Looking for an affordable gaming laptop? You’re in luck! Even with a budget of $1500 or less, you can still find powerful machines for a great gaming experience. In this guide, we’ll look at the best gaming laptops under $1500, focusing on three important factors.
- Graphics Power: A good graphics card (GPU) is crucial for smooth visuals. Look for options like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600M for great performance.
- Processing Power: Aim for CPUs like the Intel Core i7-12650H or AMD Ryzen 7 5800H for smooth gameplay. They can handle complex calculations in games.
- Balance: Consider a laptop with 16GB of RAM (recommended) for multitasking and a 512GB SSD for fast loading times and enough space for your games.
To understand these factors further, we suggest checking out our detailed “Buying Guide” section.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $1500 Table
Best Gaming Laptops under $1500 CPU GPU RAM Buy Now
MSI 2023 Cyborg Gaming Laptop Intel 12th Gen Core i7 12650H NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB 64 GB DDR5 4800 MHz Check On Amazon
Acer Nitro 17 Gaming Laptop AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS Octa-Core NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB 16 GB DDRS Check On Amazon
ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop Intel Core i7-13650HX NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 6GB 16 GB DDRS 4800 MHz Check On Amazon
Dell G15 5530 Gaming Laptop Intel Core i7-13650Hx NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB GDDR6 16 GB DDR5 4800 MHz Check On Amazon
ASUS TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 16 GB DDR5 4800 MHz Check On Amazon
HP Victus Gaming Laptop Intel Core i5-13420H NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 32GB 32GB DDR4 SDRAM Check On Amazon
Razer Blade 15 Base Gaming Laptop Intel Core i7-10750H 6-Core NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti 16GB 16 GB DDR4 Check On Amazon
Best Gaming Laptops under $1500 Reviews
Go through the detailed reviews of our list of the best gaming laptops and select your ideal option as per your needs.
1. MSI 2023 Cyborg Gaming Laptop
Experience superior gaming with the MSI 2023 Cyborg Gaming Laptop. Featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD display and a swift 144Hz refresh rate, enjoy smooth visuals for an immersive gaming session. Powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, it delivers outstanding graphics performance.
Equipped with an Intel 12th Generation Core i7 12650H processor and 64GB DDR5 RAM, multitask effortlessly, even with demanding games. Store all your files on the spacious 2TB PCIe SSD storage.
Stay connected with HDMI, USB A, and USB-C ports, along with Wi-Fi 6 for uninterrupted online gaming. Elevate your gaming experience with the MSI 2023 Cyborg Gaming Laptop.
Best Features:
- Engaging 144Hz FHD IPS-Type Display
- Exceptional Graphics Performance with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
- Powerful Intel 12th Generation Core i7 Processor
- Ample 64GB DDR5 RAM
- Spacious 2TB PCIe SSD Storage
Pros:
- Stunning visual experience with a high refresh rate display.
- Top-notch graphics performance for immersive gameplay.
- A powerful processor and ample RAM ensure smooth multitasking.
- Spacious SSD storage provides ample space for files and applications.
Cons:
- Higher price and slightly heavier option compared to some competitors.
- Limited port selection and shorter battery life.
2. Acer Nitro 17 Gaming Laptop
The Acer Nitro 17 Gaming Laptop is built to meet the demands of gaming enthusiasts who crave high-performance gear. It packs a punch with the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU featuring DLSS 3 technology. Whether you’re gaming casually or competing online, this laptop delivers exceptional performance.
Its 17.3-inch Full HD display boasts a speedy 165Hz refresh rate for smooth, immersive gameplay. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS Octa-Core Processor, it reaches up to 5.1GHz for demanding games. Stay connected with Wi-Fi 6E for lightning-fast internet speeds.
The laptop’s cooling system includes dual fans, dual intakes, and a quad-exhaust port design to efficiently dissipate heat. Customize your experience with the 4-zone RGB keyboard and control fan speeds, lighting, and performance with the NitroSense app.
Best Features:
- Cutting-edge AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processor
- Lightning-quick 17.3″ FHD IPS Display with 165Hz Refresh Rate
- Powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU with DLSS 3 Technology
- 16GB DDR5 Memory and 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD for Swift Performance
- Next-Gen Cooling System for Optimal Thermal Management
Pros:
- Exceptional gaming performance with top AMD Ryzen processor and NVIDIA GPU.
- Fast screen for smooth gameplay.
- Lots of memory and storage options for multitasking.
