Tight-Budget Gaming: The 5 Best Gaming Laptops Under $200
Attention all gamers on a budget! Are you ready to level up your gaming experience without breaking the bank? Look no further because we've got the top five best gaming laptops under $200 for all your light gaming needs.
Whether you're a casual gamer or a student on a tight budget, these budget-friendly laptops will give you everything you need to run your favorite games.
From vivid graphics to smooth gameplay, we've scoured the internet to find you the absolute best options for gaming laptops that won't break the bank. Get ready to game on and elevate your playing experience without sacrificing your wallet!
1. ASUS 2023 - Best Compact & Powerful Gaming Laptop Under $200
Best Large Display Gaming Laptop Under $200
ASUS 2023 Newest Laptop, 11.6 Inch Display, Intel Dual-Core Processor
The ASUS 2023 is a sleek and budget-friendly gaming laptop that's perfect for gamers who are always on the move. Its compact 11.6-inch display makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, while still providing an enjoyable gaming experience.
Also, the laptop is powered by an Intel Dual-Core Processor, which delivers efficient and reliable performance for all your gaming needs. It runs on Windows 11 Home in S mode, which provides a streamlined and secure operating system experience that's perfect for gamers who want to focus on their games without worrying about security issues.
Additionally, the laptop also comes with up to 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which allows for efficient multitasking and smooth performance. Lastly, it provides up to 320GB of storage, including up to 64GB eMMC and up to 256GB PCIe, giving you plenty of space to store your games, files, and other data.
Key Features
Intel Dual-Core Processor for efficient and reliable performance
Windows 11 Home in S mode for a streamlined and secure operating system experience
Intel UHD Graphics for smooth visuals
Compact and portable design for gaming on the go
Up to 4GB of DDR4 RAM for multitasking and efficient performance
Up to 320GB of storage, including up to 64GB eMMC and up to 256GB PCIe, for storing games, files, and other data
Key Specs
Brand: Asus
Product Dimensions: 12.80 x 8.54 x 0.70 inches
Product Weight: 2.87 pounds
Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
CPU Model: Celeron N4020
Ram Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
Operating System: Windows 11 S
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Budget-friendly price point
The compact and portable design makes it easy to take on the go
A streamlined and secure operating system provides a worry-free gaming experience
Ample storage options ensure you have enough space for all your games and files
Cons:
Small display size
2. Samsung Chromebook 3 - Best Long Battery Life Gaming Laptop Under $200
Best Long Battery Life Gaming Laptop Under $200
Samsung Chromebook 3, 11.6", 4GB RAM, 16GB eMMC, Chromebook
The Samsung Chromebook 3 is a budget-friendly and lightweight gaming laptop that offers an impressive battery life, making it perfect for gamers who want to play their favorite games for extended periods without needing to recharge. With its 11.6-inch display and compact design, it's easy to take with you on the go, whether you're at home, school, or on the road.
Also, the laptop is powered by a Celeron processor and comes with 4GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, providing efficient and reliable performance for your gaming needs.
Additionally, the Samsung Chromebook 3 runs on Chrome OS, which is a fast and secure operating system that's perfect for browsing the web, streaming videos, and playing games. The laptop also features a spill-resistant keyboard, which is a handy feature for gamers who tend to spill drinks or snacks while playing.
Key Features
Celeron processor for efficient performance
Chrome OS for a fast and secure operating system experience
4GB of RAM for efficient multitasking
16GB of storage for storing your games, files, and other data
11.6-inch display for a compact and portable design
Spill-resistant keyboard for added durability
Key Specs
Brand: Samsung
Product Dimensions: 11.37 x 8.04 x 0.7 inches
Product Weight: 2.54 pounds
Hard Disk Size: 16 GB
CPU Model: Celeron
Ram Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
Operating System: Chrome OS
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Long battery life for extended gaming sessions
Lightweight and portable design for gaming on the go
Fast and secure Chrome OS operating system
The spill-resistant keyboard adds durability and protects against accidents
Cons:
A limited storage capacity of 16GB may not be enough for some users
3. HP Stream 14inch HD - Best High-Resolution Gaming Laptop Under $200
Best High-Resolution Gaming Laptop Under $200
HP Stream 14inch HD(1366x768) Display, Intel Celeron N4000 Dual-Core Processor
The HP Stream 14-inch HD is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers a high-resolution display, making it perfect for gamers who want to enjoy their games in stunning detail. With its 14-inch HD (1366x768) display, it provides crisp and clear visuals that make gaming more immersive. The laptop is powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 Dual-Core Processor and comes with 4GB of RAM and 32GB eMMC, providing efficient and reliable performance for your gaming needs.
