Best Laptops under $500 in 2022 [Latest Models Reviewed]

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 3200U Dual Core 3.5 GHz
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 128GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS
• Graphics: AMD Radeon Vega 3 Mobile Graphics
• Battery Life: Up to 7.5 hours

The Acer Aspire 5 is one of the more efficient and productivity-centric laptops in the retail space that can be purchased for even less than 400 dollars. Therefore, you can use up the remaining portion of your budget to purchase relevant accessories.

From a structural point-of-view, the Aspire 5 looks sleek and flaunts an aluminum-clad top cover. Besides, if you are interested in portability, the gadget weighs a mere 3.9 pounds to be exact. Coming to the display, the 15-inch panel exceeds expectations, courtesy of the brilliant, full HD resolution. Getting a screen with an overall resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels for less than 400 dollars is more like a dream come true and Acer achieves the same whilst clubbing the color-accurate IPS panel with the widescreen, LED-backlit technology.

Acer accommodates the entry-level AMD Ryzen 3200U chipset that works in tandem with the efficient, Vega 3 integrated mobile graphics coprocessor. While the dual-core processor seems middling in terms of firepower, the boosted clock speed of up to 3.5GHz makes it the perfect candidate to handle demanding academic and professional accounting tasks with ease.

The Acer Aspire 5 comes equipped with a 4GB of RAM for seamless multitasking followed by a basic, 128GB solid-state drive. The NVMe-compatibility of the SSD module lends adequate app loading speeds. The user platform, on the other hand, comes forth as the Windows 10 S Mode OS that offers extensive app compatibility and better web surfing experiences.

Professional productivity is perfectly addressed by the integrated backlit keyboard, which is unexpected for the given price tag. Acer Aspire also features powerful, high-fidelity speakers followed by an HD webcam, studio-grade, dual microphones, and the elusive Alexa compatibility for nifty voice control. The battery on offer takes autonomy to a whole new level by offering a long battery life.

Then again, Acer doesn’t only go by the book and makes room for a host of nifty and functional connectivity specs, including USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 2.0, and HDMI slot with HDCP compatibility, and top-notch wireless support for establishing faster connections. In case you are looking for attributes that stand out, Acer comes equipped with anti-glare properties as part of the BlueLightShield enhancement.

Overall, the Aspire 5 from Acer is one of the best laptops under $500, best characterized by a class-leading display and portability quotient. Then again, you can consider shelling out a bit more to opt for the Intel processing conglomerate or a model featuring a beefier storage unit and Wi-Fi 6 compatibility.

• CPU: Intel Core i5-1035G1
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-Inch FHD LED
• Battery Life: Up to 6 Hours

In case you are in the market for a nifty little gadget that boasts of the latest Intel hardware on a budget, the Dell Inspiron 15 3593 from Dell is the perfect option to invest in. While the only genuine trade-off is the middling design, this gadget lives up to the expectations with sturdy aesthetics. As far as the display is concerned, Dell features a LED-backlit panel. Not just that, the featured anti-glare properties ensure that you can work for hours together without straining your eyes. At 1920x 1080 pixels, the resolution is class-leading and at par with some of the top-end models. Then again, if you are looking to go down the price bracket, the HD model is also up for grabs.

Processing capabilities are more than decent as you get access to the graphics optimized 10th gen chipset. The turbo clock speed of 3.6GHz allows you to handle diverse single and multi-core processes with perfection. For budget seekers, the quad-core i5 processor can be replaced with the i3-1005G1 chipset. Lending adequate support is the Intel UHD graphics module.

Dell Inspiron 15 3593 comes equipped with 8GB of high-speed RAM, provided you want to invest in the 500 dollar model. In case you only require a lesser chunk of RAM 4GB to be exact, the more affordable can be persisted with. Storage-wise, Dell allows you to select between the 128GB and 256GB variants.

