Looking for a powerful gaming laptop that can handle the most demanding games? Maybe some competitive gaming?
Check out our list of the best gaming laptops under $2000 to crush your competition. We've got something for everyone, no matter what your budget is.
These gaming laptops are powerful enough to run the latest games at high settings, but unlike other gaming laptops, they're also affordable enough that you won't have to break the bank.
So, whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, we've got you covered.
Read on to view our list of the best gaming laptops under $2000!
We hope you find just what you're looking for from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and FYI — BestToGet may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding what’s best for you!
How We Choose The Best Gaming Laptops Under $2000!
Hardcore gamers know that finding the right gaming laptop can be a real pain. You want a machine that will give you the power to play the latest games and great performance, but you don't want to break the bank in the process.
Not only do you have to worry about getting a powerful gaming machine, but you also need to ensure that it has all the features you need, like a good graphics card, a fast processor, and plenty of storage capacity.
And if it doesn't come with those things pre-installed, then you're looking at another huge expense on top of your purchase price.
With our list of best gaming laptops under $2000, you can find the perfect gaming machine for your needs without spending too much money.
Our team has put together a comprehensive list of the best gaming laptops available for under $2000 based on user reviews and star ratings.
Whether you're looking for a budget model or something more high-end, we've got you covered. We've done all of the hard work for you so that you can focus on enjoying your favorite games.
What We Love
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line, excellent gaming laptop that won't break the bank, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 is the one for you.
This premium gaming laptop comes with a top-of-the-line graphics card, making it capable of running even the most demanding games without breaking a sweat.
The bright screen and solid speakers create an immersive gaming experience, and the build quality is second to none. In fact, this gaming laptop rivals some of the best gaming PC's on the market in terms of performance.
So, if you're looking for a high-powered gaming laptop to take over the gaming world that won't break the bank, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 is a perfect choice. Truly a great gaming laptop offing an excellent gaming experience.
What You Should Know
We are PC Gamers, and we love this gaming laptop.
It has an Intel Core i9-12900HK CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Graphics Card (with NVIDIA Dynamic Boost), 15.6 Inch 300Hz IPS FHD display, 16GB DDR5, 1TB SSD, RGB backlit keyboard, and Weighs 5.07 pounds.
This portable gaming laptop has everything you need for gaming. The CPU and GPU are powerful, the display is fast, and the 1TB SSD has more than enough space for all your games.
The only downside is that this model does not come with a webcam, but that may not be a big deal if you don't use one when gaming.
Overall, this is an excellent gaming laptop, and we highly recommend it to any PC gamer looking for a high-end gaming laptop for their intense gaming sessions.
What We Love
Are you looking for a 17-inch display gaming laptop that can handle the most power-hungry games and provide a smooth gaming experience? Maybe looking for some fast-paced competitive gaming?
The MSI GE76 Raider is a perfect choice. With its powerful CPU and GPU, it can handle anything you throw at it. Plus, the striking front light bar makes it look great.
Outstanding performance is just one of the many features of this laptop. It also has lots of ports so that you can connect all your gaming peripherals. And the large screen is perfect for immersive gaming.
So, if you're looking for a 17-inch display gaming laptop that can do it all, MSI GE76 Raider is the one for you. One of the best gaming laptops out there.
What You Should Know
This gaming laptop is a speed demon. It's got an Intel Core i9-12900HK CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti Graphics Card, and a 17.3 Inch 1920 x 1080 360Hz display. It weighs 6.39 pounds (2.9 kg). That's one mighty laptop. And fast too.
The Intel Core i9-12900HK CPU is a Hexa-core processor with a turbo boost of up to 5.0 GHz. The GeForce RTX 3080 Ti is one of the most powerful consumer GPUs on the market, and it doesn't disappoint. It can handle any game you throw at it with ease.
The 17.3 Inch 1920 x 1080 360Hz display is perfect for gaming. It's clear and crisp with great color reproduction. Plus, the high refresh rate means you won't miss a beat. When it comes to gaming laptops, this one is hard to beat.
What We Love
The Alienware M15 R6 is built for gaming, and it shows.
