Best Gaming Laptops Under $700: Top Picks & Guide

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Best Gaming Laptops Under $700: Top Picks & Guide

Hey everyone! Are you on the hunt for a gaming laptop that won't break the bank? Finding a solid gaming laptop under $700 can feel like searching for a unicorn, but don't worry, it's totally possible! In this guide, we'll dive into some of the best options out there, what to look for, and how to make the most of your budget. Let's get started!

What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop Under $700

When you're shopping for a gaming laptop under $700, you need to be smart about your priorities. You won't get top-of-the-line specs, but you can still find a machine capable of running many games at decent settings. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Processor (CPU)

The processor is the brain of your laptop. For a gaming laptop under $700, aim for at least an AMD Ryzen 5 or an Intel Core i5. These CPUs offer a good balance of performance and price. While you might find laptops with older or less powerful processors, sticking with Ryzen 5 or Core i5 ensures you can handle most modern games at lower to medium settings. Consider that the CPU impacts not only your gaming performance but also multitasking and overall system responsiveness. So, a capable CPU is crucial for a smooth experience. Don't skimp on this component if you can avoid it; it's better to have a slightly less impressive GPU paired with a decent CPU than the other way around. Furthermore, a good CPU will extend the lifespan of your laptop, allowing it to remain relevant for longer as games become more demanding. When comparing CPUs, look at clock speeds and the number of cores – higher numbers generally mean better performance. Keep an eye out for CPUs with integrated graphics as well, as these can provide a small boost when you're not running dedicated gaming applications.

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

The graphics card is arguably the most important component for gaming. In this price range, you'll likely be looking at an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500M. These GPUs are entry-level but still capable of running many games at 1080p with medium settings. Be realistic about what you can expect. You won't be playing the latest AAA titles at ultra settings, but you can still have a great gaming experience with some tweaking. The GPU handles all the visual processing, so it's essential for rendering detailed game environments and smooth frame rates. When evaluating GPUs, check their VRAM (video memory); 4GB is a good starting point for gaming at this level. Also, look for reviews and benchmarks specific to the laptop model you're considering. Performance can vary based on the laptop's cooling system and power delivery. Remember, the GPU is what brings your games to life, so finding the best one within your budget is crucial for an enjoyable gaming experience. If possible, try to find a laptop with a slightly better GPU, even if it means compromising slightly on other components. The difference in gaming performance will be noticeable.

3. RAM

RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for multitasking and running games smoothly. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM. Some laptops might come with 4GB, but that's really the bare minimum and can lead to noticeable slowdowns, especially with modern games and background applications. 8GB is the sweet spot for a gaming laptop under $700, allowing you to run your game, along with a few other applications like Discord or a web browser, without significant performance issues. If you can find a laptop with 16GB of RAM within your budget, that's even better, as it will provide more headroom for future games and applications. RAM affects how quickly your computer can access data, so having enough is essential for smooth gameplay. When considering RAM, also check the speed (measured in MHz). Faster RAM can provide a small performance boost, but the amount of RAM is generally more important. Upgrading RAM is often possible, so if you find a laptop that meets your other requirements but has only 4GB of RAM, you can always upgrade it later. Just make sure the laptop has accessible RAM slots.

4. Storage

For storage, you have two main options: HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive). An SSD is much faster and will significantly improve load times for games and the overall responsiveness of your system. Try to find a laptop with at least a 256GB SSD. If you can't find one with an SSD, consider replacing the HDD with an SSD yourself, as it's a relatively easy and affordable upgrade. While HDDs offer more storage space for the same price, the speed difference is so significant that it's worth prioritizing an SSD, even if it means less storage. An SSD will make your laptop feel much faster and more responsive, especially when booting up and launching applications. If you need more storage, you can always use an external hard drive for storing larger files and games that you don't play as often. Look for laptops that offer both an SSD for the operating system and frequently played games, and a secondary HDD for additional storage. This combination provides the best of both worlds: speed and capacity. Also, check if the laptop has an empty M.2 slot, which would allow you to add an SSD without replacing the existing drive.

