Best Gaming Laptops Under $700: Your Budget-Friendly Guide

Hey gaming enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for a gaming laptop without breaking the bank? Well, you've come to the right place. Finding the best gaming laptops under $700 is totally doable, and I'm here to guide you through it. It's time to dive into the world of affordable gaming rigs that can still deliver a fantastic experience. I'll break down everything you need to know, from what specs to prioritize to the top models currently available. Let's find you that perfect budget-friendly gaming companion!

What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop Under $700

Okay, so you're aiming for gaming laptops under $700. You probably won't get the absolute top-of-the-line performance, but trust me, there are some seriously capable machines out there. Knowing what to focus on is key. Let's break down the essential components and features to keep an eye on when you're shopping.

The Processor (CPU)

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the brain of your laptop. It handles all the background tasks and helps your games run smoothly. For under $700, you'll generally find CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5. These processors are more than adequate for gaming at 1080p resolution and can handle multitasking without major hiccups. Look for the latest generation (e.g., Ryzen 5 5600H or Intel Core i5-11300H) for the best performance.

Graphics Card (GPU)

This is where the magic happens for gaming. The GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit, is responsible for rendering the visuals you see on your screen. In this price range, you'll likely find laptops equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650, GTX 1650 Ti, or maybe even an RTX 3050. AMD Radeon RX 6500M or RX 6600M are also excellent options. The higher the number, the better the performance. However, consider the amount of VRAM (Video RAM) the GPU has. A GPU with 4GB or more of VRAM is generally preferable for modern games. The GPU is the most important part of the gaming laptops under $700.

RAM (Memory)

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is crucial for multitasking and loading game assets. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB is ideal if you can find it within your budget. More RAM means smoother gameplay and less stuttering, especially when running multiple applications simultaneously. This is especially true for the gaming laptops under $700.

Storage

Storage affects how quickly your games load and how much you can store. An SSD (Solid State Drive) is a must-have these days. It's much faster than a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Look for at least a 256GB SSD, but 512GB or even 1TB is a fantastic upgrade if your budget allows. Games are getting bigger and bigger, so you'll want plenty of space for all your titles. Make sure you get the gaming laptops under $700 with good storage.

Display

The display quality significantly impacts your gaming experience. Look for a 15.6-inch or 17.3-inch display with a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution. A refresh rate of 120Hz or higher is a huge bonus, as it provides smoother visuals and less motion blur. A higher refresh rate makes a massive difference, so keep it in mind when looking at gaming laptops under $700.

Battery Life

Don't expect stellar battery life from gaming laptops, but it's still worth considering. Most budget gaming laptops will get you around 3-5 hours of battery life during general use (web browsing, etc.). Gaming will drain the battery much faster. If you plan to game on the go, battery life is something to keep in mind, and you should consider the gaming laptops under $700.

Build Quality and Design

While aesthetics shouldn't be your top priority, consider the build quality and design. A laptop with a solid chassis will be more durable. Also, check the keyboard and touchpad – they should feel comfortable to use. Many of the gaming laptops under $700 have surprisingly good build quality.

Top Gaming Laptops Under $700: Our Recommendations

Alright, let's get to the good stuff. Here are some of the best gaming laptops under $700 that offer a great balance of performance and features. Note that prices can fluctuate, so always check the latest deals.

Acer Nitro 5

This is a classic budget gaming laptop for a reason. Acer Nitro 5 often features configurations with AMD Ryzen processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX/RTX GPUs. It usually offers a good display, a comfortable keyboard, and decent cooling for its price point. It's frequently available within the $700 budget, especially during sales. It's one of the best choices for gaming laptops under $700.

ASUS TUF Gaming Series

The ASUS TUF series is known for its durability and value. Like the Acer Nitro 5, you'll often find configurations with AMD Ryzen or Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce GPUs. The TUF series tends to have a sturdy build, making it a good choice if you need a laptop that can withstand some wear and tear. They are one of the gaming laptops under $700 that is durable.

Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Series

Lenovo's IdeaPad Gaming laptops often offer excellent value for the money. They frequently come with AMD Ryzen processors and NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards. They generally offer a clean design, good performance, and solid build quality. Keep an eye out for sales, as they can sometimes dip below the $700 mark. Consider the gaming laptops under $700 Lenovo IdeaPad.

HP Victus Series

The HP Victus series is a newer entrant into the budget gaming laptop market. They usually feature Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors, paired with NVIDIA GeForce GPUs. These laptops often come with a sleek design and good performance for the price. The gaming laptops under $700 are a good option.

Tips for Buying a Gaming Laptop Under $700

Buying a gaming laptop on a budget requires some smart shopping. Here are a few tips to help you get the best deal:

Check for Sales and Discounts

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other seasonal sales events are prime opportunities to snag a great deal. Also, check for student discounts, manufacturer rebates, and refurbished options.

Consider Refurbished Models

Refurbished laptops can offer significant savings. Make sure you buy from a reputable seller with a good warranty.

Prioritize Your Needs

Think about what games you want to play and what features are most important to you (e.g., display refresh rate, storage space). This will help you make informed decisions.

Read Reviews

Before making a purchase, read reviews from other users and tech experts to get a sense of the laptop's real-world performance and reliability.

Don't Overlook Older Models

Older generation laptops with slightly less powerful components can sometimes offer better value than brand-new models at the same price point.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect gaming laptops under $700 is all about making smart choices. By focusing on the right specs, comparing your options, and taking advantage of sales, you can enjoy a fantastic gaming experience without emptying your wallet. Keep an eye on the recommendations above, do your research, and happy gaming! You'll be surprised at what you can get for your money. Remember to always check the latest prices and availability before making your final decision. Good luck with your search, and enjoy your new gaming laptop!