Good Gaming Laptops Under 250

Gaming on a budget? Sounds like a contradiction, right? But in today's market, surprisingly capable gaming laptops can be found for under $250, if you know where to look and what compromises to expect. This review is for the value-conscious gamer, the student looking for a machine that can handle both coursework and casual gaming, or anyone needing a portable device for light to moderate gaming on the go.

Why Consider a Sub-$250 Gaming Laptop?

Let's be clear: you won't be playing the latest AAA titles at max settings. However, these laptops open the door to a world of indie games, emulators, older titles, and less demanding esports games like Fortnite at lower settings. Furthermore, the integrated graphics have improved tremendously in recent years. The affordable price point also makes them attractive as secondary devices or for travel when you don't want to risk your high-end rig.

Shortlist of Recommended Laptops (Under $250)

Finding laptops within this price range requires digging into the used and refurbished markets. New laptops available under this price are often Chromebooks or very basic machines not suited for gaming. So, our recommendations will primarily focus on pre-owned models, specifically those with integrated graphics.

• Best for Indie Games: Refurbished Lenovo ThinkPad with AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics
• Best for Emulation: Used HP Laptop with Intel UHD Graphics 620 or better
• Best for Light Esports: Acer Aspire with AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics

Detailed Reviews

Refurbished Lenovo ThinkPad with AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics

Lenovo's ThinkPad line is known for its durability. Finding a refurbished ThinkPad with AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics can be a budget gamer's dream. This integrated GPU is surprisingly capable, handling many indie titles and older games with playable framerates. Expect to tweak settings for optimal performance.

The ThinkPad's excellent keyboard and robust build quality are added bonuses. Look for models with at least 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and gaming performance. Ensure the battery health is acceptable, as replacement batteries can add to the overall cost.

Used HP Laptop with Intel UHD Graphics 620 or better

HP laptops with Intel UHD Graphics 620 or better are commonly found in the used market. These GPUs are decent for emulation and some very light gaming. Focus on finding models with a good processor (at least an 8th generation Intel Core i5) and ample RAM.

The integrated graphics will limit your gaming options. But for playing retro games through emulators or enjoying very low-spec games, this can be a viable and affordable option. Check the screen for any dead pixels or damage before purchasing.

Acer Aspire with AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics

An Acer Aspire with AMD Radeon Vega 3 graphics offers a slightly better gaming experience than the Intel UHD options. It can handle games like Fortnite at very low settings with some tweaking. Look for models with an SSD for faster loading times.

The Vega 3 is not a powerhouse, but it's an improvement over older integrated graphics. Be prepared to run games at 720p resolution with minimal graphical settings. Upgrading the RAM to at least 8GB is highly recommended.

Side-by-Side Specs and Performance

Disclaimer: These FPS numbers are estimates based on low settings and 720p resolution. Actual performance may vary depending on the specific model and game settings.

Practical Considerations

Buying used or refurbished laptops requires careful inspection. Check the battery health, screen condition, keyboard functionality, and overall physical condition. Always test the device before purchasing, if possible.

Consider the laptop's storage capacity. If it has a traditional hard drive (HDD), upgrading to an SSD will significantly improve performance. Factor in the cost of an SSD if necessary.

Remember to update drivers and the operating system. This can often improve performance and stability. Also, be aware of the return policies of the seller.

Summary

Finding a gaming laptop for under $250 is challenging, but not impossible. The key is to focus on the used and refurbished markets and be realistic about your gaming expectations. Integrated graphics have come a long way, enabling casual gaming and emulation on budget-friendly devices.

Remember to consider factors like GPU performance, RAM, storage type, screen condition, and overall build quality. Weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. Thoroughly research your potential purchase.

Call to Action

Ready to dive into the world of budget gaming? Start your search on reputable used laptop marketplaces. Compare specs, read reviews, and don't be afraid to ask questions. With a little patience and research, you can find a capable gaming machine without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I play AAA games on these laptops?

A: Not at high settings. You might be able to play some older or less demanding AAA titles at low settings and reduced resolutions. Expect a compromised experience.

Q: Is 4GB of RAM enough for gaming?

A: It's the bare minimum, but 8GB is highly recommended for a smoother experience. Some games might be unplayable with only 4GB.

Q: Should I buy a laptop with an HDD or SSD?

A: An SSD is significantly faster and will improve loading times and overall responsiveness. If possible, choose a laptop with an SSD or budget for an upgrade.

Q: Where is the best place to buy a used gaming laptop?

A: Reputable online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon Renewed, and Swappa are good options. Also, check local classifieds and computer repair shops.

Q: What should I look for when buying a used laptop?

A: Check the battery health, screen for dead pixels, keyboard functionality, and overall physical condition. Ask about the laptop's history and any repairs that have been done. Make sure to test the device before buying.