Are you a fervent and enthusiastic gamer who is eagerly seeking to elevate your immersive gaming experience to the next echelon of gaming wonderment? Are you inclined towards acquiring a high-performance gaming laptop that would not inflict a considerable dent on your financial resources? If your answer to both these inquiries is in the affirmative, then rejoice with jubilant exultation! Lo and behold, in this exquisitely composed article, the erudite and astute experts at medCPU.com shall be meticulously and judiciously delving into the intricate nuances of the best gaming laptop under $2000 that shall surely satiate your ardor for gaming excellence.
Let’s explore!
Buying Guide: Best gaming laptop under $2000?
Mighty Processor
The heart of every gaming laptop is the Control Processor Unit. This is the core of all computing machines. The entire system’s performance depends solely on it. A gaming laptop must have a powerful processor.
You can find some great units for as low as $2000. If you are looking for an Intel-powered chipset, we recommend at least a 10th-generation Intel-powered processor. Ryzen 7 is recommended if you prefer AMD. You can also go higher if you have better options.
Dedicated Graphics Card
Graphics Processing Unit (or AKA GPU) is crucial when choosing a gaming laptop. This unit is essential for processing graphics data efficiently. An expensive graphics card is an absolute must-have. You can afford decent graphics options for 2000 dollars.
We recommend at least an RTX 2070 Nvidia graphics card considering our selection. We have listed the latest RTX 3000 series laptops. If you are looking to improve your gaming experience, the latest range is worth considering. A budget of $2000 is sufficient to get a good GPU.
RAM & Storage
Another component that aids in data processing is Random Access memory, also known as RAM. It is important to have enough RAM and a fast CPU and GPU unit.
To avoid bottlenecks, you need at least 16GB of RAM. DDR4 is the most recent offering with faster transfer RAM. The good news is that almost all of the laptops listed meet the requirements, with some even offering more RAM.
Storage is then used to store files. You can store more data in your internal storage. You will need to store files if you’re a gamer. Most high-end games take up a lot of space. For gaming laptops under $2000, the ideal storage space should be at least 512GB. SSD will be the new standard for 2021, and you can go further to 1TB.
Display
Another important component to look out for when buying a gaming laptop is the display. The display visualizes what data you send to your computer.
The refresh rate is an important consideration when choosing a gaming laptop. Modern computers offer better options than traditional laptops that have a 60Hz refresh rate. For smooth gaming, it is recommended that the refresh rate be at least 144Hz. If your hardware supports it, you will be able to find better options.
Display size is also a personal choice. You can choose from 15.6-inch displays or a 17.3-inch model if you prefer a larger screen. Full HD 1080p is the best choice for gaming. A QHD panel is also available, as the most recent hardware can handle higher resolutions and provide decent FPS while running high-end gamines.
>>> Read more: 144hz vs 240hz Monitor: What’s the Difference?
What size screen is best for Gaming?
If you’re looking for a gaming monitor that will fit comfortably in any space, the 27-inch size is a great option. However, if you’re looking for the best possible gaming experience, you’ll want to consider a larger screen size.
The biggest difference between a 27-inch and a 34-inch monitor is the resolution. A 27-inch monitor has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, while a 34-inch monitor has a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels.
This means that a 34-inch monitor will provide a much better gaming experience. Not only will you be able to see more details on the screen, but you’ll also have more space to move around and play your games.
If you’re on a budget, a 27-inch monitor is a great option. However, if you’re looking for the best possible gaming experience, you’ll want to consider a larger screen size.
>>> Read more: 24 vs 27-inch monitor: Which size is right for you?
Is It Worth It to Buy a Cheap Gaming Laptop?
In today’s economy, it can be tough to find a good deal on anything. That includes gaming laptops. But is it really worth it to get an affordable gaming laptop? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things to consider first.
First of all, a gaming laptop is not just for gaming. Sure, it’s great for that, but you can also use it for other purposes, like streaming videos or doing work on the go. So, if you’re not just planning to use it for gaming, it’s worth investing in a higher-end model.
Another thing to consider is what you want your gaming laptop to do. Do you want it to be powerful enough to play the latest games on high settings? Or are you more interested in a model that is more affordable and can still handle most games?
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what you need and what you want in a gaming laptop. But if you’re looking for an affordable option that can still handle most games, a lower-end model is worth considering.
