6 Best Gaming Laptops Under $500: (2023 Guide & Reviews)

Let me tell you about myself first to let you know why you must have a $500 gaming laptop from my collection:

I am a videographer and photographer by heart. However, my DNA is also encoded with gaming since childhood.

I started playing games like Age of empires on my Pentium 3 PC and from then on, I never stopped.

My budget was low at the beginning so I decided to start with cheap gaming laptops under 500 dollars.

For most of us, a gaming laptop is something that is housed with the most powerful components and has a high-resolution display with high refresh rates and response time.

It’s true to the extent when you have a huge budget and you’re willing to pay thousands of dollars for a laptop.

However, when the best gaming laptops under 500 pop in, the discussion is a bit changed as these machines are inexpensive and they can run some light games without breaking a sweat.

If this kind of fidelity is what you’re up for, the $500 can take you somewhere to kill your gaming cravings. However, you can get your hands on the best gaming laptop under $2000 any time if your budget allows you.

Moreover, when the $500 gaming laptops come in, there are hundreds of options out there and most of us get confused in picking the right one.

That’s normal, but, I have made it easy for you and compiled a list that only has the best options for your $500 budget.

Luckily, I can play a variety of PC games on these affordable laptops that I may have wished to play at some point in my life. Let’s get to the list of these entry-level gaming machines from my collection straight away.

Best Gaming Laptops Under 500 Comparison in 2023

Need a better machine? You have the best gaming laptops under $700 and a little more than this can get you a gaming laptop under $800 that can enhance your experience better than a $500 machine.

How I Picked The Best Gaming Laptops Under $500

I have been a gaming hardware geek for almost 19 years now and I have reviewed many PCs, laptops, and hardware components on many websites like 10kreviews, PC253, Welapi, etc. As for the best gaming laptops under $500, I have picked some promising devices from my own stock to review.

I have also read other people’s opinions on the hardware components that are best for 500 dollars budget laptops. Taking those things into consideration, I chose the finest 500-dollar gaming laptops that can run some decent AAA games for you.

What is the Best Gaming Laptop Under $500 Composed of?

You already know the drill, all laptops have one thing in common and that’s a processor, RAM, storage, display, battery life, and a few other things. Whereas, when it comes down to the best $500 gaming laptop, we must be careful as our main goal is gaming and these machines hold enough power mentioned above to cope with low-settings gaming. On the other hand, the display on most of the $500 laptops is 1920 x 1080P which is handled by the integrated graphics card. Moreover, the battery life on a gaming laptop under 500 is way better than all the powerful beasts you have seen out there because the hardware components that these budget laptops have are not that power-hungry. Overall, for a $500 budget, you’ll have a decent gaming laptop that will satisfy your casual gaming cravings.

5 Best Gaming Laptops Under 500 Dollars Reviews

1. Best Overall: Acer Aspire 5 Slim

With the combination of the Ryzen 3 3350U CPU and Radeon Vega 6 GPU, the Aspire 5 Slim is the finest gaming laptop for $500 that can kill most of the less demanding AAA games like Fortnite and Minecraft.

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Processor:	AMD Ryzen 3 3350U Quad-Core
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Radeon Vega 6
Storage:	128GB SSD
Display:	1920 x 1080P, 15.6-inch FHD
Ports:	Type-C USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI, HDCP
Weight:	3.97 pounds
Dimensions:	14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches
Operating System:	Windows 11

The Good:

• Best performance in low settings.
• A display made for gaming enthusiasts.
• Survives longer.
• Slim and decent design.
• Fingerprint sensor for easy unlocking.

The Bad:

• The trackpad is smaller than expected.

The recent release of the Acer Aspire 15 is made for kicking some real gaming at low settings with a wider screen of 15.6″ having 1920 x 1080P resolutions, IPS panel, and higher refresh rates.

With an AMD Ryzen 3 3350U Quad-Core Processor, Radeon Vega 6 GPU, 128GB SSD, and 8GB DDR4 RAM, the Aspire 5 Slim can handle any low graphics game you throw at it.

Furthermore, unlike other laptops in this budget range, a Fingerprint Reader is installed on the Aspire 5 to help you unlock the system with ease without putting a password there. On the base, there’s a backlit keyboard alongside a sensitive touchpad for ease of use.

For internet connectivity, an Intel WiFi 6 is powered inside and ports like the USB-C 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI, and HDCP support allow this entry-level gaming laptop to connect with flash drives, external hard drives, etc. Most importantly, the battery life here is touching the mark of 8 hours on a single charge even if you play games all day long on it.

