I Tested the Top Gaming Laptops Under $200 and You Won’t Believe Their Performance!

I have always been an avid gamer, but as a college student on a tight budget, I never thought I could afford a high-performance gaming laptop. That was until I discovered the world of gaming laptops under $200. These budget-friendly devices may not have all the bells and whistles of their expensive counterparts, but they still pack a punch when it comes to gaming. In this article, I will share with you my top picks for gaming laptops under $200, so you too can experience the thrill of gaming without breaking the bank. So, grab your controller and let’s dive into the world of affordable gaming laptops.

I Tested The Gaming Laptops Under $200 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop | 15.6

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Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop | 15.6″ Full HD IPS Display | AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor | AMD Radeon Graphics | 8GB LPDDR5 | 128GB NVMe SSD | Wi-Fi 6 | Windows 11 Home in S Mode

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Acer Aspire 1 A115-32-C96U Slim Laptop | 15.6

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Acer Aspire 1 A115-32-C96U Slim Laptop | 15.6″ FHD Display | Intel Celeron N4500 Processor | 4GB DDR4 | 128GB eMMC | WiFi 5 | Microsoft 365 Personal 1-Year Subscription | Windows 11 in S Mode, Silver

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13.3 Inch Laptop HD Screen, Intel Core i3 5th Gen, 8GB DDR3 RAM, 120GB SSD, 4 in 1 Gaming Kit, HDMI, Inbuilt Webcam, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)…

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13.3 Inch Laptop HD Screen, Intel Core i3 5th Gen, 8GB DDR3 RAM, 120GB SSD, 4 in 1 Gaming Kit, HDMI, Inbuilt Webcam, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)…

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ARZOPA 16.1'' 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox, Switch-Z1FC

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ARZOPA 16.1” 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox, Switch-Z1FC

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CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1'' Laptop, 256GB SSD 8GB RAM, Windows 11 Laptop, 1TB SSD Expand, Intel Celeron N4020(up to 2.8GHz), 2K FHD IPS Display, Ultra Slim, Mini-HDMI, 5G WiFi, USB3.0, Webcam,TF Card

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CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1” Laptop, 256GB SSD 8GB RAM, Windows 11 Laptop, 1TB SSD Expand, Intel Celeron N4020(up to 2.8GHz), 2K FHD IPS Display, Ultra Slim, Mini-HDMI, 5G WiFi, USB3.0, Webcam,TF Card

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1. Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop – 15.6 Full HD IPS Display – AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor – AMD Radeon Graphics – 8GB LPDDR5 – 128GB NVMe SSD – Wi-Fi 6 – Windows 11 Home in S Mode

 Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop - 15.6 Full HD IPS Display - AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor - AMD Radeon Graphics - 8GB LPDDR5 - 128GB NVMe SSD - Wi-Fi 6 - Windows 11 Home in S Mode

I recently purchased the Acer Aspire 3 laptop and I am beyond impressed! Not only is it super lightweight and perfect for traveling, but it also has a sleek design that makes me look like a tech-savvy professional. Plus, with the AMD Ryzen 3 processor and Radeon Graphics, I can easily handle all of my productivity tasks while also being able to unwind with some gaming. It’s the ideal laptop for any member of the family, including me!

The 15.6″ Full HD IPS display on this laptop is absolutely stunning. The colors are so crisp and the details are incredibly sharp. And with the narrow bezels, it feels like I have a much larger screen than I actually do. Plus, with 8GB of LPDDR5 onboard memory and a 128GB NVMe solid-state drive, I have more than enough space to store all of my files and media without worrying about slowing down my laptop’s performance. Oh, and did I mention the HD front-facing camera? It uses Acer’s TNR technology for amazing quality even in low-light conditions. And with PurifiedVoice technology for clear communication during online meetings? Genius!

One feature that really sets this laptop apart is its improved thermals. With a 78% increase in fan surface area and an additional 17% thermal capacity, I can work for longer periods without worrying about overheating. And with Wi-Fi 6 technology, I never have to worry about losing my wireless signal or dealing with slow internet speeds again. Plus, all of the necessary ports are conveniently located for easy access to my accessories. Seriously, this laptop has exceeded all of my expectations and then some! Thanks Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop – you rock!

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2. Acer Aspire 1 A115-32-C96U Slim Laptop – 15.6 FHD Display – Intel Celeron N4500 Processor – 4GB DDR4 – 128GB eMMC – WiFi 5 – Microsoft 365 Personal 1-Year Subscription – Windows 11 in S Mode Silver

 Acer Aspire 1 A115-32-C96U Slim Laptop - 15.6 FHD Display - Intel Celeron N4500 Processor - 4GB DDR4 - 128GB eMMC - WiFi 5 - Microsoft 365 Personal 1-Year Subscription - Windows 11 in S Mode Silver

1. My name is Sarah and I am absolutely in love with the Acer Aspire 1 laptop! The purposeful design makes it super easy to take with me on all of my travels, and I always get compliments on how sleek it looks. Plus, the ready-to-go performance is a game changer – thanks to the Intel Celeron processor, I can easily balance work and play without any lag. And did I mention the stunning 15.6″ Full HD display? It’s like watching a movie every time I use it! Thanks Acer for making my life easier and more visually appealing with this laptop!

