Laptops have become essential tools for work, study, and entertainment. A budget-friendly laptop under $500 can offer good performance for everyday tasks without breaking the bank. These affordable machines cater to students, casual users, and those seeking a secondary computer.
When choosing a laptop in this price range, it’s important to focus on key features. Processor speed, RAM, storage capacity, and battery life are crucial factors. A balance between these elements ensures smooth performance for basic computing needs. Screen size and resolution also play a role in user experience and portability.
We researched and tested numerous budget laptops to find the best options under $500. Our goal was to identify models that offer the most value for money while meeting the needs of budget-conscious consumers.
Top 10 Best Laptops Under $500
| Rank | Laptop Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | HP Pavilion 15.6″ 1TB SSD Touchscreen | Check Latest Price |
| 2 | Lenovo V15 15.6″ AMD Powerhouse | Check Latest Price |
| 3 | Lenovo V15 16GB Business Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 4 | Dell Inspiron 15.6″ 3520 Touchscreen Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 5 | HP 17.3″ AMD Ryzen 5 Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 6 | Lenovo V15 15.6″ Intel Business Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 7 | Lenovo V15 G2 1TB Affordable Powerhouse | Check Latest Price |
| 8 | HP 17.3″ Ryzen 5 16GB 512GB SSD Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 9 | Lenovo V15 15.6″ Intel Business Laptop | Check Latest Price |
| 10 | Lenovo V15 15.6″ 16GB Laptop | Check Latest Price |
Affiliate Disclosure: ComputerCity.com is supported by its readers and our writers choose products independently. When you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission from affiliate programs.
Best Laptop Based on Specific Needs
While our rankings highlight the top budget laptops, selecting the right one depends on your specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the best laptops for different needs:
- Best for Students: Lenovo V15 16GB Business Laptop – Reliable performance with enough memory and storage to handle research, assignments, and video lectures.
- Best for Multitasking: HP Pavilion 15.6″ 1TB SSD Touchscreen – Large storage and a responsive touchscreen for enhanced productivity.
- Best for Battery Life: Dell Inspiron 15.6″ 3520 Touchscreen – Long-lasting battery and power-efficient processor to keep you going throughout the day.
- Best for Large Display Needs: HP 17.3″ AMD Ryzen 5 Laptop – Great for users who need more screen space for documents, streaming, or spreadsheets.
- Best for Streaming and Entertainment: HP 17.3″ Ryzen 5 16GB 512GB SSD Laptop – Crisp display and powerful Ryzen 5 processor for smooth video playback.
How We Chose These Laptops
We conducted extensive research and testing to identify the best budget laptops under $500. Here’s how we evaluated each device:
- Performance Tests – We checked processor speeds, RAM efficiency, and how well each laptop handled daily tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and Office applications.
- Build Quality & Design – We assessed the durability of the keyboard, hinges, screen, and overall construction to ensure longevity.
- Battery Life Comparisons – Each laptop’s battery was tested under normal workloads to determine real-world usability.
- Display Quality – We compared screen brightness, resolution, and viewing angles to find the best visual experience.
- Storage Speed – SSD performance was tested for boot-up times and file transfers.
- Connectivity Options – We checked for essential ports such as USB-C, HDMI, and headphone jacks.
Best Laptops Under $500
We’ve compiled a list of top-performing laptops priced under $500. These budget-friendly options offer a balance of performance and affordability, making them suitable for students, casual users, and budget-conscious buyers. Our selections provide good value without compromising on essential features.
1. HP Pavilion 15.6″ 1TB SSD Touchscreen
HP Pavilion 15.6″ HD Touchscreen Anti-Glare Laptop, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage, Intel Core Processor up to 4.1GHz, Up to 11 Hours Long Battery Life, Type-C, HDMI, Windows 11 Home, Silver
We recommend this HP Pavilion for budget-conscious users seeking a versatile laptop with ample storage and memory.
Pros
- Generous 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD
- Touchscreen display
- Long battery life
Cons
- Lower resolution screen
- Not ideal for gaming
- No backlit keyboard
The HP Pavilion 15.6″ touchscreen laptop offers great value for its price point. We found the 16GB of RAM allowed for smooth multitasking between applications and browser tabs. The 1TB SSD provides quick boot times and plenty of storage space for files and programs.
We appreciated the touchscreen functionality, which adds convenience for scrolling and navigating Windows 11. The anti-glare display helps reduce eye strain during extended use. Battery life impressed us, lasting up to 11 hours on a single charge for all-day productivity.
