Don’t you feel like suddenly enjoying a game on your computer has turned into a hefty investment? We are all occasional gamers. In fact, some of us game more than occasionally. So, why is it so hard to find gaming laptops under 500 dollars?
If you’re a sporadic gamer, you like to end the day with a relaxing to your favorite entertainment, or you want better performance in the middle of the play-game action, this article’s for you.
You don’t need a flashy computer, nor to invest thousands in the so-called best gaming laptops to enhance your playtime experience and see your games perform better.
We’ve had so many people ask about how to better their gaming experience without making an investment that’s too hefty. This is why we’ve taken the initiative to bring you a list of laptops that will definitely see an improvement in your games.
Contents
- Essential Factor COnsideration For Best Gaming Laptops Under $500
- Best Gaming Laptop Under $500 in 2022
- 1. Acer Aspire 5 Slim – Editor’s Pick
- 2. Dell Inspiron 3567 – People’s Choice
- 3. Lenovo Signature Laptop – The Best Gaming Laptop Under 500
- 4. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – Truly A Gamer’s Choice
- 5. HP Flagship Signature Laptop – To Take Speed At Next Level
- 6. ASUS VivoBook F512DA – All You Need For Your Gaming
- 7. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop – Attention To Details
- 8. HP Stream Laptop – Best Budget Gaming Laptop Within $500
- 9. Asus Vivobook 15
- 10. ALLDOCUBE Laptop – Latest Updated Model For Best Gaming Laptops Under $500
- 11. Motile Performance Laptop – The PowerPack Performer
- How to Find The Perfect Gaming Laptop Under $500 for You
- FAQs
- 1. How much is a decent gaming laptop?
- 2. What is the most affordable gaming laptop?
- 3. Can I use my gaming laptop for everyday tasks?
- 4. What Is That One Thing That I Must Look For In My Gaming Laptop Under $500?
- 5. Is it worth buying a gaming laptop under $500?
- 6. How to make sure your gaming laptop does not heat up?
- 7. What else can a gaming laptop be used for?
- 8. Where to buy cheap gaming laptops?
- Are you ready to step up your gaming?
Essential Factor COnsideration For Best Gaming Laptops Under $500
Keyboards: Are they just secondary features?
Yes, improving your gaming experience is predominantly about finding the right graphics card and powerful processors.
However, what you see on the screen is just part of what goes on in the gameplay. You are the other main component in the formula. After all, who’s controlling the game?
Keyboards don’t get as much attention as they should as secondary features. If you’re looking for one of the best gaming laptops under 500 dollars to improve how you interact with your games, you should know a bit more about the subject.
Knowing how much technology and design lie behind a keyboard will blow your mind.
As we all know, there are plenty of so-called gaming laptops under 500 dollars but before trusting them you need to pay attention to a couple of aspects of the selection process. So let’s explore those key things.
Laptop Keyboards Vs. Gaming Keyboards
The best and most honest advice we can give to anyone looking to use a laptop as a gaming station, is to buy an external gaming keyboard. These are specifically designed to enhance your abilities as a player.
You see, keyboards made specifically for gaming are fundamentally different from those meant for just typing.
Keyboards gamers use are mechanical ones. They offer a different kind of performance when you’re in the middle of your gaming action. One of their perks is that their responsiveness is faster and more efficient. Another advantage is they can handle more simultaneous keys being pressed at the same time.
Membrane switches are usually what you find in keyboards that haven’t been designed exclusively for gaming. Don’t think for a second that these keyboards are bad, they just perform in a different way.
Protip: When looking for a keyboard, try to find one that’s backlit. We’re sure you’d like to see which keys you’re pressing when the room gets too dark.
Pay attention to the design: These are more than details
Design elements in your computer are there for more than making it look nice. In fact, engineers are also in charge of the design of your best gaming laptop under $500. The overall shape and materials that make up your computer have an impact on its performance and the user experience.
- Bezels
The bezels are more than just the material framing your screen. These little slivers of plastic or aluminium will have an enormous impact on how you perceive the visuals coming out of your display.
The rule is actually quite simple. The slimmer the bezels, the better your immersive experience.
It’s not rocket science. A wider frame surrounding your screen will separate you from what’s going on inside the screen. However, if you can get your hands on slimmer bezels, then the effect will be the opposite.
When your screen is almost as wide as the body of the laptop, it will seem the display is merely an extension of reality or vice versa.
So, this is the first thing you should look for in your nomination of gaming laptops under the 500 range.
- Portability
Slimness as a feature is not only good when it comes to the screen frame. The slimmer your laptop is, the easier it is to fit into a bag.