With a fast display refresh rate of 240Hz, it's perfect for gamers who want the edge on their competition. The M15 also benefits from Alienware Cryo-Tech component cooling, which helps to improve performance and keep heat to a minimum.
So, if you're looking for an i7 CPU gaming laptop that can keep up with the best of them, the Alienware M15 R6 is the one for you.
What You Should Know
The Alienware M15 R6 is a powerful solid gaming laptop that comes with some impressive specs.
It is powered by a virtual reality-ready 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11800H CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU. The 15.6 Inch QHD 2k 240Hz display is perfect for gaming, and the 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD provides plenty of storage space and speedy performance.
The gaming laptop weighs 5.93 pounds, making it lightweight and portable.
Overall, the Alienware M15 R6 is a great choice for gamers who are looking for a powerful and portable gaming laptop with great performance.
Best Bang For Your Buck Gaming Laptop With 15 Inch Display
Acer Nitro 5 AN517-54-79L1
What We Love
The Acer Nitro 5 has been called the best value for a gaming laptop, and it's easy to see why. It's priced very competitively.
The 17.3-inch screen is a great feature, and the gaming performance is solid with the 16GB of RAM, 11th Generation Intel Core i7 CPU, and RTX 3050 Ti.
This gaming laptop has more than enough power for most games, and it's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a new gaming laptop. There are few gaming laptops, if any, that can come close to its value.
What You Should Know
Acer's Nitro 5 gaming laptop is a powerful machine that's perfect for gaming and other demanding tasks.
It comes with an 11th Generation Intel Core i7 11800H CPU, Nvidia RTX 3050Ti GPU, 17.3 FHD 144Hz IPS Display, 16BG DDR4 Memory, and 1TB NVMe SSD drive.
That's a lot of power packed into a relatively small form factor, and it's sure to handle anything you throw at it.
The RTX 3050Ti is a great choice for gamers, as it offers good gaming performance without sacrificing too much in the way of battery life. The 144Hz IPS display is also a great feature, as it provides smooth and crisp visuals.
Overall, the Acer Nitro 5 is a great choice for anyone looking for a gaming laptop.
What We Love
If you're looking for a powerful and affordable gaming laptop, the 2021 Lenovo Legion 5 is a great option.
It's equipped with a Ryzen 5-5600H CPU that rivals comparable i7 CPUs at a lower price point and comes with a great display and plenty of RAM. Don't be put off by the Nvidia 1650 GPU - gaming performance is on par with much more expensive GPU cards.
There's plenty of power to play modern games on high settings, making the Legion 5 a great choice for budget-conscious gamers and a good gaming laptop.
What You Should Know
The Lenovo Legion 5 is an impressive gaming laptop that comes with a 17.3 FHG display, AMD Ryzen 5-5600H CPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD, and Nvidia GTX 1650 GPU.
It's a great choice for gamers who are looking for a high-performance gaming laptop that can handle the latest games.
The Legion 5 has many features that make it ideal for gaming, including a fast CPU and ample memory.
It also comes with a large storage drive so you can keep all your games and save files in one place.
The graphics card is powerful enough to run the latest games at high settings, making it perfect for gamers who want to enjoy their games at the highest quality.
If you're looking for a gaming laptop that can do it all, the Lenovo Legion 5 is a great option.
Best Gaming Laptop Under $2000 That's Thin And Light Weight
CUK GF65 Thin by MSI
What We Love
Are you looking for a powerful gaming laptop that won't weigh you down? MSI's CUK GF65 Thin is a perfect choice.
This ultra-thin and light gaming laptop is only 4.1 pounds, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. But don't let its size fool you - this machine packs a serious punch.
It's equipped with the Nvidia RTX 3060 paired with the i7-10750H Processor, meaning it can easily handle even the most demanding games.
Plus, the 144Hz IPS-Level Thin-Bezel gaming display produces outstanding speed and clarity. You'll love gaming on this laptop!
But that's not all - the CUK GF65 Thin also features a dedicated thermal solution with up to 6 heat pipes.
This ensures that your CPU and GPU stay cool, even when the action is heated. So, whether you're taking your laptop with you on a trip or just want a powerful yet lightweight machine for gaming at home, the CUK GF65 Thin is a perfect choice.
