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10 Best Laptops Under 500 in 2025: Top Choices for Budget Buyers
Finding the best laptops under 500 in 2025 can be a challenge, especially with so many options available on Amazon. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone looking for an affordable machine for casual use, there are plenty of reliable choices out there. This article highlights the top ten laptops that not only fit within a $500 budget but also offer great features and performance. With the rise of remote learning and work-from-home setups, it’s more important than ever to find an affordable laptop that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R2T1
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R2T1 is a budget-friendly laptop that balances performance and affordability. It features an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, which offers a smooth user experience for browsing and multitasking. The 15.6-inch Full HD display ensures crisp visuals, making it suitable for watching movies and working on documents alike.
Best for:
Students and professionals requiring a reliable all-rounder.
Product Review:
This laptop has 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD, allowing for quick boot times and efficient multitasking. The battery life is impressive, lasting around 8 hours on a single charge. Its backlit keyboard adds convenience for late-night work sessions, while its sleek profile makes it easy to carry.
Pros:
- Strong performance for the price
- Great build quality
- Good battery life
Cons:
- A bit heavy compared to other laptops in the same price range
- Limited storage space
- Emaks POWER SPECS : Input;:AC 100-240V, 50-60Hz;Power:65W ;Output: 19V 3.42A ;Connector:3.0 mm*1.1mm
- Compatible with Acer Aspire 3 A315 A314 A315-24P A315-24PT A315-58 A315-59 A315-23 A314-23P:A314-23P-R3QA A315-24P-R7VH A315-24PT-R4U2 A315-24PT-R90Z A315-58-33XS A315-58-350L A315-58-300D A315-58-34DA A315-59-53ER A315-59-71NF;Compatible with Acer Aspire 5 A515-44 A515-45 A515-46 A515-54 A515-54G A515-58 A515-58PT A517-52:A515-44-R41B A515-46-R3UB A515-46-R14K A515-55 A515-55G A515-55T:A515-54-59W2 A515-54-37U3 A515-54-55ZD A515-54-597W A515-54-79J5 A515-58 A515-58PT A515-58PT-50UJ A515-58-74KE A515-58-5046 A515-58m-54lg A515-58p-58ur
- Fit for:A515-45-R74Z A515-54G-73WC A515-54G-54QQ A515-54G-73WC A515-54G-70TZ A515-54G-797L A515-54G-5928 A515-54G-54QQ A515-54G-73WC A515-54G-70TZ A515-54G-70TZ A515-54G-797L A515-54G-5928 515-54-51DJ A515-54-597W A515-54-56ST A515-54-597W A515-54-56ST A515-55-588C A515-55-56VK A515-55-56UK A515-56-347N A515-56-36UT A515-56-32DK A515-55-75NC A515-54-59W2 A515-55T-53AP A517-52-59SV A514-54 A514-54-501Z;Compatible with Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim Laptop AG15 AG15-31P AG15-31P-3947 AG15-31P-3894 AG15-31P-P5TG AG15-31P-352UAG15-31P-P5TG
- Compatible with Acer Aspire 1 5 A115-32 A315 A314 A315-24P A315-24PT A315-58 A315-59 A315-23 A314-23P:A314-23P-R3QA A315-24P-R7VH A315-24PT-R4U2 A315-24PT-R90Z A315-58-33XS A315-58-350L A315-58-300D A315-58-34DA A315-59-53ER A315-59-71NF A115-32-C96U A115-32-C7ZW A115-32-C28P A115-32-C1DF A115-32-C44C A315-35 A317-53 A317-54 A317-55P A314-22 A514-55 A515-45 A517-52;Compatible with Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim Laptop AG15 AG15-31P AG15-31P-3947 Power Cord Power Supply laptop Cable
- New from Manufacturer, New replacement product, works as genuine parts; Built-in overload, over-voltage, and short circuit protection; High energy efficiency - friendly to the environment, and your laptop
HP 15-dy2021nr
The HP 15-dy2021nr is another excellent option within the under $500 category. Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor, it provides decent performance for everyday tasks. Its 15.6-inch display offers vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing the viewing experience for movies and games.
Best for:
Casual users and students needing a reliable laptop for studies.
Product Review:
This laptop comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD, which offers ample storage for files and quick load times. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi 6 for a faster internet connection. The design is sleek, and the touchscreen feature adds a modern touch, making navigation easier.
Pros:
- Touchscreen capability
- Affordable price
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- Lower processor performance compared to AMD options
- Battery life could be better
- TAKE IT ANYWHERE – With its thin and light design, 6.5 millimeter micro-edge bezel display, and 82% screen to body ratio, you can take this PC anywhere and see more of what you love (1).