We’ve assumed that if you’re interested in one of the best gaming laptops under $500, you’re interested in it’s portability features. Depending on how important transportation is for you, these characteristics will rank higher in your priority list.
If you’re looking to take your computer wherever you go, a slimmer and lighter laptop should be what you aim for.
Best Gaming Laptop Under $500 in 2022
1. Acer Aspire 5 Slim – Editor’s Pick
Acer Aspire 5 gaming laptop is here to let you strive for more while paying less.
Improved visuals and better performance, this is the upgrade you’ve been looking for. Acer Aspire 5 will transform your gaming moments into the experience you look forward to at the end of the day.
A Powerful Processor
This CPU’s average price was around $200 when it was first released. This is one of the reasons for which it’s shocking to find it powering a computer within this budget.
The 8th generation intel core i5 from Intel provides peak performance at clock speed. Acer Aspire 5 is perfect for multitasking without lags. You’ll stay on top of all your games and to-dos without wasting time.
Full HD IPS
What you didn’t know you needed for your gaming experience to reach a new level. The full resolution of this screen is a gem that allows the sharpest visuals in your gameplay.
The LCD panel screen of Acer Aspire 5 is perfect for maintaining the consistency of the images regardless of the viewing angle.
Long Life
The battery life of Acer Aspire 5 is as powerful as they come when talking about gaming laptops that perform at peak.
You’ll get over nine hours of swift performance while playing your favorite games. You won’t ever fall behind your deadlines when your gaming laptop stays awake, no matter how long you carry it for.
- The CPU is a 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8265U, not often found in affordable computers
- 9.5 hours of battery life when performing regular everyday actions and multitasking
- A Full HD and IPS screen allows vantage viewing points, whether you’re working or playing
- The Acer Color Intelligence system provides vibrant visuals and colors that stay true to reality
- Acer TrueHarmony technology is integrated in the Acer Aspire 5 speakers so you enjoy audio improvement as well
Specifications
- Brand: ACER
- Model: Acer Aspire 5
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Processor Type: Intel Core i5
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- The initial setup process is as easy as it gets
- The 15.6 inch display renders videos from games and online streaming to perfection
- The memory can be upgraded without struggling
- Usage doesn’t slow down the performance of this best gaming laptop
- Acer Aspire 5 takes seconds to power on and start using
Cons
- The trackpad is a whole piece of hardware, so differentiating the buttons can get confusing
- The pad is so sensitive you can easily move the cursor without meaning to
2. Dell Inspiron 3567 – People’s Choice
Don’t let anyone tell you that your little moments of peace are not worth the investment.
We all want and need some personal time. Periods where we want to enjoy those things that make us feel good. If your games get you through the day, get ready to boost your everyday experience.
True-Life HD
What more could you possibly want when gaming and working? We take for granted some computers’ abilities to deliver crisp and vivid graphics in these times.
We’re so used to enhanced imagery around us, that we assume every gaming laptop offers the same. This High Definition display is a bargain for the price of this computer.
Touchscreen
A feature you might not know you need.
Your computer will be more than your gaming companion in your free time. Having the option to control your laptop directly from your screen is more than comfortable.
By giving your mousepad and keyboard a break, you’re also helping the lifespan of your gaming laptop.
Intel HD Graphics 620
Gaming computers are crazy expensive not for their flashy and extravagant looks. Gamers play for the internal hardware that runs their systems.
Having high definition graphics so you can enjoy your daily games is not to be taken for granted. This gaming laptop will improve how you experience every scenario in each gameplay.
- High definition graphics and resolution in the screen are not a given in computers this price, this is a real asset
- The Bluetooth 4.0 is an integrated technology that makes sure your wireless connection doesn’t interrupt your games
- The touchscreen feature adds to the ways you can control your gaming laptop
- A High Definition webcam and microphone are integrated into the computer
- It supports HDMI connections if you feel like mirroring your display on larger screens
Specifications
- Brand: DELL
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: Intel Core i5
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- The SSD is definitely an advantage
- It performs swiftly even if it’s loaded with bloat-ware
- With help of intel core i5 it handles medium games flawlessly, and you can push it even further
- It’s the perfect combo computer for playing and working
- It’s hard to find best gaming laptops that quick-start as this one does
Cons
- The touchscreen doesn’t feel smooth enough and sturdy
- The touchpad can seem like it’s not centered
3. Lenovo Signature Laptop – The Best Gaming Laptop Under 500
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Why would we settle for average experiences when we can have them exceed our expectations?
Don’t sweat it. You don’t have to overspend to turn your games into pure bliss. Playtime can mean occasions of joy and calm for many. Investing a little in them is investing in ourselves.