List Of 8 Best Gaming Laptops Under 2000
1. ASUS ROG Strix G15 – Best Overall
If you’re looking for a gaming laptop that is affordable for under $2000, then ASUS ROG Strix G15 might be the right choice. This machine is part of the ASUS Republic Of Gamers line and has some of our favorite specifications and designs.
A 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750 CPU powers it. The 10th generation Hexacore processor is efficient in terms of battery consumption. The graphics side shows the trust pick from RTX’s RTX lineup: NVIDIA GeForce RTX2070 with 8GB VRAM.
We see the combination of 16GB DDR4 RAM with a huge 1TB SSD storage again. These specs are very impressive if you’re a regular gamer. If you want to test out new games quickly, 16GB might be the best option.
The ROG Strix G15 laptop is quite heavy at 5.28 pounds and 1.02 inches thick. You can adjust the fan speed by selecting the correct mode. You can also get more efficient fans with more blades which increase heat dissipation.
The I/O options available on the laptop’s laptop are arranged mainly on its left and back sides. Three full-sized USB 3.0 ports are available, including a USB Type C port and an HDMI port. An Ethernet port is also available. And, of course, there’s the audio jack.
The ROG Strix G15’s keyboard and trackpad layout is very standard. Gaming-centric features such as illuminated WASD keys or AURA Sync support are available. You can even create a virtual numeric trackpad with this feature.
Although this laptop boasts some of the best specifications, your actual use habits will determine the battery life. For intense gaming sessions, expect to have around 3 hours of backup. You can also expect to have up to 4-5 hours of flexible usage.
Pros
- Affordable price
- High GPU performance
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Connectivity is extensive
- Backlit keyboard with AURA SYNC
- Thermal modes for super-powerful fans
Cons
- Bulky design
- No Thunderbolt 3 port
2. Lenovo Legion 7i
The Lenovo Legion gaming line is the inspiration for this laptop. The Lenovo Legion 7i offers a great combination of low prices, high performance, and cool gaming-oriented features, such as a top-of-the-line GPU and 144Hz refresh speed.
The laptop’s impressive performance is due to the Intel Core i7-10750H processor, which has a base clock speed of 2.6GHz. This CPU is compatible with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX2070, which comes with an 8GB VRAM. These high-end specs match the recommended specifications for most games.
The typical combination of RAM/storage can be seen in the device. 16GB DDR4 RAM should provide enough memory for most games. Lenovo offers 1TB SSD-based fast storage, which is sufficient for most gamers and people.
The best thing about the Lenovo Legion 7i is the display. The panel’s 15.6-inch Full HD HD IPS display is an excellent value for money. It also has a 144Hz refresh speed. The bezels have been kept as small as possible by Lenovo. This setup allows for a more immersive gaming experience.
The design of the Lenovo Legion 7i is a good one. Although it isn’t particularly compact, the Lenovo Legion 7i is much more portable than other Alienware products. The laptop is only 5 pounds lighter than the SSD module that holds 1TB.
While arranging the ports, Lenovo chose the gaming laptop route. There are enough ports on both the left and right sides, including Type C USB, Type A USB, and HDMI.
The keyboard and trackpad on this laptop are excellent. It has great customization options and looks amazing with the RGB backlit keyboard. You can also use the keyboard from a more comfortable angle while you play.
Last but not least, let’s talk about battery life. The Lenovo LegionY740 has probably one of the lowest battery backup scores. The device can still last two hours, even with multiple use cases. This is an alarming figure for most gamers.
Pros:
- Full HD Display with 144Hz
- Reasonable pricing
- Amazing keyboard with customizable features
- Extended connectivity
- It is very lightweight
- Great battery backup
Cons:
- The refresh rate could have been higher.
>>> Read also: Asus vs Lenovo laptop: Which is better for you?
3. ASUS ROG Zephyrus S – Best Slim Laptop
ASUS is our next choice. The ROG Zephyrus S, which is priced higher than Strix G15 in specs, is more of an average-spec laptop. Despite this, the ROG Zephyrus S is a laptop with high performance and can run most games.
The same Intel Core 8750H processor powers the ASUS ROG Zephyrus as the rest of the laptops on this list. However, the base clock speed of the ASUS ROG ZEPHYRUS S is 2.2GHz.