Also, the HP Stream 14-inch HD runs on Windows 10 S, which is a streamlined and secure operating system that's perfect for students and gamers who want a fast and secure system. The laptop also features an Intel UHD Graphics 600, providing smooth and responsive performance for casual gaming.
With its 64GB of storage, the HP Stream 14-inch HD provides ample space for storing your games, files, and other data. It also features a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI, WiFi, webcam, and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your favorite devices.
Key Features
Intel Celeron N4000 Dual-Core Processor for efficient performance
Windows 10 S for a streamlined and secure operating system experience
Intel UHD Graphics 600 for smooth and responsive visuals
4GB of RAM for multitasking and efficient performance
64GB eMMC for storing games, files, and other data
14-inch HD (1366x768) display for high-resolution visuals
Key Specs
Brand: HP
Product Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 3 inches
Product Weight: 3.4 pounds
Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
CPU Model: Celeron N
Ram Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
Operating System: Windows 10
Pros and Cons
Pros:
High-resolution display
Windows 10 S
Ample storage options
Variety of connectivity options
Cons:
Integrated graphics may not be powerful enough for advanced gaming
4. Acer 2022 Chromebook 315 - Best Large Display Laptop for Gaming Under $200
Best Large Display Laptop for Gaming Under $200
Acer 2022 Chromebook 315 15.6" Full HD 1080p IPS Touchscreen Laptop PC
The Acer 2022 Chromebook 315 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers a large, high-definition display, making it perfect for gamers who want to enjoy their games in stunning detail. With its 15.6-inch Full HD 1080p IPS Touchscreen display, it provides crisp and clear visuals that make gaming more immersive.
Also, the laptop is powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor and comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 64GB eMMC, providing efficient and reliable performance for your gaming needs.
The Acer 2022 Chromebook 315 runs on Chrome OS, which is a fast and secure operating system that's perfect for browsing the web, streaming videos, and playing games. Lastly, the laptop also features a built-in webcam and WiFi connectivity, making it easy to stay connected with friends and family while gaming.
Key Features
Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor for efficient performance
Chrome OS for a fast and secure operating system experience
4GB of DDR4 RAM for efficient multitasking
64GB eMMC for storing your games, files, and other data
15.6-inch Full HD 1080p IPS touchscreen display for a large and high-definition gaming experience
Built-in webcam and WiFi connectivity for easy communication with friends and family
Long battery life of up to 12 hours for extended gaming sessions
Sleek and modern silver design for a stylish addition to your gaming setup
Key Specs
Brand: Acer
Product Dimensions: 13.6 x 9.6 x 0.7 inches
Product Weight: 2.67 pounds
Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
CPU Model: Celeron N4020
Ram Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
Operating System: Chrome OS
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Large Full HD IPS Touchscreen display
Chrome OS provides a fast and secure operating system experience
Ample storage options
Long battery life
Cons:
The laptop's large size may make it less portable than other budget-friendly gaming laptops.
5. Lenovo Chromebook C330 - Best 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop for Gaming Under $200
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop for Gaming Under $200
Lenovo Chromebook C330 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop
The Lenovo Chromebook C330 is a versatile and budget-friendly 2-in-1 laptop that's perfect for gamers who want a device that can be used in both laptop and tablet mode. With its 11.6-inch HD (1366 x 768) IPS Display, it provides clear and vivid visuals that make gaming more immersive. The laptop is powered by a MediaTek MT8173C Processor and comes with 4GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 64GB eMMC, providing efficient and reliable performance for your gaming needs.
Also, the Lenovo Chromebook C330 runs on Chrome OS, which is a fast and secure operating system that's perfect for browsing the web, streaming videos, and playing games. The laptop also features a built-in webcam and WiFi connectivity, making it easy to stay connected with friends and family while gaming.
With its 2-in-1 design, the Lenovo Chromebook C330 can be used in both laptop and tablet mode, providing versatility and convenience for gamers who want a device that can be used in different ways. Lastly, the laptop also features a sleek and modern Blizzard White design, making it a stylish addition to your gaming setup.