So let’s explore, what forced us to consider this among our list of some of the best gaming laptops under 500 dollar price range?
Unlocked FX Processor
When AMD released their processors for around $250, they took computing performance to another level. Having this processor in such a computer is a bonus. Well yeah, Lenovo Ideapad too has this processor; in case, you want multiple models to choose from same brand.
This unlocked processor allows you to customize your performance experience. Multi-tasking turns into multi-gaming. Your gaming laptop will be able to handle more tasks that you could’ve initially imagined.
Integrated Multimedia Readers
DVDs and CDs may be a thing of the past for many, but nor for us.
These kinds of readers are those elements you think you will never need…until you do. You might not use it often, but having the option to read multimedia is always a plus.
You won’t need to run around finding external CD or DVD readers. As soon as you’ve downloaded your media player you’re good to go.
Connectivity
This gaming laptop plays nice with the old and the new.
Running CDs and DVDs doesn’t mean that this one of the best gaming laptops comprises state-of-the-art, and much needed, connections.
On the body of the laptop, you’ll find 3 USB slots and even an HDMI cable slot so you can display your images however you want.
All in all, not only capabilities but some of the technicalities of this best gaming laptop under 500 forced us to give a thumbs up & a recommendation to our readers.
- The AMD high-performance processor grants you more performance than you will ever need
- 1 Tb of the hard drive makes your permanent memory as broad as the limits of your imagination
- The most popular computer games in the market run flawlessly and without delays
- The hardware integrates a multimedia reader for DVDs and CDs
- A wide connectivity range with three USB slots and the possibility of an HDMI connection
Specifications
- Brand: LENOVO
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: AMD Quad-Core FX-7500
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- It’s been praised by IT students as an engineer’s laptop who use it for school as well
- The storage is enough to handle medium-weight games and programs
- 15.6 Inch display gives decent graphic viewing experience.
- The battery life is really good when it’s used for regular tasks
- Long periods of daily usage don’t wear it down
- It supports dual external monitors
Cons
- It doesn’t include a Media Player program, so it has to be purchased separately
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – Truly A Gamer’s Choice
Ideas are nothing more than futile thoughts if they’re not brought into the real world. So, what is our imagination worth when it’s stuck inside a screen?
You will feel you’re living your gaming experience instead of just looking at a screen. You can get more without laying out all your savings.
Enhanced Immersion
Most of the gaming laptops under 500 dollars price range don’t have the luxury to pay too much attention to bezels. These are the sides that frame your gaming laptop’s screen.
Lenovo Ideapad laptop’s design incorporates slimmer side bezels. These are specifically designed so that you get the feeling your screen is wider than it is. You won’t be just playing your games, you’ll be living them.
Performance That Never Ends
If you’re one of those people who needs things to work well and work fast, this Lenovo IdeaPad is meant for you.
This gaming laptop AKA Lenovo Ideapad features AMD’s performance-based Radeon graphics. Nothing can go wrong. You’ll see and feel your games and workspace run swiftly. You’ll be able to get more things done in less time.
Keeping You Safe
Privacy is often sold as a luxury, when in fact it should be fundamental in technologies with access to our personal moments. Cameras can pick up video at any time, which is why this design thinks of your safety first when you pick Lenovo Ideapad.
A physical shutter is located on the Lenovo Ideapad webcam. You won’t have to worry about covering it up. Well, be honest with yourself & answer; did you expect this in your best gaming laptop under 500 price tag?
- The AMD Ryzen 5 multi-core processor offers a system that operates more efficiently in Lenovo IdeaPad
- Dual narrowed bezels to enhance the user’s screen immersion
- A physical shutter on top of the integrated webcam allows for more privacy and security
- Radeon graphics offer dedicated memory space for multimedia formats for Lenovo Ideapad
- In Lenovo Ideapad Quick and quiet modes let you choose how efficiently your system performs according to your needs
- The wireless and wired connectivity options equipped on Lenovo Ideapad will meet all your connection requirements
Specifications
- Brand: LENOVO
- Model: Lenovo Ideapad 3
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- Lenovo Ideapad exceeds expectations from gamers that pursue heavier games without crashing or lagging
- This gaming laptop has a good battery life
- The SSD along with 8GB DDR4 RAM both are both easily upgradable
- They Ryzen performs flawlessly in Lenovo Ideapad
- The size is perfect to take your games with you while playing on Lenovo Ideapad
Cons
- The screen Lenovo Ideapad can be a little too small for a truly immersive gaming experience
- You should constantly check for bloat-wear in Lenovo Ideapad
5. HP Flagship Signature Laptop – To Take Speed At Next Level
Stay within your budget and upgrade your whole reality.