Windows 10 Home Edition is the featured operating platform that works in tandem with a standard, full-sized keyboard, amplified speakers, and a decent collection of ports, including USB 3.1, USB 2.0, HDMI, and more. As far as autonomy is concerned, Dell manages to churn out a long battery life up to 6 hours. Overall, if you want to purchase a resourceful best laptop under $500 without having to worry about the build quality, the Inspiron 15 3593 is the more appropriate gadget to purchase.

• CPU: Intel Celeron N4000
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC
• Display: 11.6-Inch HD IPS
• Battery Life: Up to 8.5 Hours

In case you are more into web surfing or cloud-based professional indulgences, this Acer Chromebook is certainly one of the more reliable options in the list of best laptops under 500 dollars.. While the build quality exceeds expectations, courtesy of the svelte, diamond-cut layout, it is the feathery chassis at 3.3 pounds that furthers the portability quotient.

While you can opt for the AMD-powered Acer Chromebook, available at a cheaper tick, the reviewed model flaunts the Intel Celeron N4000, dual-core processor, bolstered further by the UHD graphics 600, integrated GPU. Working in tandem with the Intel Celeron CPU is 4GB of RAM for efficient multitasking followed by the 64GB eMMC storage module, capable of loading the Chrome OS at lightning speeds.

The 11.6-inch IPS panel is also a show-stealer courtesy of the sharpest possible viewing angles and the exceptional aspect ratio of 16:9. As far as resolution is concerned, Acer exhibits 1366 x 768 pixels, which paves the way for color-accurate visuals. In terms of versatility, this Chromebook supports multi-mode usage, courtesy of the innovative flip-and-fold layout, and a responsive touch panel.

What stands out though is the ergonomic keyboard followed by power speakers, smooth touchpad, 720p webcam, and a decent collection of ports, including USB Type-A, Type-C, and MicroSD slot. Furthermore, you also get access to long battery life as this Acer Chromebook exhibits 8.5 hours’ worth of autonomy.

Therefore, if your professional indulgences aren’t Windows-dependent, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is the best ultraportable laptop to purchase.

• CPU: Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC
• Display: 10.5-Inch IPS
• Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 from Microsoft is a typical crowd-pleaser, boasting premium aesthetics and a manageable heft of 1.75 pounds. A good thing about this detachable notebook is that you can evaluate the budget and select models according to processing power and associated professional preferences. Despite the foldable design and persisting with the base model, you need to purchase the Type-C keyboard separately, which makes it one of the best laptops under $500.

While the Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y from Intel is strictly an entry-level, low-power chipset, it can still manage basic accounting and editing tasks with ease. Nonetheless, you can either select the 4GB or 8GB RAM variant, depending on your multitasking preferences.

For storing data, the 64GB eMMC on the base model is slightly restrictive but adequately fast. Microsoft Surface Go 2, as expected, offers the Windows 10 Home edition OS, which can also be used in the S-mode, as a power-saving measure. The colorful 10.5-inch screen is one of the highlights of the Microsoft Surface Go 2, bolstered further by the overall resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels.

Microsoft Surface Go 2 also makes room for exceptional acoustics, a handy webcam, and a class-leading port arrangement, featuring the Surface Connect slot, Type-C module, and other legacy outputs. While the Surface Connect port is meant for accommodating the ergonomic keyboard, the gadget in isolation is still quite autonomous and capable of churning out an exemplary battery backup.  Therefore, if you are in the market for an ultraportable notebook with a brilliant display for your streaming and creative indulgences, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the one to consider.

• CPU: MediaTek Helio P60T
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC
• Display: 10.1-Inch FHD+ LED
• Battery Life: Up to 13 Hours

As we keep going down the screen real-estate, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet comes forth as one of the better options to purchase, considering the usefulness of the Chrome OS and an ergonomic layout. Moreover, if you get a good deal, it might be possible to purchase this Chromebook for even less than $300. From a processing point-of-view, this Lenovo Chromebook makes room for a powerful Octa-Core processor, capable of clocking at 2.0GHz.

