Best Gaming Laptops for Around $500: A Simple Guide

When looking for gaming performance on a budget, finding the right laptop for around $500 can be challenging but not impossible. While true gaming laptops typically start at higher price points, there are several options that can deliver decent gaming experiences without breaking the bank. This guide will help you understand what to expect in this price range and which models offer the best value.

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Key Features to Look for in a Budget Gaming Laptop

1. Processor (CPU)

For gaming at this price point, look for these processors:www.nytimes.com

Intel: 12th-generation or newer Core i3 or i5 processors
AMD: Ryzen 3 or 5 (7000-series or newer)
Avoid: Intel Pentium/Celeron processors or AMD dual-core A-series processors

2. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

At the $500 price point, you’ll typically find:www.rtings.com

Integrated Graphics: Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon RX Vega graphics
Entry-Level Dedicated GPUs: Some models might offer older NVIDIA GTX or entry-level MX series cards
Cloud Gaming Compatibility: Look for laptops that can handle cloud gaming services like GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming

3. Memory (RAM)

Minimum: 8GB RAM is essential for smooth gaming performancewww.nytimes.com
Upgrade Path: Check if the laptop allows for RAM upgrades in the future

4. Storage

SSD Required: Look for at least 128GB SSD storage; 256GB or 512GB is preferablewww.nytimes.com
Avoid HDDs: Hard disk drives significantly slow down game loading times

5. Display

Resolution: Aim for Full HD (1920×1080) resolution when possiblewww.nytimes.com
Refresh Rate: Most budget laptops offer 60Hz, but some may have 75Hz or 90Hz options
Panel Type: IPS panels offer better viewing angles and color reproduction

6. Build Quality and Design

Cooling: Adequate cooling is crucial even for budget gaming laptops
Keyboard: Look for comfortable key travel and responsive keyswww.rtings.com
Ports: Ensure it has enough USB ports and HDMI output for external displays

People shopping for laptops under for around 500.

Best Gaming Laptops Around $500 (2025)

1. Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51-59MT)

Price: $679.99 (occasionally on sale for under $600)www.amazon.com

Key Specifications:

Intel Core i5-13420H processor
8GB RAM
SSD storage
Decent build quality for the price

Why it’s recommended: Offers the best gaming performance in this price range, with excellent thermal management and a responsive keyboard.

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2. ASUS Vivobook 16 M1605 (2023)

Price: Around $499www.rtings.com

Key Specifications:

Decent display quality
Solid performance for casual gaming
Good keyboard and trackpad
Reliable build quality

Why it’s recommended: Offers a larger display and good all-around performance for both productivity and light gaming.

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3. Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025)

Price: $599.99www.pcmag.com

Key Specifications:

Intel Core i5-120U processor
8GB RAM
SSD storage
Gaming-optimized Chromebook

Why it’s recommended: While it’s a Chromebook, it’s specifically designed for cloud gaming services and offers surprisingly good gaming performance through platforms like NVIDIA GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

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4. HP EliteBook 840 G8

Price: Around $300www.reddit.com

Key Specifications:

Intel Core i5-1145G7 processor
16GB RAM
Intel Iris Xe graphics
256GB SSD

Why it’s recommended: While it’s a business laptop, its Iris Xe graphics can handle lighter games at 720p resolution, making it a solid budget option for casual gaming.

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5. Lenovo LOQ 15

Price: $769.99 (occasionally on sale for closer to $600)www.pcmag.com

Key Specifications:

AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor
8GB RAM
SSD storage
Gaming-focused design

Why it’s recommended: Although slightly above our target price, it offers significantly better gaming performance and is worth the extra investment if your budget allows.

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What Games Can You Play on a $500 Laptop?

A gaming laptop in the $500 range can handle:

Esports Titles: Games like League of Legends, CS:GO, Dota 2, Rocket League
Older AAA Games: Titles from 2015-2019 at low to medium settings
Indie Games: Most indie titles will run smoothly
Cloud Gaming: Services like GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming provide access to high-end games

Tips for Maximizing Gaming Performance on Budget Laptops

Optimize In-game Settings: Lower resolution and graphics settings for smoother gameplay
Keep Your Laptop Cool: Use a cooling pad to prevent thermal throttling
Close Background Applications: Ensure no unnecessary programs are running while gaming
Update Drivers: Keep graphics drivers updated for optimal performance
Consider RAM Upgrades: If possible, upgrade to 16GB RAM for better multitasking
Use Game Boosters: Software like Razer Cortex can optimize your system for gaming
External GPU Option: Some laptops with Thunderbolt support can use external GPUs for better performance (though this adds to the cost)

External Resources for Budget Gaming Laptops

Conclusion

While $500 won’t get you a high-end gaming experience, several laptops in this price range can deliver enjoyable gameplay for many titles. Focus on getting the best processor and graphics capabilities you can afford, and consider models that allow for future upgrades. With the right expectations and some tweaking of in-game settings, budget gaming laptops can provide a solid entry point into PC gaming without breaking the bank.

Remember that prices fluctuate regularly, so watch for sales that might bring higher-tier laptops into your budget range. Cloud gaming services are also becoming increasingly viable alternatives for playing demanding games on budget hardware.

By prioritizing the key components that matter most for gaming performance and being realistic about the capabilities of laptops in this price range, you can find a machine that will serve your gaming needs while staying within your budget constraints.

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