- Keeps cool with an advanced cooling system.
Cons:
- Some users complained about the noise of the laptop while operating.
- Minor issues with the RGB lighting software and heatsink.
3. ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop
ASUS Rog and its gaming laptops can be another great option if you are looking for something premium and powerful that can easily handle all PC games.
This ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop is a powerhouse engineered to take your gaming to the next level. With Windows 11, a formidable 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX processor, and the cutting-edge NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, this laptop offers unmatched performance for even the most demanding titles.
Multitask swiftly with 16GB of DDR5-4800MHz memory and speed up loading times with 512GB of PCIe 4×4 storage. The ROG Intelligent Cooling system with Thermal Grizzly’s Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal ensures optimal thermal management for sustained performance over extended gaming sessions.
Best Features:
- Windows 11 and Intel Core i7-13650HX for Unmatched Performance
- Lightning-quick 16″ FHD Display with 165Hz Refresh Rate
- Advanced NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU for Exceptional Graphics
- DDR5 Memory and PCIe 4×4 Storage for Swift Multitasking
- ROG Intelligent Cooling System with Liquid Metal Thermal Grease
Pros:
- Great gaming with Windows 11 and Intel Core i7 processor.
- Fast and aesthetic screen for smooth gameplay.
- Exceptional graphics with advanced GPU.
- Stays cool for extended gaming sessions.
Cons:
- Limited availability of ports for connectivity.
- Some users reported minor software compatibility issues with certain games.
4. Dell G15 5530 Gaming Laptop
This Dell G15 5530 Gaming Laptop stands out as one of our top picks for several reasons. Firstly, its 15.6-inch Full HD display offers vivid visuals with sharp detail and rich colors, providing an immersive viewing experience.
Powered by the robust Intel Core i7-13650HX processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM, this laptop delivers speedy performance, allowing you to multitask effortlessly and enjoy smooth gaming sessions. With a generous 1TB SSD storage capacity, you’ll have plenty of space to store all your games, apps, and media files without worrying about running out of storage.
Additionally, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU with 8GB of GDDR6 memory ensures exceptional graphics performance, bringing your games to life with stunning visual effects and seamless frame rates.
Best Features:
- Vibrant 15.6-inch FHD Display for Stunning Visuals
- Powerful Intel Core i7-13650HX Processor for Lightning-fast Performance
- Ample 16GB DDR5 RAM for Seamless Multitasking
- Spacious 1TB SSD Storage for Ample Space
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU for Exceptional Graphics Performance
Pros:
- Powerful processor and lots of RAM for smooth gaming.
- Bright, colorful display for immersive gaming.
- Big SSD storage for lots of games and media files.
- Great graphics performance for lifelike visuals.
Cons:
- Charging cord issues for battery recharge.
- Some users reported minor issues with cooling during intense gaming sessions.
5. ASUS TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop
The ASUS TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop offers an immersive gaming experience with its expansive 17.3-inch Full HD display and swift 144Hz refresh rate. Powered by the potent AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM, multitasking is smooth and seamless. With a generous 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, there’s ample space for all your games and files.
Equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, this laptop delivers exceptional graphics performance, ensuring lifelike visuals and smooth frame rates for your games and multimedia. Despite its slightly heavier design, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 (2023) offers impressive performance and storage capabilities.
Best Features:
- Expansive 17.3-inch FHD Display with 144Hz Refresh Rate for Fluid Visuals
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS Processor for Lightning-fast Performance
- Spacious 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD Storage for Ample Space
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU for Exceptional Graphics Performance
Pros:
- Advanced connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6 for fast internet.
- Ample 16GB DDR5 RAM for Seamless Multitasking
- Sleek design and durable construction.
Cons:
- A slightly heavier design may not be as portable for on-the-go gaming.
- Higher price point compared to some competing models.
6. HP Victus Gaming Laptop
If you’re looking to enhance your gaming sessions, consider the HP Victus Gaming Laptop 2023. Its 15.6-inch Full HD display with a fast 144Hz refresh rate ensures clear visuals and smooth gameplay.
Equipped with an Intel Core i5-13420H processor and 32GB of RAM, it offers reliable performance for gaming and multitasking. With a generous 2TB SSD storage capacity, you’ll have plenty of room for your games, media, and files. Stay connected on the go with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth capabilities.
