Best Laptops Under 500 US Dollars: Quality on a Budget

Finding laptops under $500 is challenging in the fast-changing technology world. But we have found a few affordable special laptops with solid features. Let’s check the best laptops under 500 US dollars to pick one for you below:

 

01. Lenovo Ideapad 3i Laptop

Lenovo Ideapad 3i Laptop is a budget-friendly and powerful computing solution. It is designed to meet your daily needs with efficiency and style. It is also one of the best laptops under 500 dollars.

However, you will find an  Intel Core i3-1115G4 model processor in this laptop. The processor runs at 3.00 GHz and can go up to 4.10 GHz when needed. 

Also, you can do multiple things at once with this Lenovo laptop’s 12GB of RAM. Besides, the 256GB SSD storage is fast and makes the laptop start up quickly.

Its 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen display shows clear visuals with vivid colors. Besides, the narrow bezel design of the laptop delivers wide viewing angles.

The Ideapad 3i Laptop also has Intel UHD Graphics for playing simple games and watching videos. Also, it has different ports like HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, and Bluetooth to connect additional devices. 

Moreover, the laptop comes with a pre-installed Windows 11 operating system. This operating system makes the laptop easy to use and more secure.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
• Storage: 256 GB SSD
• Processor: Intel Core i3-1115G4
• Memory: 12 GB DDR4
• Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics
• CPU Speed: 3.00 GHz 
• Weight: 3.64 pounds

Pros:

• Affordable price 
• Touchscreen display
• Large RAM and SSD storage capacity
• Modern design
• Multiple ports and connectivity

Cons:

• Limited graphics performance
• Not suitable for intensive gaming

 

02. HP 17.3 Inches Best Laptops Under 500

The HP 17.3-inch laptop is another best budget laptop that has full-packed computing solutions. The laptop has impressive features for multimedia, office, and homework.

It has high-speed memory and enormous storage space for the users. So, you can run many applications at a time without slowing down. The particular PCIe NVMe M.2 solid state drive makes the laptop start up fast and move files quickly.

Additionally, the laptop has a unique 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1125G4 Processor. Besides, the processor runs at an average speed of 2.0 GHz but can go up to 3.7 GHz when needed.

The screen of this laptop is 17.3 inches wide to show everything in high definition. Also, the display has anti-glare to see easy and clear details in bright light. 

Moreover, the screen’s resolution of 1600 x 900 is suitable for doing work. Also, the screen brightness is 250 nits to see well indoors. Besides, the screen covers 60% of the NTSC color gamut colors to look friendly and vibrant while watching videos.

This laptop has one USB Type-C and two USB Type-A super fast ports. Also, it has one HDMI port for connecting to a TV or monitor.  

Furthermore, the laptop has a port for headphones and microphones for listening and communication. Also, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are built into the laptop to connect to the internet.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 17.3 Inches
• Color: Silver
• Storage: 1 TB SSD
• CPU Model: Core i3 Family
• Memory: 32 GB
• Ports: USB, HDMI
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Pros:

• Ample memory
• SSD storage capacity
• Large display 
• Efficient processor 
• Versatile connectivity
• Sleek silver design

Cons:

• Integrated graphics may limit gaming capabilities

 

03. ASUS C424 Chromebook

ASUS C424 Chromebook has powerful performance with every computing solution. The design of this laptop is simple but can meet all the daily computing needs. It has an Intel Celeron processor that can handle daily tasks easily.

Moreover, the Chromebook Chromebook delivers fast and snappy performance. Thus, it has 4GB LPDDR4 memory and an integrated graphics card. Besides, it has 128 GB of storage capacity to store daily documents and files.

You can see clear and detailed images on the 14-inch Full HD screen of the laptop. Also, you can use it comfortably outside or under bright lights for its anti-glare feature. 

Additionally, the screen of the laptop can tilt back 180 degrees. So, you can lay the Chromebook flat on a table to show something to others or work together.

You will find multiple types of ports like USB, Ethernet, HDMI, and more. So, you can connect multiple peripherals and use them to enhance productivity.

This Chromebook uses the ChromeOS operating system made by Google. The user interface of this operating system is very simple and easy. Furthermore, you can easily access all Google apps with this Chromebook.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 14 Inches
• Color: Silver
• Hard Disk Size: 128 GB
• CPU Model: Celeron N4020
• Memory: 4 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS
• Unique Feature: Anti-glare, Ultra-narrow Bezel
• Weight: 5.2 pounds

Pros:

• Stylish design
• Crisp FHD display 
• Fast and responsive performance
• Seamless integration with Google apps 

Cons:

• Limited memory and storage 
• It may not be suitable for intensive multitasking 

 

04. Dell Inspiron 3525 Laptops

The Dell Inspiron 3525 is one of the best laptops under 500 US dollars that brings robust features. This laptop can elevate your daily working experience to a new level. The device has a complete package with powerful features to meet all computing needs.

