The explosion of video games across multiple devices, from mobile phones to consoles, has changed the design of most devices. While PCs have increasingly adjusted to the market demands, laptops, for a while, have never seriously competed with consoles as an alternate gaming platform. The ones with such ability are out of the average gamer’s budget. Fortunately, recent developments mean medium-end laptops can have graphics and processing power that can at the very least support high-end games on medium settings. These laptops fall under the best gaming laptops under $500.
Top 7 Gaming Laptops Under 500 USD
This article gives an overview of laptops that will allow you to enjoy most games without lags and at excellent image quality. They have all the standard features you want, like a webcam for Twitch streaming but also other unique aspects. This list looks at what they offer in terms of processing power, storage, display, etc. Essentially, we look at what value you get for your money.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
Lenovo has a long tradition of building computers since the early days of IBM. The same integrity and transfers to its laptops and the IdeaPad series are proof of it. This laptop is among the priciest on this list, hovering close to the $500 mark, and this shows in the latest technology it carries.
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Processing Units
The Lenovo IdeaPad boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Quad-Core Processor, one of the best on this list. The clock seeds start at 2.1 GHz and go up to 3.7 GHz with a boost. All tasks and high-end games are handles without a struggle.
The laptop also has an integrated Radeon Vega 8 graphics unit. This GPU further supports high frame rates and supports high-definition graphic detail.
Storage and Memory
For faster refresh rates, you get a DDR4 8GB RAM that ensures your game has all the resources it needs to play at high settings without any lag. The provided 256 GB SSD ensures you can store several games. It also provides quick load-up times both for games and the laptop start-up.
Keyboard and Display
The IdeaPad 3 comes with a standard non-backlit keyboard but has a number pad. The soft keys are excellent, though, making the execution of commands and controls easy.
A full HD 15.6 inches display screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 provides you with the clarity you need for your games. The screen also has 220 nits brightness rating and antiglare qualities, meaning you can play for long periods without eye strain.
Connectivity and other accessories
There are a couple of the usual standard ports, including one USB 2.0 port, two USB 3.0 ports, and an HDMI port. The laptop also supports high-end Bluetooth option 5.0. The WiFi capability is also excellent.
Where it truly shines are its audio options. The dual-array microphone should come in handy, and the 2X2W Dolby Audio speakers offer quality in volume and depth.
Pros
- Stylish portable design
- Excellent processing power
- Has antiglare properties
- Quality audio system
Cons
- Plastic material compromises build quality
- Battery power does not last long
2. ASUS VivoBook F412DA 14”
ASUS has an uncanny way of designing quality laptop units that can rival premium units while still offering them at affordable rates. The ASUS VivoBook 14 is the latest offer and one that ASUS itself calls the world’s smallest 14-inch Ultrabook. Indeed, this VivoBook is quite small, but it matches this quality with Swiss knife-like efficiency. This laptop offers excellent processing power, convenience, and storage capability in a rich array of tech integration.
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Processing units
The AMD Ryzen 5-3500U dual-core processor is more than enough computing power to handle any normal tasks and support your gaming needs. The integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics processing unit further backs this processing power. Whether you are in design or a gamer, it is an addition that you will welcome for flawless performance.
Memory and Storage
To enhance the quality of the processing units, you have an 8GB DDR4 RAM that offers sufficient memory resources even for high-end games. The ASUS VivoBook also comes with a dual-storage capacity of 256 GB SSD, which you can combine with anything from 500 GB to 1 TB HDD. So you can enjoy larger storage rooms and still faster load-up times.
Keyboard and Display
In line with stocking up on every possible convenience, the keyboard comes with backlighting and an effective fingerprint sensor. With just 1.3mm key-trave distance, typing and game controls are at your reach. It also features a hinge-based ErgoLift design which lifts the keyboard to a convenient typing angle. It also maintains the display at a comfortable viewing angle.
The display is full HD with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. While it is not an IPS screen, it has sufficient antiglare to protect you. The slim bezel design and a wide viewing angle of up to 178 degrees offer an immersive watching experience.
Connectivity and support
The ASUS VivoBook is among the few devices on this list with a USB Type C port and has the other standard USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports. It also has an HBMI and microSD card reader. Bluetooth and WiFi are also available.
The laptop features ASUS Battery Health Technology which prevents overcharging while increasing charging speeds. It also has Asus SonicMaster for quality audio.
Pros
- Light and small size offer the best portability
- High computing power
- Features the latest tech everywhere
- Excellent design and build quality
- Has ergonomic provisions
- Does not heat up even with heavy use
Cons
- Small screen size can be a hindrance in gaming
- The Wii has a couple of quirks.
3. Dell Inspiron 14 5000
The Dell 14 5000 Inspiron is among the most eye-catching models on this list. The black silver chassis and the contrasting bezels and keys have an Apple-like look. The slim design further adds to the laptop’s appeal and portability. There is plenty to like about this laptop, even for a gamer, and that is why it makes this list.
