Top 10 Best Laptops Under $500 in 2025: Best Overall, OLED, and More
Finding a good laptop under $500 is no easy task. The market is flooded with options, but not all are worth the price tag. It’s essential to shop smart and look for specific features that will provide the best value for your budget. A laptop with a 1080p display and at least 8GB of RAM is a good starting point. While there may be some trade-offs, it’s crucial to find a machine that meets your day-to-day needs without breaking the bank.
Acer Aspire Go 15 – Best laptop under $500 overall
The Acer Aspire Go 15 is a standout choice for those looking for a well-rounded laptop under $500. Priced at $299, this laptop offers speedy everyday performance, good battery life, and a clear 1080p display. The 15.6-inch screen provides a resolution of 1920×1080 and a brightness level of 284 nits, making it suitable for various tasks. The Intel Core i3-N305 CPU handles everyday activities like streaming music and videos with ease.
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly laptop that offers a comfortable typing experience and a decent array of ports, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is worth considering.
Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus – Best Chromebook under $500
The Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is a versatile option for those looking for a convertible laptop under $500. Priced at $499, this Chromebook offers snappy day-to-day performance and a 2-in-1 design that allows for various usage modes. The durable construction and affordable pricing make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers.
If you need a laptop that can adapt to different scenarios and provide reliable performance, the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is a solid contender.
Acer Chromebook Plus 515 – Best audio
For users who prioritize audio quality in a laptop, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is an excellent option. Priced at $399.99, this Chromebook delivers solid audio performance, fast general performance, and a 1080p webcam. The upward-firing speakers provide crisp sound quality, enhancing the multimedia experience for users.
If you enjoy watching movies or listening to music on your laptop, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 offers impressive audio and display quality at an affordable price point.
HP Laptop 14-ep0865no – Best battery life
The HP Laptop 14 stands out for its exceptional battery life and compact form factor. Priced at $449.99, this laptop offers good everyday performance, a great keyboard and mouse, and a long-lasting battery that can power through a full workday. The Intel Core i3-1315U CPU ensures smooth browsing and multitasking, while the lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
If you need a reliable laptop with extended battery life and comfortable usability, the HP Laptop 14 is a top choice for budget-conscious consumers.
In conclusion, finding the best laptop under $500 requires careful consideration of your needs and priorities. Whether you prioritize overall performance, audio quality, or battery life, there are affordable options available that can meet your requirements. By evaluating key features like display resolution, processor performance, and battery longevity, you can find a budget-friendly laptop that suits your lifestyle and budget.