Sometimes, going big or going home is overcompensating. Technology is one way of connecting to reality. This Flagship gaming laptop will guarantee better gaming. It will ensure you don’t miss out on life.
More Control
A touchpad and a stealthy keyboard are all you need to control your gaming laptop. But why would you settle for that when you can get more for the price you pay?
Well, a touchscreen laptop is not meant for your games. However, having the option to command your computer with the tip of your finger will give your keys a break from your gameplay.
Multimedia Player
You would be surprised with how many people around the world have had to re-purchase their music.
Taking songs from a CD and downloading them on your iTunes is not only possible, but it saves an incredible amount of money. This applies particularly if you have big CD collections.
We bet that CD readers have just become more interesting just now.
Signature Edition
Signature edition gaming laptops and computers are special models you will find in Microsoft shops. They are different from other gaming laptops because of how they’ve been set up.
These kinds of computers are completely clean. It doesn’t mean that they smell nice; they have a pure installation of Windows operating system without programs known as bloat-ware or apps you didn’t ask for running in the back.
- The permanent storage unit (HD memory) is 1 Tb
- The RAM can be expanded up to 32 GB for more intense gaming
- You can control your screen because of the touchscreen feature
- The signature edition guarantees you’re getting a computer with clean Windows, completely bloat-ware-free
- The connectivity ports include USBs, HDMI and an SD card slot
- This computer has been design for people on-the-go, whether it’s entertainment or work, the size and weight will never be a burden
- Battertlife of this gaming laptop goes beyond our ideal expectation.
Specifications
- Brand: HP
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: Intel Core i3
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- There is not one part of your memory spent on bloat-ware
- This is as clean as a gaming laptop can get when running programs
- Plenty of RAM as well as astonishing HD memory
- User friendly, anyone can get the hang of it in no-time
- The 15.6 inch touchscreen is astonishingly responsive for the price
Cons
- The touchpad can eventually be lacking in precision
- The speakers reproduce average sounds, not meant for enjoying game effects and soundtracks
6. ASUS VivoBook F512DA – All You Need For Your Gaming
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Vivo means alive. Life doesn’t require you to spend a lot to live it to the fullest.
This Asus machine takes care of performing, so you’re only focused on enjoying it. Relax and feel all the emotions only your games can spark within you.
Radeon Vega 3 Graphics
This processing card technology is just a couple of years old.
The architecture behind this Vega graphics card is usually better than the graphics of Intel processors with the same capacities.
This will provide stable graphics with medium games and an overall improvement in the way you experience your visuals when you’re working.
Connectivity
A wide range of connectivity is not a feature to be taken lightly.
The more options you have when it’s time to connect your gaming laptop to other devices or screens, the more expansive your experience will become.
This gaming laptop is equipped with up to 4 different USB ports (including the USB-C), an SD slot and the option of HDMI connectivity.
NanoEdge All-Around
As we’ve probably already mentioned, bezels are an important aspect of the immersion process when it comes to gaming and streaming.
The design of this computer follows an almost frameless screen. The edges are so slim that you will feel your display is an extension of the world…or perhaps, that reality is an extension of your game scenarios.
- The Radeon Vega 3 Graphics card is in charge of your image processing
- The multiple USB ports allow standard USB connections and the newer USB-C connections too
- NanoEdge bezel design on all four sides of the edges of the screen
- The matte screen is meant to prevent high glares when playing or working makes it a great gaming laptop under 500 dollars price range.
- During the initial setup of your computer, you can opt for a free trial of Office 360
Specifications
- Brand: ASUS
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 4 GB
Pros
- The SSD and the RAM surpass any storage capacity within this price range
- The battery life is above average
- Even when running heavier programs and games, it doesn’t heat up
- Not many gaming laptops include a fingerprint reader for this price
- 15.6 inch a perfect screen size; also, it’s a lightweight gaming laptop to take your games and your work with you
Cons
- The screen colors can appear faded if you’re looking for a vibrant colorful display experience
7. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop – Attention To Details
You have plenty of choices without having to break the bank.
We want to give you options you didn’t think you had. The Aspire 5 series might look the same on the outside, but the internal differences let you decide how your computer performs.
Full HD IPS Screen
This is a screen meant for every creative mind out there.
You can let your imagination run wild when it’s game time. Enjoy the highest resolution possible for this price. Watch fantastic scenarios come to life.
The IPS feature in the display lets you enjoy the view while playing or streaming from every position. It doesn’t matter where you’re looking from, your images will never be distorted.
Longer Performance
If you’re looking for a gaming laptop and not a desktop computer, then it probably means you want to take it with you. What’s the point of investing in a portable computer that won’t last for long.
