If you’re in the market for a cheap gaming laptop, your options may be limited. Retail stores and websites offer both a poor selection and high prices. Auction websites often end up being more expensive than the product is worth. Used and refurbished vendors sell low quality laptops at low prices. When buying a cheap gaming laptop, you have to know what to look for.

Alienware computers and laptops are built for gaming. Used Alienware laptops are still powerful and less expensive than new. By searching for a used Alienware laptop, you’re searches are narrowed down significantly. What’s left are some of the cheapest gaming laptops available.

Know how much money you’re willing to spend before browsing. Most websites have an option to sort by price. This will further filter your results. Compile a list of games you want. Write down the required and recommended system specifications that each game requires. Important factors include RAM, processor speed, hard drive space, and the video card. Use the highest recommended specifications to base your needs. If money is tight, use required specifications instead.

Wireless cards are an optional feature. They are required if you have a wireless modem or game at WiFi hot spots. Laptops will be cheaper without the card, and an Ethernet cord can be run to wherever you prefer to play. The operating system is another optional feature. Windows Vista will not play many older games, will bog down performance, and is more expensive. Windows XP is cheaper and more compatible, but lacks the glamour of Vista.

When you have an idea of the cheap gaming laptop and price you are looking for, check used Alienware laptop vendors for computers that meet your criteria. Make a list of all available options you find. Note included accessories such as batteries and a mouse. Be sure to factor in shipping prices. Review your list and choose the cheap gaming laptop that best suits your budget and needs.

Don’t be afraid to purchase a cheaper computer that doesn’t quite fit your needs. You can always use the money you saved to buy the upgrades, and the total price may end cheaper. If you have money leftover, you can consider a more powerful system or some Alienware only features, like skins and other cosmetics.

Used Alienware laptops are the most affordable and capable cheap gaming laptops out there. By shopping around, you can get a powerful Alienware system for a budget price.