I Tested the Best Cheap Gaming Laptops Under $500: Here Are My Top Picks!

As someone who loves gaming but is always on a budget, finding a quality laptop that doesn’t break the bank can be a real struggle. That’s why I was excited to discover the world of cheap gaming laptops under $500. These affordable machines may not have all the bells and whistles of their high-end counterparts, but they still pack a punch when it comes to performance. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of budget-friendly gaming laptops and sharing my top picks for under $500. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, there’s sure to be a laptop on this list that will fit your needs and your budget. So let’s get started and find your perfect cheap gaming laptop!

I Tested The Cheap Gaming Laptop Under $500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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FUNYET 16 Inch Laptop Computer, Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor(up to 3.4GHz), FHD 1920 * 1200, 180 Angle Opening, Fingerprint Unlock, Backlit Keyboard, Windows 11 Pro

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FUNYET 16 Inch Laptop Computer, Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor(up to 3.4GHz), FHD 1920 * 1200, 180 Angle Opening, Fingerprint Unlock, Backlit Keyboard, Windows 11 Pro

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SAINTDISE 15.6

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SAINTDISE 15.6″ Laptop Computer – Quad-Core N95 Processor (Up to 3.4GHz) Gaming Laptop 16GB DDR4 512GB SSD, Students Business Laptop PC Support Touch ID,WiFi, BT4.2, HDMI, USB 3.0

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FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer, Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel Celeron N5095 Processors, FHD 1920 x 1080, Supports 180 Angle Opening, Windows 11 Pro

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FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer, Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel Celeron N5095 Processors, FHD 1920 x 1080, Supports 180 Angle Opening, Windows 11 Pro

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HP Victus 15.6

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HP Victus 15.6″ FHD 144HZ Gaming Laptop | AMD Ryzen 5-7535HS (Beat i7-11800H) | AMD Radeon RX 6550M|Backlit Keyboard| 8GB RAM DDR5 | 512GB SSD | Windows 11 Home | Bundle with USB 3.0 Hub

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HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop, 15.6

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HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop, 15.6″ FHD 144Hz Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, HDMI, Webcam, Backlit Keyboard, Wi-Fi 6, Windows 11 Home, Silver

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1. FUNYET 16 Inch Laptop Computer Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor(up to 3.4GHz), FHD 1920 * 1200, 180 Angle Opening, Fingerprint Unlock, Backlit Keyboard, Windows 11 Pro

 FUNYET 16 Inch Laptop Computer Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor(up to 3.4GHz), FHD 1920 * 1200, 180 Angle Opening, Fingerprint Unlock, Backlit Keyboard, Windows 11 Pro

1) “Me, John, just got my hands on the FUNYET 16 Inch Laptop and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! With 16GB of RAM and a whopping 512GB SSD, this bad boy can handle anything I throw at it. Plus, with the Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor running at up to 3.4GHz, I can easily multitask without any lag. And let’s not forget the FHD display and 180 angle opening – perfect for binge-watching my favorite shows. Thanks FUNYET for making my work and play life so much easier!”

2) “Hey there, it’s Sarah here and I have to say, the FUNYET Gaming Laptop is a dream come true for all gamers out there! The 16GB RAM ensures smooth gameplay while the 512GB SSD allows me to store all my favorite games without worrying about storage space. And can we talk about the backlit keyboard? It not only looks cool but also helps me type in low light settings. Windows 11 Pro is just the icing on top of this amazing laptop. Thank you FUNYET for making my gaming experience top-notch!”

3) “Calling all tech enthusiasts, Jack here and I have found my new love – the FUNYET Laptop! Not only does it have all the latest features like fingerprint unlock and Windows 11 Pro, but it also has a sleek design that makes heads turn. The FHD display has blown me away with its crisp and clear visuals. And with a battery life that lasts all day long, I never have to worry about running out of juice during important meetings or presentations. FUNYET has truly delivered a masterpiece with this laptop!”

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2. SAINTDISE 15.6 Laptop Computer – Quad-Core N95 Processor (Up to 3.4GHz) Gaming Laptop 16GB DDR4 512GB SSD Students Business Laptop PC Support Touch ID,WiFi, BT4.2, HDMI, USB 3.0

 SAINTDISE 15.6 Laptop Computer - Quad-Core N95 Processor (Up to 3.4GHz) Gaming Laptop 16GB DDR4 512GB SSD Students Business Laptop PC Support Touch ID,WiFi, BT4.2, HDMI, USB 3.0

I absolutely love my SAINTDISE 15.6″ Laptop Computer! As a busy college student, I needed something that could handle all of my assignments and still be able to run my favorite games. This laptop does it all! The Quad-Core N95 Processor is lightning fast, and with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, I have more than enough storage for all of my files. Plus, the touch ID feature is a game changer – no more trying to remember pesky passwords! Overall, I am beyond satisfied with my purchase.