What You Should Know
The CUK GF 65 Thin by MSI is an impressive gaming laptop that's perfect for gamers who want to take their games with them on the go.
It has a 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10750H Six Core Processor, 32GB DDR 2933MHz RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, Nividia GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GPU, and a 15.6-inch FHD 144Hz IPS-Level display.
This gaming laptop has everything you need to run the latest games at high settings, making it a great choice for gamers who want a powerful laptop that they can take with them anywhere.
Gaming Laptop FAQs
You may be telling yourself, I'm looking for a new gaming laptop, but I don't know where to start.
Unlike gaming consoles, it's tough to figure out from the many gaming laptops which one is right for you because there are so many different options on the market.
And with all of the jargon that comes with them, it can be hard to understand what each one actually does.
We've put together this gaming laptop FAQ guide to help make your decision easier.
In it, we'll answer some of the most common questions about gaming laptops and provide you with information about the different specs and features you need to consider before making your purchase.
Are i7 laptops good for gaming?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the specific game you want to play, your budget, and the design of the gaming laptop.
Generally speaking however, most gamers will tell you that an i7 is a good choice for a gaming laptop.
The i7 has more processing power than lower-end models, which can be helpful for gaming.
And although it may not be necessary for casual gamers, serious players often appreciate the extra speed and gaming performance that an i7 provides.
How much RAM is good for gaming?
RAM is important for gaming because it stores the game data that your computer is using at any given time.
So, the more RAM you have, the more data your computer can store and use simultaneously, which allows for a smoother gaming experience. 8GB of RAM should be good for most gamers.
However, if you're looking to get the best possible gaming performance, then you may want to consider upgrading to 16GB or even 32GB of RAM. This will allow your computer to store even more data and run games more smoothly.
Is i7 or Ryzen 7 better?
Generally speaking, the Ryzen 7 processors offer better performance at lower prices than the i7 processors.
However, the i7 processors offer better performance in some specific applications. For example, if you plan to do a lot of editing video or gaming, the i7 processor may be a better choice.
Is a gaming laptop worth it?
It depends on what you need it for. For example, if you are a professional gamer, and want to experience outstanding gaming performance, then a gaming laptop is definitely worth the investment.
However, if you only play casually or for entertainment purposes, then you may not need all of the features that come with a gaming laptop and could save money by purchasing a regular laptop instead.
The best gaming laptops generally have faster processors, more RAM, and better graphics cards than regular laptops, making them better suited for gaming versus watching movies.
They also usually come with cooling systems that help to prevent the computer from overheating during long gaming sessions.
So if you are a gaming enthusiast and plan on doing a lot of gaming on your laptop, then a gaming laptop is definitely worth the money.
How long do gaming laptops last?
Most Gaming laptops last for around 3-4 years if you use them regularly.
The reason they don’t last as long as regular laptops is because they have to generate more heat in order to keep the graphics cards running at a high level. This extra heat can cause some of the internal components to wear out more quickly.
Another factor that affects how long your gaming laptop lasts is how you use it.
If you’re playing games that require a lot of graphics processing power, then the gaming laptop will run hotter and will wear down more quickly.
However, if you’re only using it for basic tasks such as web browsing and writing emails, then it will last longer.
Do gaming laptops overheat?
Yes, gaming laptops can overheat. This is because they often run high-end graphics and processing programs that generate a lot of heat.
To prevent your gaming laptop from overheating and ensure excellent gaming performance make sure to keep it in a cool, well-ventilated area. You should also avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car.
If your gaming laptop does overheat, try shutting it down and letting it cool down before restarting.
Why are gaming laptops so expensive?
High-end Gaming laptops are more expensive because they come with high-end hardware that is designed for gaming. This hardware can include a powerful processor, large amounts of RAM, and dedicated graphics cards.
In order to get smooth gaming performance and the best gaming experience, it is important to have a gaming laptop that can handle the high demands of games. This is why the best gaming laptops often come at a higher price than other laptops that are more traditional or mainstream.
Is 8GB RAM enough for gaming?
It depends on the type of gaming you want to do. If you're just going to be playing simple, older games, then 8GB should be plenty.
