Best Gaming Laptops Under $2000 in 2025
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This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
Finding the best gaming laptop under $2000 is tougher than it looks. Specs and marketing can be misleading, and plenty of “budget” machines quietly skimp on cooling, screens, or build quality.
I’ve gone hands-on with the latest 2025 models and pulled together the ones that actually hold up. These laptops balance performance, display quality, and thermals without creeping over that $2K line.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the laptops under $2000 that actually impressed me – the ones that can handle modern games without cutting corners.
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Our Top Picks for Gaming Laptops Under $2000
With so many gaming laptops on the market, it can be hard to figure out which is the best and why. From my research, I’ve found that these seven particular models offer the best specs for the best price – and more importantly, they actually deliver on that promise.
Each laptop on this list has been tested for real-world gaming performance, not just raw specs, and showed no major issues with build quality, thermals, or reliability:
- ASUS ROG Strix G16 240Hz – the best overall machine, touting the perfect combination of power, performance, and price.
- MSI Katana A17 AI 17.3 – best device for those looking for a big screen.
- ASUS ROG Strix G17 – the most powerful machine on the list in terms of raw GPU and CPU performance.
I ranked these affordable gaming laptops based on real-world performance, display quality, thermals, battery life, build reliability, and overall value. Scroll down to see how each laptop performs across these benchmarks. Curious to see how these picks stack up against the competition? Scroll down for the full list and detailed breakdowns of all top-rated gaming laptops under $2000.
9 Best Gaming Laptops Under $2000 for Every Type of Gamer
If you’re looking to get the absolute best bang for your gaming buck in 2025, these are the gaming laptops that truly deliver.
Ready to find the perfect machine for your playstyle? Let’s dive into the top picks worth your money this year.
1. ASUS ROG Strix G16 240Hz [Best Overall]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch |
| Resolution | FHD+ |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz, IPS-level, 3 ms |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13980HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
With a 240Hz refresh rate, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 stands above most gaming laptops at any price, delivering an incredibly smooth display capable of keeping up with even the highest frame rates.
While hitting 240fps on most games – even on top-tier machines – can be a challenge, this laptop offers more refresh rate than you’ll likely ever need.
Powered by the NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, this beast can handle nearly any game. In Cyberpunk 2077 (2025 Update) at 1440p with ray tracing enabled and DLSS 3 set to Performance mode, you can expect frame rates averaging around 85–100fps, with smooth consistency even in dense city environments.
Oblivion Remastered, one of 2025‘s most beautiful open-world RPGs, runs comfortably at ultra settings, averaging 120–135fps at 1440p, thanks to the efficient optimization and raw power of the RTX 4070.
In fast-paced competitive games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Valorant, the system can easily sustain frame rates well above 200fps, taking full advantage of the 240Hz refresh rate for ultra-responsive gameplay.
The combination of high refresh rates and cutting-edge graphics ensures that every detail is rendered with precision, whether you’re exploring vast open worlds or engaging in fast-paced multiplayer battles. The display’s responsiveness also minimizes motion blur, giving you exceptional performance to help you gain a competitive edge.
While no device is truly future-proof given how quickly gaming technology evolves, specs outlined on the official ROG Strix G16 page ensure you’ll be able to play the latest releases at max settings for years to come, and at high settings for even longer.
Add in a sleek design and a robust build, and you’ve got one hell of a laptop built for optimal gaming performance. Additionally, the cooling system is engineered to keep temperatures in check, even during marathon sessions, ensuring consistent performance without throttling.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a powerhouse that combines style, durability, and top-tier performance: totally on a par with the best Macbook when it comes to value for money.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 240Hz display for ultra-smooth gameplay ✅ Sleek, gamer-centric design ✅ Powerful RTX 4070 GPU for high frame rates ✅ High-end CPU thanks to the Intel Core i9-13980HX | ❌ Battery life could be better for portable use |
Final Verdict: The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is the ultimate laptop for gaming under $2000, offering top-tier performance and a premium display for serious gamers. With its 240Hz refresh rate and RTX 4070 GPU, it delivers buttery-smooth gameplay and stunning visuals, making it the best Asus laptop for those looking to hit max settings in the latest titles.
