Introducing the 12 Best Gaming Laptop Under 1200 For 2023, a comprehensive guide that will assist gaming enthusiasts in their quest for the ultimate gaming experience. In today's fast-paced digital era, having a high-performance laptop is essential for avid gamers looking to immerse themselves in cutting-edge graphics and seamless gameplay. With a budget of $1200, this curated list of gaming laptops combines affordability with impressive specifications, ensuring that gamers can enjoy smooth and lag-free gaming sessions without compromising on quality. Stay tuned as we explore the top picks that will revolutionize the gaming landscape in 2023.
Overall Score: 8/10
The asus TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop is designed to deliver extraordinary performance with its AMD Ryzen 5 4600H Processor. It features upgraded memory with 16GB DDR4 RAM and ample storage space with a 1TB PCIe SSD. The powerful combination ensures seamless multitasking and lightning-fast responsiveness. The laptop also boasts a RGB backlit keyboard for a unique gaming style. Equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, it can handle graphics-intensive games with ease. The 17.3" FHD display offers stunning visuals with a 144Hz refresh rate and thin bezels. With a variety of ports and connectivity options, this gaming laptop provides versatile connectivity. The only drawbacks include average battery life and occasional reliability issues.
Key Features
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600H Processor
- Upgraded Memory & Storage: 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD
- Powerful Match: RGB Backlit Keyboard, NVIDIA Ge Force GTX 1650 Graphics
- Display: 17.3" FHD 144Hz IPS, s RGB:62.5%, Adobe:47.34%
- Connection & Ports: USB 3.2, HDMI 2.0b, 802.11ac Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
Specifications
- Color: Bonfire Black
- Dimension: 15.71Lx10.59Wx1.02H
- Size: 16GB Ram | 1TB Ssd
Pros
- Powerful AMD Ryzen processor for high-performance computing
- Large RAM and PCIe SSD provide smooth multitasking and fast boot-up
- Dedicated NVIDIA graphics card delivers reliable frame rates in games
- Vibrant and responsive 17.3" FHD display with thin bezels
- Wide range of connection options for external devices
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Some users experienced occasional reliability issues
The asus TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop offers a powerful and immersive gaming experience. With its high-performance processor, ample memory and storage, and dedicated graphics card, it can handle demanding tasks and deliver smooth gameplay. The vibrant display and customizable RGB keyboard add to the overall gaming experience. However, users should be aware of the average battery life and occasional reliability issues. Overall, this gaming laptop is a great choice for gamers who prioritize performance and value for money.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is a powerful gaming device designed for intense gaming experiences. It features a 15.6" FHD 120Hz Anti-Glare display, providing stunning visuals with smooth gameplay. Powered by the AMD 6-Core Ryzen 5 6600H Processor, it delivers impressive performance and speed. With 32GB DDR5 SDRAM Memory and a 2TB Solid State Drive, it ensures efficient multitasking and ample storage for all your games and files. The laptop also boasts strong graphics with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 4GB Graphics, allowing for immersive gaming. It comes with a backlit keyboard, Bluetooth 5.1, and an improved Alienware-inspired thermal design. Windows 11 Home is pre-installed, providing a seamless and user-friendly experience. Get ready to elevate your gaming performance with the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop.