You can run it for hours and still get top-notch performance with the long-lasting battery life of this computer.
Alexa Enabled
It’s quite astonishing to see a computer of this price that integrates Amazon’s Alexa technology in its system.
You won’t only be improving your gaming experience, but your life will be simplified. Having direct access to Alexa on your personal computer will take you through daily tasks in a swift manner.
More efficiency when you work, more time to play.
All in all, this best budget gaming laptop under 500 dollars price range is a complete no brainer if you’re weeling to take a true performer home for your gaming experience.
- A Full HD IPS Screen is in charge of delivering sharp visuals while permitting you to watch your screen from every possible angle
- Enjoy up to 7.5 hours of battery life when your computer is at a normal performance
- Amazon’s Alexa comes integrated in the laptop’s system
- The keyboard is backlit for a better visual experience when taking control over the gameplay
- Your games and video streaming will also get a sound boost through the Acer TrueHarmony technology
Specifications
- Brand: ACER
- Operating System: Windows 10 S
- Processor Type: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Full HD
- RAM: 4 GB
Pros
- The battery life lasts for more than a decent time
- It’s performance is incredibly fast when playing light games and work multitasking
- The backlight of the keyboard enhances the user experience
- The design is sleek and doesn’t compromise the performance features
- You have the option to overclock the Ryzen
- A truly affordable gaming laptop under 500 dollars.
Cons
- The software limits you to download from Microsoft certified or sponsored programs only
- The keypad on the keyboard can sometimes be more bothersome than helpful
8. HP Stream Laptop – Best Budget Gaming Laptop Within $500
Improve your gaming moments…and do so much more.
You don’t have to splurge on thousands of different devices to get multiple experiences. This best gaming laptop will care for your gaming moments and will improve your connections with the ones you care for.
64 GB eMMC
This might not be the first time you hear about this, but high-end computers don’t charge for what they look like. They mostly charge for the hardware in charge of how well they perform.
You will find many gaming laptop under 500 dollars range only have 32 GB eMMC, which means the performance will be significantly slower. Having access to a multimedia card that’s double that size is a good find.
Wireless 5 Connections
A Wifi 5 connection is the most innovative type of wireless connection you can get. This type of wireless technology allows communication with up to four devices simultaneously.
Bluetooth 5 is also a feature of this one of the best gaming laptops under $500. It’s the latest technology when it comes to connecting hardware, such as headphones, to your computer without the need for wires.
Diagonal Touchscreen
On-the-go takes on a new different face. The multiple ways to control your best gaming laptop will only add to the practicality of a portable computer.
Being able to command your tech by touching your screen is not only efficient. It creates a user experience that makes you feel part of what’s going on behind your display.
There are some laptops under $100 range too, but those won’t be able to serve what you’re deserving from your laptop. And, that’s the reason we’ve picked this laptop in our list for you.
- A 64 GB multimedia card is a good feature for this price range
- Wifi 5 and Bluetooth 5 wireless connections are supported
- Touchscreen grants yet another way to gain control over your gaming laptop
- It supports the operating system Windows 10 in its S mode
- The battery can last over 8 hours without needing to plug your gaming laptop back in
- The imagepad is embedded with gesture capabilities. You can use multiple fingers at the same time
Specifications
- Brand: HP
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Processor Type: AMD Dual-Core A4-9120E
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- RAM: 4 GB
Pros
- It works at peak capacity for many hours in a row
- The design of this gaming laptop is meant to be discrete for an everyday use
- It runs programs as fast as it streams visuals
- The processing power of this processor seems better than intel core i5
- The battery life is outstanding, and up to every task you throw at it
- It does more than expected for the price-point
Cons
- It’s not the best laptop for multitasking
- The exterior’s materials don’t seem durable enough
9. Asus Vivobook 15
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ASUS’s Vivobook laptops have generally proven to be among some of the best all-around laptops out there in the markets. The ASUS Vivobook 15 is one of the better options out there for anyone looking forward to buying an entry-level gaming device. While this laptop isn’t really branded as a ‘gaming’ laptop, the kind of specs that it offers allows you to play some lightweight games on it. This isn’t something for the hardcore gamer, but is certainly something that casual gamers can give a try.
Specifications: CPU/GPU/RAM/Storage
The laptop is powered by an AMD Quad-Core R3-3200U CPU, which can be compared to some top-of-the-line i3 processors from Intel. This will give you just enough power to play your games, and you can actually enjoy your gaming experience even more if you reduce the settings to consume lesser resources. Along with the AMD CPU, you also get an AMD GPU on this laptop – AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics, which is good enough for lightweight gaming purposes.