View On AmazonSpecs
Processing Units
The Dell Inspiron 14 comes with a third-generation AMD Ryzen 5 3500U quad-core processor. Its clock speeds start from 2.1 GHz with a boost up to 3.7 GHz. Add this to the integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega8 graphics card, and you have crisp and fast performance straight from the box. Dell really packed sufficient power in this small unit, and you can run everything, including graphically intensive games.
Storage and Memory
The 8 GB RAM provides enough bandwidth for multitasking or resource-intensive gaming. It comes with a fast-loading 128 GB SSD, which is quite minimal for those who will be laying plenty of games. The good thing is that you can make up for this with external storage devices.
Keyboard and Display
The Dell Inspiron 14 comes with a standard but comfortable keyboard. The keys have a springy feel and are highly responsive. It also features two levels of the backlight, which is quite rare around this budget. Another rare and useful feature is the fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for security. The display features a 14-inch touchscreen with a 1366 x 768-pixel resolution.
The Dell Inspiron offers 2-in-1 capability allowing you to use it both as a laptop or a tablet. You can move the display through 360 degrees or leave it in tent mode when using it as an entertainment option.
Connectivity and Audio
Considering the perks, it offers in other areas, the laptop’s connectivity options are quite outdated. Connectivity options include two USB 3.1 ports, one USB 2.1 port, an ethernet jack, an HDMI port, an audio jack, and an SD card slot. The laptop also comes with two front-facing stereo speakers, which offer excellent volume quality and do not distort even with higher volumes.
Pros
- 2-in-1 capability
- Sleek and portable design
- Comfortable spill-resistant keyboard
- Powerful processor
Cons
- Does not come with USB Type-C ports
- The display can be dull for some in bright daylight
4. Acer Aspire 5
Acer has several powerful laptops for gaming across different budgets. However, the Acer Aspire 5 is easily one of the best gaming laptops under $500, thanks to its rich offerings. Aspire 5’s competitive pricing, ergonomics, and powerful processing units offer you value for money.
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Processing units
The Acer Aspire 5 comes with an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual-Core Processor CPU with speeds that can reach up t0 3.5Ghz. This processing power is enough to handle all demanding tasks and excellent load-up times with no lags for high-end games. An AMD Radeon Vega 3 Mobile GPU offers the extra support needed for high-quality rendering in your games.
Storage and Memory
For its budget, it is not surprising to see the laptop offers 4GB DDR4 RAM and a 128GB PCle NVMe SSD. The 4GB RAM will limit your settings to medium. Fortunately, you can upgrade both options and an affordable cost, which will still put your final cost way below $500 and most options on this list.
Keyboard, Sound, and Display
The keyboard is standard quality, but it comes with a backlit option that allows you to play well even with little light. The screen has a Full HD resolution of 1920 X 1080, and along with its 15.6-inch display, it offers the crisp quality you need.
Connectivity and other Features
There are plenty of standard connectivity options you get in most laptops at this price range. These include a couple of USB 2.0 ports, a single 3.1 port, and an HDMI port. The eye-catching addition here is the 802.11ac WiFi with inbuilt 2×2 MIMO technology that should boost your WiFi speeds and connectivity for online games.
The audio system is another outstanding feature gamers will love. The innovative design allows for deep bass and more volume.
Pros
- Powerful CPU and GPU offer seamless performance.
- Excellent sleek design
- Slim design allows for more portability.
- Excellent value for money
- Dual-band internet connectivity
- Strong hinges allow you to bend the back 180 degrees.
Cons
- Limited ports for peripherals
- wide view angles not so clear.
5. HP 14-dq1043cl
HP laptops are usually excellent workhorses, and their mid-range options do not often have the capability for games. Usually, it is the high-end options that have this ability as they have the GPUs that can match their CPUs power. The HP 14 core i3 1005G1, while not being revolutionary or standard-setting, does offer an option any gamer would want to try. In return, you get the HP brand’s assured build quality and one of the best and latest CPUs below $500.
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Processing units
The HP 14 comes with a 10th generation Intel core i3 1005G1 with two processors. It has a base clock speed of 1.2 GHz, which you can boost up to 3.4 GHz. This processor makes multitasking and heavy work a breeze while also being energy efficient and facilitating a cooler operation. It comes with an integrated Intel UHD 620 GPU, which is sufficient for gaming on a budget.
Storage and Memory
An 8GB DDR4 RAM offers a further boost to your gaming experience with enough resources for most games. The 256GB SSD storage is ample for most gamers’ needs while aiding with faster loading and copying files.
Keyboard and Display
The keyboard is standard and has backlighting which is a premium addition. It is also responsive and easy to use with a key travel of 1.4mm. The display features a 14-inch screen with IPS BrightView full HD. It is not the brightest in this category, but it has a leveled-out contrast and glossy screen, which makes for a comfortable viewing experience. It also comes with a 1920×1080 resolution.