2. MSI Katana A17 AI 17.3 [Best for Competitive Gaming]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 17.3-inch |
| Resolution | FHD |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13620H |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs |
If you want to stay competitive under $2000, MSI Katana A17 is your rig. RTX 4060 GPU handles modern esports titles at high settings, while the 240Hz display keeps motion crisp and input ultra-responsive. Combined with solid thermals and a keyboard built for fast reactions, this laptop keeps you a step ahead in every match – from aiming precision in shooters to smooth frame delivery in fast-paced MOBAs
It delivers high frame rates and low latency that serious players demand in fast-paced titles like: Doom: The Dark Ages, Monster Hunter Wilds, FragPunk, or Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Every movement feels incredibly responsive, giving you a crucial edge in fast-paced matches where split-second reactions matter most.
The graphics card’s efficiency also means you can enjoy longer gaming sessions without worrying about excessive power drain or overheating, making it a reliable companion for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Extensive research confirms that the massive 17.3-inch display delivers consistently smooth performance, thanks to its stellar 240Hz refresh rate. With its powerful GPU and expansive screen, you’ll enjoy buttery-smooth gameplay at 60fps or higher, turning every gaming session into a cinematic experience.
The large display not only enhances immersion but also provides ample screen real estate for multitasking, whether you’re streaming, editing, or browsing. Combined with MSI’s signature Cooler Boost technology, the MSI Katana A17 ensures that performance remains stable, even during intense sessions. It’s a fantastic blend of portability, power, and visual excellence at a lower price, for gamers who refuse to compromise.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large 17.3-inch display for immersive gameplay ✅ High refresh rate ideal for competitive gaming ✅ Solid performance for the price | ❌ Heavier than other models, less portable |
Final Verdict: The MSI Katana A17 might not match the ASUS ROG Strix G16’s raw power, but its massive 17.3-inch, 240 Hz panel delivers lightning-fast visuals and ultra-low input lag – essential for esports, making it the best MSI gaming laptop for competitive play.
3. ASUS ROG Strix G17 [Best Large Display]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 17.3-inch |
| Resolution | QHD 2560×1440 |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
Another standout with a 17.3-inch screen is the ASUS ROG Strix G17, which features a superior QHD display. It outshines the MSI Katana A17 in raw power, thanks to its RTX 4070 GPU and lightning-fast AMD Ryzen 9 processor.
The display’s higher resolution and color accuracy make every scene pop, whether you’re exploring vibrant game worlds or watching high-definition content. This laptop is a true powerhouse, designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease, from gaming to creative work like video editing or 3D rendering.
In terms of real-world gaming performance, the G17 performs nearly identically to the ASUS ROG Strix G16 with its QHD 240Hz screen, as both feature the RTX 4070. In titles like Starfield and Hogwarts Legacy, you can expect smooth gameplay at 80–100fps on ultra settings with ray tracing enabled.
Top esports games like Fortnite and CS2 easily reach 200–250fps, fully taking advantage of the 240Hz refresh rate for ultra-responsive competitive play.
The Ryzen 9 CPU in the G17 provides a slight edge over the Intel i7 processors found in the ASUS ROG Strix G16 240Hz, particularly in multi-threaded tasks like streaming, video editing, and modern game engines that are increasingly CPU-heavy. This makes the G17 a stronger choice if you plan to game and multitask or create content simultaneously.
The combination of a massive QHD display, a top-tier GPU, and a high-performance CPU means you can run nearly any modern game at max settings with ray tracing enabled. The smooth, lag-free performance ensures that even the most graphically intense games feel responsive and immersive.
This is the kind of rock-solid gaming performance that lets you experience the latest titles in all their glory, without compromise – the ASUS ROG Strix G17 remains one of the best values on the market.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large, high-resolution display for immersive gaming ✅ Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor ✅ Excellent build quality | ❌ Slightly bulky and heavier than others |
Final Verdict: The ASUS ROG Strix G17 is an absolute beast with its massive QHD display and impressive GPU/CPU combo. Powered by the RTX 4070 and AMD Ryzen 9, it handles max settings with ray tracing effortlessly, making it the best gaming laptop under $2000 for gamers who refuse to compromise on performance or visual fidelity.
4. Alienware M16 R2 [Best for Advanced Cooling]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch |
| Resolution | QHD+ 2560×1600 |
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13700HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Weight | 6.1 lbs |
Alienware M16 R2 runs cool when others choke. High settings, long sessions, heavy loads – it handles them all without throttling or noise. You also get Alienware’s signature sleek design. So, if you want a head-turner laptop that keeps cool under pressure, this is the go-to model.
One of the biggest challenges with gaming laptops is managing heat, especially for users in warmer climates where high ambient temperatures can quickly throttle performance. Thanks to this M16’s advanced thermal architecture, it maintains rock-solid performance across long play sessions in titles like Mafia: The Old Country, without throttling or overheating.