Key Features
MediaTek MT8173C Processor for efficient performance
Chrome OS for a fast and secure operating system experience
4GB LPDDR3 RAM for efficient multitasking
64GB eMMC for storing your games, files, and other data
11.6-inch HD (1366 x 768) IPS Display for clear and vivid visuals
Built-in webcam and WiFi connectivity for easy communication with friends and family
2-in-1 design for versatility and convenience
Sleek and modern Blizzard White design for a stylish addition to your gaming setup
Key Specs
Brand: Lenovo
Product Dimensions: 17.3 x 11.6 x 2.7 inches
Product Weight: 4 pounds
Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
CPU Model: Mediatek Mt8173C
Ram Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
Operating System: Chrome OS
Pros and Cons
Pros:
The versatile 2-in-1 design allows for different modes of use
Clear and vivid IPS Display provides great visuals for gaming
Chrome OS provides a fast and secure operating system experience
Ample storage options ensure you have enough space for all your games and files
Cons:
Integrated graphics may not be powerful enough for advanced gaming
Buyer Guide: What to Look for When Buying the Best Gaming Laptop Under $200?
Here are the specs and features to focus on when considering a gaming laptop under $200:
Processor:
The processor will have the biggest impact on gaming performance. Look for at least an Intel Celeron N or Pentium Silver processor with at least 2 cores and a 2 GHz clock speed. Avoid Atom CPUs as they are severely underpowered for gaming. An older 8th or 9th gen i3 processor would also deliver reasonable gaming performance for the price.
Graphics:
At this budget, you'll have to rely on the integrated graphics from the CPU. Aim for at least Intel UHD Graphics 620 or equivalent. You shouldn't expect playable framerates on modern games at high settings, but esports titles and older games should run okay on lower settings.
RAM:
4GB of RAM is the bare minimum, but 8GB or higher is recommended. More RAM will allow you to multitask better while gaming and avoid framerate drops. DDR4 RAM at 2666 MHz or higher is best.
Storage:
Get at least a 128GB SSD for reasonably fast boot and load times. A small SSD (128-256GB) paired with a 1TB HDD can balance performance and capacity. Avoid only having an HDD at this price point.
Display:
A 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution screen will provide sharper visuals and more workspace. 768p panels are common at this budget but will look more pixelated. Higher than 1080p is unlikely.
Ports:
Ensure it has basics like USB-A ports, an HDMI output, and an audio jack so you can connect peripherals, displays, and headphones.
Durability
Materials will likely be plastic, but check user feedback on build quality and reliability to avoid ones with issues. Hinges and keyboards can be weak points on budget models.
Upgradability:
Check if you'll be able to upgrade components like RAM, storage or the wireless card down the line within your budget. This adds flexibility if performance becomes an issue later on.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Gaming Laptop Under $200
Q: Can budget gaming laptops actually play games?
Yes, but you have to manage your expectations. Budget gaming laptops can generally play lighter esports games and indie titles on lower settings, but will struggle with more demanding modern games.
Q: How long will a $200 gaming laptop last?
Budget gaming laptops tend to have shorter lifespans, around 2-3 years. The low-end components will become outdated quickly. However, some simple tasks like web browsing and document editing may still be possible beyond that.
Q: Which CPU and GPU are best for a $200 gaming laptop?
An Intel Celeron or Pentium Silver processor is usually the best you'll find at this budget. The integrated Intel HD or UHD Graphics will have to suffice in place of a discrete GPU.
Q: How much RAM and storage do I need?
For gaming, 4GB of RAM is recommended. For storage, aim for at least 64GB SSD. More RAM and a larger SSD will provide better performance but may push the budget.
Q: Are refurbished gaming laptops under $200 any good?
Refurbished laptops can be a good budget option. You'll often get better specs for the price. However, check the warranty and return policy carefully. The quality of refurbs can vary greatly.
Q: What kinds of games will it play?
League of Legends, CS: GO, Overwatch, Fortnite, and Valorant on low settings, as well as less demanding indie games and older titles. You shouldn't expect high frame rates on more recent AAA games.
Final Words:
While gaming laptops can often be expensive, there are still some great options available for those on a budget of $200 or less. From compact and portable options to larger displays with high-definition resolution, there are a variety of affordable gaming laptops that offer efficient and reliable performance for casual gaming needs. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly laptop with long battery life or a versatile 2-in-1 device, there are many options available for gamers who want to enjoy their favorite games without breaking the bank. Overall, these affordable gaming laptops offer great value for their price and are a great option for budget-conscious gamers.