- REVOLUTIONARY ENTERTAINMENT – Enjoy ultra-wide viewing angles and seamlessly perform multi-monitor set-ups with a 15.6-inch, Full HD, IPS, micro-edge, and anti-glare display (2).
- IMPRESSIVE GRAPHICS – The Intel Iris Xe Graphics gives you a new level of performance with crisp, stunning visuals, plus the convenience of a thin and light laptop (3).
- UNSTOPPABLE PERFORMANCE – Get things done fast with the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, which delivers instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Get up to 15x faster performance than a traditional hard drive with 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage and experience improved multitasking with higher bandwidth thanks to 8 GB of RAM (5).
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14 IGL6
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14 IGL6 is a compact yet powerful laptop designed for everyday use. Its Intel Celeron N4020 processor is efficient for browsing and streaming, making it ideal for students or light professionals.
Best for:
Travelers or students looking for a lightweight laptop.
Product Review:
This laptop features 4GB RAM and a 128GB SSD, which is sufficient for basic tasks. The 14-inch display is full HD and offers good viewing angles. One of its standout features is its privacy shutter on the webcam, which is a thoughtful addition for security-conscious users.
Pros:
- Compact size for portability
- Webcam privacy shutter
- Solid performance for basic tasks
Cons:
- Limited RAM for multitasking
- Smaller storage may not suffice for heavy users
- Powerhouse performance from AMD Ryzen 5 5500U mobile processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB SSD storage, and AMD Radeon 7 Graphics
- The IdeaPad 3 14-inch laptop has 4-side narrow bezels that let you see more of the FHD (1920 x 1080) screen for wider viewing angles and less clutter
- Quieter and cooler with intelligent thermals, plus you can calibrate performance with Q-control, with 3 modes to match your performance needs
- Protect your webcam lens and guarantee your privacy with the built-in privacy shutter
- WiFi 6 (2x2 802.11 ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, plus USB, USB-C, and HDMI ports
Dell Inspiron 15 3000
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a desktop replacement laptop that strikes a good equilibrium between price and performance. It features an Intel Core i3 processor, making it capable of handling most everyday tasks without breaking a sweat.
Best for:
Users requiring a larger display for work or entertainment.
Product Review:
With a 15.6-inch display and 8GB of RAM, this laptop supports smooth performance whether you’re working with documents or streaming videos. It also comes with a 1TB HDD, providing ample space for big files, although the speed isn’t as fast as SSDs.
Pros:
- Large storage capacity
- Solid performance
- Good display quality
Cons:
- Heavier than other models
- Slower hard drive compared to SSD
- 【15.6" Full HD Touchscreen】The 1920 x 1080 resolution boasts impressive color and clarity. IPS technology for wide viewing angles. Energy-efficient LED backlight. Designed with tiny rubber feet and bumpers on the hinge that keep it from skidding and provide additional stability.
- 【11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 Processor】Ultra-low-voltage platform. Quad-core, eight-way processing provides maximum high-efficiency power to go. Your always-ready experience starts as soon as you open your device. Turn on, boot-up, and log-in quickly.
- 【16GB DDR4 RAM + 1TB PCIe SSD】16GB RAM can smoothly run your games and photo- and video-editing applications, as well as multiple programs and browser tabs all at once. A 1TB NVMe PCIe solid slate drive that leaves the power at your fingertips with the fastest data transfers currently available.
- 【Easy-to-use Technology】Long-lasting battery and express charge capability, to keep going for longer. Comes with Express Charge capabilities that minimize the time you spend tethered to an outlet and will recharge your battery 80% in 60 minutes. Built-in media reader for simple photo transfer.
- 【Windows 11 Professional】Experience the most secure Windows ever built with fast boot times, increased responsiveness, and added protection against phishing and malware. Plus, you can switch out of S mode.
ASUS VivoBook 15
The ASUS VivoBook 15 is an attractive option for those who appreciate design without compromising on performance. Its stylish design comes with a 15.6-inch Full HD Anti-Glare display, perfect for both work and play.
Best for:
Creative users who want a blend of performance and aesthetics.
Product Review:
This model is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD that offers fast loading times and plenty of storage. With a battery life of up to 6 hours, it might not last all day, but it’s still a solid contender in its category.