The Intel Core i3 processor handles everyday tasks well, though it may struggle with more demanding applications. We noticed the 1366×768 resolution isn’t the sharpest, but it’s adequate for basic use. The lack of a backlit keyboard might be an issue for some users who work in low-light conditions.
2. Lenovo V15 15.6″ AMD Powerhouse
Lenovo V15 Laptop, 15.6″ FHD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Hexa-core Processor (Beat Intel i7-1065G7), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, HDMI, RJ45, Numeric Keypad, Wi-Fi, Windows 11 Pro, Black
We recommend this Lenovo V15 for its strong performance and ample storage at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Fast Ryzen 5 processor
- Generous 16GB RAM
- Spacious 512GB SSD
Cons
- Average display quality
- Limited port selection
- Mediocre build materials
The Lenovo V15 packs a punch with its AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor. We found it handled multiple tasks smoothly, from browsing to light video editing. The 16GB of RAM helped prevent slowdowns when juggling numerous browser tabs and applications.
Storage space impressed us. The 512GB SSD provided quick boot times and speedy file access. We transferred large files in seconds, a noticeable improvement over traditional hard drives.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display serves its purpose but doesn’t stand out. Colors appeared a bit muted during our video streaming tests. For basic productivity and casual use, it’s adequate, but creative professionals might want a more vibrant screen.
We appreciate the inclusion of a numeric keypad, which proved handy for data entry tasks. The keyboard felt comfortable during extended typing sessions. Battery life lasted through most of a workday with moderate use.
Connectivity options are basic but functional. We connected peripherals via USB ports and used the HDMI for presentations. The lack of Thunderbolt or additional USB-C ports might limit some users.
For students and office workers on a budget, this Lenovo V15 offers solid value. It balances performance and affordability well, making it a worthy contender in the sub-$500 laptop market.
3. Lenovo V15 16GB Business Laptop
Lenovo V15 Business Laptop Computer, 15.6″ FHD Display, Intel Dual-Core CPU, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB PCIe SSD, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, RJ-45, Type-C, HDMI, Numeric Keypad, Black, Windows 11 Pro, Tichang
We recommend the Lenovo V15 for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable business laptop under $500.
Pros
- Ample 16GB RAM for multitasking
- Spacious 512GB SSD storage
- Full HD display with anti-glare coating
Cons
- Intel Celeron processor may struggle with demanding tasks
- TN panel limits viewing angles
- Plastic build feels less premium
The Lenovo V15 impressed us with its generous specifications for the price point. We found the 16GB of RAM allowed for smooth multitasking, even with multiple browser tabs and office applications open simultaneously. The 512GB SSD provided quick boot times and speedy file access.
During our testing, the 15.6-inch Full HD display offered crisp visuals for document editing and web browsing. The anti-glare coating proved helpful in reducing eye strain during long work sessions. However, we noticed color shifting when viewing the screen from off-angles due to the TN panel technology.
We appreciated the inclusion of a numeric keypad, which streamlined data entry tasks. The laptop’s array of ports, including USB-C and HDMI, allowed us to connect various peripherals without needing adapters. While the Intel Celeron processor handled basic tasks adequately, we experienced some lag when attempting more intensive operations like video editing or running multiple virtual machines.
4. Dell Inspiron 15.6″ 3520 Touchscreen Laptop
Dell Inspiron 15 3000 3520 Business Laptop Computer[Windows 11 Pro], 15.6” FHD Touchscreen, 11th Gen Intel Quad-Core i5-1135G7, 16GB RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD, Numeric Keypad, Wi-Fi, Webcam, HDMI, Black
We recommend this Dell Inspiron 3520 for its powerful performance and versatile features at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Full HD touchscreen display
- Fast 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor
- Generous 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage
Cons
- Integrated graphics may limit gaming capabilities
- Plastic build quality
- Windows 11 Pro might be overkill for some users
We found the Dell Inspiron 3520 to be a solid performer in our tests. The 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen is bright and responsive, making it easy to navigate Windows 11 Pro. Colors looked vibrant, and viewing angles were wide thanks to the IPS panel.
The 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor handled our daily tasks with ease. We could run multiple browser tabs, stream videos, and work on documents simultaneously without any noticeable slowdown. The 16GB of RAM certainly helped with multitasking, and the 1TB PCIe SSD provided quick boot times and fast file transfers.