That makes it one of the rare machines you can confidently game on in warmer environments without worrying about performance dips or an overheated chassis, earning its spot as the best gaming laptop under $2000 for heat-prone setups.
What’s truly impressive is that this innovation doesn’t sacrifice performance, as it still packs an RTX 4060 GPU and a strong CPU.
I initially wondered if the display might be a weak point, but I was wrong: it boasts a vibrant 16-inch QHD+ screen. The only potential drawback is the slightly lower refresh rate, but honestly, 165Hz is more than enough for smooth 60fps gaming.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional cooling system for sustained performance ✅ High-quality QHD+ display ✅ Premium build and design ✅ Surprisingly quiet during gaming and heavy tasks | ❌ Very slightly heavier than competitors |
Final Verdict: The Alienware M16 R2 is the best gaming laptop under $2000 for those in need of seriously top-tier cooling. While slightly heavier and capped at 165Hz, it delivers quiet operation, solidRTX 4060 performance, and a sharpQHD+ display, making it a smart choice for heat-prone setups.
5. MSI Raider GE68HX [Best 4K Gaming Laptop]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch |
| Resolution | UHD+ 3840 x 2400 |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 hours |
| Weight | 5.7 lbs |
The MSI Raider GE68HX stands out as the ultimate 4K gaming laptop under $2000. As the only laptop on this list with a UHD display, it delivers stunningly crisp visuals in native 4K resolution. In my experience, this incredible display fully leverages the power of the RTX 4070 GPU, offering unmatched visual clarity, even when running the latest games at max settings.
The level of detail in textures, lighting, and shadows is breathtaking, making every gaming session feel like a next-gen experience. For gamers who prioritize visual fidelity, this laptop is a dream come true.
However, it’s important to note that gaming in native 4K demands significantly more from the GPU compared to 1440p or 1080p resolutions. In many modern titles, performance will dip accordingly. For example, in Cyberpunk 2077 (2025 update), expect around 45–55fps at 4K with ray tracing enabled and DLSS set to balanced mode.
In highly optimized games like Forza Motorsport 2025, you can achieve closer to 70–80fps at ultra settings with DLSS assistance. Meanwhile, esports titles like Valorant or CS2 can still easily hit well over 100fps even at 4K. While 4K gaming looks incredible, in many cases, enabling DLSS or lowering certain settings is necessary to maintain smooth frame rates.
Paired with an impressive processor, this laptop effortlessly handles the most demanding titles. The combination of cutting-edge hardware ensures buttery-smooth gameplay, even in graphically intensive scenarios.
The only minor drawback is slightly reduced battery life compared to others on this list, but that’s only a concern if you primarily game on the go. For those who mostly play plugged in, the MSI Raider GE68HX is a powerhouse that delivers top-tier performance and a truly immersive 4K gaming experience. It’s a testament to how far gaming laptops have come in recent years.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 4K display for immersive visuals ✅ Powerful RTX 4070 GPU and Intel Core i9 processor for top-grade performance ✅ Sleek and portable design | ❌ Battery life is limited, so carry a cord with you |
Final Verdict: Gamers who demand the absolute best will be well served by the MSI Raider GE68HX’s top-end hardware. The UHD display is unrivaled for the cost, and the powerful GPU/CPU combo ensures you can make the most out of it, even if it does come at the cost of a slightly reduced battery life.
6. Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 [Best High Refresh Rate]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch |
| Resolution | QHD+ |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13700HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 is a 240Hz display that combines a high refresh rate with a QHD+ screen. It strikes the perfect balance between smooth gameplay and crystal-clear visuals.
The display is complemented by powerful internals, including an RTX 4060 GPU and an i7 processor. While it may slightly lag behind some other laptops on this list, these specs are more than capable of running the latest titles at high to max settings, making it a great choice for most gamers.
Fast-paced shooters like Rainbow Six Siege, Overwatch 2, and PUBG: Battlegrounds take full advantage of the high frame rates, often pushing well over 200fps at QHD, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal input lag. For competitive gamers looking for the best gaming laptop under $2000, this display gives a noticeable advantage in reaction time and target tracking, crucial for high-stakes matches.
