FAQ
TL;DR: For used gaming laptops near 2000 PLN, GPU choice decides playability: “Forget about the witcher on the gtx660m,” and GTX 765M is ~2× faster than 660M. Consider stronger GPUs or new GTX 1050-class models if you can stretch to 2700–3000 PLN. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16895921]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps price-conscious buyers pick a used or entry-level new gaming laptop that actually runs titles like Witcher 3 and GTA V.
Quick Facts
- Starter budget: ~2000 PLN for used; expect compromises or older GPUs. [Elektroda, Evildoer867, post #16893978]
- New, entry-level gaming: ~2500–3000 PLN; aim for GTX 1050 and 8 GB RAM. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16896042]
- From OP’s shortlist, only ASUS G55V/G55VW were deemed gaming-suitable. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16895789]
- Performance note: GTX 765M ≈ 2× 660M; Witcher 3 hovers around 30 fps with dips. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16895921]
- In-store SKU mismatches occur: advertised MX150 turned out to be 940M on pickup. [Elektroda, Evildoer867, post #16898425]
What’s the best used gaming pick around 2000 PLN from the listed options?
From the original list, only ASUS G55V and G55VW qualify as true gaming laptops due to their cooling and design. Others would throttle or age out after a few months of heavier play. Choose models with robust cooling like these for sustained performance. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16895789]
Can a GTX 660M run The Witcher 3 acceptably?
No. As one user put it, “Forget about the witcher on the gtx660m.” A GTX 765M is roughly 2× faster, yielding about 30 fps with drops. If you want smoother play, target GPUs stronger than 660M-era parts. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16895921]
Is the Lenovo Z50-70 with an i7 a better choice than those gaming models?
Not for gaming. The advice was clear: only the ASUS G55V/G55VW from that shortlist are suitable for sustained gaming. Prioritize dedicated cooling and gaming-class GPUs over a faster CPU in thin-and-light shells. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16895789]
What new laptop up to 3000 PLN should I consider for gaming?
Look for GTX 1050-class graphics with 8 GB RAM, such as the Lenovo Y520 configuration referenced. Older baselines like GTX 960M/950M can work, but 1050 gives a healthier margin for modern titles. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16896042]
Does an i5-8250U with MX150 make sense for light gaming and temps?
Yes for light-to-mid gaming and thermals. A low-voltage i5-8250U tends to run cooler, reducing heat concerns when paired with an MX150, provided the cooling is competent. It’s a pragmatic choice at ~2700 PLN. [Elektroda, paciumcia, post #16896534]
What should I verify in-store to avoid getting a weaker GPU than advertised?
Confirm the exact GPU name on the box label and in Windows before paying. One buyer saw MX150 advertised online but found 940M in-store. Always match the store unit’s SKU to the online listing. [Elektroda, Evildoer867, post #16898425]
How do I verify the exact GPU before paying?
- Check the chassis and box stickers for the precise GPU model.
- Boot and open Device Manager → Display adapters to view the GPU.
- Compare the unit’s SKU/spec sheet with the online listing before purchase.
[Elektroda, Evildoer867, post #16898425]
Are MSI GT60/GT780 viable budget gaming options used?
Yes. A GT60 with GTX 870M offers a large jump over 660M-era GPUs. A GT780 can take an upgrade like 765M, which is about twice as fast as 660M, improving Witcher 3 into ~30 fps with dips. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16895921]
What cooling design should I look for in a gaming notebook?
Seek systems with dedicated, beefy cooling. “A gaming laptop must have a proper cooling system,” like the ASUS G55 series. Strong cooling sustains clocks and prevents throttling during long sessions. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16895789]
Is 8 GB RAM enough for GTA V and Witcher 3–era titles?
Yes, as a baseline. Recommendations pointed to 8 GB RAM with a GTX 1050 for entry gaming. You can add more later, but start at 8 GB to avoid stutters and asset streaming hiccups. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16896042]
If my budget allows 2500–3000 PLN, is new better than used?
Often yes. Entry-level new models with GTX 1050 and 8 GB RAM offer cleaner thermals, warranty, and fewer surprises than aging used GPUs. This path was recommended when the budget stretched. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #16896042]
What did the original poster finally buy?
They bought a Lenovo laptop for 2700 PLN and later warned that an advertised MX150 in the listing turned out to be 940M in-store, so verify specs. [Elektroda, Evildoer867, post #16898425]