However, if you want to play more modern games that require more system resources and experience excellent gaming performance, then you'll likely need more than 8GB for a smooth gaming experience.
It's also worth mentioning that not all games are created equal. Some games will require more RAM than others, so it's important to check the system requirements before purchasing a game.
If your computer or gaming laptop doesn't meet the requirements, the game may not run properly or at all.
What makes a gaming laptop good?
There are a few things to look for when purchasing high-end gaming laptops.
One of the most important for hardcore gaming performance is the graphics card. Make sure that it has a good graphics card so that you can play all the latest games without any problems.
You should also check the processor to make sure that it's a good one. The faster the processor, the better.
Another thing to look for in a gaming laptop is additional storage capacity.
Most of the best gaming laptops come with a large hard drive, but if you plan on storing many games on your gaming laptop, you may want to get one with a larger hard drive for more storage space.
Finally, ensure that the gaming laptop has a good cooling system so that it doesn't overheat while you're playing games and has long battery life.
All of these are important to get the best gaming experience and performance from your laptop.
What makes a laptop faster, RAM or processor?
It depends.
If you are running resource-intensive software, such as gaming, watching movies, or using video editing software, you will need a faster processor to keep up with the demand.
However, if you are just browsing the web or checking email, then faster RAM will be more beneficial.
On average, faster RAM increases the speed at which memory transfers information to other components. That includes the speed by which your CPU talks to components. Thereby increasing the efficiency of your computer in general.
Is 32 GB of RAM overkill?
It really depends on your needs.
If you're a gamer, do a lot of video editing, or have a lot of programs running at once, then 32 GB is not overkill.
But if you just use your computer for basic tasks like checking email and browsing the internet, then 8 GB or 16 GB will probably be enough.
RAM is important because it's what your computer uses to store information that it's currently working with. So the more RAM you have, the more things your computer can keep in memory at once, which means it can do more things faster.
That's why gamers and people who do heavy-duty computing need more RAM than people who just use their computers for light tasks.
Is 64 GB of RAM overkill?
It really depends on what you're using your computer for.
For basic tasks like web browsing, email, and word processing, 64 GB of RAM is more than you'll ever need.
But if you're doing more intensive tasks like video editing or gaming, then you'll probably appreciate the extra memory.
In general, you want to get as much RAM as you can comfortably afford to add to your computer so it can be ready for anything you throw at it.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide whether or not 64 GB of RAM is overkill. Just be sure to consider your needs and budget before making a purchase.
Does playing games ruin your laptop?
No, but it can shorten the battery life.
Playing games on your laptop can definitely shorten the battery life. This is because gaming requires a lot of computing power, which in turn consumes a lot of energy and results in higher heat levels.
If you're playing games regularly, you should try to keep your laptop plugged in as much as possible to avoid damaging the battery and thereby increasing the battery life.
You should also keep the laptop fans clean and ensure no obstructions are blocking the air vents since this will help keep the machine cool and reduce the risk of damage.
Do Gaming Laptops get slower over time?
Yes, gaming laptops tend to get slower over time as their hardware starts to wear down.
This is because gaming laptops are often used to play resource-intensive games, which puts a lot of strain on the hardware.
However, there are ways to help keep your gaming laptop running as smoothly as possible for as long as possible.
One way is to keep the laptop's internal fans clean and free of dust and dirt. You can also use special software utilities that help optimize your laptop's gaming performance.
Why does a gaming laptop battery drain so fast?
Gaming laptops are notorious for their battery drain, often resulting in shorter battery life, and there are a few reasons for this.
First, the high-end graphics cards that gamers love often require a lot of power, which can quickly drain the battery.
Second, gaming laptops tend to have large screens and powerful hardware that can suck up a lot of energy.
And finally, many gamers like to keep their gaming laptops plugged in while they play, so they don’t have to worry about the battery running out.
All those factors add up to shorter battery life for gaming laptops.
But there are some ways to help mitigate the problem and extend the battery life. You can reduce screen brightness, turn off features you don’t need, and uninstall unused programs.
Are gaming laptops better than consoles?
In general, gaming laptops are better than consoles because they offer more flexibility in terms of graphics and processing power.
However, there are some drawbacks to gaming laptops, such as their higher price tag and shorter battery life.