Also read: Best budget gaming laptops

2. Best With Intel UHD: HP Premium 14

With the intel dual-core processor that can go up to 2.6GHz speed alongside intel UHD graphics, the HP Premium 14 can be a nightmare for fewer graphics complex games.

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Processor:	Intel Celeron N4020
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Intel UHD Graphics 600
Storage:	64GB SSD
Display:	1366 x 768P, 14-inch
Ports:	Type-C USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI, 1 x AC smart pin
Weight:	3.20 pounds
Dimensions:	12.7 x 8.8 x 0.7 inches
Operating System:	Windows 10

The Good:

• Great entry-level Performance.
• Lightweight and Decent looking.
• Battery life is long lasting.
• All connectivity options.

The Bad:

• Storage capacity is low.

With a price tag of below $500, the HP Premium 14 is housed with the with the all necessary components like the Intel Celeron N4020 dual-core processor that spits out a speed of 2.60 GHz for casual games. Whereas, the intel UHD graphics 600 and 8GB DDR4 RAM give this nice-looking laptop for $500 the ability to cope with the earlier released games.

A huge storage capacity of 64GB is more than enough for the lighter titles and luckily, the storage type on the HP Premium 14 and you already know that it’s faster than the HDD.

Speaking of the display, it’s a little small as compared to other machines with a screen size of 14″ alongside the 1366 x 768P resolutions and IPS panel that holds higher refresh rates.

Moreover, the battery can last for 11 and a half hours which is something that is most admirable about the Premium 14. The ports combo is impressive and this machine holds a spot for all the external devices for easy connectivity. Lastly, the overall design looks decent and leaving your money on the table for such a $500 gaming laptop won’t be a regret.

3. Best With More Storage: Dell Inspiron 15

The Dell Inspiron 15 is a decent-looking companion for office guys, students, or any other person who need some refreshment in their spare time. There is nothing better than one of your favorite games like Counter-Strike: GO and Rocket League on a laptop like this.

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Processor:	Intel Core i3-1115G4
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Intel UHD Graphics
Storage:	256GB SSD
Display:	1920 x 1080P, 15-inch FHD
Ports:	Type-C USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI USB-A 3.2, and USB-A 2.0
Weight:	‎3.82 pounds
Dimensions:	14.11 x 9.27 x 0.74 inches
Operating System:	Windows 11

The Good:

• Performs well for games in low settings.
• Decent design.
• FHD wide display.
• Good keyboard and touchpad.

The Bad:

• Battery life isn’t long lasting.

With an Intel i3-1115G4 processor and Intel UHD, the latest Dell Inspiron 15 is enough for games like Counter-Strike: GO, Rocket League, Minecraft, and Fortnite. Whereas, alongside gaming, it’s a nice fit for college students and people who are up for casual tasks as the Inspiron 15 is also good at multitasking and storing files. For those purposes, it has a 256GB SSD and 8GB DDR4 RAM installed inside that also enhances the gaming performance alongside getting done other tasks for you.

On the other hand, the screen is wider by 15.6″ size having a resolution of 1920 x 1080P which counted as in an FHD category. The Dell Inspiron 15 is not that connectivity rich but yes, ports like HDMI, USB-A 3.2, and USB-A 2.0 are there to serve the external devices.

Unfortunately, the battery lasts for only 4 hours but another benefit that you have here is the fast charging capability. However, there’s more room for the battery life to expand on this specific model.

Overall, it’s a great fit for the school and office employees that can provide great gaming entertainment during break time after classes and or exhaustive work.

4. Best With i3 CPU: Asus Vivobook 15

The Asus Vivobook 15 is a features-rich laptop designed for video editing alongside killing some low-setting gaming cravings in your spare time. The Intel i3-1005G1 and Intel UHD are sitting inside their core to eat the light tasks you feed them.

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Processor:	Intel i3-1005G1
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Intel UHD Graphics
Storage:	128GB SSD
Display:	1920 x 1080P, 15-inch FHD
Ports:	HDMI 1.4b, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C 3.1 Gen 1, USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 x 2
Weight:	3.75 pounds
Dimensions:	14.1 x 9.1 x 0.78 inches
Operating System:	Windows 10 Home S

The Good:

• Higher processing speed.
• A FHD display for better entertainment.
• Intel UHD for graphics stability.
• Backlit keyboard and touchpad with a fingerprint sensor.

The Bad:

• A bit of space left in battery life.

Apart from video editing or any other jobs, the Vivobook 15 is a ready-to-play some realistic games with the components that this $500 acquires like an Intel i3-1005G1 processor that booms out a 3.4 GHz speed, 8GB DDR4 RAM that eats up multitasking, Intel UHD to handle graphics, and a 128GB SSD. The storage component is not just sitting there to wait for storing the files but it also adds up to the performance with its higher RPM.