Then again, the MediaTek Helio P60T processor is one of the more sought after mobile processors to consider, which receives credible assistance from the ARM G72 MP3 GPU. What stands out though is that the 3 cluster GPU is capable of handling casual online gaming and basic editing tasks with ease.

In terms of memory allocation, this Chromebook offers 4GB of RAM followed by a 64GB eMMC unit. While you can also persist with the 128GB SSD module, either of the variants has the capability of loading the Chrome OS, in a heartbeat. Display-wise, you get a 10.1-inch screen to work with, bolstered further by an overall resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels and a 106 percent sRGB color gamut for achieving the utmost color accuracy levels.

Lenovo Chromebook Duet can be paired with an ergonomic keyboard but our experts weren’t impressed by the weak actuation and non-optimal position of the accessory. The touchpad, on the other hand, is smooth and is followed by a decent acoustic setup and a 2MP webcam. Being a tablet, you also get access to a decent, 8MP rear shooter followed by a Type-C slot.

This gadget is enviously portable at 2 pounds and can churn out at least 13 hours of battery backup, on a single charge. Therefore, if you are interested in purchasing an ultraportable gadget with Chrome OS at the helm, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is the best laptop under $500.

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 5-3500U
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Display: 14-Inch FHD LED
• Battery Life: Up to 8 Hours

The IdeaPad 3 from Lenovo is one of the better, Windows-powered notebooks in the market, boasting of excellent processing firepower. Under the hood, you get access to the AMD Ryzen 5-3500U chipset, capable of reaching excellent single-core, boosted speeds of up to 3.7GHz.

Assisting the chipset is the AMD Vega 8 integrated graphics module and 8GB of the high-speed RAM module. When it comes to storing files and data, you get a 256GB SSD that can load the pre-existing Windows 10 OS faster than a standard hard drive. In terms of display, you get access to an LED touch screen, exhibiting an overall resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.

However, as it is one of the best laptops under 500 dollars in the market with Full HD panels, you need to compromise a tad bit when sunlight visibility is concerned. Needless to say, the IdeaPad 3 is one of the better business laptops in the market, capable of accommodating a serviceable webcam, ergonomic keyboard, smooth touchpad, and an amplified set of speakers, with Dolby Audio enhancement. Besides, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is also a pretty portable laptop at 3.3 pounds and flaunts an 8-hour battery backup that significantly furthers the portability quotient.

Overall, for the sub-$500 price tag, this Windows-powered notebook from Lenovo is probably your best professional bet. Then again, you can also get hold of the Intel-powered variant, provided you are willing to spend a bit extra.

• CPU: Intel Core M3-8100Y
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC
• Display: 14-Inch FHD IPS
• Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours

Here is one reliable and feature-packed Chromebook from Asus, boasting of a decent Intel Core M3-8100Y processing unit. While this might not be the best laptop under $500, it is still a worthy gadget to consider, courtesy of the low-power chipset at the helm.

Besides, the CPU generates minimal heat and still assumes boosted clock speeds of up to 3.4GHz, for managing some of the more single-core, online processes. Not just that, Asus also features the Intel UHD Graphics 615 for achieving exceptional visual performances. As far as RAM allotment is concerned, you get a 4GB Low-power DDR3 module.

Asus also accommodates a 64GB eMMC module that stores the Chrome operating system and essential data sets while offering upgradeability support for up to 256GB. Despite the affordable price range, Asus brings forth a Full HD display, with the 14-inch screen also exhibiting the exemplary, NanoEdge paneling support. The existing touchscreen is exceedingly color accurate and also boasts of sharper viewing angles.

The Chromebook Flip readily qualifies as one of the best laptops under 500 courtesy of the durable keyboard, amplified speakers, and the entire professional suite, inclusive of the webcam and studio-grade mics. The port arrangement is competitive enough with Asus making room for Type-C, Type-A, and USB charging support. Nonetheless, despite the minor compromises, the Chromebook Flip doesn’t cut corners in terms of productivity at 3.3 pounds and with a good battery life.