Turbo Boosting up to 3.9GHz can be done when necessary. NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 can handle high-end gaming as well as other resource-intensive tasks such as raytracing.
However, we did notice some compromises in terms of storage and memory. The laptop has 16GB DDR4 RAM, which is sufficient for most AAA games. You can’t expect smooth gameplay. We believe the manufacturer should have provided more storage than 512GB SSD-based storage.
Many users can decide based on the display of the ASUS ROG Zephyrus S. The full HD IPS 15.6-inch display can display a maximum resolution of 1920×1080. It also has a 144Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response speed. You can enjoy more dynamic gameplay with better refresh rates and faster response times.
This laptop is, as we said earlier, perhaps the most compact laptop priced below $2000. ASUS achieved this without sacrificing cooling tech or heat dissipation ventilation. This laptop is ideal for gamers who frequently travel with a thickness of.6 inches and a weight total of 4.6 pounds.
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus S has plenty of I/O options. There are multiple USB 2.0 ports as well as 2 USB 3.1 Type C ports. You can also see a full-sized HDMI on the rear. If you are looking for additional I/O options, check out this list.
AURA SYNC is available on the ASUS ROG Zephyrus S’s backlit keyboard. The RGB lighting behind each key can be controlled and synced with other smart devices according to your selection. It has moved the trackpad to one side, bringing the keyboard closer to its user.
Given the slim profile and light weight of the laptop, we didn’t expect much battery life. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus S can provide a smooth gaming experience lasting between 3 and 4 hours. This is sufficient for most users.
Pros:
- The design is light and thin
- Diverse I/O options
- RGB backlit keyboard with AURA SYNC
- The performance of GPUs improved
- Display with 144Hz refresh rate, 3ms response times
Cons:
- Storage and RAM are relatively lower
- Manufactured insufficient ports
4. Alienware M15 R3
The Alienware M15 R3 premium gaming notebook is the North Star of this expanding sky. The features are comparable to some of the most well-known laptops, but this laptop is more aesthetic than the rest.
Alienware M15 R3 houses a powerful 10th-gen processor at its core. With HyperThreading support and hexacore architecture, the H-series CPU can handle almost all games. Although the TDP values of the Intel Core i7-10750H are higher than the current model, this is justifiable considering the turbo clock speed up to 5GHz.
Turing-based RTX2060 GPU is one of your primary assets. It allows you to conquer almost any gaming feat with minimum effort. The RTX 2060 GPU’s raw gaming performance is comparable to that of the GTX 1070 desktop cards, excluding DLSS and RTRT support.
Our experts also tested the performance of a few recent titles and a few 2019 launches like Yakuza Like a Dragon and Cyberpunk 2077.
Based on performance, it is possible to infer that nearly every high-end launch can be approached at 1080p ultra settings with the RTX2060 GPU at its helm. The best gaming experience is when games are played at medium FHD presets. This graphics card allows you to activate Ray Tracing for certain games such as Control and COD.
Alienware has a 16GB RAM that can assist with gaming, particularly when multiple NPCs and maps. The 512GB SSD is another important feature. You can store media and games on the existing storage drive while you boot up Windows 10 Home OS quickly.
>>> Read more: How To Optimize Windows 10 For Gaming? Tips and Tricks
When it comes to gadget displays, the alloyed Alienware M15 R3 is the star. The 15.6-inch screen boasts a combined resolution of 1920×1080 pixels and a 72 percent color gamut.
The screen’s refresh rate is 144Hz, and the response time for overdrive (7ms) complements the GPU. The anti-glare panel is a different anti-glare panel that allows you to play for hours without straining the eyes.
Gamers will love the AlienFX customizable keyboard. It features all the attributes of the book, including anti-ghosting support and n-key rollover compatibility.
There is also 4-zone backlighting to improve personalization. Although you have access to other resources, such as speakers and trackpads, our experts were most impressed by the Cryo-Tech thermal setup that comes with the 4.65-pound laptop.
The Alienware M15 R3 supports connectivity such as Type-C, Mini DC, Type C, and the mysterious Thunderbolt 3 port. You also have access to the GA port, which allows you to add external gaming rigs if needed. This gadget allows you to play MMORPGs, MOBAs, and other online multiplayer games, thanks to Killer’s Wi-Fi AX standard.
