10 Best Gaming Laptops Under 500 Dollars

A high-end gaming laptop is quite expensive, especially if you want to buy the latest and greatest.

However, most people think more practically, and this is where the best gaming laptops come in at under $500. The majority of people cannot afford to buy a new laptop for gaming purposes at exorbitant prices, as it’s an unnecessary expenditure. You only have a brief window of time to play AAA games at high settings on a gaming laptop system before you have to upgrade again. This is why budgeting is important.

But if you do not mind about fidelity concerns, then you can get a pretty decent gaming laptop for $500 that can handle several PC games perfectly well. 

Will all of them look great and perform well? Most probably not but they are still fun to play with. As a matter of fact, the best gaming laptops under $500 will give you maximum bang for your buck when playing games online or offline.

Finding the best gaming laptops under $500 was not an easy task. I had to look for the kind of hardware you can get with that kind of budget. Having that in mind, I chose the individual picks based on third-party reviews and customer feedback.

Here are quick tips for buying a gaming laptop:

  • Prefer GPU Over CPU: As games heavily rely on image rendering, the choice between GPU and CPU is crucial, given its impact on graphics. A robust GPU translates to an enhanced gaming experience. While CPUs excel in multitasking, a powerful GPU is essential for optimal gaming performance. For budgets under $500, one can expect top-performing AMD Ryzen 5 processors, known for their excellence in gaming.
  • RAM: Although GPUs play a significant role in gaming laptops, RAM is a factor worth considering. In the sub-$500 range, one can anticipate a minimum of 8GB, which is sufficient for gaming.
  • Storage: Adequate storage is essential for storing games and ensuring smooth system performance. Having ample free memory also contributes to overall device speed. For budgets under $500, an average storage capacity of 256GB can be expected.
  • Keyboard: Keyboards hold significant importance in gaming laptops, as they are integral to the gaming experience. A high-quality keyboard is crucial, given gamers’ strong connection with their laptops. The precision of your keystrokes directly impacts your gaming performance. Opting for mechanical keyboards is advisable, as they are durable and excel under the pressure of gaming.

The following are some gaming laptops under $500 that you can go for and still have enjoyable gaming.

Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-5155

Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-5155 Green PC

Specifications:

  • CPU: Quad-core Intel Core i7-1195G7
  • Memory: 8GB DDR4
  • Graphics: Intel Iris Xe
  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1920×1280 IPS
  • Operating System: Windows 11
  • Networking: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
  • Biometrics: fingerprint reader
  • Battery life: 7.5 Hours
  • Dimensions: 14.3 x 9.4 x 0.7 inches
  • Measured weight: 3.97 pounds

Review:

An excellent option for gamers seeking a laptop under $500 is the Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-5155. Your gaming experience will be outstanding because of the great specifications it possesses.

 Eco-friendly laptop:

This laptop is made with some recycled materials, which demonstrates that Acer really wanted to make an effort. For example, this is one of Acer’s greenest laptops, as they have already shown their commitment to sustainability. This way, they recycle and thus prevent solid waste from polluting the environment.

Compared to other 15-inch laptops on the market, it appears more realistic. Its case has 30% PCR, while its keys are produced from 50% PCR.

In addition to being very appealing on sight, it is eco-friendly, and feels nice and firm upon touch, so people would wonder at its beauty and toughness even from afar.

Let us now talk about the processor. This laptop is a beast, no doubt; it is in the form of an 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1155G7. It runs heavily loaded games without any stuttering or lag, hence providing an amazing performance. Additionally, there are intelligent Iris Xe Graphics, which ensure that you have clear images and more beautiful colors to make your gaming experience more life-like.

This laptop also contains a 15.6″ FHD IPS display. You can achieve accurate and realistic colors by having 100% sRGB coverage. Whether you are playing intense multiplayer matches or exploring huge open worlds, this enhances the visual quality and overall gaming experience.