Add in its sleek, lightweight design, and you’ve got a powerful laptop that’s easy to take anywhere, ensuring you can game on the go without compromise.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ High refresh rate for competitive gaming ✅ Exceptional QHD+ display quality and fluid visuals ✅ Lightweight and portable | ❌ Slightly expensive for the specs |
Final Verdict: This Lenovo laptop may not be the most powerful on our list, but the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 more than makes up for that with its portability and impressive screen that gives you the best of both worlds in terms of resolution and refresh rate. It’s a great choice for gamers who value balance and versatility, wherever they choose to game.
7. Dell G16 7630 [Best High Quality Display]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch, |
| Resolution | QHD+ 2560×1600 |
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13650HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
Dell G16 7630 puts its display first. The QHD+ panel hits crisp detail, deep colors, and smooth visuals without crushing the GPU. RTX 4060 and i7 power through open-world maps and fast shooters alike. During my testing, I got steady frames, cool thermals, and the screen that made my games feel alive.
The QHD+ display strikes a great balance between resolution and performance, delivering sharp visuals without overburdening the GPU. Whether you’re exploring open worlds or competing in fast-paced shooters, this laptop provides a smooth and immersive experience.
What makes G16 7630 one of the best Dell gaming laptops is its reputation for reliable performance, durability, and longevity. If you value a product that will stand the test of time, Dell’s commitment to quality shines through in this model, making it a solid choice for gamers who want a dependable machine.
While it may not be the flashiest option, the Dell G16 7630 excels as a practical, well-rounded laptop that balances performance, portability, and reliability. It’s perfect for gamers who want a machine they can count on for years to come.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Excellent display quality ✅ Reliable performance for gaming and multitasking ✅ Durable build for long-term use | ❌ Slightly heavier than competitors |
Final Verdict: Those looking for a reliable product made by a stable, well-known brand would do well to pay attention to the Dell G16 7630. With its QHD+ display, RTX 4060 GPU, and i7 processor, it delivers dependable performance and durability, making it best Dell laptop for gamers who prioritize longevity and reliability.
8. Asus Zephyrus G14 [Best Compact Gaming Laptop]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 14-inch |
| Resolution | 3K |
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 270 |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 |
| RAM | 32GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 1 TB NVMe SSD |
| Battery Life | 8-10 hours |
| Weight | 3.31 lbs |
The entire ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 lineup received a significant upgrade in 2025. New models got better cooling, updated processors, better GPU choices, smoother displays, and boosted memory and storage. Even before the updates, it was one of the best gaming options if you wanted raw power in a sleek, portable package.
Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 270 processor and NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU, this compact powerhouse handles popular modern titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and the remake of Resident Evil 4 at high to ultra settings with consistent frame rates around 70-90fps at QHD resolution.
Thanks to its lightweight design – just about 3.3 pounds – the G14 is perfect for gamers who want to game on the go without sacrificing performance or battery life. Its efficient cooling system keeps temperatures manageable during long sessions, while 32GB of RAM and fast NVMe SSD storage ensure smooth multitasking and fast load times.
Whether you’re diving into competitive shooters or immersive RPG games, the Asus Zephyrus G14 delivers excellent performance and portability, making it a top choice for gamers seeking a budget gaming laptop that won’t weigh you down.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Ryzen 9 270 + RTX 5070 combo for smooth gaming ✅ Sharp 14” 120Hz display balances clarity and fluidity ✅ Lightweight and highly portable | ❌ 120Hz refresh rate lower than some competitors’ screens |
Final Verdict: The Asus Zephyrus G14 is one of the best gaming laptops under $2000 for portable, high-quality gaming, offering strong performance in a compact, lightweight design.
9. Gigabyte Aero X16 Copilot+ (2025) [Best Value Flagship]
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 16-inch |
| Resolution | 2560 × 1600 (WQXGA) |
| Refresh Rate | 165 Hz |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 “Krackan Point” AP |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU |
| RAM | 32 GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD |
| Battery Life | 76 Wh battery |
| Weight | 4.19 lbs |
The Gigabyte Aero X16 Copilot+ landed in May 2025 as a standout value flagship under the $2000 mark. Combining a Ryzen AI 7 350 APU with an RTX 5070 GPU positions it ahead of many similarly priced machines in sheer performance. In real-world gaming benchmarks, it hits over 90 fps in Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p Ultra, and often tracks above the gaming class average for productivity workflows.
Design-wise, it’s as trim as a 16-inch laptop gets, less than 2 cm thick and under 4.2 lbs. What sets the Aero X16 apart is its forward‑thinking modularity. Unlike many compact laptops, it offers two RAM and M.2 slots for easy future upgrades which is ideal for users who prioritize longevity. Creative pros will appreciate HDMI 2.1 and a DisplayPort alternative to feed into external displays.
