eGPU: Recommendations?

Okay so I've been looking at getting a new laptop for school. However, I don't want something I can't use to game at least a bit. Google has yielded gaming laptops that meet my specs at over $1000 which is way way out of my league. At the same time, I stumbled upon the use of the eGPU or an externally mounted GPU. Do you guys think its worth it, why or why not?

Don't get a eGPU, get a laptop with a Nvidia 860M or Higher or a Radeon r9 290 or 290X if ur planning to play games.

Whats your absolut max budget?