Similarly, it has 8 GB of RAM. E.g., larger capacity multitasking can take place where you can easily play games without interruptions even when running multiple applications at the same time.

In addition, it boots quickly and loads games faster due to its 256GB SSD storage; hence, one can enjoy uninterrupted playing with their favorite titles.

Thus, this gaming laptop seems like a heavyweight by virtue of its powerful processor, crisp display, and spacious storage. For any serious gamer who requires high performance and affordability, this laptop is the best option.

It also comes with such features as a fingerprint reader for added security and convenience, a battery life of 7.5 hours and it weighs only 3.97 pounds, making it light to carry around.

Nevertheless, among higher-end gaming laptops such as the Acer Predator Helios 300, this is not the most powerful spec-wise; however, the Acer Aspire Vero offers acceptable gaming within budgetary constraints. Note that you probably need to play around with game settings to maximize performance, depending on the limitations of your hardware resources.

To sum up, if you are on the hunt for gaming laptops under $500, then you should consider getting yourself an Acer Aspire Vero for sure.

Acer Aspire 3

acer 2023 Newest Aspire 3 Laptop, 15.6” FHD IPS Touchscreen Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7520U Processor

Specifications:

  • Screen size: 15.6 inches
  • RAM memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 512GB
  • Operating system: Windows 11
  • Processor model: AMD Ryzen 5
  • Graphics/GPU: AMD Radeon 
  • Dimensions: L x W x H (inches): 14.29 x 9.35 x 0.74 inches
  • Product Weight: 3.92 pounds
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth

Check for the best prices

Review:

This Acer Aspire 3 laptop has remained almost the same over generations but it is not all bad. It is a good, low-cost entry-level machine.

This laptop is not for gaming like many other Acer laptops, but having a few games on this machine and playing them occasionally won’t hurt.

Firstly, it comes with a 15.6“ FHD IPS touch screen display that has a clear and immersive display. Because of its low refresh rate, the graphics are not very good for gaming.

The AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor will be an excellent choice for someone on a tight budget for gaming. It outperforms the i7-1165G7 which is quite impressive. With this processor, you can easily run any game without any delays and play most modern games on medium to low settings.

When it comes to casual gaming or multitasking, the 8GB RAM size is relatively okay.

 Nevertheless, if you are going to play demanding games or open multiple programs at once, then it may be better to increase your RAM so that you can have a smoother experience.

This gaming laptop falls under the $500 price range. That will, of course, limit the number of games you can play.

The 512GB SSD enables fast storage and quick loading times, which are really important in gaming. You will not experience any slowdown issues when installing your games the way you choose. 

Additionally, the AMD Radeon Graphics are not as powerful as dedicated gaming graphics cards but they can handle less complex games and old titles quite well too. These lower-specification games shall provide smooth game play with reasonable frame rates.

In general, it’s a very affordable laptop with great battery life for task handling and even light gaming, but if you are a heavy gamer, you need to upgrade your choice in that case.

Check for the best prices

MSI Modern laptop (highly suitable for gaming)

MSI Modern 14 FHD Laptop Intel Core i5-1155G7 Processor

Specifications:

  • Screen size: 14 inches
  • RAM memory: 16GB DDR4
  • Operating system: Windows 11
  • Processor: Intel core i5
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Product dimension: 14.13 x 9.49 x 0.78 inches
  • Item weight: 3.75 pounds
  • Graphics: Intel Iris Xe graphics

Check for the best prices

Review:

MSI is mostly known for its gaming laptops and this new brand is a suitable choice for both gaming and small businesses. Nevertheless, here we are mainly concerned with gaming laptops under $500 and my research indicates that they are much better in terms of gaming speed than the above-mentioned laptops.

MSI Modern 14 is an excellent choice for people who want a powerful laptop that is still affordable. It has a thin 14-inch display; hence, it strikes the best balance between being portable and productive at the same time.

