Best Gaming Laptops Under $2,000

Top picks for best gaming laptops

1. Best Overall: OMEN X by HP Gaming Laptop

HP’s OMEN X has really set the standard when it comes to gaming laptops.  Its high refresh rate and 1080p 17-inch screen creates some of the most silky-smooth gaming sessions you could imagine.  The advanced thermals equipped on this computer make sure that your laptop remains cool even while playing the most taxing games.  The most appeal that this laptop has may be that it is endless upgradable.  It will serve as a strong base for building a gaming laptop that is sure to last.

Buy this if: You need the highest quality gaming computer. 

2. High End: Dell XPS9560-7001SLV-PUS

For under $2,000 you really can’t go wrong with the smallest performance laptop in the world.  Equipped with a stunning InfinityEdge display paired with the thin design, this computer offers a far less expensive and sleek alternative to the MacBook Pro.  You will be able to play your favorite games with the most recent 7th generation Intel quad core processor and GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card for optimal speed and visuals.

Buy this if: You are looking for crisp visuals paired with a fast processor. 

3. High End: Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop

One look at this laptop and you know it was built for gamers.  The hard-edged frame and the iron-red backlit keyboard offer excellent external features that are equally matched by the internal performance.  The super powerful NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card will provide defined displays as you game on a laptop that is known for its extremely fast loading speeds.  The PredatorSense feature equipped in all models even allows you to customize your gaming control features to run at whatever settings are right for you.

Buy this if: You want to customize a gaming laptop. 

4. Good Value: MSI GV62 8RD-200

If a gaming laptop under $1,000 is what you are looking for, this MSI model should interest you.  Although it may not have every high-end feature of the more expensive laptops on our list, it certainly has some characteristics most gamers can enjoy.  MSI’s new NTSC display technology will offer great gaming sessions on their 1080p screen.  The improved DDR4 RAM will also permit more bandwidth and fast loading times to help eliminate any lag you may have experienced in the past.

Buy this if: You want great aesthetics at a good price. 

5. Good Value: HP Pavillion Gaming Laptop

This gaming laptop offers a fun break from the red backlit feature on most computers you see these days, and displays a nice green glow from the keyboard as soon as you boot it up.  Love it or hate it, this is a fun way to distinguish yourself from all the monochromatic gaming laptops around you.  With less vs. more demanding games running comfortably 50-70 and 60-80 frames per second respectively, this computer will have no trouble running your favorite titles like Overwatch and Skyrim.  This laptop is also compatible with the Windows Mixed Reality headset, and is ready to run any VR games you may be wanting to try.  For under $1,000 this one is hard to beat.

Buy this if: You are looking for a less expensive option to run reasonable games effectively. 

6. Least Expensive: Acer Aspire FHD Gaming Laptop

Don’t have tons of money to spend on a new gaming laptop?  Understandable!  The Acer Aspire is our least expensive pick, but will still provide you with a great gaming experience on a budget.  The intel HD Graphics 620 will give you nice visuals on the 1080p screen which comes standard on most far more expensive models.  This laptop can also serve as an excellent work or home computer if you are looking to make it work for more than just gaming.  With a fast startup and good battery life, this computer can get the job done.

Buy this if: You are on a budget, but gaming is still a must.