Best Gaming Laptop Under 2,000: 11 Picks in 2023 To Play in Demanding Titles

Are you having a hard time finding the best gaming laptop under 2,000 Dollars? Your search ends here! As a gamer with almost 10 years of experience, I understand how important it is for you to find a device that will meet all your preferences.

That’s why I will unveil the top 11 products available in the market to enhance the gaming background by offering top-notch performance and visual clarity. So without any delay, let’s head on to the next section!

Quick Answer

I’ve had the opportunity to try a significant number of laptops in my gaming career. I’ve come to the conclusion that in order to provide an unrivaled first-class gaming experience, a laptop should have the following features:

1. Support to run graphically demanding games easily with powerful RAM and GPU features;
2. A higher refresh rate that improves intense gaming sessions and brings a smooth experience;
3. A decent battery life that ensures your gaming session goes on uninterrupted.

But the real question is how to find a machine that fulfills the above criteria and that too under $2000. To find the answer, continue reading as I explore the pros, cons, key features, and specs of all the top 11 picks and help you settle for an excellent gaming laptop. Let’s dive deep and find out!

Best Gaming Laptop Under 2000 Dollars: Comparison Chart

To begin with, I would like to offer you a comparison table that provides a quick overview of the best gaming laptops under 2000:

Now, let’s review these products in detail:

1. Best Overall Gaming Laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a gaming laptop that features a powerful Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GPU. I chose this laptop as my top choice because it checks all the boxes that a pro gamer wants and stands against an Alienware laptop too. It offers a high 165Hz refresh rate and 16 gigs of DDR5 RAM.

Moreover, this laptop features Thermal Grizzly’s Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal to ensure that your processor stays cool while giving its best in the virtual field.

Features

These are the features of the ASUS ROG Strix G16:

• The laptop boosts AI noise canceling technology and Dolby Atmos to ensure that sound is loud and clear.
• It has a 3ms response time, coupled with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU.
• One of the best highlights is a Mux switch that can increase your gaming performance by up to 10% via a direct routing frame.

Specs

Let’s have a look at the technical details of this gaming laptop:

2. Best Gaming Laptop with Mechanical Keyboard: ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15

The Strix Scar 15 is a top-tier gaming laptop that delivers an abundance of power and exceptional features. It takes pride in its remarkable 12th-generation i9 processor, complemented by a mesmerizing RGB keyboard and excellent thermal performance, which didn’t leave me indifferent. Additionally, it provides a MUX Switch option that allows it to shift between integrated GPU and discrete GPU.

Features

Uncover the features of the laptop by reading below:

• The ROG’s effective cooling tech makes sure the machine remains operational for a longer period.
• You get a very comfortable gaming feel with the unique “soft-touch paint” on the palm rests.
• It has a convenient hotkey row for quick access to various functions.

Specs

Here is a highlight of the specs of the laptop:

3. Best Modular Gaming Tablet: ASUS ROG Flow Z13

The modular Asus ROG Flow Z13 delights me with a unique combination of performance and versatility. It delivers big performance in a compact form factor with a bright and crisp display. Moreover, the 14-core i9 processor and a 4K OLED panel take your gaming experience to the next level.

Features

The features of the laptop are summarized below:

• It does not overheat even when running graphics-demanding programs/games.
• It features a Nebula display which is known for providing the best visuals.
• The addition of a responsive touchscreen is a big plus.

Specs

Explore the specs of this laptop by reading below:

4. Best Large Display Gaming Laptop: MSI Raider GE77Hx

Raider GE77Hx will impress you with a sleek design and a spacious QHD display. Moreover, it also features an impressive 12th Gen Core i7 high-end processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics setup. This helps in making it excellent for handling graphic-intensive gaming, live streaming, and video editing. The laptop’s monitor is a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut display that brings out the vibrant colors in the games.