One of its standout features is the enormous 16GB RAM capacity, which ensures quick operation and seamless multitasking performance. Be it using multiple applications concurrently or gaming during your leisure time, this laptop will handle it all.

It works on Windows 11; therefore, you get to enjoy various new features and a friendly interface. It’s perfect for both work and play.

With an Intel Core i5 processor powering the MSI Modern 14, the computer can process commands quickly and effectively. It is ideal for light office work or gaming because of its responsiveness and smooth operation. 

You will have more than enough space on a 512GB SSD to store all of your documents, files, and games. You don’t have to worry about running out of space any time soon!

In terms of dimensions, the MSI Modern 14 measures 14.13 x 9.49 x 0.78 inches, which makes it small enough to carry around easily with one hand. Not only that, but its weight is only roughly 3.75 pounds, so you will not feel heavy carrying it around with you everywhere you go.

MSI Modern 14 is also very good in terms of its battery life. In light usage such as web browsing and productivity using Chrome or watching videos via the Netflix app. This is quite impressive for a laptop with this size and weight.

The MSI Modern 14 is by no means a gaming-focused machine, though its Intel Iris Xe graphics do offer decent visuals for less graphics-intensive games like Asphalt 9: Legends. 

For those who want a device that can also be used for casual gaming, this is the most suitable option.

Broadly speaking, this is an excellent selection of an inexpensive and dependable laptop. The producer has added all the essential features to make it ideal for both official duties and entertainment. Actually, if you are searching for gaming laptops below $500 in price, this should be among them.

Check for the best prices

Dell Inspiron ‎3515

Dell Inspiron Laptop, 15.6 HD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 3450U Processor, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Webcam, HDMI, SD Card Reader, Wi-Fi

Specifications:

  • Screen size: 15.6 Inches
  • RAM memory: 32GB
  • Operating system: Windows 11
  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 5
  • Screen resolution: 1366 x 768 pixels
  • Product dimensions: 14.11 x 9.27 x 0.74 inches
  • Graphics: AMD Radeon

Check for the best prices

Review:

The Dell Inspiron 3515 is a highly elegant and powerful laptop. This laptop has a 15.6-inch screen, providing a good display size that makes gaming more immersive.

It runs on the AMD Ryzen 5 3450U 3rd Gen quad-core processor, making it faster and easier for you to concentrate on what you are doing. It is a heavyweight performance with light portability.

Windows 11 comes with a user-friendly interface that gives users the opportunity to use it whenever they wish to play games. It is good, whether for office work or playing games.

One of the other things that can be noted is the fact that it has AMD Radeon Vega graphics for a normal gaming experience.

Some of its features that make it great, among others, include its impressive RAM memory of 32GB, which ensures heavy multitasking and running the most demanding games today.

This laptop can run Fortnite, Apex Legends, Minecraft, PUBG, and GTA V – some of the biggest PC games at recommended level

Also, Dell Inspiron always comes to the minds of many gamers who have been searching for such laptops

This laptop is capable of playing most games because it has high specifications and decent graphics but it does not have a high-resolution screen; hence, consider other options if you like HD visual effects.

However, if your main focus is on buying a gaming laptop under $500, then this one can be a suitable option.

Check for the best prices

CHUWI CoreBook XPro

CHUWI CoreBook XPro Gaming Laptop

Specifications:

  •  Screen size: 15.6 Inches
  •  RAM memory: 8GB
  •  Storage: 512 GB
  •  Processor: Intel core i3
  •  Screen resolution: ‎1920 x 1080
  • Battery life: 8 hours
  • Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655
  • Operating system: Windows 11

Check for the best prices

Review:

Will $500 get you a good budget laptop? Chuwi believes that the CoreBook XPro’s fast-refresh screen and low cost could be appealing to buyers. Additionally, it is well-priced when compared to rival products, except for one major “catch.”

However, the type of processor that cannot handle heavy games makes it not ideal for gaming as such. On the other hand, light gaming might be something that is easy for this machine, given its good performance This includes a powerful Intel Core i3-1215U processor that can go up to 4.4 GHz.

