Budget gaming laptops costing less than $800 now deliver 1080p gaming with amazing efficiency.
Even low-end GPUs and high-refresh-rate monitors have become mainstream.
The laptops are handy for students, beginners, and casual gamers who want high performance without straining their wallets.
The market for affordable gaming laptops has expanded quite remarkably in recent years. In fact, over 30% of gamers who purchased a gaming laptop in 2024 opted for models priced under $800. This trend highlights the increasing popularity of budget-friendly gaming hardware.
These laptops can run modern games with ease, thanks to high-speed GPUs, faster SSDs, and high-refresh-rate screens at a relatively low price. Our curated list focuses on users looking for reliable 1080p gaming without spending more than $1,000.
The following are the top budget gaming laptops under $800 in 2025:
A more reliable entry-level gaming laptop in 2025 that frequently has a Ryzen chip with an integrated graphics card like a GTX 1650 or the like. IdeaPad Gaming 3 is a reliable option for low-end gamers, offering seamless performance across esports titles and casual AAA gaming.
ASUS has a reputation for rugged construction, high-refresh displays, and coolers. There are other configurations below the $800 budget that offer good gaming performance, entry-level graphics from next-gen technology, and a long-lasting chassis.
An old beau of low-end gamers. This laptop generally comes with a 144Hz display and a competent graphics card, which allows it to run up-to-date games at 1080p without issues. It is lauded for its highly stable thermal performance and easy-to-upgrade design.
Nitro V 15 is a less bulky version of the Acer gaming brand. Nitro V 15 maintains an affordable price while offering smooth gameplay, a brisk screen refresh rate, and a well-balanced setup suitable for students and recreational players.
Victur 15 is an entry-level performance budget gaming alternative that is both aesthetically clean and has competent hardware. Victus 15 often comes with a powerful mid-range processor and a modern GPU, making it a good option for gamers who don't need to show off.
Dell G15 is a good performer with a reliable build and an ergonomic keyboard. The low-end models are usually priced under $800 and offer a good gaming experience, with thermals optimized for long gaming hours.
Also read: Gaming on a Budget? Best Budget Gaming Laptops Under $800
There are so many options available if your are looking for powerful and efficient gaming laptops under $800. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 and Acer Nitro are excellent value models, and ASUS TUF A15 is a very affordable device with extra durability and premium functionality. If portability is important, MSI GF63 Thin is an excellent option.
For a more balanced daily use with the ability to play games, HP Victus and Dell G15 are two more worthy options. No choice will leave the user without breathtaking gaming power, and none of these laptops will strain the wallet.
1. Do gaming laptops below $800 play AAA?
Yes, most laptops can run modern AAA games at 1080p with smooth gameplay.
2. Are these laptops high-refresh displays?
Most models in this price bracket now feature 120Hz or 144Hz displays, which are ideal for esports.
3. Do bargain gaming laptops have a good battery life?
Its battery life is mostly average since gaming hardware draws more power than a normal laptop.
4. Is it possible to expand the RAM or storage?
The majority of low-end gaming laptops can be upgraded with RAM and SSD, which are known to enhance performance in the long run.
5. Do these laptops also suit students?
Indeed, the laptops are excellent for schoolwork, consuming media, and gaming, making them multifunctional.