Searching for the perfect gaming laptop without blowing your budget? You’re not alone. Gaming laptops are known for their steep prices, but the good news is you don’t need to empty your savings to enjoy your favorite games. Whether you’re looking to dominate in fast-paced shooters or immerse yourself in a sprawling RPG, there’s a budget-friendly gaming laptop out there to meet your needs.
Here, we’ve rounded up three of the best budget gaming laptops of 2025 that offer solid performance without the hefty price tag.
1. MSI Katana A15 AI (2024): Power Meets Affordability
Meet the MSI Katana A15 AI, a gaming beast that packs a punch without punching a hole in your wallet. Powered by AMD Ryzen processors and a range of NVIDIA GPUs (think RTX 4050, 4060, or 4070), this laptop offers impressive specs for its price.
You can choose between a 144Hz Full HD or a 165Hz QHD display, depending on how much visual sharpness you need. Go for the RTX 4070 with QHD for super-smooth gameplay, and you’ll never miss a beat in fast-paced action scenes.
What We Love:
- Flexible configurations fit different budgets.
- The high refresh rate displays (especially the QHD option!) bring games to life.
- Wi-Fi 6E support ensures smooth online gaming.
What Could Be Better:
- The plastic chassis feels a bit flimsy, and the hinges are on the looser side.
- Gets quite warm during long gaming sessions, especially the keyboard area.
At approximately $1,000 or less during sales, the MSI Katana A15 AI balances power and price remarkably well. It’s a great choice for gamers who want performance without going overboard.
2. ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023): Reliable All-AMD Performance
Don’t overlook the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition just because it’s from 2023. This all-AMD gaming machine is still a favorite in 2025, thanks to its durability and solid performance.
Armed with a Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU and Radeon RX 7600S GPU, the A16 easily tackles demanding AAA games. Plus, the 165Hz FHD display keeps everything running buttery smooth, whether you’re battling bosses or exploring open worlds.
Why It’s Awesome:
- Built tough for the long haul with easy upgrade options.
- High refresh rate screen for immersive visuals.
- Great bang for your buck, especially after price drops over the years.
Keep in Mind:
- It’s on the heftier side, so not ideal if you need something portable.
- Battery life isn’t stellar, with about one hour of gaming time unplugged.
This laptop usually hovers around the $1,000 mark, making it a steal for people who need consistent gaming performance in a sturdy package.
3. Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2024): The Cloud Gaming Option
For those venturing into the world of cloud gaming, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE is a game-changer. Powered by ChromeOS, this device is designed with portability and efficiency in mind. It doesn’t run traditional PC games, but with services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, you can access AAA games without needing a high-end GPU inside the machine itself.
The 120Hz QHD+ display offers crisp visuals, and the lightweight build makes it perfect for easy transportation. Whether you’re gaming in your room or at a coffee shop, you just need good Wi-Fi to get started.
Top Features:
- A terrific option for cloud gamers, especially for its price.
- Great connectivity options with Wi-Fi 6E and an Ethernet port.
- Sturdy and portable build for on-the-go gaming sessions.
Drawbacks:
- Not ideal for local gaming since it relies on the cloud.
- Battery life is decent, but not spectacular for marathon sessions.
With prices ranging from $600 to $800, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE is perfect for casual gamers or those who value portability and ease of use.
Final Thoughts
Gaming on a budget can feel like a challenge, but these laptops prove you don’t have to make huge compromises. The MSI Katana A15 AI offers powerful specs and flexibility for hardcore players, while the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition stands out for its reliable AMD setup. Lastly, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE opens the door to affordable cloud gaming in a lightweight, portable design.
Whatever your preferences are, these contenders for the best budget gaming laptops of 2025 are ready to level up your gaming experience without draining your bank account. Happy gaming!
FAQ: Best Budget Gaming Laptops of 2025
Q: What is the best gaming laptop under $1,000 in 2025?
A: The MSI Katana A15 AI is a top pick, offering powerful specs like RTX 4060 graphics and a 144Hz display for around $1,000 or less.
Q: Can a Chromebook be used for gaming in 2025?
A: Yes, cloud gaming options like GeForce NOW make devices like the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE great for streaming AAA games on a budget.
Q: Is an all-AMD laptop good for gaming?
A: Absolutely. The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition proves that AMD CPUs and GPUs can deliver strong gaming performance without the cost of NVIDIA setups.