Best Features:
- Vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD Display with 144Hz Refresh Rate for Crisp Visuals
- Powerful Intel Core i5-13420H Processor for Superior Performance
- 32GB RAM for Seamless Gaming
- Spacious 1TB SSD Storage for Storing Games, Media, and Files
Pros:
- Superior gaming performance with Intel Core i5 processor and 32GB of RAM.
- Crisp visuals and smooth gameplay with the 144Hz refresh rate display.
- Ample storage space for storing games, media, and files.
- Enhanced connectivity options with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth.
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a larger display size for a more immersive gaming experience.
- Limited availability of ports for connecting external devices and peripherals.
7. Razer Blade 15 Base Gaming Laptop
Now, let’s talk about Razer—a top-tier brand known for its high-quality gaming peripherals and laptops. If you’re in the market for premium gaming gear, Razer is worth considering.
The Razer Blade 15, for instance, features a sleek 15.6-inch Full HD display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This ensures vibrant visuals and seamless gameplay. Under the hood, it’s equipped with the Intel Core i7-10750H 6-Core processor and 16GB of RAM, providing robust performance for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.
The laptop also boasts a fast 256GB SSD storage, allowing for quick system boot-ups and game loading times. Crafted from CNC aluminum and adorned with Chroma RGB lighting, the Razer Blade 15 not only performs well but also stands out with its stylish design.
Best Features:
- Sleek 15.6-inch Full HD Display with 120Hz Refresh Rate for Vibrant Visuals
- Powerful Intel Core i7-10750H 6-Core Processor for Seamless Performance
- Ample 16GB RAM for Smooth Gaming and Multitasking
- Fast 256GB SSD Storage for Quick Boot-up and Game Loading
- Stylish CNC Aluminum Build with Chroma RGB Lighting
Pros:
- Fairly great performance numbers
- Great connectivity options
- Superior CNC aluminum construction
- Powerful processor and RAM for multitasking performance.
- Fast SSD storage for quick game loading.
Cons:
- Some users reported the laptop gets too hot during extended gaming sessions.
- Limited storage capacity with only a 256GB SSD.
- Battery life doesn’t last too long.
Guide To Buying the Best Gaming Laptops Under $1500
Considering the excitement and allure of PC gaming, you may find yourself contemplating the acquisition of a new gaming rig. However, whether navigating global silicon shortages or prioritizing portability, opting for one of the top gaming laptops under $1500 can prove to be an excellent solution.
Judging by the features and specifications provided, these laptops promise impressive high-end gaming performance. For further assurance in selecting the perfect gaming laptop, delve into our detailed buying guide tailored specifically for the best gaming laptops under $1500.
1. Performance
Look for a laptop with a powerful processor (CPU) and a dedicated graphics card (GPU) to handle the demands of modern games. Aim for at least an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor, paired with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti or higher for optimal performance.
2. Display
The display is crucial for gaming immersion that impacts your overall gaming experience. Check the screen size – most gaming laptops come in 15.6-inch or 17.3-inch variants. Opt for a laptop with a high refresh rate (preferably 144Hz or higher panels) and a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution for smooth gameplay and crisp visuals, especially for high FPS gaming. Additionally, consider features like IPS panels for wider viewing angles and color accuracy. Choose the apt display for a smoother gaming experience.
3. Cooling System
Intense gaming sessions can generate a lot of heat, so it’s essential to choose a laptop with an efficient cooling system. Look for laptops with multiple heat pipes, large exhaust vents, and powerful fans to keep temperatures in check and prevent thermal throttling.
4. Processor (CPU)
The cornerstone of any gaming laptop lies in its CPU, making it imperative to opt for a robust one. A powerful CPU ensures seamless performance, allowing you to tackle demanding PC games and other multitasking without encountering any delays. Within the realm of gaming laptops, you’ll encounter CPUs such as the Intel Core i7 10th Gen 10750H or 10850H, as well as the AMD Ryzen 7 4800H. While all these options excel in gaming, the Intel Core i7 10850H and the AMD Ryzen 7 4800H stand out with their 8 cores, offering exceptional multitasking capabilities compared to their 6-core counterparts.
5. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
An indispensable component for running modern PC/laptop games is a potent graphics card. Gaming laptops under $1500 provide GPU options like the Nvidia GTX 1660Ti 6 GB, Nvidia RTX 2060 6 GB, and Nvidia RTX 2070 8 GB. Among these, the Nvidia RTX 2070 8 GB delivers the highest performance. However, if RTX support isn’t a priority, the GTX 1660 Ti 6 GB presents a compelling alternative, offering comparable performance to the RTX 2060 6 GB at a lower cost.