Connectivity
The HP 14 comes with one USB Type C port, two USB 3.1 ports, an SD card slot, an ethernet jack, an HDMI port a headphone jack.
Pros
- Excellent CPU performance
- Maintains cool temperatures
- Comfortable keyboard
- Comes with Type C USB port
Cons
- Poor battery charge life
- Graphics could be better.
6. Acer Aspire E 15
Gaming can take plenty of power, often tasking your battery charge. While other laptops will force you to constantly plugin, the Aspire E 15 is different. It has a powerful battery to back up its powerful CPU for a smooth gaming experience. and also offers excellent opportunities for further upgrades later, and it also shows quality in its connectivity. It is the ideal laptop for heavy working tasks and medium-end games.
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Processing Units
The Acer Aspire E 15 comes with an 8th generation Intel Core i3 8130U with 2.2 GHz that can get to 3.4GHz with Turbo Boost. The GPU is an integrated Intel HD 620, which will play low-end games at good enough framerates. Unfortunately, you will have to drastically reduce the settings for high-end games.
Storage and RAM
While it is quite a budget option, it still offers a dual-channel 6GB RAM. It also has 1TB HDD, all of which are handy enough to handle gaming loads with decent speed. The best news is that you can easily upgrade both options with the laptop supporting up to 512 GB SDD.
Connectivity and Warranty
There is plenty of the latest technology in this regard which is good for gamers looking for flexibility in connectivity options. It has one Type C USB 3.1 port, two USB 3.0 ports, and one USB 2.0 port. It also comes with HDCP support and an HDMI port.
Keyboard and Display
The keyboard is standard, but the soft keys and the Numpad adds to the convenience of using the laptop. Its 15.6-inch screen is welcome, and it has a standard 1080-pixel display.
Pros
- Affordable
- Powerful CPU
- Long-lasting battery capable of lasting at least 13.5 hours.
Cons
- Does not come with SDD storage
- Has thick bezels, which may affect display size.
7. Dell Inspiron 15.6
The Dell Inspiron is a machine built to offer you excellent multitasking ability. It is highly practical and manages to balance the ideals of performance with portability. The design is elegant and slim with interesting hardware features.
While the laptop does not stack the latest technology everywhere, there are enough modern trends included. These ensure it serves you for long without being outdated.
View On AmazonSpecs
Processing Units
The Dell Inspiron packs a powerful 7th generation Intel Core i5-7200U dual-core processor CPU. It has a CPU speed of 2.5 GHz that goes up to 3.1GHz with Turbo Boost. although it is an old gen processor, and it is just good enough for ultra low end gaming. It features an integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 for its GPU.
Storage and Memory
This Dell does not disappoint in this regard with a more than decent 8GB RAM, which is sufficient to ensure smooth rendering and playing the games at excellent frame rates. It also comes with a 256 GB SSD ensuring the fast transfer of files and load-up times. You can always upgrade these whenever you want or support them with an external disc.
Keyboard and Display
There is nothing to blow you away with the functional and traditional design of the keyboard. It is the display screen that takes the crown with its 15.6-inch size and a resolution of 1366 x 768. It is also a touch screen and can rotate 360 degrees allowing you to fold and give it a 2-in-1 functionality.
Connectivity
Gaming requires wide options for connectivity, and the Dell Inspiron 15.6 matches that with two USB 3.0 ports and one USB 2.0 port. There is also an HDMI port and a mic in/headphone out audio jack. The laptop supports wireless b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0.
Pros
- Excellent portability
- Versatility
- Touch screen capability
- Large enough screen size for gaming
- One year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- The screen is a bit dim.
- It does not come with a dedicated graphics card.
Is it Worth Buying a Gaming Laptop at This Budget?
Yes, it is worth it. This price range, while being a sizeable investment, guarantees you integrated graphics powerful enough to support your gaming needs. It is also considerably lower than the price for most consoles and premium gaming laptops. Not only do you get to enjoy your games on the go, but you can also use the laptop for day-to-day tasks, thanks to their top processing power.
Should You Consider PCs or Chromebooks for Gaming at This Budget? (pc: yes Chromebook: no)
With an under $500 budget, PCs are a better option than Chromebooks. They will have better processors and dedicated graphics units offering better performance for high-end games. A gaming pc under 500 also offers you the chance for unlimited future upgrades. You also get to use specialized gear like a gaming keyboard.
What About The Consoles?
Gaming consoles are excellent for any serious gamer. Whether it is an Xbox One S or a PS5, you are assured of premium graphics and performance and support for just any game. anyone who doesn’t need the other benefits of using a laptop except gaming, buying a xbox series X or PS5 (if you can find one in stock) is highly recommended.
Summary
Choosing the best gaming laptops is not an easy task with the range of devices in the market. Fortunately, a set budget range like under $500 cuts the field significantly. Also, factors such as the processing power and the display you are getting mean narrowing the field down to devices on the upper end of medium-end niches. We are confident the laptops above will allow you to enjoy your gaming on the fly at an affordable investment.
