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Choosing the right budget gaming laptop can be challenging with so many options available. Two popular contenders in 2026 are the Asus Tuf Gaming A17 and the MSI Gf63. Both offer impressive features at a competitive price, but which one stands out as the better choice for gamers on a budget?
Design and Build Quality
The Asus Tuf Gaming A17 boasts a robust, military-grade chassis that ensures durability and a sleek, modern look. Its larger 17.3-inch display offers an immersive gaming experience. The MSI Gf63, on the other hand, features a more compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable. While it has a sturdy build, it doesn’t emphasize ruggedness as much as the Asus.
Performance and Hardware
In terms of hardware, the Asus Tuf Gaming A17 is equipped with AMD Ryzen 7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics, delivering solid gaming performance. It also offers up to 16GB of RAM and fast SSD storage. The MSI Gf63 features Intel Core i5 processors paired with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, suitable for most modern games at medium settings. It also provides up to 8GB of RAM and SSD options.
Graphics Capabilities
The Asus Tuf Gaming A17’s GTX 1660 Ti provides better frame rates and higher settings in demanding games. The MSI Gf63’s GTX 1650 is capable but may require lowering graphics settings for smoother gameplay.
Display and Audio
The Asus Tuf Gaming A17 features a 17.3-inch Full HD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, ideal for fast-paced games. It also offers decent audio quality with dual speakers. The MSI Gf63 has a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a 60Hz refresh rate, which is sufficient for casual gaming but less optimal for competitive play. Its audio system is comparable but less immersive due to smaller speakers.
Battery Life and Portability
The MSI Gf63’s lightweight design and smaller size make it easier to carry around, but its battery life is limited, typically lasting 3-4 hours during gaming. The Asus Tuf Gaming A17, being larger, has a heavier chassis but offers slightly better battery performance, lasting around 4-5 hours with moderate use.
Price and Value
As of 2026, the Asus Tuf Gaming A17 is generally priced higher than the MSI Gf63, reflecting its larger display and more powerful hardware. However, for gamers seeking better performance and a larger screen, the extra cost may be justified. The MSI Gf63 remains an excellent budget option for casual gaming and portability.
Conclusion: Which Is the Better Budget Gaming Laptop?
For gamers prioritizing performance, display quality, and durability, the Asus Tuf Gaming A17 is the superior choice, despite its higher price. If portability, affordability, and decent gaming capability are more important, the MSI Gf63 offers excellent value. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and gaming preferences.