You will get an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor in this laptop, which reaches speeds up to 4GHz. Also, with six cores and twelve threads, this processor can easily handle all your tasks.

Moreover, this laptop will give you spontaneous performance with up to 64GB DDR4 RAM. This memory efficiency ensures smooth multitasking and seamless operation. 

Additionally, you will enjoy faster start-up times and data access with its 2TB SSD storage. Also, this solid-state drive reduces unusual heat and noise like traditional hard drives do.

Immerse yourself in stunning visuals with this laptop’s 15.6-inch IPS display. Thus, it features a full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 with vibrant colors. 

Furthermore, you can enjoy smooth gaming and streaming with AMD Radeon Graphics. It will give you the experience of a new level of graphics performance with convenience.

However, you can connect your device to the internet with the laptop’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. Besides, you can connect various peripherals to the laptop for its multiple types of ports like USB, HDMI, and Ethernet.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
• Color: Black
• Storage: 1TB SSD
• Processor: AMDRyzen 5 5500U
• Memory: 32GB
• Graphics: AMD Radeon 
• Weight: 3.71 pounds

Pros:

• Powerful processor
• Upgradable memory options 
• Spacious storage
• Faster start-up times
• reduced heat production
• Expansive viewing angles.
• Lightweight and portable 
• Wireless connectivity

Cons:

• Lack of dedicated graphics card 
• Limited color options (Only Black)

 

05. Acer Aspire 5 Laptops Under 500

Acer Aspire 5 A515-57-53T2 is also the best cheap laptop for students and daily users. It is a powerful and stunning device with a slim and portable design.

This laptop has the power of a 12th-generation Intel Core i5-1235U processor. The processor helps in multitasking and handling demanding tasks for the users.

Moreover, you will enjoy its clear and vibrant visuals on the 15.6″ Full HD IPS display. Also, the laptop provides dual fans and copper thermal pipes to keep the device always cool.

Additionally, this laptop has a 512 GB super fast solid state drive and 8 GB DDR4 memory. Also, the presence of the solid-state drive allows smooth and seamless operation.

Furthermore, Acer’s Purified Voice technology enhances speech accuracy. So the users can get more precise, noise-free, and effective communication.

You can stay connected with reliable Wi-Fi 6 Dual-Band technology and Bluetooth 5.1 on the laptop. Also, the various ports like Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, and Ethernet ensure the highest compatibility.

Also, you’ll enjoy a user-friendly pre-installed Windows 11 Home interface. Thus, you can get access to a wide range of features and applications right out of the box.

Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i5-1235U 12th Generation
• Memory: 8GB DDR4
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6 inches Full HD 
• Connectivity: 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, Gigabit Ethernet LAN
• Ports: Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.15)
• Special Features: Backlit Keyboard, 
• Audio: Acer’s Purified Voice technology

Pros:

• Powerful processor for efficient performance
• Stunning Full HD IPS display 
• Dual-fan cooling system
• Ample memory 
• Spacious storage
• Advanced connectivity options 
• Enhanced communication 
• Sleek and portable design 

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy gaming

 

06. HP 15.6 Inches Notebook Laptop

This is one of the best laptops on a budget from the HP brand on an affordable budget with strong features. It has all kinds of computing solutions for the various types of users. 

The HP notebook laptop has been upgraded to make it work faster and store more. It has 32GB DDR4 SDRAM  to handle every type of business work.

Additionally, the laptop has a 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 solid-state drive for file storage. Also, this SSD device of the laptop delivers quick start-up and vile moves.

Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor is present in this laptop to enhance the performance. The processor also has 2 Cores and four threads to handle multiple tasks at once. 

However, the processor runs typically at a speed of 3.00GHz. But it can go up to 4.10GHz when it needs to work fast to run applications. 

Furthermore, it has a unique micro-edge design that makes the screen look more extensive. Also, the BrightView Technology of the laptop delivers accurate color for the viewers. Besides, the laptop has a touchscreen and UHD graphics for comfortable usage.