Its 15.6″ Full HD display has a resolution of 1920×1080, which is the most popular resolution among gamers, thereby providing clear visuals and bright colors when playing.

Let’s be clear; this is ideal for watching videos and working. Although it’s not designed for gaming purposes or video editing, the Iris Plus Graphics 655 GPU is not very good in much else as well, but at least it doesn’t contribute to high temperatures inside the laptop as dedicated cards would.

However, Iris Plus Graphics 655 cannot handle such games as Cyberpunk 2077, God of War, or Halo Infinite properly, though it’s a bit difficult to find another game that would have such high graphics requirements today. In fact, you could play games such as Farming Simulator and Forza Horizon 5 on low settings by lowering the graphics options to the lowest possible level.

However, I understand that expensive gaming laptops may not be affordable for everyone and therefore there are many options to choose from when it comes to gaming laptops under $500, which is perfect if you only want to do some light gaming.

Also, note that you can expand the laptop’s storage size up to 1TB, meaning more space can be used for storing extra games, files, and multimedia.

The CHUWI CoreBook XPro has an optimal blend of performance, memory capacity, and display resolution, all at a reasonable price, thus making it ideal for gamers as well as general users.

Check for the best prices

Newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15″ Gaming Laptop

Newest lenovo ideapad 3

Before we dig deeper, look at this gaming laptop’s specifications to get an idea of how this will work for your gaming.

Newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 specs

  • Display size: 15.6 Inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Pixels
  • Memory: 8GB DDR4 SDRAM
  • Flash Memory Size: 256 GB SSD
  • Graphics Coprocessor: Integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 8
  • Wireless Type: Bluetooth
  • Average Battery Life (in hours): 6 Hours
  • Operating System Windows 10
  • Item Weight 3.65 pounds
  • Color Abyss Blue

As our primary focus for purchasing this laptop is gaming, we prioritize graphics over the central processing unit in gaming laptops. The latest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 features an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Quad-Core Processor, which is optimal for gaming purposes. Typically, clock speeds between 3.5 GHz and 4.0 GHz are considered favorable, and with a clock speed of 3.7 GHz, it proves highly suitable for immersive gaming experiences.

The AMD Ryzen 5 3500U competes with Intel’s 8th generation Core-i5, making it the best processor available in this price range.

Noticeably, this computer boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is ideal for an immersive gaming experience. Anything lower than that may compromise your gaming visuals.

Additionally, the gadget is equipped with 8GB of memory and a 256GB SSD, making it suitable for medium-level gaming.

While gaming laptops are not typically known for extended battery life, the newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 surprises with a robust battery, eliminating the need to plug in your laptop throughout the day. This feature allows you to take it while traveling and enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Games that could be played with AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

You can expect to play all medium-level games on this gadget, and if you don’t have an idea of which level you play on this gadget, you can take an idea from the following games. The following has been tested on AMD Ryzen 5 3500U with 8GB RAM.

  • Star Wars Squadrons
  • FIFA 21
  • Horizon Zero Dawn
  • Grounded
  • F1 2020
  • Valorant
  • Resident Evil 3
  • Doom Eternal
  • COD Warzone
  • No Man’s Sky
  • Fortnite

With the above-mentioned games, you can decide if you can play your favorite games on this gadget or not.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14″

Lenovo ideapad 3 14 inches

As we look at the specifications of Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14″ laptop we notice that there is not such a big difference between the previously discussed Newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15″ and this model.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14 inch specs

  • Display size: 14 Inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Pixels
  • Graphics Coprocessor: AMD Ryzen 5 Radeon Vega 8 Integrated Graphics
  • Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Wireless Type: 802.11ac
  • Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 1
  • Number of USB 3.0 Ports: 2
  • Operating System: Windows: 10
  • Item Weight: 3.3 pounds
  • Color: Abyss Blue

At first glance, one can observe that its screen size is one inch smaller than the first item. It is essential to note that the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15″ is the newest model, available since September 6, 2020, on Amazon.