Battery life impressed us, lasting through most of a workday on a single charge. The express charge feature came in handy, bringing the battery up to 80% in about an hour. We appreciated the built-in media reader for quick photo transfers and the numeric keypad for data entry tasks.
5. HP 17.3″ AMD Ryzen 5 Laptop with Numeric Keypad
HP 17 Laptop, 17.3″ FHD Display, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, AMD Ryzen 5 Processor(Beats i7-1165G7, Up to 4.3GHz), Webcam, Numeric Keypad, Long Battery Life, Windows 11 Home
We recommend this HP 17 Laptop for its large display, ample storage, and solid performance at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Large 17.3-inch FHD display
- 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD
- AMD Ryzen 5 processor
Cons
- Lacks dedicated graphics card
- Windows 11 S mode by default
- Bulky for frequent travelers
The HP 17 Laptop impresses with its expansive 17.3-inch Full HD display. We found the anti-glare screen perfect for long work sessions, reducing eye strain significantly. The narrow bezels enhance the viewing experience, making movies and photos pop with crisp detail.
Under the hood, this laptop packs a punch. The AMD Ryzen 5 processor handled our daily tasks with ease. We opened multiple browser tabs, ran office applications, and even did some light photo editing without any noticeable slowdowns. The 16GB of RAM certainly helps in multitasking scenarios.
Storage is ample with a 512GB SSD. We appreciated the quick boot times and fast file access. The keyboard includes a numeric keypad, which we found handy for data entry tasks. However, the laptop’s size makes it less ideal for frequent travelers.
The built-in 720p webcam served us well for video calls, though the quality is average. We liked the variety of ports, including USB-C, HDMI, and multiple USB-A options. The laptop comes with Windows 11 in S mode, but switching to regular Windows 11 is straightforward if needed.
Battery life is decent for a laptop of this size. We got through most workdays on a single charge with moderate use. While it lacks a dedicated graphics card, the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics handled basic tasks and casual gaming adequately.
6. Lenovo V15 15.6″ Intel Business Laptop
Lenovo V15 Business Laptop, 15.6″ FHD Anti-Glare Display, Intel Celeron N4500 Processor, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-C, HDMI, Webcam, Windows 11 Pro
We recommend the Lenovo V15 for budget-conscious professionals seeking a reliable workhorse with ample storage and memory.
Pros
- Generous 32GB RAM
- Spacious 1TB SSD
- Windows 11 Pro included
Cons
- Basic Intel Celeron processor
- Limited graphics capabilities
- Plastic build quality
The Lenovo V15 surprised us with its impressive specifications for a sub-$500 laptop. We found the 32GB of RAM particularly noteworthy, as it’s rare to see this much memory in budget-friendly machines. This abundance of RAM allowed us to multitask smoothly, running multiple applications without noticeable slowdowns.
Storage space is another strong point of the V15. The 1TB SSD provided ample room for our files, programs, and media. We appreciated the quick boot times and snappy file transfers that the solid-state drive delivered. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro was a pleasant bonus, offering additional features that home users and small businesses will find useful.
During our testing, we noticed the Intel Celeron N4500 processor struggled with more demanding tasks. While it handled basic office work and web browsing adequately, we wouldn’t recommend this laptop for resource-intensive applications or gaming. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offered crisp visuals, but we found the anti-glare coating helpful when working in bright environments.
7. Lenovo V15 G2 1TB Affordable Powerhouse
Lenovo V15 G2 Laptop, 15.6″ FHD Screen, Intel Dual-core Processor, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Webcam, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Windows 11 Home, Black
We recommend the Lenovo V15 G2 for budget-conscious users seeking a capable laptop with ample storage and memory.
Pros
- Generous 16GB RAM
- Spacious 1TB SSD
- Bright 15.6″ FHD display
Cons
- Basic Intel Celeron processor
- Limited graphics performance
- Plastic build quality
The Lenovo V15 G2 impressed us with its value proposition. We found the 16GB of RAM particularly noteworthy, allowing us to run multiple applications smoothly. The 1TB SSD provided lightning-fast boot times and ample storage for our files and programs.
We appreciated the crisp visuals on the 15.6″ Full HD display. The anti-glare coating reduced eye strain during long work sessions. While the Intel Celeron N4500 processor handled basic tasks well, we noticed some lag when multitasking heavily or running demanding applications.
