chanaka
It can be quite tough to search for an excellent gaming experience when you are on a budget if you are a student trying to manage tuition fees and living expenses. I have spent numerous hours scrolling through product listings and customer reviews, trying to find the laptop that is the best and performs well within my budget. If you are looking for the best gaming laptop under $200, I have some wonderful news. I have tested a range of options to find the best laptop that can fit a student’s budget and even provide a good gaming experience for gamers. So, if you’re tired of settling and ready to level up your game without spending a lot of money, this guide is perfect for you to get a good understanding. But wait until you see the unexpected gem I found among these budget-friendly beasts—it’s a game-changer. Stay tuned!
The Best Gaming Laptops Under $200
If you are in a hurry to find a bargain, you are in the perfect place. Even though these laptops may not be as flashy as gaming laptops under $700, these affordable laptops offer spectacular functionality for their cost.
Reviewing the Best Gaming Laptop Under $200
Before we dig in, I want to express that I have selected a few laptops. Let’s say you are a student who attends college and you wish to own a laptop that is affordable also has impressive performance. am I right? Don’t leave because you’re close to finding out what’s best for you!
Lenovo Chromebook S330
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
★★★★★
PROS
- Fantastic value for money
- Battery life is off the charts
- Sleek and solid design
- Perfect for casual gaming
CONS
- Not built for high-end tasks
BOTTOM LINE:
So, the Lenovo Chromebook S330 is a steal, especially if you’re a college student. But if you are a gamer as well? This gaming laptop under $200 can fulfil both fronts!
A top-level brand named Lenovo is known for its laptops. The S330 is no different. It offers a 14-inch FHD display, MediaTek MT8173C processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB expandable storage.
So, how does it fare in the real-life tests?
It exceeds expectations, especially at a price often under $200. Y access to the Google Play Store, your gaming options are virtually endless.
Wondering about battery life? It’s pretty solid, making this laptop perfect for both school and leisure. But can it run high-end games? I’ll let you in on that shortly.
You’ll be impressed with the design too. It looks more expensive than it is. This laptop can be considered one of the most cost-effective gaming laptops under $200. So what’s the deal? Don’t leave yet to discover!
So far, the only downside is the limited CPU performance. But as long as you stick to the games it can handle, you’ll face zero problems. Now, does it make it the best laptop under $200, or is there something better? Keep reading, as we’ve got more options to explore!
Curious yet? Are you interested to know about the other gaming laptops under $200? Stay tuned to discover!
Acer Spin 311 – Cheap Gaming Laptop Under $200
★★★★★
PROS
- Exceptional battery life
- Superb keyboard experience
- Handy touchscreen feature
- Solid gaming performance
CONS
- Screen brightness is somewhat lacking
BOTTOM LINE:
Is a convertible laptop more your style? Then you’re going to love the Acer Spin 311. Acer consistently delivers great products, and this Chromebook is no different. And guess what? It’s got an 8-core CPU!
Specs
- 11.6″ HD IPS Touch screen
- MediaTek MT8183 Processor
- 4GB RAM
- 32GB eMMC expandable storage
Acer really knocks it out of the park with this one. If you are always typing on the keyboard, this laptop is the one that you will truly wish to own. But what if you also game a lot? Stay tuned to discover! Let’s dive into its versatility. The Acer Spin 311 also doubles as a tablet. That’s right, it’s a convertible! With Chromebook optimizations, your tablet experience will be smooth. No hiccups, no unwanted issues. But can it handle gaming?
For the gamers among us, this MediaTek CPU will manage your Play Store games just fine. Yep, both single-player and multiplayer! And with Bluetooth, you can even hook up your favourite gaming controller. Sounds interesting, right?
Now, for the elephant in the room—the screen brightness. It could be brighter. But is that an issue? Don’t leave yet! Because we will compare this one to other gaming laptops under $200.
So, should you buy the Acer Spin 311? It’s a fantastic all-rounder, but will it emerge as the ultimate choice in our rundown of gaming laptops under $200? Stay tuned; the answer might surprise you!
HP Stream – A Windows Powerhouse Under $200
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
★★★★★
PROS
- Incredible value for money
- Robust build quality
- HDMI output for added versatility
- Astounding 11-hour battery life
- SD card slot for easy storage expansion
CONS
- Limited internal storage (32GB)
- Screen quality leaves something to be desired
BOTTOM LINE:
Don’t let its modest appearance fool you; the HP Stream packs a punch for its price. How does this laptop stand against other gaming laptops under $200? Let’s dive in to find out .
Specs
- Intel N4000 CPU
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB eMMC expandable storage
- 14-Inch WLED Display
After focusing on Chromebooks, we’re finally turning our lens towards a Windows laptop. Meet the HP Stream, a budget-friendly option that’s been impressing folks for a while. This laptop has a sleek design, and it is built to last, which is limited for laptops in this budget range.
You must be thinking, why is this laptop so unique? This laptop is lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Got a presentation? The HDMI output allows for easy external display connections. And what about the battery? You can easily get through a full day with juice to spare.
If you like casual gaming, this can be considered a good choice. However, keep your expectations in check; AAA titles are off the table here. But then again, what can you really expect from gaming laptops under $200?
The screen could be better, and the 32GB storage might not be enough for everyone. Should that deter you from considering the HP Stream among other gaming laptops under $200? Hang tight; we’re about to answer that question.
So, is the HP Stream the ultimate budget laptop? If you’re seeking an affordable yet reliable option, this might just be the one. Will it top our list? Keep reading, and you might just find your answer!
