Sweet Spot

Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000

The sweet spot for gaming. RTX graphics, fast displays, and enough power for AAA titles at solid frame rates.

Last updated: February 2026

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1Acer Nitro V 15
Editor's Choice

Acer Nitro V 15 (RTX 4050)

~$849
Intel Core i5-13420HRTX 405016GB DDR5512GB SSD15.6" FHD 144Hz

Pros

  • RTX 4050 handles most games
  • 144Hz is smooth for shooters
  • Upgradeable

Cons

  • Plastic build
  • Battery life is mediocre
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2Lenovo LOQ 15
Best Value

Lenovo LOQ 15 (2025)

~$799
AMD Ryzen 7 7840HSRTX 405016GB DDR5512GB SSD15.6" FHD 144Hz

Pros

  • Ryzen 7 is powerful for the price
  • Great thermals for the size
  • Clean, subtle design

Cons

  • Display could be brighter
  • Speakers are weak
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3HP Victus 16
Most Popular

HP Victus 16 (RTX 4060)

~$949
Intel Core i7-13700HRTX 406016GB DDR5512GB SSD16.1" FHD 144Hz

Pros

  • RTX 4060 at under $1000
  • 16" display is immersive
  • Handles AAA games at medium-high

Cons

  • Runs warm under heavy load
  • Bulky design
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4ASUS TUF Gaming A15
Most Durable

ASUS TUF Gaming A15 (2025)

~$899
AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSRTX 405016GB DDR5512GB SSD15.6" FHD 144Hz

Pros

  • Military-grade durability
  • Excellent cooling system
  • Great keyboard for gaming

Cons

  • Display colors are muted
  • Heavier at 4.8 lbs
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5Dell G15
Reliable Pick

Dell G15 (RTX 4050)

~$849
Intel Core i7-13650HXRTX 405016GB DDR5512GB SSD15.6" FHD 120Hz

Pros

  • i7 processor is a beast
  • Dell's build quality and support
  • Good port selection

Cons

  • Only 120Hz display
  • Gets loud under heavy load
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