The laptop has one HDMI port, a port for headphones/ microphones, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. Besides, it has USB Type-C and Type-A ports to connect peripherals.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
• Color: Silver
• Storage: 1 TB SSD
• CPU Model: Core i3 Family
• Memory: 32 GB
• Graphics: Integrated UHD
• Operating System: Windows 11

Pros:

• Ample storage capacity
• Efficient processor
• HD touchscreen display 
• Micro-edge design
• Versatile connectivity options 
• Pre-installed operating system
• Integrated HD Audio

Cons:

• Limited display resolution 

 

07. Lenovo V15 Series Best Laptops Under 500

Lenovo V15 series is another best laptop under 500 US Dollars. It has impressive features to enhance your daily tasks with efficiency and style.

This laptop has a vast memory, up to 40GB DDR4 RAM. So, you can run many applications and open lots of browser tabs at the same time. 

Also, the laptop has 2TB of solid-state drive to store files and documents. This drive makes the laptop start quickly and lets you move files quickly.

Moreover, the laptop has a special Intel Pentium Silver N6000 4-Core processor. It helps the users to finish every task quickly and efficiently.

It’s 15.6 inches wide, and the anti-glare screen delivers easy to see even in bright light. Also, the display comes with obvious details and accurate color. 

Furthermore, the webcam of the laptop is also good quality with HD 720p resolutions. Besides, this Lenovo laptop also comes with pre-installed latest Windows 11 Home. This newest version of the operating system has a very user-friendly interface. 

The laptop has two USB 3.0 ports, which are fast for transferring data. Also, it has one HDMI port for connecting to a TV or monitor and one Ethernet port for wired internet connection.

Specifications:

• Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
• Color: Black
• Storage: 256 GB SSD
• Processor: Intel Pentium Silver N6000 4-Core
• Memory: Up to 40 GB DDR4 RAM
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Unique Feature: HD Audio

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Large RAM and storage capacity
• Full HD display 
• Low-Blue Light technology
• Modern design
• Pre-installed operating system
• Multiple connectivity options

Cons:

• Limited graphics performance
• Not suitable for intensive gaming

 

08. HP 14 Inches Ultra Light Laptop

In the list of the best laptops under 500 US dollars, the HP Ultra Light is the most affordable. The laptop is light in weight with a small screen size, so you can carry it wherever you go.

Let’s dive into your favorite content on the 14.0-inch HD display of this ultra-light laptop. The BrightView technology ensures clear and great visuals from all angles. Plus, you will get an immersive viewing experience with its ultra-thin bezels. 

Also, you can experience smooth multitasking performance with the Intel Celeron N4120 processor. This processor can handle various tasks simultaneously with four cores and four threads. 

The processor’s base frequency is 1.10 GHz and can boost up to 2.60 GHz when needed. Additionally, the Intel UHD Graphics 600 ensures graphics tasks are handled smoothly.

Moreover, you will enjoy smooth performance with 8GB of DDR4 memory on the laptop. This memory capacity is enough to handle applications like Office 365.

Also, the 64GB eMMC storage provides fast access to the files. So, you can get ideal performance for office application works and webinars.

The laptop has USB Type-C and Type-A ports to connect external devices and peripherals. Besides, an HDMI and a Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack are present in this laptop. Additionally, the microSD slot lets you expand your storage at any time.

Specifications:

• Screen in size: 14 Inches
• Storage capacity: 64 GB
• Processor: Celeron
• Memory: 8 GB
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home
• Graphics: Intel UHD 600
• Weight: 3.24 Pounds

Pros:

• Vibrant HD display 
• Micro-edge design
• Reliable multitasking performance
• High-speed storage 
• Versatile connectivity with microSD slot
• Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home in S mode 

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy tasks
• Limited Storage

 

09. Acer Aspire 3 Laptops Under 500

Acer Aspire 3 is also one of the best cheap laptops with solid features for regular users. It has a vibrant display and convenient connectivity to enhance your productivity.

The latest version of AMD Ryzen 3 processor increases this laptop’s power. Additionally, the integrated Radeon Graphics of the laptop provide dependable performance.

Additionally, the 15.6 inches full HD display of the laptop delivers stunning performance. That display offers sharp details, vibrant colors, and a wide screen.

Also, you can store files seamlessly and handle multiple tasks efficiently on this laptop. Thus, the laptop has 8 GB DDR5 memory and a 128 GB solid-state drive.

Moreover, you can capture clear images in any light with the HD front-facing camera of the laptop. Acer’s TNR technology has enhanced the performance of the camera. 

Besides, Acer PurifiedVoice technology ensures crystal-clear communication in online meetings. Also, this technology can reduce background noise during webinars and online calls.

The laptop also has improved thermal design for better performance during long projects. Also, you can stay connected with this laptop’s strong Wi-Fi 6 signal and 2×2 MU-MIMO technology. 