Additional ports are noticeable on this model, which may be useful for data transfer, along with an HDMI port suitable for business or educational purposes. Another distinguishing feature of this computer is the inclusion of a physical shutter for its webcam, ensuring privacy.

Apart from these variations, there is no significant difference between the two gadgets. Both laptops can be used for similar purposes. Since the primary purpose of acquiring this gadget is for gaming, it’s worth noting that this model shares the same resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 Radeon Vega 8 Integrated Graphics processor. Consequently, it can handle the same games mentioned earlier.

Considering that the AMD Ryzen 5 Vega 8 processor supports games like Star Wars Squadrons, FIFA 21, Horizon Zero Dawn, F1 2020, Resident Evil 3, and many other popular titles, this laptop has become an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts.

Moreover, this gadget is versatile and can be utilized for various purposes. For instance, if you need a computer for homeschooling your child that can also serve for gaming, this item is a compelling choice. With a 14-inch screen size and lightweight design (weighing 3.3 pounds), it proves to be a practical and convenient option for your child’s needs.

ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 Thin And Light Gaming Laptop

ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15

ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 Specs

  • Display size: 15.6 Inches
  • Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Graphics Coprocessor: Integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 8
  • Graphics Card Ram Size: 8 GB
  • Wireless Type Bluetooth, 802.11ac
  • Number of USB 2.0 Ports 1
  • Number of USB 3.0 Ports 2
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • Item Weight: 3.5 pounds
  • Color: Slate Grey
  • Computer Memory: 8GB DDR4 SDRAM
  • Flash Memory Size: 256 SSD
  • Voltage 19 volts
  • Batteries 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. (included)

If there is something related to graphics, that means you can’t miss ASUS on your list. Being at position 3 in our list doesn’t mean it’s not the best one. It’s undoubtedly one of the best gaming laptops under 500 dollars because it also has the same features as the others have.

ASUS is renowned for its gaming laptops, and if you have a preference for ASUS, then the ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 could be an excellent choice, available at $500. Since our focus is specifically on providing you with the best gaming laptops under $500, our options are limited; however, ASUS offers several other items that I would have liked to introduce to you if our budget range allowed. If you can stretch your budget to $1000, I recommend checking out the ASUS TUF review.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of ASUS laptops is their aesthetic appeal. ASUS computers are undeniably high-quality and attractive products that captivate attention.

The exclusive ErgoLift design of the ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 enhances comfort for gaming and other typing tasks. Therefore, if you require a laptop for business purposes, particularly for extensive typing tasks such as writing or handling office work, the ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 is a fitting choice.

Moreover, ASUS products are renowned for their reliability in graphics-related tasks, as ASUS consistently delivers commendable graphics. This reputation is grounded in the fact that these products are designed specifically for gaming, an arena heavily reliant on graphical elements.

For all such requirements, especially if you’re working within a budget, the ASUS F512DA-EB51 VivoBook 15 stands out as one of the finest selections under $500. It’s important to note that there are numerous other commendable options suitable for both business and gaming, such as the MSI GL65 Leopard 10SFK-062 gaming laptop and the ASUS TUF FX505DT gaming laptop. However, both of these options surpass your budget.

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

best laptops under $500

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Specs

Here are Acer Aspire 5 Slim specifications by which you can judge if it could be a good gaming laptop for you or not.

  • Display size: 15.6 Inches
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Memory Speed: 3.5 GHz
  • Graphics Coprocessor: Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3
  • Computer Memory: 4GB DDR4 SDRAM
  • Flash Memory Size: 128 SSD
  • Wireless Type: 802.11ac
  • Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 2
  • Number of USB 3.0 Ports: 1
  • Item Weight: 3.97 pounds
  • Average Battery Life (in hours): 7.5 Hours

Essentially, while it may not be marketed as a gaming laptop, the Acer Aspire 5 slim boasts some impressive features, making it a beloved choice for various experiences.