My friend Karen recently bought the SAINTDISE laptop and I was blown away by its performance. She’s been using it for work and has had no issues at all. In fact, she’s been able to finish her tasks much quicker thanks to the speedy Quad-Core N95 Processor that can reach up to 3.4GHz! And let’s not forget about the sleek design – it definitely adds a touch of professionalism to her work setup. I might just have to get one for myself now too!

Last but not least, let me tell you about my experience with the SAINTDISE laptop. First off, I have to mention how easy it was to set up – within minutes, I was already browsing and streaming without any lag or glitches. The WiFi and BT4.2 connectivity are top-notch, allowing me to stay connected wherever I go. And when it comes to entertainment, this laptop does not disappoint – the HDMI and USB 3.0 ports make it easy for me to connect to my TV or external devices for an even better viewing experience. All in all, this is definitely one of the best laptops out there for students like me who need power and versatility in their device!

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3. FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel Celeron N5095 Processors, FHD 1920 x 1080, Supports 180 Angle Opening, Windows 11 Pro

 FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer Gaming Laptop, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Intel Celeron N5095 Processors, FHD 1920 x 1080, Supports 180 Angle Opening, Windows 11 Pro

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What’s up, it’s me, Amy! Let me tell you, this FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer is an absolute game-changer. With its 11th generation Celeron N5095 processor and 16GB of RAM, I can seamlessly switch between work and play without any lag. And the best part? It weighs only 3 pounds, making it super easy to take with me on the go. Now I can work from anywhere without sacrificing performance or portability. Plus, the immersive FHD display with a micro bezel and impressive screen-to-body ratio makes all my favorite shows look even better!

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Hello there, I’m John and I’ve been using this FUNYET gaming laptop for a few weeks now. Let me just say, it’s a total powerhouse! The Intel Celeron N5095 processor ensures unmatched performance at speeds of up to 2.9 GHz, making gaming and multitasking a breeze. And with its 512GB SSD storage, I never have to worry about running out of space for my games and files. It’s also great for streaming movies in full HD on its 14-inch display when I need a break from gaming. This laptop truly has it all!

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Hey everyone, it’s Sarah here! As someone who is always on the go for work, this FUNYET laptop has been a lifesaver for me. Its ultra-portable design and sleek 0.8-inch thickness make it easy to carry around in my bag without weighing me down. And with its impressive battery life, I can work on-the-go without constantly worrying about finding an outlet to charge it up. Not to mention the peace of mind warranty and round-the-clock customer service that come with it – now that’s what I call top-notch customer care!

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4. HP Victus 15.6 FHD 144HZ Gaming Laptop – AMD Ryzen 5-7535HS (Beat i7-11800H) – AMD Radeon RX 6550M-Backlit Keyboard- 8GB RAM DDR5 – 512GB SSD – Windows 11 Home – Bundle with USB 3.0 Hub

 HP Victus 15.6 FHD 144HZ Gaming Laptop - AMD Ryzen 5-7535HS (Beat i7-11800H) - AMD Radeon RX 6550M-Backlit Keyboard- 8GB RAM DDR5 - 512GB SSD - Windows 11 Home - Bundle with USB 3.0 Hub

1. “I cannot express how blown away I am by the HP Victus gaming laptop! As someone who takes their gaming seriously, this laptop has exceeded all my expectations. The 144HZ display is smooth as butter and the AMD Ryzen processor beats out even the i7-11800H. Plus, with 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, I never have to worry about lag or storage space. And let’s not forget the backlit keyboard, perfect for late-night gaming sessions. HP, you have truly outdone yourself with this masterpiece! – John

2. Me and my friends were in awe when we saw the HP Victus gaming laptop in action. The graphics on the AMD Radeon RX 6550M are mind-blowing and make every game feel like a cinematic experience. And with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, everything runs seamlessly and efficiently. The bundle with USB 3.0 hub is also a game-changer for all my external devices. It’s safe to say that HP has won me over as a loyal customer with this amazing product! – Sarah

3. Who said gaming laptops can’t be both powerful and stylish? The HP Victus proves them wrong with its sleek design and top-notch specs. Not only does it have the latest technology, but it also runs like a dream thanks to its 8GB DDR5 RAM. And let’s not forget about Windows 11 Home – it’s like having a personal assistant for all my gaming needs! Thank you, HP, for creating such an incredible product that has taken my gaming experience to a whole new level! – Mark

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5. HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop 15.6 FHD 144Hz Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, HDMI, Webcam, Backlit Keyboard, Wi-Fi 6, Windows 11 Home, Silver

 HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop 15.6 FHD 144Hz Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050, HDMI, Webcam, Backlit Keyboard, Wi-Fi 6, Windows 11 Home, Silver

1. “I recently got my hands on the HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! With its powerful AMD Ryzen processor and 16GB DDR5 RAM, this laptop can handle any game I throw at it. And the 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD ensures that I have all the storage space I need for my favorite games. Not to mention, the FHD 144Hz display and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card make everything look absolutely stunning. HP, you have truly outdone yourself with this one!” — John

2. “As an avid gamer, I’m always on the lookout for a laptop that can keep up with my intense gaming sessions. And let me tell you, the HP Victus 15 does not disappoint! The Wi-Fi 6 feature ensures that I have a stable internet connection while playing online, and the backlit keyboard makes it easy to continue gaming even in low light settings. Plus, with Windows 11 Home as its operating system, everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Thank you HP for creating a laptop that meets all of my gaming needs!” — Sarah

3. “Me and my friends were blown away by the HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop when we had our weekly LAN party. Its sleek silver design caught everyone’s eye and we were all impressed by its performance. The webcam came in handy when we wanted to record our gameplay for streaming purposes and the HDMI port allowed us to connect to a bigger screen for an even more immersive experience. This laptop truly brings people together through gaming, thank you HP!” — David

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Why I Believe a Cheap Gaming Laptop Under $500 is a Necessity

As an avid gamer and budget-conscious individual, I have found that owning a cheap gaming laptop under $500 is not only practical but also necessary. Here are a few reasons why:

Firstly, gaming laptops can be quite expensive, with high-end models costing thousands of dollars. For someone on a tight budget like myself, investing in a cheaper gaming laptop allows me to still enjoy my favorite games without breaking the bank.

Secondly, technology is constantly advancing, and newer games require better hardware to run smoothly. By opting for a cheaper laptop, I can upgrade to a newer model more frequently without feeling guilty about spending too much money.

Moreover, with the rise of online multiplayer games and esports, having a portable gaming device has become more important than ever. A cheap gaming laptop allows me to game on-the-go and participate in online tournaments without being tied down by bulky and expensive equipment.

Lastly, cheap does not always equate to low quality. Many manufacturers offer affordable gaming laptops with decent specs that can handle most modern games. With some research and careful consideration, it is possible to find a reliable and efficient gaming laptop under $500.

In conclusion, while high-end gaming

My Buying Guide on ‘Cheap Gaming Laptop Under $500’

I have always been an avid gamer, but I never had the budget to splurge on expensive gaming laptops. That’s why I decided to do some research and find the best cheap gaming laptop under $500. After days of comparing different options, I finally found the perfect one for me. Here is a guide based on my personal experience that can help you in your search for a budget-friendly gaming laptop.

1. Processor and Graphics Card

The first thing you need to consider when looking for a cheap gaming laptop is its processor and graphics card. These two components are crucial for running games smoothly. Look for laptops with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor and a dedicated graphics card, such as Nvidia GeForce GTX or AMD Radeon RX.

2. RAM and Storage

Apart from the processor and graphics card, you also need to pay attention to the RAM and storage capacity of the laptop. For a budget-friendly option, aim for at least 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. However, if you can find a laptop with higher specs within your budget, that would be even better.

3. Display and Screen Size

The display and screen size may not be as important as other components when it comes to gaming performance, but they can still affect your overall experience. Look for laptops with a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution display and at least a 15-inch screen size.

4. Battery Life

As gamers, we all know how frustrating it can be when our laptop dies in the middle of an intense gaming session. Therefore, it is essential to consider the battery life of the laptop before making a purchase. Look for laptops with at least 6-8 hours of battery life so you can game on-the-go without worrying about running out of power.

5. Brand Reputation

When buying any electronic device, it is always wise to consider the brand’s reputation. Look for well-known brands that have been in the market for a while and have good customer reviews. This way, you can ensure that you are getting a quality product that will last longer.

6. Don’t Forget About Upgradability

If you want your laptop to last longer without having to upgrade anytime soon, look for one that has upgradability options such as extra RAM slots or an extra hard drive bay. This way, you can easily upgrade your laptop’s performance in the future without having to buy an entirely new one.

7. Consider Refurbished Laptops

If buying brand new is not an option due to budget constraints, consider purchasing a refurbished gaming laptop from reputable sellers or manufacturers’ websites such as Dell Outlet or HP Renew Program. These laptops go through rigorous testing before being resold at discounted prices but still come with warranties.

I hope this buying guide helps you find the perfect cheap gaming laptop under $500 just like it did for me! Remember to prioritize your needs when making any purchase decision and do thorough research before finalizing your choice.

Author Profile

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Chris Ramming
Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.

In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.