Best Buy listings and reports confirm bright, accurate colors and sharp visuals on the matte QHD+ panel. Plus, for less than many mid-tier laptops sell for, you’re getting near-flagship GPU and CPU performance in a sleek, upgradeable chassis.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-end RTX 5070 graphics and Ryzen AI 7 350 APU—great for gaming and multitasking ✅ Upgradeable design (RAM and storage slots) improves future value ✅ Compact and lightweight chassis without losing power ✅ Excellent color accuracy and smooth 165 Hz QHD display ✅ Feature-rich I/O including USB4, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and Ethernet | ❌ Battery life is modest (~76 Wh), typical for this performance class |
Final Verdict: The Gigabyte Aero X16 Copilot+ is a stellar late-2025 addition to the “Best Gaming Laptops Under $2000” list. It blends near-flagship performance, creative-friendly features, smart upgradeability, and a portable design (all without breaking the budget). A win for serious gamers and creators alike.
Quick Tips for Choosing a Gaming Laptop Under $2,000
Whether you’re just a casual gamer, a tech enthusiast, or a hardcore player logging hours every night, this list has something for everyone. But do these models offer you twice the value compared to the gaming laptops under $1,000? Let’s see what you need to consider:
GPU: Top Priority for Gaming Performance
The GPU is the most important component you need to check when buying a gaming laptop. Consider the types of games you want to play and how you want them to run. If you’re aiming to play the latest titles at max settings, a cutting-edge GPU is essential. Many new games now support ray tracing, a feature that dramatically improves lighting realism.
While it might sound minor, ray tracing can transform the visuals of both new and older games. To use this feature, your GPU must support it – look for NVIDIA cards with RTX in the name, as these are ray-tracing capable.
Your GPU also determines your fps (frames per second), which affects how smoothly your games run. Some gamers prioritize high fps (60 or above), especially in fast-paced games, while others may not notice the difference. Consider your preferences when choosing a GPU.
Among the models I’ve reviewed, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 240Hz, ASUS ROG Strix G17, MSI Raider GE68HX, and Dell G16 7630 all stand out for including the NVIDIA RTX 4070, which is the most powerful GPU on this list. The RTX 4070 offers excellent ray tracing performance, high fps at QHD resolution, and advanced DLSS support, allowing you to play the latest AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield at ultra settings while still maintaining smooth frame rates.
Compared to the RTX 4060 found in models like the Alienware M16 R2, Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8, and MSI Katana A17, the RTX 4070 delivers significantly better performance in both raw power and future-proofing for upcoming titles.
CPU: For Multitasking and Streaming
For pure gaming, the CPU matters less than the GPU. Modern GPUs handle most of the heavy lifting, reducing reliance on a powerful CPU. However, the CPU becomes crucial if you plan to multitask, record gameplay, or stream on platforms like Twitch.
If streaming or content creation is part of your plan, invest in a strong CPU. Otherwise, focus your budget on a high-performance GPU.
Among the models listed, the ASUS ROG Strix G17 stands out with its AMD Ryzen 9 7845HX processor, which is the most powerful CPU in this group. Compared to the Intel i7 and i9 chips found in the other models, the Ryzen 9 offers superior multi-core performance, making it especially well-suited not only for gaming but also for demanding multitasking and content creation workloads.
While a top-tier CPU doesn’t dramatically boost gaming fps on its own, it becomes a major advantage if you plan to use your laptop for streaming, video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro, graphic design in Photoshop, or 3D rendering.
Display: Refresh Rate and Resolution
Your display’s refresh rate and resolution are the two main factors to consider. Refresh rate matters most if you want high fps. For example, a game running at 60fps will look the same on a 144Hz or 240Hz screen. However, if you’re aiming for 120fps or higher, a higher refresh rate becomes important. For most gamers, 144Hz is sufficient.
Resolution affects image sharpness. FHD (1080p) or QHD (1440p) is enough for most users, but if you want native 4K, you’ll need a UHD display. Keep in mind that screen size plays a role – smaller screens, like those on the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, look sharp even at 720p–1080p. Consider the types of games you play: fast-paced shooters like Call of Duty benefit from high refresh rates, while visually stunning games like Baldur’s Gate 3 shine at higher resolutions.
