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10 Best Laptops Under 500: Top Picks for 2025
Looking for the best laptops under 500 in 2025 can be a daunting task, especially given the multitude of options available on Amazon. If you’re on a tight budget but still need a reliable device for everyday tasks, you’re in the right place. This article will explore the top 10 laptops under $500 that you can find on Amazon, complete with in-depth reviews covering features, pros, and cons.
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-50RS
Best For: Everyday Use
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-50RS is a well-rounded laptop that combines performance with a sleek design. It features an Intel Core i5 processor paired with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, making it suitable for multitasking, streaming, and light gaming. The display is a bright 15.6-inch Full HD IPS screen, which enhances your viewing experiences, whether for videos or games.
- Great performance meets long battery life with the Intel Core i5-1135G7 Processor - up to 4.20 GHz, 4 cores, 8 threads, 8 MB Intel Smart Cache
- 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS Widescreen LED-backlit Display | Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- 8GB DDR4 Memory (Expandable to 20GB) and 256GB NVMe SSD
- 1 - USB 3.2 (Type-C) Gen 1 port (up to 5 Gbps) | 2 - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port (one with Power-off Charging) | 1 - USB 2.0 Port | 1 - HDMI Port with HDCP support
- Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6 | Acer Fingerprint Reader | Backlit Keyboard | Up to 8.5 Hours Battery Life
Pros:
- Fast performance for daily tasks
- Slim and lightweight design
- Full HD display
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
- Limited upgrade options
2. HP Laptop 15-dy2024nr
Best For: Students
The HP Laptop 15-dy2024nr is a versatile option for students and professionals alike. With its Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and 128GB SSD, it offers a reliable performance for browsing, document editing, and video conferencing. The 15.6-inch display provides ample screen real estate, while the sleek design is perfect for portability.
- 【Processor】This laptop is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, offering a burst speed of up to 2.6 GHz, making it ideal for everyday activities. With 4 cores and 4 threads, it provides dependable performance for browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks.
- 【Display】The 15.6-inch LED display offers vibrant colors and sharp clarity, providing an immersive viewing experience for work, entertainment, and everything in between.
- 【Operating System】Windows 11 Pro 64-bit offers a user-friendly interface, enhanced security features, and improved performance, making it ideal for both everyday tasks.
- 【Ports】The laptop features one USB Type-C port with a 5 Gbps signaling rate for data transfer only, as well as two USB Type-A ports with the same speed. It also includes a multi-format SD media card reader, an HDMI 1.4b port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack.
- 【Accessory】Your device includes a WOWPC recovery USB, designed to enhance your troubleshooting experience with greater convenience. Additionally, it comes with Microsoft 365 for one year, giving you access to premium productivity tools to optimize your workflow.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Good build quality
- Decent performance for typical tasks
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- Average battery life
3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15
Best For: Budget Gamers
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for light gaming, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15 features an AMD Ryzen 5 processor with 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, making it perfect for casual gaming. The 15.6-inch display is vibrant, and the laptop is equipped with Dolby Audio for enhanced sound quality during gameplay or multimedia consumption.
−$240.00
- Work smart and seamlessly every day across multiple applications simultaneously while on the go with the robust performance of the latest AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS (6C / 12T, 3.3 / 4.55GHz, 3MB L2 / 16MB L3) processor, combines portability and durability, letting you work, study, and play on the go. capable of a variety of work computing needs, whether it is high-definition video editing, programming development or interior design, always can help you.
- 15.3" WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC, 60Hz Non-touch display is backed by integrated AMD Radeon 660M Graphics for a clean and smooth picture. 720p HD Camera with Privacy Shutter and integrated digital microphone, whether you look at tables or read documents, or preview videos, you can get high-definition picture quality.
- 16GB DDR5 SDRAM Memory; 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD.
- Wi-Fi 6, 11ax 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.3; 2x USB-A (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1), 1x USB-C (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1), with USB PD 3.0 and DisplayPort 1.2, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x SD card reader, 1x Power connector. Microsoft Copilot gives you intelligent answers. Access with just thetouch of the Copilot key.