Pros:
- Excellent design
- Good performance at this price point
- Wide range of ports for connectivity
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
- Display brightness may not be sufficient for outdoor use
- Microsoft Copilot Make complex tasks simple. Get answers, generate images, summarize texts, and more! Unleash your creativity with the power of intelligent assistance
- Stunning 15.6-inch FHD Touch Display Indulge in stunning visuals in breathtaking 1920 x 1080 resolution (16:9) and a 250-nit sustained brightness with vivid colors and a smooth 60Hz refresh rate
- Fast Intel Core i5-1334U Processor With the latest platform technologies for everyday applications, fast connectivity and performance optimization, the Intel Core i5-1334U processor enables casual gaming, creation and productivity
- Intel Iris Xᵉ Graphics Powerful integrated graphics for all your everyday needs from day to night
- Multitask Effortlessly with 16GB Of Memory And 512GB Of Storage Experience lightning-fast performance and speedy multitasking, whether you're gaming, editing, or browsing. Save files quickly and store vast amounts of data. With extensive storage and advanced communication power, PCIe 3.0 SSDs perform well for everyday applications, multiple servers, daily backups, and more
Microsoft Surface Go 2
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is a versatile 2-in-1 device that can function as both a tablet and a laptop. It features a 10.5-inch touchscreen display and is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold processor, making it great for web browsing and media consumption.
Best for:
Users seeking a portable device that can function as both a laptop and a tablet.
Product Review:
While it comes with just 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, this model excels in portability and versatility. The battery life is commendable, staying up to 10 hours. The Surface Pen support adds an extra layer of functionality for those looking to take notes or draw.
Pros:
- Highly portable
- Good battery life
- Touchscreen capability
Cons:
- Limited RAM and storage for power users
- Accessory costs can add up
- Tablet portability, performance and laptop versatility with adjustable Kickstand and Signature Type Cover
- Activities for everyone — jot down ideas, write papers, help with homework, and manage email
- USB-C port, headphone jack, HD front- and rear-facing cameras keep you connected
HP Chromebook 14
The HP Chromebook 14 is an exceptional choice for those who primarily use web-based applications. With its Chrome OS, this laptop is lightweight and easy to use, making it ideal for students and casual users.
Best for:
Those who rely heavily on web applications and need a long battery life.
Product Review:
Featuring an AMD Athlon Gold processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB eMMC storage, it is perfect for online activities such as browsing and streaming. The 14-inch display is bright and colorful, and it supports around 12 hours of battery life, enough for all-day use.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Lightweight
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited offline capabilities
- Not suitable for intensive tasks
−$10.89
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
Lenovo Flex 5
The Lenovo Flex 5 is a convertible laptop that offers flexibility in usage. With a 14-inch touchscreen and an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, it’s capable of meeting various task demands while also being portable.
Best for:
Users who want versatility in a laptop form factor.
Product Review:
This laptop sports 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, enabling smooth multitasking. Its 2-in-1 design allows users to switch easily between tablet and laptop modes, making it valuable for both work and entertainment. The battery life lasts for about 10 hours, further boosting its appeal.
Pros:
- Great performance with 16GB RAM
- Versatile design
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Slightly heavier as a convertible device
- Fingerprint magnet on the chassis
- 【Upgraded】Seal is opened for upgrade only, 1-Year warranty on Upgraded RAM/SSD from SnowBell, and original 1-Year Manufacture warranty on remaining components. 【x360 16" 2.5K IPS 400nits Touch Display】Utilizing its 360° hinge, easily switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes for different activities like work, entertainment, presentations, and reading. A 2.5K(2560x1600) 400-nit display offers crystal-clear color and ultra-sharp visuals.
- 【Intel Core i7-1255U Processor】The 10-core Intel Core i7-1255U processor fuels seamless streaming, content creation, and entertainment. Get your things done fast with high performance, instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity.
- 【16GB DDR4 RAM】With a generous 16GB of RAM, you can seamlessly switch between tasks without experiencing any lag or delays.【1TB PCIe SSD】This whopping storage ensures that you can store all your important data without having to worry about running out of space anytime soon.
- 【Backlight Keyboard】Comfortable and accurate typing is a sure thing. 【Touch Style Fingerprint Reader】 Known for its high accuracy, speed, and reliability, it presents a convenient, secure, and reliable way to authenticate user identity. 【Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics】It delivers transformational GPU and integrated graphics to support fluid designing for creators and rich gaming experiences.
- 【Windows 11 Pro Included】Pro refers to the professional edition. Pro adds management devices and applications to the Home version, and supports remote and mobile working. 14.09 x 9.99 x 0.74", 4.63 lbs. Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (One Always On), 1x Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 40Gbps, 1x HDMI 1.4b, 1x Card reader, 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x Power connector; Wi-Fi 6, 11ax 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.1; Storm Grey. Bonus 32GB SnowBell USB Card.