Key Features
- Powerful Storage: 32GB DDR5 SDRAM Memory, 2TB Solid State Drive
- Dell G15 Gaming Laptop Ryzen 5: AMD 6-Core Ryzen 5 6600H Processor
- Strong Graphics and Display: NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 4GB Graphics, 15.6" FHD 120Hz Anti-Glare Narrow Border Display
- External Ports and Slots: USB-C 3.2, USB-A 3.2, HDMI 2.1, RJ-45 Ethernet Port, Headphone/Mic Jack
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home, Backlit Keyboard, Bluetooth 5.1, HD RGB Camera, Improved Alienware-inspired Thermal Design
Specifications
- Dimension: 10.74Lx14.06Wx1.06H
- Size: 32GB DDR5 | 2TB SSD
Pros
- Powerful processor for smooth gaming performance
- Large storage capacity for storing games and files
- High-quality graphics for immersive visuals
- Backlit keyboard for convenient gaming in low-light conditions
- Enhanced thermal design for better heat dissipation
Cons
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is a top-notch choice for gaming enthusiasts. With its powerful processor, ample storage, and exceptional graphics, it delivers outstanding performance for an immersive gaming experience. The backlit keyboard and improved thermal design further enhance the overall usability of the laptop. Additionally, it comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, ensuring a modern and intuitive interface. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a professional, the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop will surely meet your gaming needs and leave you impressed.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is a high-performance computer designed for gamers and tech enthusiasts. It features a 15.6" Full HD Anti-Glare display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering sharp visuals and smooth gameplay. Powered by the AMD Hexa-Core Ryzen 5 6600H Processor, this laptop offers impressive speed and performance. With 64GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, you'll have plenty of storage for your games, videos, and files. The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card ensures stunning graphics and immersive gaming experiences. Other notable features include a backlit keyboard, Bluetooth 5.1, and an improved thermal design inspired by Alienware. Whether you're gaming or working, the Dell G15 is a reliable and powerful choice.
Key Features
- 64GB Ram | 2TB Ssd
- AMD Hexa-Core Ryzen 5 6600H Processor
- 15.6" FHD 120Hz Anti-Glare Display
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 4GB Graphics
- Backlit Keyboard
- Bluetooth 5.1
- Improved Alienware-inspired Thermal Design
Specifications
- Dimension: 10.74Lx14.06Wx1.06H
- Size: 64GB Ram | 2TB Ssd
Pros
- Powerful Ryzen 5 processor
- Large storage capacity
- Great gaming performance
- Fast and responsive
- Improved thermal design
Cons
- Relatively high price
- Limited color options
- No optical drive
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is an impressive computer that delivers exceptional performance and is perfect for gamers and tech enthusiasts. With its powerful processor, ample RAM, and large storage capacity, it can handle demanding games and multitasking with ease. The dedicated graphics card ensures stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The backlit keyboard and improved thermal design are added bonuses. However, it is worth considering the relatively high price and the lack of color options. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and powerful gaming laptop, the Dell G15 is a great choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
Experience smooth and immersive gaming with the HP 2022 Victus 15.6" 144Hz Gaming Laptop. This powerful laptop features a 15.6" FHD 144Hz display for crisp and lag-free gameplay. Powered by the Intel Core i5-12450H processor and 64GB RAM, it delivers high-efficiency performance to handle your gaming and multitasking needs. The 2TB PCIe SSD provides fast storage and ample space for all your games and files. The backlit keyboard with anti-ghost key ensures comfortable and accurate typing, even in low light. With NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, you can enjoy excellent visual performance and support for modern gaming features. The laptop comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed and includes a 32GB USB card for extra storage. Get ready for superior gaming experiences with the HP 2022 Victus Gaming Laptop.
Key Features
- 15.6" FHD 144Hz display
- Intel Core i5-12450H processor
- 64GB Ddr4 ram
- 2TB Pcie Ssd
- Backlit keyboard with anti-ghost key
- NVIDIA Ge Force GTX 1650 graphics
- Windows 11 Pro included
- Bonus 32GB USB card
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension: 14.09Lx10.04Wx0.93H
- Size: 64GB Ram | 2TB Pcie Ssd
Pros
- High-performance processor and ample RAM for smooth gaming
- Large and fast storage capacity
- Crisp and lag-free gameplay with 144Hz display
- Backlit keyboard for comfortable typing in low light
- Support for modern gaming features
Cons
- Relatively heavy at 5.06 lbs
- Limited graphics capabilities compared to higher-end gaming laptops
The HP 2022 Victus Gaming Laptop offers an impressive combination of power and performance. With its high-refresh-rate display, powerful processor, and ample RAM and storage, it’s a great choice for gamers and multitaskers. The backlit keyboard adds convenience, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics provide decent visual performance. Windows 11 Pro comes pre-installed, offering an enhanced user experience. However, it’s worth noting that the laptop may be considered heavy by some, and the graphics capabilities may not satisfy hardcore gamers with more demanding requirements. Overall, the HP 2022 Victus Gaming Laptop is a solid option for those looking for a reliable and versatile gaming laptop.
