We’ll give you the best options for laptops under $500 that will make a great buy in 2024.
It is more difficult to buy a good laptop for less than $500 than a laptop for more than $1500. After all, the more expensive the laptop, the more features and fewer “weak points”. Therefore, when choosing this device for yourself for a small amount of money, you should clearly define your priorities and squeeze the maximum effect out of the” win-win” strategy.
In 2024, the choice of budget laptops is quite rich and there is an opportunity to choose a new high-quality computer for $400-$500. Yes, it will be inferior to its more expensive counterparts. However, by making the right choice in accordance with your requirements for the performance of the PC, you can achieve that the difference will be almost invisible.
For your convenience, we will look at the best laptops with various characteristics that are available on Amazon. By clicking on the partner links, you can learn more about the products and, if you want, buy yourself a great device today.
Quick editor’s pick of laptops under $500 for 2024:
- Lenovo – IdeaPad 3 / Best Overall
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R74Z / Runner-up
- HP 15-dw / Cost Effective Option
- Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 / Under $300, but Good Enough
- Gateway 14″ FHD Ultra Slim Laptop / Worth Your Attention
Note from Whattdw.com: The ratings are given in comparison with the estimated maximum criteria for laptops in this price category.
The Top 5 Laptops under $500 to Buy in 2024
Lenovo – IdeaPad 3
| Brand | Lenovo |
| Series | 2022 |
| Screen Size | 17.3 |
| Color | Arctic Grey |
| Hard Disk Size | 512 GB |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 5 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 8 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | AMD Radeon Vega 7 |
This is a really speedy operation for just having 8 GB of Memory. I had no issues downloading programs, streaming movies, or moving around 250 GB of data from my OneDrive. The laptop boots up in around 20 seconds. To be honest, my use of it does not need anything else. I did not even expect that for 500 bucks you can get such a fast laptop.
J.Linn, NJ
The IdeaPad 3 laptop combines speed, endurance, and an infinite number of alternative combinations thanks to an AMD Ryzen 5 5625U Processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage space.
This portable computer is lightweight and portable, allowing you to work, create, and study anywhere you go; it weighs 0.78 pounds “slender and weighs just 4.84 pounds in total.
A huge and bright 17.3-inch screen will broaden your horizons “Full-HD In-Plane Switching (IPS)” displays allow for viewing from practically any angle, and panels with thin bezels enhance the amount of information that can be viewed.
Your video conversations, online lessons, and video conferencing will be of great quality owing to the camera’s crystal-clear clarity, and Smart Noise Cancellation will provide a more natural sound experience while decreasing background noise.
This product has a full-function USB Type-C connection, as well as an HDMI port and two USB Type-A ports to help you keep your work area cord-free. Three months of free Xbox Game Pass
Acer Aspire 5
| Brand | Acer |
| Series | Aspire 5 |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches |
| Color | Silver |
| Hard Disk Size | 256 GB |
| CPU Model | AMD Ryzen 5 5500U |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 8 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Special Feature | Backlit Keyboard |
| Card Description | Integrated |
The Acer Aspire 15 has proved to be a great laptop option. With my background in information technology, I can certainly state that purchasing this item was one of the wisest moves I’ve ever made. This one cost me about $350 USD, and I couldn’t be pleased with my purchase. The price is more than adequate. I already know someone who wants one of these Aspire 5s.
G.Green, Il
The Acer Aspire 5 will boost your productivity and allow you to perform work more quickly. The Aspire 5 comes with enough of high-speed storage and Memory, as well as the latest AMD Ryzen 5000 Series mobile Processor with Radeon Graphics. This provides you with everything you need to create and distribute content while on the road! The 15.6 “Because of the narrow borders on the Full HD IPS display, you can focus on what’s in front of you and make the most of the screen’s real estate.
Get more about the beautiful 15.6 “The design of the tiny bezels allows for an IPS display with Full HD quality. Acer Color Intelligence and Acer BlueLightShield are two of the technologies used in this device to enhance the visual appearance and safeguard your eyes.
And due to the AMD Ryzen 5000 Series Mobile CPU with Radeon Graphics, you can run all of your most resource-intensive apps at the same time with lightning-fast responsiveness. Take advantage of an extraordinarily extended battery life made possible by cutting-edge technology, allowing you to stay productive and engaged no matter where you are.
The Acer Purified Voice program, which includes two permanently implanted microphones, reduces typing noise and makes all conversations crystal clear. while the high-definition webcam ensures photos that are bright and rich in color and depth.