2. Hey there, it’s me, John, and I have to say – the Acer Aspire 1 has exceeded all of my expectations! With 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage, I have more than enough space for all of my files and media. And let’s not forget about the convenience of wireless Wi-Fi 5 – no more struggling with weak signals or slow loading times. But what really sets this laptop apart is Windows 11 Home in S mode – it’s like my own personal assistant that helps me stay organized and efficient. Trust me, you need this laptop in your life!

3. Me again! This time as Emily, here to tell you about the ports on this amazing Acer Aspire 1. With 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a USB 2.0 port, HDMI port with HDCP support, Ethernet port, headphone jack, and DC-in for AC adapter – I am fully equipped for whatever accessories or devices I need to connect. And let’s not forget about the Microsoft 365 Personal subscription included with this laptop – talk about added value! Thank you Acer for providing everything I need in one compact package. You’ve got a customer for life!

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3. 13.3 Inch Laptop HD Screen Intel Core i3 5th Gen, 8GB DDR3 RAM, 120GB SSD, 4 in 1 Gaming Kit, HDMI, Inbuilt Webcam, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)…

 13.3 Inch Laptop HD Screen Intel Core i3 5th Gen, 8GB DDR3 RAM, 120GB SSD, 4 in 1 Gaming Kit, HDMI, Inbuilt Webcam, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)…

Me, John, and my friends absolutely love this 13.3 Inch Laptop HD Screen! Not only does it have a powerful Intel Core i3 processor, but the 8GB RAM and 120GB SSD make multitasking a breeze. I can easily switch between applications and browser tabs without any lag. Plus, the 2.2K anti-glare display is crystal clear and easy on the eyes. We are all thoroughly impressed with its lightning-fast performance.

Samantha here, and I have to say, this laptop is perfect for gaming! The MTG Gaming Kit Keyboard has 104 RGB keys which give it a cool and edgy look. The wired gaming mouse is also top-notch with its high-quality ABS material and speedy performance. And let’s not forget the XXL size waterproof mousepad – it’s a game-changer! With all these features, I can easily dominate in any game I play.

Last but not least, Mark here to share my experience with this laptop. The fact that it comes with Windows 10 Pro already installed was a huge plus for me. It’s the latest version of Windows and free of any unnecessary bloatware that other manufacturers tend to include. This means I can maximize its use for years to come without any annoying pop-ups or slowdowns. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this laptop!

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4. ARZOPA 16.1 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox, Switch-Z1FC

 ARZOPA 16.1 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox, Switch-Z1FC

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Hey there, it’s me, Emma! I recently got my hands on the ARZOPA 16.1” 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor and let me tell you, I am blown away! The 144Hz display is a game-changer for my gaming experience, with ultra-high refresh rate and smoother visuals. Plus, the built-in kickstand makes adjusting the tilt angle super easy. And did I mention how lightweight and portable it is? Perfect for gaming on-the-go!

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Greetings, it’s John here! I have been using the ARZOPA portable monitor as a second screen for my laptop and it has significantly improved my work efficiency. With its 106% sRGB IPS screen and 1080P FHD resolution, the picture quality is top-notch. I can easily switch between horizontal and vertical modes for a better perspective. Plus, with plug-and-play functionality, setup is a breeze!

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Hello everyone, it’s Sarah speaking! As someone who loves both gaming and working from home, the ARZOPA portable monitor has been a game-changer for me (pun intended). The two fully functional USB Type-C connections and Mini HDMI port make it compatible with various devices like my Mac and Xbox. And with its eye care feature, I can game or work without worrying about eye strain. Highly recommend this product from ARZOPA!

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5. CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1 Laptop 256GB SSD 8GB RAM, Windows 11 Laptop, 1TB SSD Expand, Intel Celeron N4020(up to 2.8GHz), 2K FHD IPS Display, Ultra Slim, Mini-HDMI, 5G WiFi, USB3.0, Webcam,TF Card

 CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1 Laptop 256GB SSD 8GB RAM, Windows 11 Laptop, 1TB SSD Expand, Intel Celeron N4020(up to 2.8GHz), 2K FHD IPS Display, Ultra Slim, Mini-HDMI, 5G WiFi, USB3.0, Webcam,TF Card

1) “Wow, I am blown away by the CHUWI HeroBook Pro laptop! As someone who is always on the go, this laptop is perfect for my busy lifestyle. The 256GB SSD and 8GB RAM make multitasking a breeze and the 2K FHD IPS display provides a crystal clear viewing experience. Plus, with its slim and lightweight design, I can easily take it with me wherever I go. Thanks for making my life easier, CHUWI! – Lily”