You only get a 5-hour backup on one charge for the gadget’s autonomy. If you’re willing to give up on this bottleneck, however, the Alienware M15 R3 will provide plenty of gaming pleasures.
Pros:
- Tenth generation processor
- Great GPU with RTRT support
- Amazing aesthetics
- Stable chassis
- Thunderbolt 3 Support
- Stellar display
Cons:
- Battery life is mediocre
- Basic webcam
5. Razer Blade Pro 17 Gaming Laptop (2019), with 2080 Max Q
This Razer Blade Pro 2017-inch 2019 Razer laptop is another great Razer laptop. It has the same quality and accuracy as the previous one (both excellent), making this ideal for both gaming and color-focused workstation tasks.
This extra-screen real estate can be a boon for these uses. However, some might wish that it was the QHD 1440p version. The 17-inch display is also available, but this configuration will run you more than $2,000.
This particular display has a refresh rate of 240Hz. This is great for competitive gaming that requires fast-paced gameplay. The laptop’s older GeForce RTX2080 Max-Q graphics card is slightly less powerful than the RTX3060, but it still generates the required FPS to achieve this cap.
It isn’t the fastest gaming laptop, but it’s still respectable. However, you won’t reach 240 FPS with any more demanding games at lower settings, possibly.
The other specs indicate that 16GB RAM is sufficient for gaming but could be more. It is recommended that you upgrade the RAM to 32GB if you plan to use the laptop for workstation tasks. However, this will void your warranty.
The 512GB SSD is a more serious issue. This can be upgraded or paired up with another drive, but it will require opening the laptop.
The Razer Blade laptop is lightweight and portable, as are all Razer Blade laptops. It looks great in terms of design, and the keyboard and the touchpad are of high quality. It has a wide range of ports, including Thunderbolt support. This laptop is a great choice for the price.
Pros:
- Great color replication
- Thin
- A good selection of sockets & ports
Cons:
- Only 512GB SSD
- Battery life is very short.
- Some may prefer this screen size at 1440p.
6. Alienware M15 R4 FHD Gaming Laptop With RTX 3070
300Hz is an impressive refresh rate for any laptop, especially one priced at around $2,000, but it is quite remarkable. This is the Alienware Alienware M15 R4.
The machine’s other components make it difficult to decide if this high refresh rate is worth it. Although the Intel Core i7-10770H CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX3070 Max-Q GPU are both extremely powerful, the latest games would not run at 300 FPS even with lower settings.
It’s a great feature for gamers who play low-demand games and need extra FPS. The display has a high refresh rate and is also of premium quality. It displays 211% of the sRGB color spectrum, which is extremely wide. This machine is great for color-based workstations and gaming if you are comfortable working at 1080p resolution.
Although the 16GB RAM included with the machine is sufficient, you might want to increase it to 32 GB. You can upgrade to a 1TB SSD if you need it.
The battery life of Alienware laptops is very poor. You’ll only get about an hour from heavy use and 2.5 hours in battery saver mode, which is great for web browsing, etc.
The fan noise is loud, as with most gaming laptops. However, the laptop’s surface also heats up under prolonged use. It’s not the hottest laptop we’ve ever seen, but it’s still quite hot.
The laptop’s build quality is excellent. It looks and feels great. The touchpad and membrane keyboard is also a joy to use. It is also very portable due to its slim design. This laptop is elegant and beautiful.
Pros:
- Intel Core i7-107770H CPU
- Display at 300Hz
- 1TB SSD
- Amazing color replication
- Thin
- Beautiful aesthetics and excellent build quality
Cons:
- 300Hz questionable utility
- Battery life is very short
- Loud fan
- Under stress, you get warm.
>>> Read also: Razer Laptop Vs Alienware – Which Laptop Is Better?
7. GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XC-8US2430SH
At just $1,800, the CUK AORUS-15G laptop by Gigabyte is a fantastic value for money. The GPU is one of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX3070 cards, and the processor is an Intel Core i7-10770H, which is the most powerful CPU on the page. Both of these should be able to play any game at decent FPS by 2021.
For competitive online gamers who value fast, fluid gameplay, the screen resolution of 240Hz should be sufficient. On games such as Fortnite, Overwatch, or CS: GO, you should be able to reach the 240FPS required to get the best 4k gaming laptop.