The Aspire 5 is great for carrying on the move, thanks to its lightweight, compact design and aluminum top cover.
Acer TrueHarmony is a breakthrough speaker design that allows for increased loudness and deeper bass, enabling you to blast your favorite music at full power.
Get more done with a diverse set of connections that includes USB Type-C, two USB 3.2 ports, HDMI, and more. One of the USB ports enables charging to take place even while the gadget is switched off.
A back-lit keyboard’s adaptability enables you to operate in comfort regardless of your circumstances.
| HP 15-dw |
| Brand | HP |
| Series | HP 15-dw |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches |
| Color | Spruce Blue |
| Hard Disk Size | 256 GB |
| CPU Model | Core i3 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 8 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel UHD Graphics |
It took me months to make up my mind to buy this, but now that I have, I can honestly say that it is the best deal I’ve found. Incredibly, this laptop exceeds all of my expectations in terms of its technological characteristics, and it costs less than I had anticipated. With this buy so far, I am VERY, VERY satisfied. The package came quickly and promptly. The smokey blue hue was a plus and made it a gorgeous appearance. As a friend of mine says, “you spent your money really right” ))
M.Dilan-Parker, Dallas
Because of the 1920 by 1080 resolution, the color and clarity are pretty impressive. The slim and light laptop sports a micro-edge bezel display with a thickness of 6.5 millimeters that can show high-quality media.
Build, participate, work, learn, and watch the show! There is no end to the possibilities. You can go and be anywhere you choose. Enables ultrathin laptops with exceptional performance, long battery life, and the most up-to-date capabilities required for mobile usage.
There are 1 x headphone/microphone combo, 1 x HDMI 1.4b, 2 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A with a signaling rate of 5Gbps each, 1 x USB Type-C, an SD card reader, B&O audio, and a camera.
Microsoft Windows 11 Home Edition Great updated design that is more consistent. Good options for window organization, enhanced capabilities for working with multiple displays Performance capabilities that have been improved Additional possibilities and capabilities for video game play, Apps made for Android are compatible.
Experience world-class performance with Intel UHD graphics, which are designed to provide incredibly realistic pictures, new levels of immersion, and features that are absolutely important for the greatest possible entertainment experience.
Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
| Brand | Lenovo |
| Series | ChromeBook Flex 5 |
| Screen Size | 13.3 Inches |
| Color | Graphite Grey |
| Hard Disk Size | 64 GB |
| CPU Model | Core i3-10110U |
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Integrated Graphics |
| CPU Speed | 2.1 GHz |
The learning curve is steep since this is my first Chromebook. Everything I’ve seen thus far has been really satisfying. It is perfect for my purposes. Features such as a lighted keyboard, fast processing, a fair price, and compatibility for the USI pen make this a strong contender.
F.Duardier, LA
The 10th generation of Intel Core CPUs allows customers to work from home, school, or anywhere else by providing an unparalleled combination of performance, connectivity, and entertainment. The Lenovo Flex 5 has innovative performance features that may adapt to the user, resulting in a more personalized, intuitive, and responsive experience.
This 2-in-1 laptop has both a keyboard and a touchscreen, making it easy to interact with anything on the screen. You may also use the Lenovo Digital Pen, which is sold separately, to write, click, or drag files directly on the screen.
This compact, lightweight, 360-degree-rotatable Chromebook’s 13.3-inch full high-definition (FHD) display produces superb visuals, and the display’s narrow bezels prevent distractions. Two stereo speakers facing the user contribute to the immersive experience.
From practically any place, you can use your Google Account to easily access any of your cloud-based files, movies, or documents. With a battery life of up to 10 hours, you can stay productive.
Connect via the built-in camera, as well as two USB Type-C ports, one USB Type-A port, and an audio jack. It also has the most recent versions of Intel Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which together guarantee a robust and fast connection.
Gateway 14″ FHD Ultra Slim Laptop
| Brand | Gateway |
| Screen Size | 14 Inches |
| Color | Silver |
| Hard Disk Size | 1 TB |
| CPU Model | Core i5 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| CPU Speed | 2.4 GHz |
As I’ll be doing some traveling, I needed a cheap laptop that can do both work and gaming. Features and price are ideal for my requirements. Upon arrival, we had zero issues. Maybe it was adventurous of me to buy a laptop from a not-so-famous brand… But I now realize that I benefited from this purchase.
P.Edwards, AZ
The Gateway Ultra Thin Notebook, with its slim design, is the perfect portable laptop for doing all of your tasks. A 14-inch display with full high-definition quality and a precise touchpad will provide a clear experience.