Features

Let’s shed some light on the features of this laptop:

• The CPU clocks 1.5-4.8 GHz speed which gives maximum FPS during gaming.
• The high refresh rate makes sure that your gaming is hassle and lag-free.
• Sleek and stylish design with an RGB strip, thin bezel display, and an RGB keyboard.

Specs

Let’s shed some light on the specs of the GE77Hx:

5. Best Portable Gaming Laptop: Asus ROG Zephyrus G15

ASUS is a company that is well-known for its gaming laptops and mobiles. This time they cracked the gaming market with Zephyrus G15. With its powerful powerful AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS and long battery life, the laptop becomes a top choice for both gaming and productivity tasks. Additionally, its 1440p panel provides stunning visuals. Lastly, it has a competitive price tag is another compelling factor.

Features

The following are the features of the G15:

• The powerful specs like the octa-core processor and GeForce RTX 3080 GPU offer a lag-free gaming experience.
• The amazing self-cleaning feature ensures your machine stays clean for a longer period.
• It indulges Adaptive-Sync technology that minimizes the latency between frames to provide smooth gameplay.

Specs

Here are the specs of this gaming laptop:

6. Best Special Edition Laptop: ROG Zephyrus G14 Alan Walker Special Edition

An Alan Walker limited edition, the Zephyrus G14 is a unique and stylish laptop. It impressed me with its powerful CPU, compact design, and solid battery life. With a 4.6 GHz max boost processor, the laptop gives enough power to handle most of the games on the market. Another trademark feature of the device is its 14-inch WQHD anti-glare display that enriches the colors for a great game experience.

Features

Highlighted below are the features of this product:

• The collaborative design with DJ and musician Alan Walker gives an exclusive feel.
• The addition of RTX 3050 Ti ensures you can pray every demanding title.
• High-quality integrated speakers deliver crisp and loud sound.

Specs

Check the specs to learn more about this gaming laptop:

7. Best Budget Gaming Laptop: MSI Katana 15

The MSI Katana 15 offers remarkable gaming and productivity performance. This makes it an excellent value for those seeking strong gaming capabilities in budget mode. The main highlight of this laptop is its industry-standard 13th-generation Intel core i7 processor powered by RTX 4070 GPU. The cherry on top is MSI Cooler Boost 5 which keeps the processor cool during hardcore gaming.

Features

The following list presents key features of the laptop:

• It has a four-zone RGB keyboard with transparent WASD and power keys.
• There is notable flexibility in the display lid and keyboard deck.
• Multiple ports for connectivity ensure that all your gaming peripherals are easily connected to the laptop.

Specs

Listed below are the specs of the laptop:

8. Best Lightweight Gaming Laptop: MSI Thin GF63

The MSI GF63 Thin is a sensibly priced gaming laptop that offers impressive value without compromising on quality. It delivers decent 1080p gaming performance, all wrapped in a sturdy chassis with a responsive keyboard. One thing that I really love about this laptop is its affordable pricing. Having a decent price tag, it still gives 12th Gen processor and RTX 4050 GPU.

Features

The features of the MSI Thin GF63 are given below:

• The quiet fan operation gives you peace of mind while gaming or working.
• The SSD storage in the laptop delivers fast boot and application loading speeds.
• The 144Hz display at this competitive pricing is a big plus.

Specs

Mentioned below are the technical specs of this laptop:

9. Best Budget Laptop For Powerful GPU: ASUS TUF Dash 15

The ASUS TUF Dash 15 will be a remarkable gaming laptop for you if you crave high-performance gaming without compromising portability. The 15.6-inch Full HD display and adaptive sync technology let you enjoy fluid and tear-free visuals. On top of that, Its Arc Flow Fans paired with RTX 3060 keep the laptop cool in extensive heating moments.

Features

Take a look at the features of the laptop:

• Premium design gives the laptop a classy look and aesthetics.
• The compact size and weight make carrying it hassle-free.
• The availability of a MUX Switch bypasses the integrated GPU to enhance the overall speed.