Furthermore, this laptop has multi types of ports like USB Type-C, HDMI, Stereo, and more. So, 

You can connect your accessories effortlessly by using them and enhance productivity.

Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core 
• Display Size: 15.6 inches Full HD
• Memory: 8GB LPDDR5 
• Storage: 128GB NVMe SSD
• Operating systemL Windows 11
• Additional feature: Backlit keyboard

Pros:

• Thin and lightweight design 
• Stunning Full HD IPS display
• Efficient multitasking capabilities
• High-quality front-facing camera 
• PurifiedVoice technology
• Multitype connectivity

Cons:

• Small internal storage

 

10. Dell Latitude 5511 Laptops Under 500

The Dell Latitude 5511 is basically a business laptop that offers a reliable solution for users. But gamers, students, or home users can take this laptop to cover their basic requirements. The laptop has many robust features to deliver the best performance to business owners.

The laptop has a 15.6-inch FHD (1920×1080) screen to ensure clear and vibrant visuals. Also, the user gets very comfortable with the screen for a long time while working.

Moreover, the 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD also enable smooth multitasking and rapid access to files. Besides, the backlit keyboard feature helps the users have a comfortable experience in a low-light environment.

Additionally, an 8th-generation Intel Core i5-10400 Processor enhances the performance of the laptop. Besides, the base frequency of the processor of 2.9GHz (up to 4.7GHz) delivers exceptional speed for multitasking. Also, the six cores and twelve processor threads ensure fast and stable operation.

You can connect headphones or a microphone on this laptop. Also, you can connect various types of peripherals here. Thus, it has HDMI, USB Type-C/Type-A, Stereo, and many ports.

With Windows 10 Pro installed, the Dell Latitude 5511 prioritizes security and data protection. 

Specifications:

• Hard Disk Size: 512 GB
• Processor: Intel Core i5 10400
• Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
• Color: Black
• Memory: 16 GB
• Special Feature: Backlit Keyboard
• Graphics Card: Integrated

Pros:

• Sleek and professional design
• High-resolution FHD display
• Powerful Intel processor 
• Ample RAM and SSD storage 
• A diverse range of ports 
• Enhanced security features 
• Suitable for business and professional use

Cons:

• Graphics may limit high-end graphical tasks

 

Things to Consider While Choosing the Best Laptops Under 500

You should consider a few things when you want to purchase a laptop on a budget. So, here are some key considerations we have shared for you:

Processor: The processor’s efficiency is the most important thing to consider for a laptop under $500. So, consider buying at least an AMD Ryzen 3 or a Core i3 or processor with a good clock speed.

Display: Considering the display size and resolution is another essential part of choosing a budget-friendly laptop. However, a Full HD display of a laptop with 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution is ideal for every task. Besides, a display size from 13.3-inch to 15.6-inch is ideal for doing regular computing.

Memory: A laptop should have at least 8 GB of RAM to handle essential tasks. So, before purchasing a laptop on a budget, check the memory capacity. 

Storage: A solid storage drive transfers data faster than traditional hard drives. So, plan for at least a 256GB SSD that gives you fast performance and ample storage space.

Portability: Consider a lightweight laptop to carry it outdoors or wherever you want. Also, choose a laptop that can provide at least 6 to 8 hours of power backup.

Connectivity: Your laptop must have USB, HDMI, and headphone ports. Also, you should consider Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity to get wireless connections.

Operating System: Check the laptop’s operating system compatibility. However, you should know your requirements for considering an operating system for your laptop.

Additional Features: Consider some additional features of the laptops that need you. Some laptops have touchscreen facilities, and some have a backlit light or other special features.

 

FAQs

What is the best budget laptop brand?

To choose a laptop, everyone has their personal requirements and budget. So, you can’t say one brand of laptop is the best on a budget. But, some popular brands manufacture quality laptops at an affordable price. These are Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo brands. Also, these brands manufacture the best budget laptop for students.

Is Dell or HP better?

It isn’t easy to compare the performance of Dell and HP laptops, as they both manufacture various types of laptops. Each laptop has different features, designs, materials, and more. So, you can buy any of these two brands of laptops by considering your requirements and your budget.

What laptop is best for students?

A budget-friendly laptop with reliable performance is the best for the students. However, students should choose a laptop that is good for taking notes, preparing presentations, internet browsing, and simple multimedia tasks. So, they should consider the laptop’s compatibility, portability, connectivity, and efficiency on a budget.

The above is a detailed guide for you to find the best laptops under 500 US dollars. Also, these are the best laptops under 500 dollars for students. If you want to know more about the best laptops for photo editing, click here for another article.