6. Random Access Memory (RAM)
Whether you’re diving into a resource-intensive PC game or juggling multiple applications simultaneously, having ample RAM is crucial for a seamless gaming and multitasking experience. Fortunately, these gaming laptops are typically equipped with 16GB of DDR4 RAM, which should suffice for most users. However, it’s worth noting that not all RAM units are created equal, as they can vary in terms of speed. For instance, a 3200 MHz RAM kit will deliver superior performance compared to a 2666 MHz counterpart.
7. Build Quality and Portability
Since you’ll likely be carrying your gaming laptop around, it’s essential to consider build quality and portability. Look for laptops with durable materials, ergonomic designs, and reasonable weight for comfortable gaming on the go.
8. Storage and Memory
Opt for a gaming laptop with ample storage space for your game library and other multimedia files. Solid State Drives (SSDs) offer faster load times and improved overall system responsiveness/access compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). Additionally, ensure the laptop has sufficient RAM (at least 16GB) for multitasking and smooth gaming performance. However, most budget laptops often offer 1TB storage which might slow access speeds. So, choose a gaming laptop with a 512 GB NVMe SSD that strikes a balance between speed and capacity.
9. Connectivity
Check the connectivity options for your gaming laptop, as you may need to connect external peripherals. Look for ports like USB Type-A, USB Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, and SD card readers. Laptops with multiple ports and the latest versions offer greater versatility. Consider wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for a more practical and versatile gaming experience.
10. Battery Life
While gaming laptops aren’t known for extended battery life, it’s still essential to consider battery size and performance, especially if you plan to use the laptop for tasks other than gaming. Look for laptops with decent battery capacity, offering longer life for casual use, or invest in a portable power bank for extended gaming sessions (at least 4 – 5 hours) on the go.
Verdict – By considering these factors and comparing the specifications and features of different gaming laptops under $1500, you can find the perfect balance of performance, affordability, and portability to suit your gaming needs.
Gaming Laptops Under $1500 – FAQs
Ans: Yes, they’re equipped with powerful processors and graphics cards to run modern games smoothly.
Ans: Absolutely, with ample RAM and fast processors, they handle multitasking tasks efficiently.
Ans: Yes, most come with SSD drives for faster load times and overall system responsiveness.
Ans: Yes, many gaming laptops under $1500 feature high refresh rate displays for smoother gaming experiences.
Ans: While not known for long battery life, they offer around 4-5 hours on a single charge for casual use.
Ans: Yes, they typically come with a range of ports like USB Type-A, Type-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and more for versatile connectivity.
Ans: Yes, many of them are VR-ready, offering the necessary hardware for an immersive VR gaming experience.
Ans: Yes, they’re designed with efficient cooling systems to prevent overheating during intense gaming sessions.
Ans: Yes, many gaming laptops under $1500 offer upgradeable components like RAM and storage for future enhancements.
Ans: Absolutely, with their powerful hardware, they excel in content creation tasks like video editing and graphic design.
Conclusion
With the popularity of PC gaming and gaming laptops, the market offers a plethora of choices. Fortunately, achieving excellent high-end gaming performance no longer requires breaking the bank. We’ve outlined some of the best gaming laptops under $1500, complete with their features and detailed buying guides to assist you in making the right choice. Based on this information, here are our top recommendations for the best gaming laptops under $1500:
- If looking for the Best Overall Gaming Laptop option, the MSI 2023 Cyborg Gaming Laptop will be your best option. It is powered by the robust Intel 12th Gen Core i7 12650H processor that ensures multitasking, and its 2 TB SSD storage option.
- If searching for the Best Budget-Friendly Option, you can go with the HP Victus Gaming Laptop 2023. It features a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, 2 TB storage space capacity, and an Intel Core i5-13420H processor for effective gaming and multitasking.
- If seeking a Gaming Laptop with the Latest Wi-Fi Technology, then Acer Nitro 17 Gaming Laptop will be your ideal option. Besides NitroSense software, a 17.3-inch FHD display with a 4-zone RGB keyboard, and AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS Octa-Core Processor, its wireless Wi-Fi 6E supports dual stream Wi-Fi for a quick and efficient gaming experience.
Feel free to share your queries regarding the purchase and usage of the Best Gaming Laptops under $1500 with us in the comments section below. We’ll promptly address those concerns to ensure you have a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.