Specs

Learn more about the laptop by reading the specs below:

10. Best Gaming Laptop with ROG Cooling: ASUS ROG Strix G15

The Strix G15 Advantage Edition is an impressive gaming laptop that excels in performance with all-AMD components. The FHD display with a high refresh rate ensures a smooth gaming experience. It’s worth noting that I was pleasantly surprised by the great laptop’s audio quality. Finally, with the ROG cooling system, you can do long gaming sessions without any drop frames.

Features

The following are the features of the G15:

• The strong build ensures this laptop withstands the wear and tear of daily routine.
• The display is equipped with FreeSync technology (which prevents screen tearing and ensures smoother graphics.
• It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E for enhanced connectivity.

Specs

Highlighted below are the specs of the laptop:

11. Best Entry-level Gaming Laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3

The R&D of Lenovo in the gaming industry is quite good. This IdeaPad Gaming 3 is a self-evident proof of this thing. On the front, it has a 15.6-inch 1080p screen. It is equipped with AMD Ryzen CPUs and various NVIDIA GTX 1650 in the hood. The memory section presents standard options with 8 gigs of RAM and 256 gigs of SSD ROM.

Features

The features of the product are mentioned below:

• The Lenovo Vantage software simplifies system customization and optimization.
• The Harman speakers integrated with Dolby Audio provide an immersive experience for gamers.
• A full-size keyboard with Numpad makes gaming and work tasks efficient.

Specs

To learn more, check out the specs below:

6 Factors to Consider While Buying Best Gaming Laptops Under $2,000

Finding the ultimate gaming laptop that strikes the perfect balance between performance and price can seem like a challenge. Being a gamer, I always aim for a machine that won’t exceed my budget and can run any game like a breeze.

But how can you find such a device? To ease your problem, I’ll share my experience in the form of 6 factors that can assist you in choosing a better option. Let’s have a look:

1. Performance Matters

A hardcore processor and GPU is the core of a gaming laptop. While you can compromise on other specs, performance can’t be neglected. Below, I’ll enlist some gaming processor + GPU combinations that you can go with, depending on your budget. 

1. Core i9 + RTX 4070: This is the best combination for hardcore gamers – however, it comes at a premium price of around $2000. For such a combo, I would go with ASUS ROG Strix G16. This laptop has the above-mentioned processor combination and also features a 16GB DDR5 along with a 1TB SSD.
2. Ryzen 9 5000 Series +  RTX 3060: This pair would suit casual gamers or those who play on the go. An example of such a machine is ROG Zephyrus G15 4800H. It offers a 15.6” 144Hz IPS panel as well as 16 gigs of DDR4 RAM. However, expect up to $1500 for this laptop. 
3. Ryzen 5 + GTX 1650: This is the perfect pair for beginners. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is the laptop that bundles these specs and costs around $700. Moreover, it also houses a 1080p display, supercharged with a 120Hz refresh rate.

2. Best Gaming Laptops with Ample RAM

When choosing a gaming laptop, one can’t ignore the role of RAM. It helps maintain lag-free gameplay by supplementing the GPU and reducing game loading times. 

A high amount of RAM makes sure performance never dips off a cliff. Here are my suggestions regarding RAM for a gaming PC:

1. For starters, 8 gigs of DDR4 RAM can suffice. It can play games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare at standard settings. 
2. However, at least 16 GB is recommended for most gaming laptops.

3. Storage is Essential in the Gaming World

Ample storage to install games is essential to enjoying the overall experience. You can choose a combination of an HDD drive with an SSD drive. The former will be your primary storage, while the latter will act as a secondary storage and help in swift game loading and storage. 

A gaming laptop with a 512 GB SSD and a 2TB HDD offers fast load times and ample storage for media content.