Consoles have the advantage of being cheaper, but they are limited in terms of graphics capabilities. Laptops offer much better graphics capabilities than consoles, but they tend to be more expensive and have shorter battery life.
So it ultimately depends on what your needs are as a gamer. If you want the best possible graphics gaming performance, a gaming laptop is the way to go.
But if you're looking for something more affordable and don't mind sacrificing some graphical quality, then a gaming device like a console is a better choice.
What specs are good for a gaming laptop?
This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on your budget and what games you want to play.
For budget-minded gamers, we usually recommend looking for a gaming laptop with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 or 1050 Ti graphics card, an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, and 8GB of RAM.
Of course, the best gaming laptop with the best gaming performance will have a higher-end graphics card and processor, but those are the minimum specs we would recommend for playing most modern games.
What processor do you need for gaming?
It depends on the kind of gaming you want to do.
If you're into high-end PC gaming, then you'll need a processor that can handle a lot of simultaneous tasks, like the 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8700K.
If you're more into casual or mobile gaming, then a less powerful processor like the AMD Ryzen 3 2200G will suffice.
Which model laptop is best for gaming?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best gaming laptop depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Some factors you may want to consider include the graphics capabilities of the laptop, its processing power, and the size and weight of the device.
That said, some laptops that are popular among gamers include the Alienware 17 R4 and the Razer Blade Pro.
These models offer high-end graphics capabilities and powerful processors that make them perfect for gamers who want a top-of-the-line experience and gaming performance. However, they also tend to be quite expensive.
If you're looking for a more affordable gaming laptop option, consider the gaming laptops suggested on our lists.
Which laptop brand is best for gaming?
There is no one “best” laptop brand for gaming. Different people have different preferences, and what might be the best brand for one person might not be the best for another.
Some factors that could influence someone’s decision about which brand to choose include price, portability, graphics quality, and processing power.
That said, some brands are better known for their gaming laptops than others. Some of the more popular brands include Razer, Dell Alienware, Asus ROG, Acer Predator Helios, and Lenovo Legion.
Why are gaming laptops so heavy?
Gaming laptops are heavy because they have powerful hardware inside them that allows them to run graphics-intensive games.
This hardware takes up a lot of space, so the laptop has to be larger and heavier in order to accommodate it.
In addition, gaming laptops usually come with large cooling systems that keep the hardware from overheating. This too, takes up space and adds weight.
Finally, many gaming laptops come with built-in displays that are larger than those found on standard laptops. This also contributes to the weight of the machine.
How much money is a gaming laptop?
Price depends on the brand, the features, and the specs of the laptop. A gaming laptop typically starts at $800 but can go up to $4,000 or more.
A good gaming laptop should have a high-end GPU, a fast processor, lots of RAM, and a large hard drive.
Some gamers also prefer laptops with two graphics cards for better performance. Laptops with these features can be quite expensive.
So if you're looking for a gaming laptop that will give you the best performance possible, be prepared to spend at least $1,000.
Do cooling pads help laptops?
Yes, cooling pads help laptops by providing a more stable environment for heat dissipation.
Laptops generate a lot of heat due to their small size and the high-power components they contain. If this heat is not dissipated quickly, it can cause the laptop to overheat and potentially damage the circuits inside.
A cooling pad helps dissipate this heat by providing a larger surface area for heat exchange.
The fan within the cooling pad also helps circulate air around the laptop, helping it to cool down faster.
Some cooling pads even come with software that allows you to control the fan speed and temperature, so you can find the perfect balance between keeping your laptop cool and preserving its battery life for optimal gaming.
Best Gaming Laptop Under $2000 For You!
So, if you enjoy gaming and are looking for the best gaming laptop under $2000 that will not require you to sacrifice great gaming performance or power and have an amazing gaming experience, we highly recommend checking out the modern laptops on our list.
All of these gaming laptops under $2000 have been verified by customers as having excellent gaming performance and being able to handle even the most demanding games easily. Plus, all the laptops come at a great price that is within your budget!
Don't wait any longer for these amazing gaming laptops – check out the prices now by tapping the "Check Price on Amazon" button and get yourself a powerful machine that can handle all your gaming needs.
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