The laptop comes with 8GB of RAM, which is just about sufficient for all your basic games, as well as for regular multitasking. You also get 256 GB of SSD storage, which is better than having an HDD storage for sure. One of the best things about the storage here is that this is easily upgradable and if you ever reach a point where you might be falling short of storage, you can simply replace your SSD and put in a larger one there.
Design and Display
ASUS has really nailed it with the design style of the laptop! Their Vivobooks are usually very well-built laptops, and ASUS Vivobook 15 isn’t an exception either. The laptop carries a four-way nano-edge display which offers an 88% screen-to-body ratio with very thin bezels on the sides. The laptop makes use of a 15.6 inch full HD display, which allows you to experience all your games in a great manner. The laptop also supports a viewing angle of 178 degrees.
ASUS has taken special care here to keep the laptop lightweight. It weighs only 3.5lbs, which makes it quite easy to carry around. Another important design highlights here are the keyboard and the trackpad. The laptop comes with a backlit keyboard, which gives it a really unique appeal. It also features a nice and broad trackpad, which comes with a fingerprint scanner built into it in the top right corner. This improves security as well as allows you to make full use of the Windows Hello biometric security feature. The laptop is raised at a 2 degree angle which makes typing for long hours easier.
Battery Life, Connectivity, OS, and Other Features
ASUS Vivobook 15 comes with a USB type-C port, a USB 3.1 port, as well as a USB 2.0 port. There’s also an HDMI output and a MicroSD card reader built into the device. There is also a 3.5mm jack port that allows you to connect your headset and microphone into it. The bezels are slim here, but it doesn’t compromise on any front – the top bezel features an HD camera, making it a great laptop for video conferencing.
The laptop runs on Windows 10 OS and is very likely to get a free upgrade to Windows 11 as and when it comes along, though this hasn’t officially been confirmed yet. While the battery life isn’t specified by ASUS, most users have reported that upon moderate to heavy usage, it can last you a little over six hours. This will take a hit when you play games on it.
Summing up, this is one of the best laptops out there if you are looking for gaming laptops under $500. This is great for all your basic and lightweight gaming needs, and also a good laptop for anyone who wants to consume content and do their regular office work on it. The design factor here is one of ASUS Vivobook 15’s core strengths – this is a laptop you should give a serious thought to!
- A combination of AMD R3-3200U + AMD Radeon Vega 3 GPU
- 8GB RAM + 256 GB of expandable SSD storage
- 15.6 inch full HD display
- Backlit keyboard + trackpad with a fingerprint scanner
Specifications:
- Brand: ASUS
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: AMD R3-3200U
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- RAM: 8GB
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- The inexpensive laptop which makes a good entry-level gaming device
- Lightweight and portable weighs only 3.5 lbs
- The backlit keyboard gives it a rather appealing look
- A fingerprint scanner built on the trackpad makes sure you can use Windows Hello
- Lots of connectivity options
Cons
- The battery life will take quite a hit when you play games on it
10. ALLDOCUBE Laptop – Latest Updated Model For Best Gaming Laptops Under $500
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If you are looking for a pocket-friendly gaming laptop with stellar performance, ALLDOCUBE Laptop comes to the rescue. The laptop comes with efficient features to suit the needs of gamers, artists, and students. You can expect reliable and stable performance with this laptop, which will turn into a superfast machine while gaming.
Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
Unlike other gaming laptops at this price range, which come with older versions of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, this one comes with Bluetooth 5.1 to support fast data transfers. This is much better than laptops with Bluetooth 4.2. Concerning Wi-Fi, the laptop uses Wi-Fi 6 to support fast browsing and powerful online gaming. Play games faster with the Wi-Fi on this laptop. You will not face disruptions even when many devices join your network.
Powerful performance
The laptop uses 11th generation Intel Celeron Japerlake N5100 quad-core processor to deliver a new level of performance with reliability and speed. It comes with Intel UHD Graphics. The processor works with a clock speed of 1.1GHz-2.8GHz to enhance your gaming experience. The CPU performance of this laptop is 35% higher than the Gemini Lake chipset.
Display and keyboard
With a 14-inch full HD IPS display, you will get a decent gaming experience. The display supports 1920 x 1080 screen resolution. You can enjoy watching HD videos and playing HD games on this laptop, which will produce rich and natural colors. The keyboard is backlit to support gaming even in dim-lit environments. Even if everyone is asleep and your room lights are OFF, enjoy playing games without interruption using the backlit keyboard.