Overall Score: 8/10
The DELL G15 15.6'' FHD 120Hz Gaming Laptop is designed for gamers who want an immersive gaming experience. With its 15.6'' FHD anti-glare display, AMD Ryzen 5 6600H processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB PCIe SSD, it delivers top-notch performance and storage for gaming and other tasks. The backlit keyboard and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics provide enhanced gaming visuals, while the Windows 11 Pro operating system ensures a smooth user experience. The laptop comes with various ports and slots for connectivity, and it is lightweight with a sleek grey design. However, some users have reported issues with overheating and noisy fan. Overall, the DELL G15 is a powerful gaming laptop with impressive specs and features.
Key Features
- 15.6" FHD Anti-Glare Display
- AMD Ryzen 5 6600H Mobile Processor
- 32GB Ddr5 ram
- 2TB Pcie Ssd
- Backlit Keyboard
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 Graphics
- Windows 11 Pro
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 14.06Lx10.74Wx1.06H
- Size: 32GB | 2TB PCIe SSD
Pros
- Powerful processor and graphics for gaming
- Large storage capacity
- Backlit keyboard for gaming
- High-quality display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Windows 11 Pro for smooth user experience
Cons
- Overheating issues
- Noisy fan
- Possible durability concerns
The DELL G15 15.6” FHD 120Hz Gaming Laptop offers impressive performance and features for gamers. With its powerful processor and graphics, ample storage, and Windows 11 Pro operating system, it provides an excellent gaming experience. However, some users have reported overheating and noisy fan issues, which could be a drawback for long gaming sessions. Additionally, there have been concerns about the laptop’s durability. Overall, the DELL G15 is a solid choice for gamers looking for a high-performance laptop, but it may have some drawbacks that should be considered.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop is a powerful machine designed for gamers and technology enthusiasts. With its 11th Generation Intel Core i5-11400H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, it delivers high performance and instant responsiveness. The laptop features 64GB DDR4 RAM and a 2TB PCIe SSD, providing ample storage and lightning-fast data transfer. Its 15.6-inch FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate offers immersive visuals, while the backlit keyboard ensures comfortable typing even in low light. The laptop is equipped with various ports and connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2, HDMI, RJ-45, and Wi-Fi 6. With Windows 11 Home preinstalled, this Acer Nitro 5 offers an exceptional gaming experience.
Key Features
- 11th Generation Intel Core i5-11400H processor with NVIDIA Ge Force GTX 1650
- 64GB DDR4 RAM and 2TB PCIe SSD for smooth multitasking and fast performance
- 15.6-inch FHD 144Hz display for immersive visuals
- Multiple ports and connectivity options for versatile usage
- Windows 11 Home and backlit keyboard for enhanced gaming experience
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 14.30Lx10.00Wx0.94H
- Size: 64GB Ram | 2TB Ssd
Pros
- Powerful performance for gaming and multitasking
- Ample storage capacity
- High-quality display with a fast refresh rate
- Versatile connectivity options
- Enhanced gaming experience with backlit keyboard
Cons
- May be on the expensive side
- Graphics card may not be suitable for high-end gaming
The Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop is a reliable choice for gamers and tech enthusiasts who value power and performance. With its robust specs, including a high-end processor, ample RAM, and storage capacity, it delivers smooth multitasking and fast data transfer. The vibrant 15.6-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate provides an immersive gaming experience. The laptop’s versatile connectivity options and backlit keyboard further enhance its usability. However, it is worth considering the price and the graphics card’s capabilities if you are a hardcore gamer. Overall, the Acer Nitro 5 offers a solid gaming performance and is a worthy investment for anyone seeking a powerful gaming laptop.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop is the ultimate powerhouse built for gamers and creative professionals. With its 17.3-inch Full HD IPS display and a lightning-quick 144Hz refresh rate, you'll enjoy unparalleled visuals with minimal ghosting. The 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor ensures blazing-fast performance, while the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Graphics delivers stunning visuals for both gaming and entertainment. With 32GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, you'll have ample space and speed for all your files and games. The backlit keyboard and Thunderbolt 4 support add extra convenience and versatility to this beast of a laptop.