- Windows 11 Home, English (64-bit); Luna Grey. Non-backlit, Full-size, keyboard with numeric keypad ensures that typing is supremely comfortable. Make a statement wherever you go with the IdeaPad Slim 3 15 laptop, built for lightness and thinness, measuring up to 10% slimmer than the previous generation, this sturdy build stands up to harsh drops with military-grade durability for extreme travel conditions.
Pros:
- Excellent performance for the price
- Good gaming capabilities for casual gamers
- Solid build quality
Cons:
- Heavier than other options
- May run hot under heavy loads
4. ASUS VivoBook 15
Best For: Portability
The ASUS VivoBook 15 offers a lightweight design combined with solid performance. Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and equipped with 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD, it makes daily tasks a breeze. The 15.6-inch display boasts a narrow bezel design, providing an immersive viewing experience while maintaining portability.
- 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
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Stylish design
- Good performance for daytime tasks
Cons:
- Limited storage space
- Subpar battery life
5. Dell Inspiron 15 3000
Best For: Family Use
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a great family laptop featuring an Intel Core i3 processor along with 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD. It has a 15.6-inch HD display, making it suitable for family movie nights as well as day-to-day tasks. The laptop’s durable design means it can withstand the trials of family use.
- 【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.
Pros:
- Family-friendly design
- Reliable performance
- Good display quality
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- Average battery performance
6. Microsoft Surface Go 2
Best For: Tablets with Laptop Functionality
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 epitomizes versatility. While technically a tablet, it functions effectively as a laptop, thanks to its detachable keyboard. It features an Intel Pentium Gold processor, 8GB RAM, and 128GB of SSD storage. The 10.5-inch touchscreen is perfect for both productivity and media consumption, making it one of the best laptops under 500 for ultralight users.
- 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
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Excellent touchscreen display
- Versatile functionality
Cons:
- Keyboard sold separately
- Limited power for heavy workloads
7. HP Chromebook 14
Best For: Chrome OS Users
The HP Chromebook 14 is specially designed for those who primarily use web-based applications. With an Intel Celeron processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB SSD, it’s especially suited for students and anyone who works online. The 14-inch display strikes a balance between usability and portability.
−$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).
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Lightweight and portable design
- Ideal for web-based tasks
Cons:
- Limited offline capabilities
- Basic hardware specs
8. Lenovo Flex 5 14
Best For: 2-in-1 Versatility
The Lenovo Flex 5 14 is a 2-in-1 laptop that allows you to switch seamlessly between laptop and tablet modes. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, it includes 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. This hybrid design makes it perfect for students and professionals who enjoy versatility in their devices.
−$70.00
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700U (8-Core) Processor
- 14.0" Touchscreen IPS LCD with LED-backlit FHD (1920 x 1080) 250-Nits Display
- Backlit Keyboard, Fingerprint Reader and Webcam with Privacy Shutter
- Microsoft Windows 11 Home (64 bit)
- 16GB DDR4 3200MHz RAM
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Flexible design for versatility
- Solid performance
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than traditional laptops
- Limited upgrade options
9. Acer Chromebook Spin 311
Best For: Young Learners
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 offers a durable build and a versatile 2-in-1 design for younger users. With an ARM processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB eMMC storage, it’s ideal for students needing basic functionality. The 11.6-inch touchscreen display enhances its usability.
−$163.05
- Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is a versatile 2-in-1 touch screen laptop, featuring a 360-degree hinge that allows it to be used in laptop, tablet, tent, and display modes, providing flexibility for various tasks.
- Powered by the MediaTek Kompanio 500 MT8183C processor, this Chromebook delivers reliable performance and efficiency, ensuring smooth multitasking and responsiveness for everyday computing needs.
- The 11.6-inch touch screen display offers vibrant visuals and responsive touch sensitivity, enhancing the user's viewing and interaction experience.
- With 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB eMMC storage, the Chromebook Spin 311 provides ample memory for smooth performance and sufficient space for file storage.
- Its sleek Pure Silver design adds a modern and stylish touch, making it an attractive choice for users who value both aesthetics and functionality.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Rugged design perfect for kids
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited storage
- Basic hardware performance
10. Lenovo Chromebook Duet
Best For: Compact Performance
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is another 2-in-1 that caters to users on the go. Featuring a MediaTek Helio P60T processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of internal storage, it’s lightweight and perfect for web browsing and streaming. The detachable keyboard adds to its versatility as a compact laptop.