How to upgrade your Gaming Laptop’s Storage

4. Resolution and Display

Resolution can significantly impact your gaming experience. It is essential for those who like to play fast-paced or competitive games. Keep in mind the following things about the resolution of your laptop:

1. If you are a casual gamer, choose a laptop with a minimum screen resolution of 1920 x 1080. 
2. On the other hand, for hardcore gamers, I recommend going with a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) for even better visuals.
3. Moreover, select a laptop with a high refresh rate display, such as 144Hz or 240Hz, for smoother and more responsive gaming.
4. Look for gaming laptops with 1080p resolution with OLED panels. This should be the best combination for affordable gamers.

5. Keyboard

A keyboard for gamers is like a cheat code for hackers. Though It doesn’t add any value to the performance, it can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Opt for a laptop with the following gaming-friendly keyboard features:

1. Like backlights;
2. Anti-ghosting capabilities;
3. Mechanical switches. 

6. Portability and Battery Life

Performance is essential for a gaming laptop, but don’t overlook portability and battery. Some high-performance laptops can be heavy and less portable. Therefore, opt for a lightweight laptop that at least features a 43 WHr battery. But, if you prefer long gaming sessions, I would recommend you go for 60 WHr.

3 Things to Know Before Buying the Best Gaming Laptops Under $2,000

Frankly, a $2000 budget is quite decent. However, the gaming market is filled with countless options in this range. Therefore, choosing an option that gives you the best bang for your buck could be a little difficult. 

Below are 3 tips that can help you make a refined decision.

1. 1080p vs 1440p Gaming Laptops

No doubt, various gaming laptops with 1440p displays provide a better resolution experience, but 1080 displays are also quite good. Here is a brief comparison of both:

1. 1080 is the most common display and affordable; however, 1440 gives sharp and higher image quality. 
2. 1080 is suitable for small display laptops, while 1440p is better for laptops with bigger screens (17” or higher) as these have a high PPI.
3. It is also worth noting that 1080p makes it easier to run games as it consumes less power. On the other hand, 1440 can affect the gaming performance on mediocre hardware. 

2. Laptops With 4K Displays

Undoubtedly, the experience of 4K gaming is undeniable as it gives breathtaking detail and realism. However, this resolution is difficult to get under the $2000 price bracket for gamers. Moreover, the laptops with such displays have less competitive hardware. The given suggestions can help you:

1. Go with 4K gaming laptops under $2000 only if you are a big fan of on-screen graphics and play lower-end games. 
2. Try to buy 4K laptops that have small screens. Such displays cost less power and also have competitive hardware. 

3. Workstation Use And Color Replication

A budget of $2,000 opens doors to laptops that not only excel in gaming. But, you also get an edge for the demanding requirements of creative work requiring precise color replication.

These laptops feature displays with a wide color gamut and impressive accuracy. This makes them well-suited for tasks that demand true-to-life colors. This is especially advantageous for designers, video editors, and artists who rely on spot-on color representation. Listed below are things to keep in mind:

1. GPU capabilities: Go for higher-end options for better color replication with laptops. For example, RX 7900 or RTX 4070. 
2. The processor: Choose a processor that can handle high-end multitasking. Moreover, it should have a high number of cores and threads for better performance. For example, Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 5 7600X.
3. Memory: Memory plays an important role in running a task. Although 8 gigs of RAM is considered a threshold for workstations, 16 GB is recommended for creative work.

For more insights into spending money on a laptop, check out this helpful video:

FAQs

Conclusion

Summing up the review, the best gaming laptop under 2000 should deliver reliable performance, a high-res clear display, and a gaming experience like never before. But these machines also come at a price point.

If I had to buy such a laptop under $2000 today, I would choose one that offers at least an i5 processor with RTX 3060. On top of that, a 1080p display with a 165 Hz refresh rate or more would be a huge bonus.

Nonetheless, among what gaming laptops offer, I would recommend the ASUS ROG Strix G16 for its robust performance in a compact design. It features a Core i9 processor along with an RTX 4070. On top of that, 16 GB of DDR5 and 1 TB SSD are other plus points.