Key Features
- 17.3 inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) Display
- 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 Graphics
- Upgraded to 32GB DDR4 RAM
- Upgraded to 1TB PCIe SSD
Specifications
- Dimension: 15.77Lx11.59Wx1.10H
- Size: 32GB Ram | 1TB Ssd
Pros
- Sharp visuals with a 17.3-inch Full HD IPS display
- Fast and efficient 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor
- Impressive NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 Graphics
- Ample 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD for fast performance
- Backlit keyboard and Thunderbolt 4 support
Cons
The Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop is a top-notch option for gamers and creative professionals who demand high-performance and stunning visuals. With its powerful specifications, including the 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Graphics, combined with ample RAM and storage, this laptop delivers exceptional speed and responsiveness. The 17.3-inch Full HD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate ensures a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The backlit keyboard and Thunderbolt 4 support further enhance the overall usability of this laptop. If you’re looking for a gaming laptop that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Acer Nitro is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
Experience powerful gaming performance with the HP Newest Victus Gaming Laptop. Featuring the latest generation Intel Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, and a 144Hz FHD anti-glare display, this laptop offers a smooth and immersive gaming experience. With upgraded 64GB RAM and a 2TB NVMe SSD, you can effortlessly run demanding games and multitask with ease. The laptop also comes with backlit keyboard, WiFi 6, and HDMI connectivity. With its sleek design and powerful specifications, the HP Newest Victus Gaming Laptop is a reliable choice for gamers and creative professionals.
Key Features
- Newest Gen Gaming Processor
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050
- 144Hz FHD anti-glare display
- Upgraded to 64GB RAM
- Upgraded to 2TB NVMe SSD
Specifications
- Color: Blue
- Dimension: 14.09Lx10.40Wx0.93H
- Size: 64GB Ram | 2TB Pcie Ssd
Pros
- Powerful gaming performance
- High RAM and storage capacity
- Fast boot-up and application start
- Sleek and attractive design
- Smooth and crisp display
Cons
The HP Newest Victus Gaming Laptop offers impressive gaming performance with its powerful specifications and sleek design. The upgraded RAM and SSD provide smooth multitasking and faster system performance. The 144Hz FHD display ensures a crisp and immersive gaming experience. Additionally, the laptop comes with essential features like a backlit keyboard, WiFi 6, and HDMI connectivity. Despite the high performance and features, it is worth noting that this laptop might not be suitable for heavy AAA gaming or professional video editing. Overall, the HP Newest Victus Gaming Laptop is a solid choice for gamers and creative professionals seeking a reliable and capable device.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
Experience powerful gaming and smooth multitasking with the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor, GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics, and 32GB RAM, this laptop delivers excellent performance for gaming, as well as running multiple applications simultaneously. The 15.6-inch Full HD display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a dazzling visual experience. With a 1TB SSD, you can enjoy fast bootup times and seamless data transfer. The laptop features a backlit keyboard for convenient typing in low-light environments. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, offering a new design and improved performance features. Overall, the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is a reliable choice for gamers and power users alike.
Key Features
- 32GB high-bandwidth RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor and Ge Force RTX 3050 Ti graphics
- 15.6-inch Full HD 120Hz display with Anti-Glare LED Backlit
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and backlit keyboard
- Windows 11 Home operating system
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 14.10Lx10.40Wx0.98H
- Size: 32GB Ram | 1TB Ssd
Pros
- High-speed RAM and large storage space
- Powerful processor and graphics for smooth gaming
- Dazzling display for an immersive visual experience
- Backlit keyboard for convenient typing in any lighting conditions
- Windows 11 Home operating system with improved features
Cons
- Misleading pricing during Cyber Monday
- Potential overheating and BIOS issues reported
- Short battery life
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop offers great performance and features for gamers and power users. With its powerful processor, graphics, and ample storage space, you can enjoy smooth multitasking and immersive gaming experiences. The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides stunning visuals, and the backlit keyboard ensures convenient typing in any lighting environment. However, some customers have reported misleading pricing during sales, as well as potential overheating and BIOS issues. Additionally, the battery life may be short, so it’s important to consider your power needs. Overall, the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful gaming laptop.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The ASUS TUF Gaming A17 Gaming Laptop is a powerful and high-performance laptop designed for gamers and demanding users. With its AMD Ryzen 5 4600H processor, 64GB DDR4 RAM, and 2TB PCIe SSD, it offers exceptional performance and storage capabilities. The laptop features a stunning 17.3" FHD 144Hz IPS display with vibrant colors and a thin bezel design. It is equipped with an RGB backlit keyboard for a personalized gaming experience. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card ensures smooth gameplay in popular games. With multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Wi-Fi + Bluetooth connectivity, it offers versatile connectivity options. Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 is a reliable and feature-packed gaming laptop.
