Gaming on a budget has come a long way. In 2026, you no longer need to spend four figures to get a laptop that can handle modern games, high refresh rate displays and everyday workloads without breaking a sweat.
With Nvidia RTX graphics now common in the mid range, sub $1,000 gaming laptops offer real value for players who want smooth 1080p performance without sacrificing build quality or reliability.
The laptops below are based on dependable, commonly available configurations under $1,000. Many of these models are also sold in higher spec versions at higher prices, offering faster processors, more RAM, larger SSDs and more powerful graphics hardware.
5 best gaming laptops under $1,000
Lenovo LOQ 15
From $799
The Lenovo LOQ 15 remains one of the strongest budget gaming laptops available. Typical configurations pair an AMD Ryzen 7 processor with Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics, backed by 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. The 15.6-inch Full HD display runs at 144Hz, making it well suited for fast paced shooters and competitive games.
MSI Thin 15
From $799
MSI's Thin 15 focuses on performance over flashy design. It usually ships with an Intel Core i5-13420H processor and an Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU, which is impressive at this price point. Combined with 16GB of memory and fast SSD storage, it delivers excellent frame rates in modern titles while remaining easy to carry.
HP Victus 15
From $749
The HP Victus 15 strikes a solid balance between gaming power and everyday usability. Models often feature an AMD Ryzen 7 CPU, RTX 4050 graphics, 16GB of RAM and a 144Hz Full HD screen. Cooling is well managed, making it a dependable option for longer gaming sessions.
Asus TUF Gaming F15
From $899
Asus's TUF Gaming F15 is a familiar name in budget gaming. With an Intel Core i5 processor, Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, it offers consistent 1080p performance and benefits from a sturdy chassis designed to handle daily use.
Asus TUF A15
From $999
Rounding out the list is the Asus TUF A15, powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor and RTX 3050 graphics. The high refresh rate display and solid keyboard make it a good choice for both gaming and general productivity.
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