- Equipped with 11th gen Intel Celeron Japerlake N5100 quad-core processor to deliver great performance for gamers
- Comes with the latest Wi-Fi 6 to support online gaming and has Bluetooth 5.1 for fast data transfers
- The laptop has a backlit full-size keyboard with a 10000 mAh battery, which supports fast charging
- Slim metal body with sturdy construction promotes tight grip and durability
- Dual Box speaker with dual microphone produces decent sound effects for gamers
- Comes with the memory of 12GB RAM and 256GB Solid State Drive to store games
SPECIFICATIONS
- Brand: ALLDOCUBE
- Processor: 11th gen Intel Celeron Japerlake N5100
- Operating system: Windows 10 Home
- RAM: 12 GB
- Screen size: 14-inch
- Model: GTBook
Pros
- Backlit full-size keyboard is comfortable for gaming
- HD display supports 1080p videos
- Sturdy construction prevents accidental slips
- Reliable and fast performance with quality graphics
- The battery supports fast charging
Cons
- Battery life is average
11. Motile Performance Laptop – The PowerPack Performer
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Big bucks on big brands are not always the wisest solution.
You might’ve not heard of this gaming laptop before, and that is no reason to knock it off your list. See the dawn of new possibilities alongside a new companion that will surpass your expectations.
FHD Display
When you want to upgrade your entire visual experience with your gaming laptop under 500 dollars, you want the highest possible resolution.
Full High Definition allows you to enjoy your graphics with a screen of 1920×1080 pixels. This is a HD standard for any screen. This is the feature you want when looking to expand your horizons within a budget.
Gaming Keyboard
Don’t take backlit keyboards for granted.
In fact, they’re not common at all when we’re buying computers within a specific budget. Having subtle lights illuminating your keys is a feature worth mentioning when hunting for gaming laptops on a budget.
A keyboard like this one allows you to play and work without needing to shine a light on your control center.
THX Spatial Audio
In all honesty, it’s hard to believe that a gaming laptop under 500 dollars would grant access to such audio features.
THX Spatial Audio enhances your computer’s speakers. The audio quality is beyond the average of gaming laptops of any price range. This kind of sound is particularly good for gaming, you will hear the direction in which the sounds come from.
Moreover, we’re delighted to mention that it’s not just designed for gaming, in fact, gaming capabilities in this laptop is bonus while it was designed for heavy tasks like animation & video editing. Yeah, it’s a well-balanced 2-in-1 laptop out there.
- Subtle backlight on keyboard for gaming and working at all times, no matter how dark it gets
- THX Spatial Audio allows you to hear directional sounds so you can tackle your action games and strive for the win
- The FHD display guarantees good visuals when playing and when working with multimedia files
- The front IR camera provides advanced safety characteristics
- You have control over your gaming laptop through the touchscreen as well
Specifications
- Brand: MOTILE
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Processor Type: AMD Ryzen 3-3200U
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- RAM: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Pros
- The storage that it offers is plenty for light gaming
- Faster & efficient performance with 8GB DDR4 RAM.
- It exceeds performance expectations for a computer within this price range
- It’s good for high school and college students
- It doesn’t slow down even with many programs and tabs running
- The battery life lasts for a long time even when it’s being used at peak capacity
Cons
- The color that the integrated camera displays don’t always stay true to real colors
How to Find The Perfect Gaming Laptop Under $500 for You
If you’ve found your way to our article, it’s because you already have a budget in mind. Finding gaming laptops under 500 is not an impossible task, but it can be tricky to comb your way through the products.
Trust us, you don’t want to end up with a computer that simply does not deliver. We’ll walk you through a series of final steps that will help you out when making your final decision.
Think about your gaming background
Knowing the games you play will be the second step after you’ve established a budget. The reason is rather simple, you want to know what your new laptop should be able to handle.
Some games don’t take up all of the memory and don’t need a lot of processing power either. Then again, some games are on the heavier side and require the opposite.
If your games are lightweight you’ll be able to tell. Those games are the ones that don’t slow your computer as much.
Heavier games with more graphics resolution might be the ones you should keep an eye out for. These games will require as much processing power as you can get.
If your games are on the heavier side you’ll need to rethink your step two. After you’ve set a budget for yourself, look for a gaming laptop that is able to process these games. You’ll want to check for the most powerful graphics card and processors available.
Are you a multitasker?
We’ve explained a little about processing power in some of the best gaming laptops. This concept does not only apply to the types of games you’ll be playing, but the number of tasks you expect your laptop to fulfill.
If this is simply a laptop for gaming, then you won’t need to spend more on a gaming laptop that is marketed as multi-tasking ones. The difference is in the label itself.
Some laptops will run smoothly as long as there is only one game, one program, or a single tab in use. The more applications and windows you want to be working on at the same time, the more processing power you’ll require.