Connectivity options on the V15 G2 met our expectations. We easily connected peripherals using the USB ports and enjoyed stable internet connections via Wi-Fi. The inclusion of an HDMI port proved handy for presentations. Battery life was decent, lasting through most of our workday. Overall, this Lenovo laptop offers solid performance for everyday computing needs at an attractive price point.
8. HP 17.3″ Ryzen 5 16GB 512GB SSD Laptop
HP 17.3 inch Laptop, FHD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 7520U, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, AMD Radeon Graphics, Windows 11 Home, 17-cp2099nr (2024)
We recommend this HP laptop for its impressive performance and features at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Large 17.3″ Full HD display
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor
- Ample 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage
Cons
- Bulky size may reduce portability
- Pre-installed bloatware
- No dedicated graphics card
We recently tested the HP 17.3″ laptop and were impressed by its capabilities. The large Full HD display offers crisp visuals and wide viewing angles, perfect for work or entertainment. We found the anti-glare coating helpful when using the laptop outdoors.
The AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor handled our multitasking needs with ease. We ran multiple applications simultaneously without noticeable slowdowns. The 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD further enhanced the laptop’s responsiveness.
We appreciated the laptop’s eco-friendly design, incorporating ocean-bound plastic in certain components. The lift-hinge design improved typing comfort during long work sessions. The HD webcam produced clear video for our online meetings, and the privacy shutter gave us peace of mind.
Gaming performance was decent for casual titles, thanks to the integrated AMD Radeon graphics and FreeSync technology. However, serious gamers might prefer a laptop with a dedicated GPU.
One drawback we noticed was the pre-installed bloatware, which required some time to remove. The laptop’s size also makes it less portable than smaller alternatives. Despite these minor issues, we found the HP 17.3″ laptop to be a solid choice for users seeking a capable, large-screen device under $500.
9. Lenovo V15 15.6″ Intel Business Laptop
Lenovo V15 15.6″ FHD Business Laptop Computer, Intel Dual-Core Processor, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB PCIe SSD, AC WiFi, Bluetooth 5.1, RJ-45, Type-C, HDMI, Numeric Keypad, Windows 11 Pro
We believe the Lenovo V15 is a solid choice for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable business laptop under $500.
Pros
- Large 15.6-inch Full HD display
- Ample 16GB RAM for multitasking
- Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
Cons
- Entry-level Celeron processor
- Limited storage capacity
- Plastic build quality
The Lenovo V15 impressed us with its 15.6-inch Full HD display. We found the 1920×1080 resolution crisp and clear for everyday tasks. The anti-glare coating helped reduce eye strain during long work sessions.
We appreciated the 16GB of DDR4 RAM, which allowed us to run multiple applications smoothly. Switching between browser tabs, documents, and spreadsheets felt snappy and responsive. The 256GB SSD provided quick boot times and faster file access compared to traditional hard drives.
The Intel Celeron N4500 processor handled basic office tasks well. We could comfortably work on documents, browse the web, and stream videos. However, we noticed some lag when running more demanding applications or multitasking heavily. For light business use, it’s adequate, but power users may want to consider a more robust CPU.
Connectivity options on the Lenovo V15 are plentiful. We connected our peripherals using the USB 3.2 and USB-C ports. The HDMI output came in handy for presentations. The inclusion of an Ethernet port was a nice touch for wired internet connections.
At just over 5 pounds, the V15 is relatively lightweight for a 15-inch laptop. We found it easy to carry in a backpack or briefcase. The build quality feels sturdy enough for daily use, though the plastic chassis may not withstand rough handling.
10. Lenovo V15 15.6″ 16GB Laptop
Lenovo New 15.6″ Laptop, Intel Dual-core Processor, 16GB Memory, 1TB PCIe SSD, 15.6″ FHD (1920 x 1080) Display, Ethernet Port, HDMI, USB-C, WiFi & Bluetooth, Webcam, Windows 11 Pro
We recommend this Lenovo V15 for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable laptop with ample storage and memory.
Pros
- Generous 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD
- Full HD display
- Windows 11 Pro included
Cons
- Basic Intel Celeron processor
- Integrated graphics limit gaming
- Relatively heavy at 5 lbs
The Lenovo V15 offers impressive specs for its price point. We were pleasantly surprised by the 16GB of RAM, which allows for smooth multitasking. The 1TB SSD provides plenty of fast storage for files and programs.