5. Display

The display is what you'll be staring at for hours, so it's important to choose wisely. Aim for a 15.6-inch display with a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. This is the standard for gaming laptops and provides a good balance of screen size and pixel density. Also, pay attention to the refresh rate. A 60Hz refresh rate is the minimum you should accept, but if you can find a laptop with a 120Hz or 144Hz refresh rate, that's even better. A higher refresh rate makes motion look smoother and more fluid, which can improve your gaming experience. The display's color accuracy and brightness are also important, especially if you plan to use the laptop for other tasks like photo editing or video watching. Look for reviews that specifically evaluate the display quality. Viewing angles are also crucial; a display with poor viewing angles can make the image look washed out or distorted when viewed from off-center. Matte displays are generally preferred for gaming laptops, as they reduce glare and reflections, making it easier to see the screen in bright environments. Consider the display carefully, as it's one of the components you can't easily upgrade.

6. Keyboard and Trackpad

While you might be using an external mouse most of the time, the keyboard and trackpad are still important. Look for a keyboard with comfortable key travel and good tactile feedback. Backlighting is also a nice feature, especially if you play in low-light environments. The trackpad should be smooth and responsive, with accurate tracking. If possible, try out the keyboard and trackpad in person before buying the laptop, or read reviews that specifically address these components. A comfortable keyboard can make a big difference during long gaming sessions. Also, consider the layout of the keyboard; some laptops have non-standard layouts that can take some getting used to. The trackpad should support multi-finger gestures for easy navigation. Some gaming laptops have customizable keyboard backlighting, allowing you to create unique lighting effects. Consider the keyboard and trackpad as part of the overall user experience, as they contribute to your comfort and efficiency.

7. Cooling

Cooling is critical for a gaming laptop, as these machines tend to generate a lot of heat. Look for laptops with multiple heat pipes and large fans. Read reviews to see how well the laptop handles heat under load. Overheating can lead to performance throttling, which means your laptop will slow down to prevent damage. A good cooling system will keep the components running at their optimal temperatures, ensuring consistent performance. Some laptops have advanced cooling features like liquid cooling or vapor chambers, but these are typically found on higher-end models. Check if the laptop has adjustable fan speeds, allowing you to control the noise level and cooling performance. Also, consider the placement of the vents; vents on the bottom of the laptop can be blocked when placed on a soft surface like a bed or couch, leading to overheating. Adequate cooling is essential for the longevity of your laptop, as excessive heat can damage the internal components over time. Look for laptops with well-designed cooling systems that can handle the demands of gaming.

8. Battery Life

Don't expect amazing battery life from a gaming laptop, especially one under $700. Gaming laptops are power-hungry, and battery life is often sacrificed for performance. However, you should still look for a laptop that can provide at least a few hours of use for general tasks like browsing the web or watching videos. When gaming, expect the battery to drain much faster. If battery life is a major concern, consider a laptop with a larger battery or one that's optimized for power efficiency. Keep in mind that battery life can vary significantly depending on the tasks you're performing and the settings you're using. Lowering the screen brightness and disabling unnecessary background applications can help extend battery life. Also, consider that the battery will degrade over time, so its capacity will decrease. Look for reviews that specifically test battery life under different usage scenarios. While gaming laptops are not known for their battery life, it's still important to choose one that can provide at least a reasonable amount of unplugged use.

Top Gaming Laptop Picks Under $700

Alright, guys, now that we know what to look for, let's check out some specific models that fit the bill:

  1. Acer Nitro 5: The Acer Nitro 5 is a popular choice for budget gamers. It typically features an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. It offers a good balance of performance and price.
  2. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3: The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is another solid option. It often comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. It's known for its good cooling system and comfortable keyboard.
  3. HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop: The HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop is a stylish and capable machine. It typically includes an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. It's a good all-around choice for gaming and general use.

Tips for Maximizing Your Gaming Experience on a Budget

Even with a gaming laptop under $700, you can still have an awesome gaming experience. Here are some tips:

  • Adjust Game Settings: Don't be afraid to lower the graphics settings in your games. Reducing the resolution, turning off anti-aliasing, and lowering texture quality can significantly improve performance.
  • Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up RAM and CPU resources.
  • Update Drivers: Keep your graphics drivers updated to ensure you're getting the best possible performance.
  • Clean Your Laptop: Regularly clean the vents on your laptop to prevent overheating.
  • Consider External Peripherals: Invest in a good gaming mouse and headset to enhance your gaming experience.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect gaming laptop under $700 requires some research and compromise. But with the right expectations and a little bit of effort, you can find a machine that lets you enjoy your favorite games without breaking the bank. Remember to prioritize the components that matter most to you, and don't be afraid to tweak the settings to get the best possible performance. Happy gaming!