Gaming laptops have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they provide a convenient way to play games on the go. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to find a high-quality gaming laptop that fits within your budget. If you’re in the market for a gaming laptop under 800USD, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the key considerations when choosing a gaming laptop under $800 and provide some tips to help you make an informed decision.
What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop Under 800USD
When shopping for a gaming laptop under $800, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some of the key things to look for:
- Processor: Look for a laptop with a processor that’s powerful enough to handle your favorite games. Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 are good options to consider.
- Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card is essential for a gaming laptop. Look for a laptop with at least an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500M.
- RAM: The amount of RAM you need will depend on the games you play, but 8GB is usually the minimum for gaming. Look for a laptop with 8GB or more of RAM.
- Storage: A solid-state drive (SSD) is preferable for faster load times, but it may not be possible to find a large SSD in a laptop under $800. A 256GB SSD or a combination of a smaller SSD and a larger hard drive would be a good compromise.
- Display: Look for a laptop with a 1080p display with a high refresh rate of at least 60Hz for smooth gameplay.
- Cooling: Gaming laptops can generate a lot of heat, so look for a laptop with adequate cooling to prevent overheating.
- Battery Life: While gaming laptops tend to have shorter battery life, it’s still important to consider how long the battery will last when you’re not gaming.
Overall, when looking for a gaming laptop under $800, prioritize the components that will have the most significant impact on your gaming experience, such as the graphics card, processor, and RAM.
Best Processor Options for 800USD Gaming Laptops
When it comes to gaming laptops under $800, there are several processor options to consider. Here are some of the best processor options in this price range:
- AMD Ryzen 5: The AMD Ryzen 5 processor is a popular choice for gaming laptops under $800. It offers excellent performance for the price and can handle most modern games with ease.
- Intel Core i5: The Intel Core i5 processor is another great option for gaming laptops under $800. It provides solid performance and can handle most games without any issues.
- AMD Ryzen 3: If you’re on a tight budget, the AMD Ryzen 3 processor is a good option to consider. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5, it’s still a capable processor that can handle most games.
Overall, any of these processors should provide sufficient performance for gaming on a laptop under $800. It’s important to note that the overall performance of a gaming laptop also depends on the other components, such as the graphics card and RAM. So, it’s essential to consider the entire system when making a purchase decision.
Graphics Card Considerations for 800USD Gaming Laptops
The graphics card is one of the most critical components of a gaming laptop, and it’s essential to choose a card that can handle modern games without any issues. Here are some graphics card considerations for gaming laptops under $800:
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650: The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 is a popular graphics card option for gaming laptops under $800. It offers excellent performance for the price and can handle most modern games at 1080p resolution.
- AMD Radeon RX 5500M: The AMD Radeon RX 5500M is another great graphics card option for gaming laptops under $800. It provides solid performance and can handle most games without any issues.
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti: While it’s an older graphics card, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti is still a capable option for gaming laptops under $800. It offers decent performance and can handle most games at lower settings.
Overall, any of these graphics cards should provide sufficient performance for gaming on a laptop under $800. It’s essential to consider the other components, such as the processor and RAM, to ensure that the overall system can handle the games you want to play.
RAM and Storage Needs for 800USD Gaming Laptops
When it comes to RAM and storage needs for gaming laptops under $800, it’s important to strike a balance between performance and affordability. Here are some considerations for RAM and storage:
- RAM: A minimum of 8GB of RAM is recommended for gaming, but 16GB is even better. Having more RAM allows for smoother multitasking and better game performance. If you can only afford 8GB of RAM, make sure it’s upgradable so that you can add more in the future.
- Storage: A solid-state drive (SSD) is preferable for faster load times, but it may not be possible to find a large SSD in a laptop under $800. A 256GB SSD is a good starting point for a gaming laptop, but you may want to consider a combination of a smaller SSD and a larger hard drive for more storage space.
Overall, for a gaming laptop under $800, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD or a combination of a smaller SSD and a larger hard drive should provide sufficient performance for most games. However, if you have the budget, upgrading to 16GB of RAM and a larger SSD can provide even better performance.
Battery Life and Connectivity of 800USD Gaming Laptops
When considering battery life and connectivity options for gaming laptops under $800, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Battery life: Gaming laptops tend to have shorter battery life due to the power-hungry components. Look for a laptop that has a battery life of at least 4-5 hours, which should be enough for light browsing or office work. Keep in mind that the battery life will be significantly shorter when gaming, so it’s best to keep the laptop plugged in during gaming sessions.
- Connectivity: Look for a laptop with a good selection of ports, including USB Type-A, USB Type-C, HDMI, and Ethernet. This will allow you to connect to various peripherals and accessories, such as external displays, mice, and keyboards. Additionally, having a Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) wireless adapter will ensure that you can connect to fast and reliable Wi-Fi networks.
- Other features: Other features to consider include the keyboard, touchpad, and overall build quality. Look for a laptop with a comfortable and responsive keyboard and a touchpad that is accurate and easy to use. Additionally, a well-built laptop with a sturdy chassis will ensure that it can withstand regular use and travel.
Overall, when considering battery life and connectivity options for gaming laptops under $800, it’s important to balance your needs with your budget. Look for a laptop that has a good selection of ports, a Wi-Fi adapter that meets your needs, and a battery life that will allow you to use the laptop for extended periods without needing to be plugged in.
Choosing the Right Screen Size for Under 800USD
When choosing the right screen size for a gaming laptop under $800, there are a few factors to consider:
- Portability: If you plan to travel with your laptop frequently, a smaller screen size (such as 14 inches) may be more convenient. Smaller laptops are generally lighter and easier to carry around, making them ideal for on-the-go gaming.
- Gaming experience: If you want an immersive gaming experience, a larger screen size (such as 15.6 inches or 17.3 inches) may be preferable. A larger screen can provide more detail and better visibility, especially in games with complex graphics.
- Price: Larger screens are generally more expensive than smaller screens, so if you’re on a tight budget, you may need to sacrifice screen size to stay within your price range.
Overall, the ideal screen size for a gaming laptop under $800 will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize portability and budget, a smaller screen size may be more suitable. If you want an immersive gaming experience and have a bit more flexibility in your budget, a larger screen size may be preferable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing a gaming laptop under $800, it’s essential to consider the processor, graphics card, RAM, storage, battery life, connectivity, and screen size. Look for a laptop with a powerful processor and graphics card, at least 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD or a combination of a smaller SSD and a larger hard drive.
Consider battery life and connectivity options, including a good selection of ports and a Wi-Fi adapter that meets your needs. Finally, consider the screen size, balancing portability, budget, and the gaming experience you want. By considering these factors, you should be able to find a gaming laptop that meets your needs and budget.
