Gaming laptops have never been more powerful, with high-end models capable of running titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring at maximum settings. Even budget-friendly gaming laptops can handle these games well with a few adjustments to the settings. While PC games themselves might be pricier, you can still score impressive hardware without breaking the bank by opting for one of the best gaming laptops under $1,000.
Currently, the Dell G15 stands out as the top choice under $1,000, featuring a robust AMD CPU, an Nvidia RTX graphics card, and a vibrant display that brings games to life. For those on a tighter budget, the Gigabyte G5 KF offers a rare RTX 4060 graphics card at this price point.
Now is an excellent time to invest in a gaming laptop, even if you’re not aiming for the highest-end models. Check out these four top gaming laptops under $1,000 from leading brands.
Dell G15 (RTX 3050)
Pros:
- Excellent performance for the price
- Bright 15.6-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Extensive customization options
Cons:
- Heavy build and bulky charger
- Port placement can be awkward
- Small trackpad
Cheaper gaming laptops often suffer from outdated hardware, but the Dell G15 breaks this mold. This budget-friendly powerhouse features an Nvidia RTX graphics card and a solid AMD CPU, providing high-end performance at a great value.
Typically priced around $1,000, the Dell G15 comes with an RTX 3050 and an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, which is one of the best midrange laptop CPUs available. Paired with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, this setup delivers impressive performance for the cost. For a bit more, you can upgrade the GPU and CPU for even better performance.
The G15’s standout feature is its display. The recommended budget model includes a vibrant 15.6-inch FHD (1080p) screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, making fast-paced games look stunning. Once you experience 120Hz, you’ll find it hard to go back to 60Hz. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you can even opt for a 360Hz screen.
The main drawbacks are related to the G15’s design. It’s quite bulky, weighing over six pounds, and comes with a large AC adapter that adds another three pounds. Additionally, many ports, including the USB-C slot, are located at the back of the laptop, making them less accessible.
Despite these issues, the Dell G15 remains one of the best gaming laptops available for under $1,000. It often goes on sale, so you might find it at an even better price.
Gigabyte G5 Gaming Laptop
Pros:
- High-end graphics card
- Lighter than many other gaming laptops
- Abundant port options
Cons:
- Older CPU
- Noisy fans
- Limited RAM
If I had to describe the Gigabyte G5 KF in one word, it would be “industrial.” The 15.6-inch G5 KF offers a straightforward design and name, but it stands out with its top-tier GPU: the RTX 4060.
Benchmarks show that the RTX 4060 outperforms the RTX 4050 by about 30% in terms of average frame rates, 3D rendering, and handling reflections. While mobile GPUs can’t match desktop performance, the RTX 4060 is the best you can get in this price range and will handle demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 with ease.
However, the emphasis on a high-end GPU means some compromises elsewhere. The G5 KF features Intel’s older 12th-generation i7 or i5 CPUs. While these chips still perform well, they fall short compared to the newer 13th-generation processors found in some other recommended laptops. Additionally, the powerful GPU puts extra strain on the fans, which can become quite loud under heavy use.
Visually, the Gigabyte G5 KF may not impress, but it delivers exceptional performance for its price and remains one of the best gaming laptops available for under $1,000.
Lenovo Legion Slim 5i (Gen 8) (RTX 4050)
Pros:
- Strong performance and battery life
- Abundant port options
- Slim design with 180° hinge
- 1080p webcam
Cons:
- Dim screen
- Basic, tinny speakers
- Casing attracts fingerprints
- Limited availability from a single retailer
Lenovo, known for its office and productivity laptops, has been quietly expanding its gaming hardware lineup with the Lenovo Legion Slim 5i. This gaming laptop combines portability and power, all for under $1,000.
Portability is often a challenge for gaming laptops, but the Legion Slim 5i stands out. Weighing just over five pounds, it’s lighter than nearly any other gaming laptop in its price range. The laptop’s slim profile—less than an inch thick—and its 180° hinge, which allows the screen to lay flat, make it highly portable.
In terms of performance, the Legion Slim 5i doesn’t disappoint. For around $1,000, it features an RTX 4050 GPU and an Intel i5-13500H CPU, providing swift boot times, smooth multitasking, and the ability to handle most games at high settings. While the RTX 4050 is the entry-level option in the RTX 40-series, it supports Nvidia’s DLSS technology, which enhances frame rates by generating new images on the fly.
However, the Legion Slim 5i does have its drawbacks. The 16-inch Full HD screen lacks brightness and vibrancy, and the onboard speakers are basic and tinny, making it less ideal as a standalone media center. Additionally, the aluminum chassis is prone to fingerprint smudges.
Despite these minor flaws, the Lenovo Legion Slim 5i excels in combining portability with high performance, making it a standout option in its category.
Acer Nitro 5 (17.3-inch, RTX 4050)
Pros:
- Large 17-inch screen
- Excellent value for the price
- Efficient cooling, remains cool under load
Cons:
- Dim screen
- Heavy and bulky design
- Uses older CPU models
The Acer Nitro 5 is a standout choice for budget-conscious gamers. It delivers impressive performance, effective cooling, and the option for a large 17-inch screen—all for under $1,000. This combination of features offers exceptional value, making it a top pick in our guide to affordable gaming laptops.
The Nitro 5 starts with an RTX 3050 GPU, which, while not the latest or most powerful, is more than capable of handling most games at high settings. The CPU, typically a 12th-generation Intel i5 or a 50-series AMD Ryzen 5, is adequate for multitasking and everyday use.
Available in 15.6-inch, 16-inch, and 17.3-inch screen sizes, the model we’re highlighting features a 17.3-inch Full HD display paired with an RTX 4050 and an Intel Core i5 processor. Finding a gaming laptop with such a large screen for under $1,000 is quite rare.
However, the screen quality can be a drawback; the 17.3-inch display tends to be somewhat dull and dim. Some users might find the larger size outweighs this issue compared to brighter but smaller models like our recommended G15.
The Nitro 5’s design has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it boasts excellent thermal management, staying cool even during intense gaming sessions. On the downside, it’s quite bulky and not the most aesthetically pleasing. The full-sized keyboard is functional, but the trackpad is on the smaller side.
While the Nitro 5 makes some sacrifices to keep the cost low, it offers impressive performance for its price. For those willing to invest more for a high-performance 17-inch gaming laptop, we recommend exploring our full guide on the best 17-inch gaming laptops for additional options.