Samsung Galaxy Book Go
The Samsung Galaxy Book Go is an ultra-slim laptop which emphasizes portability without sacrificing performance. It utilizes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c processor, which enhances battery efficiency.
Best for:
On-the-go professionals or students looking for a lightweight device.
Product Review:
This laptop features 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, making it speedy for web browsing and productivity tasks. The highlight is its battery life, reaching up to 18 hours, perfect for those long workdays or travel. Its 14-inch display is also bright, providing a great viewing experience.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life
- Lightweight and portable
- Fast performance
Cons:
- Limited software compatibility with Windows apps
- Smaller storage capacity
−$30.00
- Aspect Ratio:16:9
- POWERFUL, YET QUIET: Keep your cool with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 compute platform that delivers responsive, instant-on performance that runs without a fan — for a lightweight device that’s fast and quiet
- POWER FOR HOURS: Email, hold virtual meetings, stream videos, check social media and more; Samsung Galaxy Book Go helps you stay connected and cordless with up to 18 hours on a fully charged battery*
- SLEEK, SLIM, SHOCKPROOF: Durably designed and shockproof with a convenient 180-degree hinge, this compact and light laptop computer spells sophistication in Silver
- PAIR YOUR GALAXY DEVICES: Easily jump from work to personal life with your paired Galaxy devices; Set it up as a second screen with your phone and tablet, share documents with Quick Share, play mobile games on a larger display, and connect your Galaxy Buds Pro earbuds
By considering any of these selections, you’re sure to find the best laptops under 500 that suit your needs, helping you stay productive and entertained without overspending.
Buying Guide: Laptops Under $500
Finding a reliable laptop within a tight budget can be challenging, but there are plenty of great options available for under $500. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just need a computer for basic tasks, this guide will help you navigate your choices effectively.
1. Define Your Needs
- Usage: Identify what you will primarily use the laptop for (e.g., web browsing, streaming, document editing, light gaming).
- Portability: Consider how often you’ll be carrying the laptop. A lightweight model with a smaller screen may be more convenient for travel.
2. Key Specifications
- Processor: Look for at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 for decent performance. For casual tasks, Celeron or Pentium processors can suffice but may be slower.
- RAM: Aim for a minimum of 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking. If your budget allows, consider upgrading from 4GB.
- Storage: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are preferred for speed. A 256GB SSD is a great choice; if you need more space, consider a hybrid (SSD + HDD).
- Display: A full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is ideal for sharp images. If your tasks focus on basic use, a lower resolution can save costs.
3. Operating System
- Windows 10/11: A good choice for compatibility with most software and applications.
- Chromebook: If your tasks are mainly web-based, Chromebooks can offer excellent performance and battery life at a lower cost.
- macOS: Rarely available under $500; often you’d need to seek refurbished models.
4. Build Quality and Design
- Assess the laptop’s build quality and materials. Plastic builds tend to be lighter but can feel less durable than metal.
- Check keyboard comfort and trackpad responsiveness. If possible, test it in-store.
5. Battery Life
- Aim for models that provide at least 5-7 hours of battery life for all-day use. Battery performance can differ significantly from manufacturer claims.
6. Ports and Connectivity
- Ensure the laptop has multiple USB ports (preferably USB 3.0), HDMI, and a headphone jack.
- For office work, additional connectivity options like Ethernet can be quite helpful.
7. Plan for Software
- Pre-installed software can affect your performance. Check if there are any bloatware programs and consider removing them for better efficiency.
8. Brands and Models
- Budget Brands: Acer, Lenovo, HP, and Dell often provide good options in this price range.
- Popular Models: Look for models like Acer Aspire, Lenovo IdeaPad, and HP Chromebook.
9. Warranty and Support
- Consider the manufacturer’s warranty and support options. A one-year warranty is standard, but some brands offer extended warranties at a small fee.
10. Where to Buy
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy often have sales. Check for refurbished models for additional savings.
- Physical Stores: Visiting retailers can allow you to sample the device before purchase.
11. Realistic Expectations
- Remember that laptops under $500 are not designed for heavy gaming or specialized software. They are perfect for basic tasks but will struggle with demanding applications.
Conclusion
While the options for laptops under $500 may seem limited, focusing on your specific needs and understanding the specifications can help you find a machine that works for you. Always do your research, read user reviews, and compare prices before making a purchase. Happy shopping!