Your gaming laptop will not be indestructible
- Protect your command center
We’ve told you about the differences between gaming keyboards and regular laptop ones. This doesn’t mean you have to buy a new keyboard, but the truth is you’ll be giving your computer a break if you do.
The idea of having an external command center applies to your mousepad as well. Gaming tends to wear off the prints on the keys and the responsiveness of the keyboard and the mousepad.
By having an extra set of controls specifically for gaming laptop, you’re caring for your laptop’s performance and extending its lifespan too.
- Be careful when you take your laptop for a ride
Protect what’s on the outside as well.
Bumps are underrated when it comes to gaming laptops. We assume that because they’re meant to come everywhere with us, they are somehow shock-proof.
Try to be as gentle as you can when taking your computer with you. A little investment on a soft case that will absorb bumps and accidents can go a long way.
FAQs
1. How much is a decent gaming laptop?
Laptops designed specifically for gaming can easily go over a couple of thousand dollars. However, the circumstances of your gaming moments will determine if you can get what you need without overspending. We’ve compiled a list of the best gaming laptops under 500, finding a decent computer for your games won’t be a problem.
2. What is the most affordable gaming laptop?
When it comes to gaming laptops on the affordable end of the spectrum, you’ll find users prefers brands such as Dell, HP and Acer. These big companies have an immense number of laptop series with different specs for you to choose from. You can find a laptop that meets your requirements from these brands, but you can also find the specs you’re looking for in others that might not be as popular.
3. Can I use my gaming laptop for everyday tasks?
The answer will depend on the processing power of your gaming laptop. Some computers might only be able to handle lightweight games, not heavy programs. On the other hand, computers meant for multi-tasking might be able to run heavier games and serve as work tools as well.
4. What Is That One Thing That I Must Look For In My Gaming Laptop Under $500?
Well, first of all, we’d suggest you keep your budget a bit loose and don’t bother if you need to pay a couple of hundred bucks more for the real thing. Secondly, in our expert’s opinion, it’s the graphics card and its frequency speed that matter the most for your overall gaming experience. So, always make sure that the gaming laptop you’re buying for a $500 budget is capable of delivering the graphic and visual experience that you’re looking for.
5. Is it worth buying a gaming laptop under $500?
A gaming laptop under $500 is a great option for lightweight gamers who are in it for the interest but aren’t necessarily into hardcore gaming. This is for someone who likes to play games as a stressbuster but doesn’t really see themselves as a professional gamer or a streamer. You can play most basic games here, and even some power-intensive games but on lower settings. These are entry-level gaming laptops which are a good fit for people who want a cool-looking device but don’t want to shell out a lot of money for that.
6. How to make sure your gaming laptop does not heat up?
To make sure that your gaming laptop does not heat up, the first thing that we recommend is that you keep it really clean. Often, dust or debris enters the vents of the laptop and clogs them, which means that heat cannot escape, and hence the laptop tends to heat up. You might want to make use of additional cooling pads to keep the laptop cool. If it is still heating up, your last resort is making use of an air conditioner that will ensure the temperature of the room does not rise and your laptop remains cool.
7. What else can a gaming laptop be used for?
Gaming laptops are a good option for people who want to perform power-intensive tasks such as video editing or audio editing. The presence of a good GPU helps you get these things done in a better manner. GPU also helps aide tasks such as compiling large volumes of code as it makes rendering faster. Gaming laptops also make for a good entertainment unit – you can watch all your favorite movies and tv shows on these laptops as they generally come with a good screen and great speakers – both of which are appreciated by people who like to consume a lot of content.
8. Where to buy cheap gaming laptops?
The cheapest gaming laptops can be found on Amazon. You can get gaming laptops priced under $500 here, and there are a lot of brands that you can find on Amazon, which you can’t really find in an offline store. Amazon also gives you the best deals and discounts, which further lower the price. Even if you are looking for some refurbished gaming laptops, Amazon is still the number one place for that. We have linked all the laptops we have reviewed to their respective Amazon web pages, which ensures that you can easily buy them in just a few clicks!
Are you ready to step up your gaming?
We know, it’s a lot to take in.
You can always go back and check the features of each of the computers we’ve mentioned. Memorizing specifications from all the products that are thrown at you is virtually impossible.
In the end, you’ll know what works best for you based on your gaming experience. We’d like to remind you that if you’re looking for a powerful processor, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim might be the one you’ve been waiting for. If you value privacy above all else, some of the details of the Lenovo IdeaPad might catch your eye.
What will you be using it for? What is the most important aspect you’re looking for in a laptop? Remember to ask yourself the main questions before googling the best gaming laptops under 500. After all, who knows you better than you know yourself?