10 Best Cheap Gaming Laptops 2025 in the United States

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025) is a strong choice for gamers looking for good power without breaking the bank. It features a fast Intel Core i7 14650HX processor and a solid NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, which together can handle most modern games smoothly. The 16GB of DDR5 memory is ample for multitasking and gaming, while the 1TB Gen 4 SSD offers fast game loading and plenty of storage for a large game library.

The 16-inch FHD+ display with a 165Hz refresh rate provides sharp and fluid visuals, making gameplay feel responsive and enjoyable. The screen also has reduced glare for comfortable long sessions. Cooling is a standout here, with advanced tech like a vapor chamber, tri-fan setup, and liquid metal on the chipset, which helps keep temperatures down and performance steady during heavy gaming. While the laptop weighs about 5.8 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side, it’s expected given the hardware and cooling system.

The build quality is solid, and the customizable RGB lighting adds a nice touch for gamers who want some style. This laptop is well suited for gamers who want good performance and a quality display at a reasonable price but don’t mind a slightly heavier device.

The Lenovo Legion 5i is a strong contender in the affordable gaming laptop category, powered by a recent Intel Core i7-14700HX processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU. This combination offers excellent performance for modern games and creative tasks, making it a versatile option for students and casual gamers alike. With 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and a spacious 1 TB SSD, it delivers smooth multitasking and fast game load times.

Its 15.1-inch PureSight OLED display is a standout feature, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a sharp 2.5K resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate, which is great for immersive and fluid gameplay. Lenovo’s AI Engine+ helps optimize game performance and reduces rendering times, which is a nice touch for those who also use their laptop for creative work. Cooling is managed efficiently via Legion Coldfront technology, which keeps the system quiet and cool during intense gaming sessions. Battery life is decent considering the hardware, with fast charging that can get you back to 70% in under 30 minutes.

On the downside, the laptop weighs 4.4 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for carrying around daily, especially for students. Also, while the specs are impressive, the price might be higher compared to basic budget gaming laptops, making it more suitable for those who want near high-end features without going premium. If you prioritize strong gaming performance, a stunning OLED screen, and good cooling in a portable form, the Lenovo Legion 5i fits well within the cheap gaming laptop category, though it leans toward the higher end of that range.

The Alienware M18 R2 Gaming Laptop is a powerhouse with an 18-inch QHD+ display and advanced specifications. It features a robust Intel Core i9-14900HX processor paired with a high-end NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 12 GB GDDR6 graphics card, providing exceptional performance for demanding games. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, it offers quick boot times and efficient multitasking. These top-tier specs come with a higher price tag, making it less suitable for budget-conscious gamers seeking 'cheap' gaming laptops.

The laptop’s impressive 165Hz refresh rate and anti-glare coating ensure smooth and clear visuals, enhancing the gaming experience. The thermal management system is designed to handle the heat generated during intense gaming sessions, which is crucial for maintaining performance. On the downside, the Alienware M18 R2 is quite heavy at 9.32 pounds and has larger dimensions, making it less portable. Its battery life might also be shorter due to the powerful components.

Additionally, while it offers excellent build quality and a comfortable keyboard, it lacks an optical drive, which might be a limitation for some users. This laptop is best suited for gamers who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in a high-end machine, rather than those seeking an affordable option.