The screen is not compatible with G-Sync, so it may occasionally tear. The IGZO display’s color reproduction is good for gaming, but it doesn’t have the accuracy or gamut needed for color-centric workstation tasks. This machine comes with 32GB of RAM.
This laptop has great inputs: the touchpad responds and includes a fingerprint scanner in one corner. The full-size mechanical keyboard is an unusual feature that is easy to use and is very comfortable to type on.
This laptop’s webcam is located beneath the screen. It has unflattering viewing angles under the chin, but this may not be an issue for some. There are plenty of ports and sockets, including an SD card reader. Unfortunately, Thunderbolt support is not available.
The battery life is excellent. You can expect at least 4 hours of non-gaming and undemanding work in battery saver mode to last. The laptop is quite light, even though it’s not the smallest. Although the fans can be quite loud, they keep the laptop cool.
This machine’s biggest problem is its limited 512GB SSD. We would be open to upgrading or adding more storage using the slot. Overall, though, the laptop is great for the price.
Pros:
- Amazing value
- Intel Core i7-107770H CPU
- 32GB RAM
- Display at 240Hz
- Mechanical keyboard in full-size
- Touchpad with fingerprint reader
- Battery life respectable
Cons:
- Only 512GB SSD
- G-Sync support is not available.
- Loud fans
- No Thunderbolt socket
- The placement of a webcam is awkward.
8. MSI GP66 Leopard 10UH-244
MSI GP66 Leopard 10UH-244 includes an Nvidia 3840 Max-Q graphics card and an Intel Core i7-10770H processor. This formidable combination should allow you to run all games, even at max settings, comfortably. However, it won’t give you the highest FPS. The main specifications are completed with 32GB RAM.
This gives you enough memory to multitask while gaming or for your workstation. You can upgrade the RAM to increase its capacity in the future. There is also an option to add an SSD to the 1TB SSD. However, this machine is more difficult to upgrade than other laptops.
This machine’s display can reach up to 240Hz, which is plenty for competitive gaming. You can adjust the settings to get 240FPS by lowering some games. The gamut of colors is sufficient for gaming but not for color-based workstation tasks.
Although we wouldn’t call this the most beautiful laptop, the reserved design makes it suitable for dual use. However, the fan noise may deter you.
The battery life for non-gaming tasks, which are strenuous, is only 2.5 hours. You’ll need to have the charger on hand. You’ll also need a mouse if you are using the trackpad. It feels cheap and plasticky. You’ll get the best value for your money with this machine.
Pros:
- Nvidia RTX3080 Max-Q GPU
- Intel Core i7-107770H CPU
- 32GB RAM
- 1TB SSD
- Display at 240Hz
Cons:
- Touchpads of poor quality
- Battery life could be extended.
- No Thunderbolt socket
- Loud fans
- It is difficult to disassemble to upgrade
FAQs
1. Are gaming laptops good for everyday use?
Gaming laptops are good for everyday use. It all comes down to personal use. A gaming laptop is best for daily use if you are primarily using it to play games. It could be a good choice if you require a combination of excellent CPU+GPU performance while on the move.
2. Is i5 good for gaming?
The Intel Core i5 processor is a powerful and affordable choice for users who value speed, graphics, and performance. Core i5 can handle most tasks and even heavy gaming. The Intel Core i7 processor is a superior choice for high-end users and enthusiasts.
3. How long do gaming laptops last?
You can expect a gaming laptop to last at most 5 years if you take good care of it. Even though it may physically last up to 10 years, its hardware will be obsolete by the time that’s over, even if you buy a high-end laptop.
>>> Read more: Best gaming laptops under 1500
Conclusion
We hope you found this article helpful in finding the best gaming laptops available under $2000 to suit your needs. Many of these laptops have powerful batteries that can provide hours of outdoor play. So it is possible to begin using and enjoying it once more. Thank you for choosing to spend time together with MedCPU.com. We appreciate your support.
Eyal Ephrat serves as the co-founder and CEO of medCPU.com, where technology is making significant strides in the field of medicine. Through his experience in purchasing PC and laptop equipment and various other tech products, Eyal Ephrat contributes valuable insights to medCPU’s mission.