• CPU: Intel Core i3-10110U
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB SSD
• Display: 14-Inch HD LED
• Battery Life: Up to 7 Hours

The HP Pavilion x360 is one of the better budget laptops under 500 dollars, best characterized by a 10th gen processor and a price justifiable processing performance. Besides the fast and nifty i3 processor, HP also accommodates the Intel UHD graphics support.

When it comes to system memory, you get an 8GB RAM module for your diverse multitasking preferences. Then again, the Windows 10 operating system and other demanding applications can be loaded, retrieved, and processed at enviable speeds courtesy of the 128GB SSD. Needless to say, the existing processing conglomerate and the allocated memory even allow you to handle some of the more demanding applications like Photoshop with considerable ease.

The14-inch laptop also flaunts a WLED-backlit panel for improved power-efficiency followed by an overall display resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The creatives can also rejoice, courtesy of the durable keyboard, and other gadget essentials followed by HP’s inclination towards flip-and-fold, multi-mode usage. As far as residual features are concerned, HP exhibits a decent connectivity suite in USB 3.0, HDMI, Type-C, wireless AC, and more. The gadget is also enviously sleek and portable at 3.5 pounds whereas the 7-hour battery backup readily furthers the portability quotient.

• CPU: Intel Core i3-1005G1
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 1TB HDD
• Display: 17.3-inch FHD IPS
• Battery Life: Up to 5 Hours

Finding good 17-inch laptops under 500 dollars is a rarity which the Dell Inspiron 3000 17 takes care of with immediate attention. Under the hood, Dell houses the ever-reliable Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor that can reach turbo clock speeds of up to 3.4GHz. Clubbed with Intel UHD graphics, this is quite a resourceful gadget for graphics editing via the Adobe Creative Cloud application suite. 8GB of system memory is also a decent addition followed by a sizable, 1TB HDD. While the hard disk storage drive isn’t as fast as an SSD, it still comes forth with decent capacity for storing the Windows 10 64-bit Home operating system and other demanding files and applications.

What stands out though is the 17-inch laptop screen, flaunting an overall resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The IPS panel exhibits sharper viewing angles and is perfectly complemented by the rounded edges and a color-accurate palette. The full-size, ergonomic keyboard is also a significant addition followed by an HD webcam, serviceable microphones, and a sturdy chassis.

Besides, Dell also stacks in a reliable connectivity suite that includes three USB ports, and other reliable inclusions. At 6.1 pounds, the heft is quite obvious, courtesy of the 17-inch panel. Not just that, the massive display takes a toll on the battery backup with the Inspiron 3000 17 capable of lasting for only 5 hours, on a single charge.

• CPU: Intel Core i3-10110U
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC
• Display: 13.3-inch FHD LCD
• Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours

The Flex 5 from Lenovo is easily the best Chromebook 2-in-1 in the market, courtesy of the 10th gen Intel core i3 processor, and an exceedingly sharp display.  Despite the budget price range, the processing performance exhibited by the existing CPU, UHD graphics, and 4GB RAM is exceptional. Storage-wise, you get access to a 64GB eMMC module, which is capable of sheltering the Chrome operating system, sans issues.

Not just that, the Flex 5 2-in-1 is probably the brightest Chromebook under 500 dollars, owing to the 13.3-inch 1080p screen. Furthermore, you also get access to a standard keyboard, multi-touch support, front-firing speakers, serviceable webcam, and an anti-glare screen for keeping ocular strains to a minimum.

Connectivity-wise, this is one of the best laptops under $500 in the market, featuring two Type-C ports, a solitary USB Type-A slot, and wireless-AX compatibility. As far as portability is concerned, this thin and light Chromebook weighs 2.97 pounds and offers a 10-hour battery backup.