Key Features
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600H Processor
- 64GB Ddr4 ram, 2TB Pcie Ssd
- Stunning 17.3" FHD 144Hz IPS Display
- RGB Backlit Keyboard
- NVIDIA Ge Force GTX 1650 Graphics
Specifications
- Color: Bonfire Black
- Dimension: 15.71Lx10.59Wx1.02H
- Size: 64GB Ram | 2TB Ssd
Pros
- Powerful processor and graphics card
- High-performance memory and storage
- Vibrant and immersive display
- Customizable RGB backlit keyboard
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons
- Some USB ports are 2.0
- Most ports are located on the right side
- Soldered RAM limits upgradability
- No HDMI 2.0 for DRM content
- Lacks USB Power Delivery technology
The ASUS TUF Gaming A17 is a top-tier gaming laptop that delivers exceptional performance and a stunning display. With its powerful processor, ample memory and storage, and dedicated graphics card, it can handle demanding tasks and deliver smooth gameplay. The vibrant 17.3″ FHD display and RGB backlit keyboard add to the immersive gaming experience. While it has a few drawbacks like limited upgradability and older USB ports, the overall performance and features make it a great choice for gamers and power users. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance gaming laptop, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 9.2/10
The Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop 17.3" offers a top-tier gaming experience with its stunning 17.3 inch Full HD IPS display and lightning-quick 144Hz refresh rate. The 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor delivers exceptional performance, while the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics provide impressive visuals. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD, you'll enjoy faster system speed and ample storage space. The laptop's sleek design is complemented by features like a backlit keyboard and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. Overall, the Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop is a powerhouse device that will take your gaming experience to the next level.
Key Features
- 17.3 inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) Display
- 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050 Graphics
- Upgraded to 16GB DDR4 RAM
- Upgraded to 1TB PCIe SSD
Specifications
- Dimension: 15.77Lx11.59Wx1.10H
- Size: 16GB Ram | 1TB Ssd
Pros
- Sharp visuals with 17.3 inch Full HD IPS display
- 12th Gen Intel Core processor for fast performance
- Impressive graphics performance with NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3050
- Upgraded RAM for faster system speed and responsiveness
- Massive storage space with 1TB PCIe SSD
Cons
The Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop 17.3″ is a highly impressive gaming laptop that offers exceptional performance, stunning visuals, and ample storage space. With its 17.3 inch Full HD IPS display and 144Hz refresh rate, gaming sessions will be fluid and unmatched. The 12th Gen Intel Core processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics ensure top-tier performance and crisp visuals. The upgraded RAM and SSD further enhance system speed and responsiveness. Overall, this laptop is a great investment for gamers looking for a powerhouse device that can handle demanding games with ease.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop is a powerful gaming laptop that offers an immersive gaming experience. With its 11th Generation Intel Tiger Lake Core i9-11900H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, it can handle even the most demanding AAA games. The 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, while the dual-fan cooling system keeps the laptop cool during intense gaming sessions. The laptop also features DTS:X Ultra audio for immersive sound, RGB backlit keyboard for customization, and a 2TB PCIe SSD for ample storage. With its sleek design and powerful performance, the Acer Nitro 5 is a great choice for gamers.