Regardless of your computing needs, if you’re in search of the best laptop under $400, the Acer Aspire 5 slim stands out due to its exceptional features. Unmatched in its category, it offers DDR4 memory, SSD storage, a backlit keyboard, a 15.6-inch screen, and a 1920 x 1080 resolution, making it an incredible all-purpose laptop, including for gaming.

However, the reason I consider it among the best gaming laptops under $500 (in fact, it’s even under $400) is not solely based on these features.

The rationale behind selecting this computer lies in its 1920 x 1080 resolution and processor speed of 3.6 GHz. Both qualities are optimal for a gaming experience, surpassing even many laptops with higher price tags that often lack such speedy processors.

The only drawback with this gadget is its relatively modest memory and storage. Fortunately, thanks to the brand, it’s upgradeable. With a cost-effective memory upgrade to 8GB, it transforms into the best gaming laptop under $500.

The next question that might arise is which games you can play with its AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual-Core Processor (Up to 3.5GHz).

Games tested on Acer Aspire 5 Slim A515-43-R19L

Even if you don’t upgrade it still it could be a great choice for casual gaming. Many games have already been tested on Acer Aspire 5 slim A515-43-R19L and found very good results. However, the games are of level.

The following games have been tested on Acer Aspire 5 A515-43-R19L.

  • Valorant
  • Dead by Daylight
  • Minecraft
  • Roblox
  • Nascar Heat 4

The games that we have mentioned are not the only games that you can play on this gadget, but the tested games can help you make an idea as to which level you can play on it.

ASUS F512JA-AS34 VivoBook 15 Thin and Light Laptop

ASUS VivoBook 15 gaming laptop

ASUS F512JA-AS34 VivoBook 15 specs

Here are the specifications of the ASUS F512JA-AS34 VivoBook 15.

  • Display size: 15.6 Inches
  • Resolution: 920 x 1080 pixels
  • Memory Speed: 3.4 GHz
  • Graphics Coprocessor: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
  • Graphics Card Ram Size: 8 GB
  • Computer Memory Type: 8GB DDR4 SDRAM
  • Flash Memory Size: 128 SSD
  • Wireless Type: Bluetooth, 802.11ac
  • Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 2
  • Number of USB 3.0 Ports: 2
  • Item model number: F512JA-AS34
  • Operating System: Windows 10 S
  • Item Weight: 3.75 pounds

As mentioned earlier, ASUS excels in graphics-related tasks, particularly gaming, making their gaming laptops highly sought after. The ASUS TUF FX505DT gaming laptop stands out as an excellent and affordable example of its gaming laptop lineup.

This laptop, available for under $500, is suitable for casual gaming, offering the necessary resolution and a graphics card that can handle casual gaming and other graphics-related tasks. However, its performance may not be ideal for playing even medium-level games.

If you are a student in need of a device for online classes, or a business professional requiring online meeting capabilities while also having a fondness for gaming, then the ASUS TUF FX505DT could be a suitable choice for your online meetings and casual gaming needs.

Conclusion

Great gaming experiences often come with dedicated graphics cards, but obtaining a laptop with dedicated graphics can be challenging due to their typically higher prices.

If you are a passionate gamer seeking a device to play professional-level games, it is advisable to exercise patience, gather additional funds, and invest in a reasonably priced gaming laptop equipped with dedicated graphics and other essential gaming specifications.

However, for individuals who find enjoyment in casual gaming or have a preference for medium-level gaming, the list mentioned above provides some of the best gaming laptops under $500.

It’s important to note that while we intentionally selected laptops under $500, prices may vary due to fluctuations in the market. For instance, the price of the HP 15 Laptop unexpectedly increased by $100 in a single day, which was quite surprising. Nevertheless, we hope that you find the best gaming laptop for your needs in our list of the best gaming laptops under $500.

Leave a Comment