16, MSI Thin GF63, and Dell Inspiron 16 Plus, you can enjoy quality gaming experiences without exceeding your budget. Each model has its unique strengths, making it easier to find one that suits your specific needs.
Discounts on the Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000
It’s worth keeping an eye on seasonal sales and discounts, as gaming laptops frequently go on sale during events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school promotions. These sales can help you snag a better model for even less.
What you should look for in a budget gaming laptop
When shopping for a gaming laptop under $1,000, prioritize the GPU, CPU, and display quality. Ensure the laptop has at least 8GB of RAM and a fast SSD for smooth performance. Check for adequate cooling and consider the design and build quality to ensure durability.
FAQ
Are Chromebooks good gaming laptops?
Chromebooks are not ideal for gaming. While they can handle cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming, their lack of dedicated GPUs makes them unsuitable for most traditional PC games.
Can you game with integrated graphics?
Integrated graphics have come a long way, but they’re still not ideal for gaming. They can handle older or less demanding titles, but for modern AAA games, a dedicated GPU is essential for an enjoyable experience.
What size laptop is best?
The best size depends on your needs. A 15-inch laptop is a great balance of portability and screen real estate, while 16-inch or 17-inch models offer a more immersive experience but are bulkier and less portable.