Moreover, a Fingerprint sensor on the touchpad is added for easy unlocking so that you don’t have to enter the password all the time plus your privacy is secured with this feature.

On top of that, there is a backlit keyboard on the base of this best gaming laptop under 500 that ensures easy typing the dark conditions. Whereas, the widescreen of 15.6 inches alongside a 1920×1080 guarantees the ultimate entertainment whether it’s gaming or watching your favorite Netflix series.

The battery is a lithium-polymer that can last for almost 5 hours when using the Asus Vivobook 15 videos and can extend to 7 hours on normal use. Overall if you want to kick some of that extra gaming dopamine, the Vivobook 15 does a great job for causal gamers and other tasks.

5. Best With Intel Iris Xe: Lenovo IdeaPad 3i

The 12th Gen processor, Intel Iris Xe, and a storage capacity of 512GB make the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i a perfect match for those who are more into online gaming or streaming.

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Processor:	12th Gen intel i5
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Intel Iris Xe
Storage:	512GB SSD
Display:	1920 x 1080P, 15.6-inch FHD
Ports:	HDMI USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 2.0 Type-A
Weight:	‎5.49 pounds
Dimensions:	14.14 x 9.31 x 0.78 inches
Operating System:	Windows 11 Pro

The Good:

• A powerful GPU inside for this budget.
• A 15-inch FHD display with IPS.
• Attractive design.
• Backlit keyboard.

The Bad:

• Processing speed is comparatively slow.

A little over 500 dollars, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is a gaming laptop for streamers who want to kill some time online on their favorite games.

Overall hardware is composed of an Intel Iris Xe, a 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, 512GB SSD, and 8GB RAM, which all combine together give you a smooth performance while streaming. However, make sure that you have a faster internet connection to avoid lagging of the stream and IdeaPad 3i is not to blame.

Joke’s aside, the 15.6″ FHD screen is wider for entry-level gamers with the 1920 x 1080P resolution and the IPS panel is installed on the display.

Moreover, the battery life is satisfying with the 7 hours of survival time and fast charging. Regardless, the design of the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is slim and decent with the webcam on the front.

In addition to that, the keyboard is backlit with a touchpad that is smooth and sensitive. However, as for gaming, it’s recommended to use a mouse that can better handle the movements of your favorite AAA titles.

6. Best With Celeron N4020 – Dell Inspiron 3000 15

Standing at low-end gaming laptops, the Inspiron 3000 can be used for performing routine tasks but I don’t recommend it for playing demanding titles.

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Processor:	Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core
RAM:	8GB DDR4
GPU:	Intel UHD Graphics 600
Storage:	256GB SSD
Display:	1920 x 1080P, 15.6-inch FHD
Operating System:	Windows 10

Pros

• Nice looking gaming design
• Slim and ultra-portable
• High-quality mic
• Wide range of ports

Cons

• Not made for hardcore games
• Backlit missing on the keyboard
• Slow wifi and internet flow

At #6, you have the New Dell Inspiron 15 3000 a machine that is believed to be a perfect gaming master at a cheap price. The Inspiron 3000 series is made to fill the budget void in Dell’s lineup.

If you’re a gamer and just want a Windows 10 machine with an Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD space at a cheap price, this can be your best choice.

Moreover, Dell Inspiron 3000 Series laptop blends good multimedia performance to offer an amazing gaming experience.

Whereas, the Inspiron 15 3000 is popular for its large 15.6-inch HD display, backlit keyboard, Intel UHD graphics 600, HDMI port, etc. The Inspiron 15 can be upgraded with up to 16GB RAM & a 1TB SSD if needed.

As for the graphics, Dell Inspiron 15 3000 features Intel UHD Graphics 600, and on the other hand, you can play games like Dota 2 and CS: GO on low to mid settings.

Speaking of the battery life, the Dell Inspiron 15 breaths for around 10 hours and it varies depending on your usage.

The design of the Dell Inspiron 15 is pretty much similar to previous models. That means you get a black matte plastic lid with faux carbon fiber texture and the same silver/gray keyboard deck.

The Dell logo in the middle of the lid is chrome-colored while its touchpad is slightly textured for easier navigation.

If a budget laptop is the search priority, Dell Inspiron 15 is the best open-box deal. In addition, it’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to play less demanding games with decent settings as well as watch movies or browse social media without any lags.