The MSI Raider GE68HX clearly offers the best display, thanks to its UHD (4K) resolution, which provides unmatched sharpness and detail compared to the QHD and FHD options in the other models. While most gamers will find QHD (1440p) ideal for balancing visuals and performance, the Raider’s native 4K screen makes it perfect for players who prioritize stunning image quality in visually rich games like Baldur’s Gate 3 or Elden Ring.
However, because 4K is more demanding on hardware, competitive gamers who play fast-paced shooters like Call of Duty or Valorant may still prefer QHD panels like those found on the ASUS ROG Strix G16, G17, and Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8, which offer higher refresh rates up to 240Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay.
Memory & Storage: 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD
16GB of RAM is enough to run modern games smoothly even on budget gaming laptops. While 32GB offers some future-proofing, it’s unnecessary for most current titles – but it’s worth noting that many of the laptops on this list offer 32GB variants or allow for RAM upgrades if you want to future-proof your system.
- The ASUS ROG Strix G16 240Hz, ASUS ROG Strix G17, MSI Raider GE68HX, Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8, and MSI Katana A17 AI 17.3 all feature upgradeable RAM and SSD slots.
This means you can easily upgrade to 32GB RAM later and even swap or add additional NVMe SSDs thanks to extra M.2 slots. Many Amazon listings offer both 16GB and 32GB versions, so you can easily select what fits your budget.
- The Dell G16 7630 generally offers 16GB configurations by default, but also allows for RAM and SSD upgrades. Dell’s design makes upgrades relatively accessible, though not quite as easy as some MSI and ASUS models.
- The Alienware M16 R2 does support RAM and SSD upgrades, but like many Alienware machines, upgrading requires a bit more care due to its internal layout. It also offers 32GB pre-configured models widely available online.
For storage, a 1TB SSD is still a good starting point, but keep in mind that many modern games – especially large titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III or Starfield – can easily take up 100–200GB each. If you plan to keep several AAA games installed at once, having a laptop with upgradeable SSD slots gives you flexibility to expand your storage without relying solely on external drives.
Gaming Laptop, or Gaming PC?
Choosing between a gaming laptop and a gaming PC often comes down to your priorities – portability versus raw power and upgradability. Below is a quick comparison to help you decide which option fits your needs best, whether you’re hunting for a budget gaming PC or a mobile all-in-one solution.
| Category | Gaming Laptop | Gaming PC (Desktop) |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | Extremely portable; game anywhere, travel-friendly | Stationary; typically locked to one location |
| Performance per Dollar | Less power for the same price; components are scaled down for size | Generally better performance at the same price point |
| Upgradeability | Limited; RAM and SSD upgrades are possible, but CPU/GPU upgrades are usually not | Highly upgradeable; easier to swap out GPU, CPU, RAM, storage, and cooling |
| Cooling & Noise | Smaller size = more heat; cooling solutions are improving but still limited | Larger cases allow for superior airflow, better cooling, and quieter operation |
| Screen Options | Built-in display (up to 240Hz or 4K on premium models) | You choose your monitor size, refresh rate, and resolution separately |
| Space Requirements | Compact, requires minimal space | Requires desk space for tower, monitor, keyboard, and peripherals |
| Price Range | Higher cost for premium portability | Often cheaper for the same specs, especially when building a budget PC |
Ultimately, if you value mobility and convenience, or need a single device for both work and play, a gaming laptop is the way to go. If you’re building around a tight budget and want the best bang-for-your-buck performance with easy future upgrades, a gaming PC will likely serve you better in the long run.
FAQs
Which is the best gaming laptop under $2000?
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a top contender in this price range, offering powerful specs that deliver excellent gaming performance.
It features an NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, an Intel Core i9 processor, and a 240Hz Full HD display, making it ideal for both competitive and immersive gaming.
How much does a gaming laptop cost?
Prices generally range from $800 to over $3000, but you can still get a high-performance gaming laptop for under $2000. There are quite a few great laptops on this list!
What to look for in a gaming laptop?
Prioritize GPU and CPU, as these directly impact game performance and frame rates. After that, consider the display quality – look for a high refresh rate and low response time for smoother visuals.
Also important are RAM, fast SSD storage, and a reliable cooling system to prevent thermal throttling.
How to add more storage to a laptop for gaming?
Upgrading internal storage can be tricky and model-specific. A simpler solution is using an external 1TB SSD, which is affordable and easy to set up.
You can upgrade internal storage with an M.2 or SATA SSD, but it’s model-specific and can be tricky. A faster and easier option is using a 1TB external SSD, which is affordable, portable, and simple to use.