−$35.31
- LIFE TRANSFORMING – The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is where power meets portability. Amazingly durable, the 2-in-1 convertible laptop is your perfect companion for life on-the-go.
- ALWAYS READY TO GO – With its perfectly portable size, folio keyboard, and all-day battery life, the lightweight Lenovo Chromebook Duet is ready for anything you throw at it.
- ADAPTS TO YOUR EVERY MOVE – Impressively versatile, crafted to impress. The durable design is encased in a full-metal chassis, fortified with tough Corning glass, and supported by a soft folio stand.
- SMILE, SNAP, SHARE - Get ready to take phenomenal photos, even in low light thanks to cutting-edge image processing technology. The front camera comes with a physical shutter to ensure your video calls capture every detail, while keeping your privacy at your fingertips.
- NOT SHORT ON PORTS - Plug into unlimited functionality with two USB Type-C connections. They ensure you can transfer large pictures and videos quickly, enjoy smooth video chats, and connect to external displays.
Pros:
- Excellent portability
- Affordable price
- Versatile tablet and laptop functionality
Cons:
- Limited storage and performance
- Not suitable for heavy workloads
Finding the best laptops under 500 may seem challenging, but this selection of top contenders from Amazon offers various options to fit different needs. Whether you’re a student, casual gamer, or a professional, there’s something here tailored to your requirements.
Buying Guide for Laptops Under $500
When searching for a laptop under $500, it’s essential to balance performance, features, and durability. This price range typically caters to basic needs like web browsing, document editing, and streaming. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Performance:
- Processor: Look for Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3. These are entry-level processors suitable for everyday tasks. Avoid anything below these unless it’s a deal that cannot be passed up.
- RAM: Aim for at least 8GB of RAM. This allows for smoother multitasking. Some laptops in this range might come with 4GB, which is sufficient only for basic use.
- Storage: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are preferable for speed. Look for at least 128GB SSD for faster boot times and application launches. If you need more space, consider a laptop with a larger HDD (500GB or more), but these are slower.
2. Display:
- Screen Size: A 14” to 15.6” screen is common and balances portability and usability.
- Resolution: Aim for at least a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution for clearer images and better viewing experiences, especially for media consumption.
3. Battery Life:
- Look for models that offer at least 6-8 hours of battery life for all-day usage. Prices tend to drop on older models, but newer ones often have better battery optimization.
4. Build Quality:
- Material: Laptops under $500 may use cheaper plastic materials. Check user reviews for insights on durability.
- Keyboard & Touchpad: Ensure they have a comfortable typing experience. Backlit keyboards are a plus but rare at this price point.
5. Operating System:
- Most laptops in this range come with Windows 10 or 11, but be aware of whether it’s an upgraded version (like S mode) that may limit app installations. Chromebooks are also an option and tend to be available under $500 with good performance for web-based tasks.
6. Ports and Connectivity:
- Look for a variety of ports such as USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card reader. It’s crucial for future-proofing and connecting to different devices.
- Check for good Wi-Fi capabilities (Wi-Fi 5 and above) for a more reliable internet connection.
7. Brand Reputation and Support:
- Brands like Acer, Dell, HP, and Lenovo offer solid support and reliable warranties. Always check reviews and customer feedback.
8. User Needs:
- Primary Use: Identify your primary use case (e.g., gaming, graphic design, programming). Your needs will shape your selection.
- Upgradability: Some laptops allow for RAM and storage upgrades down the line, which can provide value for money.
9. Sales and Discounts:
- Keep an eye out for sales, especially during holidays or back-to-school promotions. Refurbished models can also offer great value.
10. Reviews and Comparisons:
- Before purchasing, read multiple user reviews and professional comparisons. Websites like CNET, TechRadar, or laptopmag.com offer comprehensive insights into budget laptops.
Conclusion
Finding a quality laptop under $500 requires careful consideration of specs and features. Ensure you balance performance with your specific needs and keep an eye out for deals that can heighten your buying power. With the right research, you can find a reliable laptop perfect for your everyday tasks.