Brings the optimal combination of traits to the table, enabling you to conquer everything in your way. With the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 (4C8T, 2.4GHz/4.2GHz), you can get things done fast while also enjoying exceptional performance, instant responsiveness, and best-in-class connectivity.
Excellent success in the fields of gaming and entertainment development. With the convenience of a tiny and light laptop, you can experience new levels of graphics performance and crisp, breathtaking images.
While utilizing THX-tuned products, listeners may enjoy the greatest degree of audio quality possible since these devices give personalized fidelity upgrades, balanced reproduction, and optimal frequency response. It is the best way to obtain the best audio quality for driving pleasure.
You may link your laptop to a range of other devices. 1 USB Type-C port, 2 USB Type-A connectors, 1 HDMI port, and 1 MicroSD card reader.
Key Factors to a Good Laptop Under $500
When we’re speaking about budget computing, the secret to everything is compromise. Some laptops on this list have great screens, however poor performance, while others have terrific specs and lackluster design.
No laptop under $500 is going to be the best of the best out there today, but as long as you keep an eager eye on the precise features you desire and want to compromise for the rest, it does not have to be all bad even if you’re not dropping an arm and a leg on your next mobile computer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When looking for a budget plan laptop, it can be simple to fall under the trap of choosing the one that has the best requirements on paper, just to find out the performance still drags in individual. The picks on this list are powerful, but their speed is likewise stabilized by solid design and strong keyboards which is why they have the ability to vanquish the big number of rivals that flood the budget area at the start of every year. Do not think that just because a laptop is cheap on the wallet instantly suggests it needs to feel inexpensive in the hand as an outcome.
Functions to Look For
When you have actually chosen it’s time for a new laptop, and you are looking for one that fits your budget, you’ll be happy to find that there are many new models that are extremely capable, quickly, hassle-free, and portable. They are ideal for trainees, for office work, for home usage, and for travel.
Screen size
It’s essential to think about size when you are picking one of the best laptops for under $500. Depending on your needs, you may want one that offers the largest screen size available in the lower cost varieties. These are usually 15.6 inch screens, and numerous deal thin bezels – the frames around the edges of the screen. Thinner bezels often also mean you get a broader screen view in the exact same size laptop thanks to the less space-consuming and disruptive frame around the display.
If you plan on carrying your laptop around for school, work, or travel, you might wish to search for smaller screen sizes, such as 14 inches or less. Search for slim styles and lighter weights. You may likewise wish to look for longer battery life, if using your laptop on the go is necessary to you.
Processor Power
Try to find the best laptops under $500 with powerful processing, such as Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. These use the fastest, most trusted processing and will enable multiple jobs to function at the same time in case you want to stabilize your budget or do school work while likewise listening to music and running a YouTube video. You may likewise wish to look for Ryzen mobile processing paired with AMD Vega chipsets for high quality graphics, that make these gadgets better choices for gaming on a budget laptop.
RAM
When it pertains to multi-tasking, the more memory (RAM) the much better. For that reason, the best laptops under $500 with the greatest RAM ability will let you do more with less concerns. They might not use as much memory storage, however most of the best laptops under $500 featured up to 8 GB RAM which must be adequate enough for normal usage, and for a lot of non-demanding computer game.
More feature
Besides finding the size that fits you best, and the memory and processing power you require, it’s likewise important to consider other features such as battery life, screen types, touchscreen innovation, running systems, keyboard quality, screen quality, and weight. It may likewise deserve taking a minute to examine ports, connection, and devices.
With all of these important features in mind, you’ll be able to narrow down the choices and discover the best laptop for under $500 for you!
Our Top of Laptops under $500
Summing up our review, we present you the rating of the best laptops in the price category “below $500” for 2024:
So Which Laptop Under $500 is Right For You?
Sure, these aren’t laptops that are going to blow anybody away at first sight, and only one entry on this list even has the benefit of having the ability to call itself “full-HD”. Their keyboards might be better and their storage capabilities could be larger, their RAM might be quicker and their graphics beefier … however that’s not what a budget laptop is for.
Budget plan laptops can be an excellent pick for any member of your household, whether it’s their first mobile phone or your high-school graduate requires something inexpensive they can batter at college. They’re flexible all-rounders that do a great deal of various jobs along with they need to get done, and for under $500 you could not truly ask for anything more than that. All the laptops in this list are a part of that pedigree, and the majority of exceed the expectations set by their retail stickers while barely perspiring.
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