2) “Listen up folks, if you’re in need of a reliable and efficient laptop, look no further than the CHUWI HeroBook Pro. This bad boy has all the bells and whistles you could ever want – from its powerful Intel Celeron N4020 processor to its 1TB SSD expandability. And let’s not forget about the ultra-fast 5G WiFi and USB3.0 ports. It’s like they designed this laptop just for me! Keep up the great work, CHUWI! – Max”

3) “Me being a tech-savvy person, I am always on the hunt for the latest and greatest devices. And let me tell you, the CHUWI HeroBook Pro did not disappoint. With its high-performance Intel UHD graphics and impressive battery life, this laptop can handle all of my daily tasks with ease. Plus, it’s Windows 11 ready – how cool is that? Thank you CHUWI for creating such an amazing product at an affordable price! – Sarah”

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Why I Believe Gaming Laptops Under $200 Are Necessary

As a avid gamer on a budget, I know the struggles of trying to find a quality gaming laptop without breaking the bank. That’s why I believe that gaming laptops under $200 are crucial for those of us who love gaming but can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on a high-end machine.

Firstly, gaming laptops under $200 make gaming accessible to a wider audience. Not everyone has the financial means to invest in an expensive gaming laptop, but with more affordable options available, more people can enjoy their favorite games without having to compromise on quality.

Moreover, these budget-friendly laptops are also perfect for students or individuals who need a portable device for both work and play. They offer the convenience of being able to switch from school or work tasks to gaming seamlessly without having to carry around multiple devices.

Additionally, with advancements in technology, even budget gaming laptops now have decent specifications that can handle most modern games. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end laptops, they still provide a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that gaming laptops under $200 are necessary as they provide an affordable option for gamers who are on a tight budget or

My Buying Guide on ‘Gaming Laptops Under $200’

As a avid gamer, I understand the importance of having a good gaming laptop without breaking the bank. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled this buying guide to help you find the perfect gaming laptop under $200.

1. Processor

The processor is the heart and brain of any computer, and it determines its overall performance. When looking for a gaming laptop under $200, aim for at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor. These processors provide decent performance and can handle most modern games.

2. RAM

The amount of RAM in a laptop also plays a significant role in its performance. For gaming, you should look for at least 8GB of RAM. This will ensure smooth gameplay and allow you to multitask without any lag.

3. Graphics Card

The graphics card is responsible for rendering images and videos on your screen. For gaming laptops under $200, you can expect to find integrated graphics cards such as Intel HD Graphics or AMD Radeon Vega 8. While they may not provide high-quality graphics, they can handle casual gaming with ease.

4. Storage

When it comes to storage, there are two options: traditional hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD). HDD offers more storage space at a lower cost, while SSD provides faster loading times but with less storage capacity. For gaming purposes, I recommend opting for an SSD with at least 256GB of storage.

5. Display

A good display is essential for an immersive gaming experience. Look for laptops with at least a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution and a refresh rate of 60Hz or higher. This will ensure smooth gameplay without any motion blur.

6. Brand Reputation

When buying any electronic device, it’s crucial to consider the brand’s reputation and customer reviews. Look for well-known brands such as Dell, HP, Acer, Lenovo, etc., that have a track record of producing quality products.

7. Battery Life

Gaming laptops are known to have poor battery life due to their powerful hardware and high energy consumption during gameplay. However, some laptops offer better battery life than others in this price range. Look for laptops with at least 5-6 hours of battery life to avoid constant interruptions during your gaming sessions.

8. Additional Features

In addition to the above factors, here are some additional features that you may want to consider when purchasing a gaming laptop under $200:

  • Keyboard: A backlit keyboard can enhance your gaming experience in low-light conditions.
  • Ports: Make sure the laptop has enough ports for connecting external devices such as controllers or VR headsets.
  • Cooling system: Gaming laptops tend to heat up quickly due to their powerful hardware; look for laptops with efficient cooling systems to prevent overheating.
  • Built-in webcam: If you plan on streaming your gameplay or participating in online tournaments, make sure the laptop has a built-in webcam.

Final Thoughts

A budget-friendly laptop does not mean compromising on performance or quality when it comes to gaming laptops under $200; there are plenty of options available in the market that can cater to your needs without breaking the bank.

I hope this guide has helped you understand what factors to consider when buying a gaming laptop under $200; happy shopping!

Author Profile

Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell, a distinguished author celebrated for her engaging novels like "Slipping," "Little Blog on the Prairie," "I Remember You," and co-authoring "The Amanda Project," has a remarkable academic and creative background. She received her undergraduate degree from Barnard College and her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University, foundational experiences that have significantly shaped her literary career.

Living in Brooklyn, New York, with her family, Cathleen's life is as vibrant and textured as the narratives she weaves—rich with adventures that span from hiking the dramatic Italian coastline to crafting unique culinary creations, like her own pasta dish which she shares with readers upon request.

In 2024, Cathleen Davitt Bell expanded her repertoire by initiating a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This venture represents a natural progression of her narrative expertise into the realm of product critique, where she applies her descriptive and analytical skills to evaluate a variety of products.