Key Features
- 11th Generation Intel Tiger Lake Core i9-11900H processor
- NVIDIA Ge Force RTX 3060 graphics card
- 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate
- Dual-fan cooling system
- 2TB Pcie Ssd
Specifications
- Color: Shale Black
- Dimension: 14.30Lx10.04Wx0.94H
- Size: 64GB|2TB SSD
Pros
- Powerful performance for gaming
- Excellent graphics for AAA games
- Ample storage space
- Sleek design
Cons
- Some units may be defective
- Keyboard quality could be improved
- Low speaker volume
- Windows activation issue
The Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop offers impressive performance and features for its price. With its powerful processor and graphics card, it can handle even the most demanding games with ease. The dual-fan cooling system ensures that the laptop remains cool during intense gaming sessions. The sleek design adds to its appeal, while the ample storage space provides enough room for all your games and files. However, there have been some complaints about defective units and keyboard quality. Additionally, some users have experienced low speaker volume and Windows activation issues. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly gaming laptop with solid performance, the Acer Nitro 5 is worth considering.
Buyer's Guide: Gaming Laptop under $1200
Finding the perfect gaming laptop can be a thrilling but overwhelming task. With so many options available, it's essential to choose wisely within your budget. Here's a comprehensive buyer's guide to help you navigate through the world of gaming laptops under $1200.
Key Considerations
To make an informed decision, keep the following factors in mind when selecting a gaming laptop:
- Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend. This will help narrow down your options and ensure you stay within your budget.
- Processor: Look for laptops with powerful processors to handle demanding games. An Intel Core i5 or i7 processor is ideal for smooth gaming performance.
- Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card will enhance your gaming experience. Aim for at least an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 5500M for optimal visuals.
- RAM: To run games seamlessly, choose a laptop with a minimum of 8GB RAM. Consider upgrading to 16GB if you plan to play graphically intense games.
- Storage: Opt for a gaming laptop with an SSD (Solid State Drive) for faster loading times. Aim for at least 256GB, but if possible, go for 512GB or more to accommodate your game library.
- Display: A high-quality display is crucial. Look for laptops with a Full HD resolution (1920×1080) and a refresh rate of 60Hz or higher for smooth visuals.
- Battery Life: While gaming laptops tend to consume more power, it's important to have decent battery life for casual use or when you're on the go.
Important Features to Look For
Consider these features to enhance your gaming experience and overall laptop performance:
- Cooling System: Gaming can generate heat, so ensure the laptop has a robust cooling system to prevent overheating during those intense gaming sessions.
- Backlit Keyboard: Illuminated keys not only enhance the gaming ambiance but also help in low-light settings. Look for customizable lighting options to match your style.
- Portability: If you plan to carry your laptop around, opt for a lightweight and compact model to minimize travel inconvenience.
- Connectivity: Check for a good selection of ports such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet for flexibility in connecting accessories or external monitors.
- Audio: An immersive audio experience is essential for gaming. Look for laptops with quality built-in speakers or consider investing in external speakers or gaming headsets.
Additional Tips for the Best Gaming Experience
- Invest in a Gaming Mouse: Although laptops come with an integrated touchpad, a gaming mouse can greatly enhance your gaming precision and control.
- Gaming Headset: To fully immerse yourself in the game, consider investing in a good gaming headset. It will enhance the audio experience and provide clearer communication during online multiplayer games.
- Gaming Controller: If you prefer console-style gaming, a gaming controller can provide a more familiar and comfortable gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Best Gaming Laptop Under 1200 For 2023
Upgradability varies from model to model. Some laptops allow for RAM and storage upgrades, while others may have limited or no upgradability. It’s crucial to check the specifications and reviews before making a purchase.
Unless specified by the manufacturer or retailer, gaming laptops generally do not come with pre-installed games. However, some laptops may come bundled with graphics card or gaming software offers, so keep an eye out for those promotions.
While a higher refresh rate (e.g., 120Hz or 144Hz) provides smoother visuals, it may come at the cost of battery life and increased price. If you prioritize battery life or have a limited budget, a 60Hz refresh rate will still deliver a decent gaming experience.
Gaming laptops within this budget can handle basic VR gaming. However, for more demanding VR games, you may need a laptop with higher specifications, specifically a more powerful graphics card and a faster processor.
Absolutely! While gaming laptops are designed with gaming in mind, they can also handle various tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and general office work. Their powerful processors and dedicated graphics cards make them versatile machines.