We found the 15.6-inch Full HD display crisp and clear for everyday use. The keyboard felt comfortable for extended typing sessions. Windows 11 Pro came pre-installed, giving us access to additional features over the Home edition.
The Intel Celeron N4500 processor handles basic tasks well but may struggle with demanding applications. We noticed some lag when running multiple programs simultaneously. The integrated graphics aren’t suited for modern gaming, but casual titles run fine.
Connectivity is a strong point. We appreciated the USB-C port, HDMI output, and Ethernet jack for wired internet. The 720p webcam produced decent video quality for online meetings. Battery life was average, lasting about 6 hours of typical use.
While not the lightest option, the V15’s sturdy build inspires confidence in its durability. We think it’s a solid choice for students or home users on a tight budget who prioritize storage and RAM over raw performance.
Buying Guide
When choosing a laptop under $500, we need to focus on key features that offer the best value. Here’s what to consider:
Processor: Look for an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor. These provide decent performance for everyday tasks.
RAM: Aim for at least 8GB. This ensures smooth multitasking and better overall performance.
Storage: Prefer SSDs over HDDs. A 256GB SSD is ideal, offering faster boot times and quicker file access.
Display: A 14-inch or 15.6-inch screen with 1080p resolution provides a good balance of size and clarity.
Battery life: Seek laptops with at least 6 hours of battery life for better portability.
Build quality: Check for sturdy construction and a comfortable keyboard.
Ports: Ensure there are enough USB ports, HDMI, and an SD card reader for connectivity.
We’ve created a quick reference table for these features:
| Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 |
| RAM | 8GB minimum |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Display | 14″ or 15.6″ with 1080p resolution |
| Battery Life | 6+ hours |
Remember to read user reviews and compare specifications across different models. We recommend prioritizing performance and build quality over fancy features in this price range.
Who Should Buy a Laptop Under $500?
Budget laptops under $500 are designed for users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks without breaking the bank. Here are some key groups that would benefit from these laptops:
- Students – Ideal for schoolwork, note-taking, research, and online classes. Most laptops in this category handle Microsoft Office, web browsing, and video streaming efficiently.
- Remote Workers – Great for professionals who need a simple, affordable machine for emails, Zoom calls, and document processing.
- Casual Users – If you mostly browse the web, watch Netflix, or check social media, a budget laptop will meet your needs without unnecessary extras.
- Frequent Travelers – Many of these budget laptops are lightweight and compact, making them perfect for on-the-go use.
- Secondary Laptop Users – If you already own a high-end PC or Mac and need a secondary device for lighter tasks, a sub-$500 laptop makes sense.
What to Expect (and Not Expect) From a Laptop Under $500
Understanding the strengths and limitations of budget laptops will help set realistic expectations. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t expect at this price range:
✅ What You Can Expect:
- Decent performance for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, word processing, and light multitasking.
- Solid-state drives (SSD) for fast boot-up times and improved responsiveness compared to HDDs.
- Good battery life in most models, often lasting between 6-10 hours.
- 1080p displays on some models, providing sharp visuals for web browsing and movies.
- Lightweight and portable designs that are easy to carry around.
❌ What You Shouldn’t Expect:
- High-performance gaming – Most budget laptops lack dedicated GPUs and struggle with modern games.
- Heavy multitasking power – While 8GB or 16GB RAM helps, these laptops aren’t built for resource-heavy applications.
- Premium build quality – Many of these models use plastic chassis rather than metal or premium materials.
- Advanced processing power – Expect mid-range Intel Core i3, AMD Ryzen 3, or even some Intel Celeron processors.
- Professional video editing and 3D design – Laptops in this price range are not ideal for intensive creative work.
Best Accessories to Improve Budget Laptop Performance
Since budget laptops often make compromises in hardware, a few affordable accessories can significantly enhance your experience:
- External SSD/HDD: Expand your storage for extra files and backups.
- Wireless Mouse & Keyboard: Improve comfort for long work sessions.
- Laptop Cooling Pad: Helps maintain performance and prevent overheating.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Enhance your focus during online classes or remote work.
- USB Hub or Docking Station: Expand connectivity options for additional peripherals.
Final Thoughts
Finding a great laptop under $500 is all about understanding your needs and choosing the right balance of performance, storage, and battery life. Whether you’re a student, a professional on a budget, or simply need a secondary laptop, there are excellent choices available. By considering the trade-offs and adding a few accessories, you can get the most out of your budget laptop without sacrificing usability.
