Can a $700 laptop run AAA games?

Yes. An RTX 4050 laptop at $700-800 runs Cyberpunk 2077 at medium 1080p around 60 fps, and competitive games like Valorant and Fortnite at 100+ fps. You won't max out settings, but gameplay is smooth and enjoyable.

Should I buy a gaming laptop or desktop for $800?

A desktop gives more performance per dollar — an $800 desktop matches a $1,200 laptop. But if you need portability for school or travel, a gaming laptop is the only option. Consider which matters more: raw power or the ability to game anywhere.

Best Gaming Laptops Under $800 2026