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4 – The Premium Pick Within Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
★★★★★
PROS
- Exceptional value for money
- Capable of running most casual games smoothly
- Ergonomic keyboard for extended use
- Impressive battery longevity
CONS
- Screen quality could be improved
- Limited port selection
BOTTOM LINE:
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4 has a sleek design and a strong performance. It stands out as one of the premium Chromebooks in the sub-$200 market. Don’t let its age deceive you; this machine packs a punch.
Specs
- 11.6-inch display
- 64GB eMMC expandable storage
- 4GB RAM
- Intel Celeron Processor N4000
If you like Samsung products, prepare to be amazed by their Galaxy Chromebook 4. This from the South Korean tech giant may be slightly dated, but it has been able to show its worth again. If you are someone looking for a reliable laptop, this Chromebook is a good choice for you.
First things first, the size and weight. If portability ranks high on your list, the Galaxy Chromebook 4 could be a match made in heaven. This one is compact, light in weight, and can be carried easily in your bag.
One of its unique features is its keyboard. If you spend a lot of time typing, comfort level is an essential factor to consider. And this Chromebook delivers. It provides a smooth and responsive typing experience that’ll make those long writing sessions a breeze.
Battery life is another win. The Galaxy Chromebook 4 excels in this department, ensuring you won’t be tied down by a charger or scurrying for a power outlet any time soon.
Now, no product is without its flaws. The screen quality may not dazzle you, and the lack of multiple ports might limit your options for external devices. This is a sub-$200 laptop we’re talking about. But it is worth the money you are spending.
To conclude, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4 provides a versatile user experience at a cost-effective price. It’s solid, dependable, and more than capable of handling casual gaming and day-to-day tasks.
HP 14 – The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Gaming Laptop
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5
★★★★★
PROS
- Outstanding battery longevity
- Striking, modern design
- Comfortable typing experience
- Capable of casual gaming
CONS
- Display lacks brightness
- Could offer better performance
BOTTOM LINE:
The HP 14 can be considered as a great choice. It combines impressive battery life and eye-catching design, offering a compelling package for under $200.
Specs
- Intel Celeron N4020
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB expandable storage
- 14-inch Micro-Edge HD Display
HP makes a second appearance on our list, and rightly so. With years of experience in the tech industry, HP has consistently provided quality laptops that cater to various user needs. The HP 14 is no exception and serves as an excellent budget-friendly option, especially for those interested in casual gaming.
Battery Life:
This laptop’s battery life is quite amazing. If you are a person who frequently travels, this feature is very helpful. The HP 14’s battery doesn’t just meet the standard set by budget laptops; it exceeds it.
Design:
As for the design, HP hits the nail on the head by combining modern aesthetics with functionality. Its sleek profile is not just for show; it enhances the overall user experience, ensuring that the laptop doesn’t just look good but feels good to use.
Performance and Gaming:
While this laptop might not run AAA games, it’s more than sufficient for casual gaming. Whether it’s indie games or older titles, the HP 14 performs reasonably well. Its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4GB RAM are enough to handle basic multitasking and run simpler games smoothly.
Minor Quirks:
The dim display can be a minor setback for those who prefer brighter, more vibrant visuals. Don’t expect it to be a powerhouse performance machine when it is capable of casual gaming.
Conclusion:
The HP 14 is cost-effective, and it is one of the best gaming laptops for students under $200. Its robust battery life and modern design are standout features that make it worth considering despite minor drawbacks like screen brightness and performance limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which low-budget laptop is best for gaming?
- In this guide, all the outstanding choices are listed if you are looking for a gaming laptop within a budget range. If you want to do casual gaming, these choices listed are more than enough for you to get an understanding.
What’s the best laptop for $200 or less?
- If you are wondering whether there is a good gaming laptop under $200, the HP 14 is a great choice for you to consider. It has an impressive battery life, and it also performs well.
Which laptop is best for gaming, irrespective of budget?
- The main motive of this guide is to create cost-friendly gaming laptops, and each model listed offers a good casual gaming experience without spending a lot of money. If you are searching for stronger gaming capabilities, other choices might be better suited, but they are quite expensive.
How do the laptops compare in terms of battery life?
- The HP Stream and HP 14 are particularly praised for their exceptional battery life. They can easily last a whole day on a single charge, making them excellent options for students or professionals who are frequently on the go.
Are these laptops good for students?
- Yes, most of these laptops offer features beneficial for students, such as long battery life, portability, and decent performance for casual tasks. The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4 and the HP Stream are particularly good options for students.
What are the limitations of these budget laptops?
- Less-than-stellar displays, narrow performance for high-end tasks, and fewer ports. For example, the HP Stream has only 32GB of internal storage, which may not be sufficient for everyone.
Can I upgrade the storage on these laptops?
- Yes, some of the laptops, such as the HP Stream and the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4, allow for storage expansion via an SD card slot or similar options.
How do they fare with multitasking?
- The laptops listed are generally good for basic multitasking like web browsing, working on documents, and casual gaming. However, they may struggle with more resource-intensive tasks due to their budget-friendly specifications.
What operating systems do these laptops run on?
- The laptops reviewed run on different operating systems—HP Stream and HP 14 come with Windows, while the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 4 runs on Chrome OS.
Conclusion
Are you still sceptical about gaming laptops under $200? Don’t be! When the hardware and performance in $700 laptops are considered, they are more developed than these laptops. , But these laptops provide a good value. These laptops are a great choice for casual gamers or those looking for a secondary device.