FAQs Regarding The Best Gaming Laptops Under 500

Q: Can a $500 Gaming Laptop Run Minecraft

Minecraft isn’t categorized in the graphics complex games and a one-word answer is a big YES, you can run Minecraft on any of the above machines I reviewed for you. However, when it comes to the specifics, it’s important to know the exact system requirements of the Minecraft game and they’re given below.

Minimum Requirments For Minecraft

Processor: Intel Core i3-3210
Graphics Card: Intel HD 4000
Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
HDD: 1GB free space
OS: Windows 7

PCWIRE247 Recommended

Processor: Intel Core i5-4690
Graphics Card: Intel Iris Xe
Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
HDD: 4GB free space
OS: Windows 10/11

Get your best gaming pc under $500 if you don’t like any of these gaming laptops.

Q: Is it Worth Having A Laptop For $500

It’s actually a matter of need, a person like myself who work all day long to get some casual tasks done on a laptop and some entertainment is demanded by your brain, yes a $500 laptop is for you. However, if you’re a hardcore gaming fan, I think, the best gaming laptops under $500 aren’t for you because they are not that powerful to digest the demanding games because of the low specs that they acquire. Nonetheless, casual gaming on a $500 laptop in your spare can be a great refreshment and to forget about the world around you for a moment.

Q: Can Students Benefit from a Gaming Laptop Under 500

Of course, they can, in fact, I have selected a specific model for students that you can find on the list. Preparing presentations, assignments, and all school or college-related stud can be done on a laptop for 500 dollars and of course some gaming too.

Q: Can A Gaming Laptop Be Used As a Casual laptop?

Why not? yes, a gaming laptop can be used as a casual laptop because the name gaming is associated with these machines because they come with powerful hardware dedicated to gaming. Other than that, it’s a normal laptop like any other with all capabilities that any casual laptop must have.

Considering The Important Factors To Choose The Best Gaming Laptops Under 500

Although there are more laptop options for a budget of $500 when it comes to the hardware components, you don’t actually get the necessary things on your laptop for the price. That is why selecting the $500 laptop with the right specs is essential and that must be done with more care.

Processor

That’s not the biggest part as you have already read the reviews for our best picks and most of the laptops for 500 that you saw come along with either Intel i3-1005G1 or AMD Ryzen 3 3350U processors. Here’s the thing, you can get any of these machines that have one of these 2 processors and you’re up for really nice casual games like Minecraft and Rocket League.

Graphics Card

A powerful GPU is undeniably a decision-making component for gaming here because that’s one of the specs that games depend on the most. My recommendation is none other than the Intel Iris Xe and Radeon Vega 6. These are the built-in graphics cards on these $500 machines that help you play entry-level games without lagging.

RAM

The RAM is probably the best in all of these laptops for the budget that you have because most of them operate on 8GB DDR4 memory. It’s an ideal RAM for the best 500-dollar gaming laptop because to push the memory limit, you also have to push your budget a little further. Overall, the 8GB memory has satisfactory results for casual use and earlier games. However, please avoid running the heaviest software like android studio or photo editing software as this much memory can’t handle them.

Storage

SSDs are the best, one of them on your laptop is a blessing because they transfer data faster to the memory which results in fast performance. Whereas, storage capacity can be decided from your end because if you’re using it for entertainment, stick to the 256GB space. However, 128GB is enough for storing small documents and files.

Display

A 1080P FHD display with an IPS panel, and a higher refresh rate, and an IPS panel is enough for gaming and all other entertainment purposes like watching movies or streaming online. Whereas there are two types of screen sizes for the best laptops under 500 that I reviewed, some of them come with a 14″ display size and the other ones are standing at 15-inch. The intention also matters here because, with a small screen, you can’t have the ultimate entertainment. However when it comes to a wider screen of 15″, you can have the best experience. So in my opinion 15″ is better.

Battery Life

An average of 7 hours of battery life is what most of the laptops on the list are up to. However, some of them are stands at 4 hours of battery life which is not bad because, on the other hand, they offer fast charging. But when it comes to canceling out the hassle of plugging in the charger most of the time, please stick to a laptop for 500 dollars with 7 hours of battery life so that you don’t have to worry about running out of charge on the go.

Final Words For the Best Gaming Laptops Under 500

These were all the decent and best gaming laptops for $500 and I am pretty much sure that you have selected yours by now from the list. All the specs and features mentioned here are correct and you double-check them on amazon by going there through the button we provided. Overall, if you’re dealing with some early 20s laptops till now, it’s time to upgrade and taste the experience of these finest picks I made for you. Other than that, If you have any queries to ask or any of the best gaming laptops under 500 suggestions for review, ping us and we’ll help you out with our single thorough review for that laptop.

read more: best laptop for gaming and streaming