Finding a reliable laptop on a budget is easier than ever in 2025. Whether you’re a student, a remote worker, or just need a simple device for everyday tasks, there are plenty of great options under $500. Here’s what you can expect:

• Performance: Most models come with AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i3 processors and 8GB RAM, perfect for web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking.
• Display: Full HD screens (1080p) are now standard, with some offering OLED or QLED for better visuals.
• Battery Life: Ranges from 7 to 15 hours, depending on the model.
• Storage Options: From 64GB eMMC to 512GB SSD, with some laptops offering expandable storage.
• Form Factors: Choose between traditional laptops, Chromebooks, or 2-in-1 devices with detachable keyboards.

Quick Comparison Table

These laptops balance performance, display quality, and battery life, making them ideal for everyday use. Dive into the full article to explore each model in detail and find the perfect fit for your needs.

Best Laptops Under 500 in 2025 – How to Choose a Cheap Laptop?

1. ASUS Vivobook 16 M1605 (2023)

The ASUS Vivobook 16 M1605 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly laptop that delivers strong performance for its price. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and offering expandable RAM, it handles everyday tasks with ease ^[1].

The 16-inch Full HD display provides plenty of space for multitasking, making it ideal for split-screen work or document editing. However, its limited brightness means it’s best suited for indoor use ^[1]. This makes it a great option for students or remote workers who need a large-screen laptop under $500.

In terms of performance, the Vivobook is well-equipped for daily activities like browsing, working on documents, and managing spreadsheets. The base model comes with 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most users, and you can upgrade the memory if you need a little more power ^[1].

On the connectivity front, the laptop includes three USB-A ports, a USB-C port, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 6E. Security is enhanced with a built-in fingerprint sensor. Battery life is respectable, lasting around eight hours with light usage – enough to get through most of a workday ^[1].

The laptop’s build quality is impressive for its price range. Its sturdy plastic chassis feels durable, and the keyboard and touchpad provide a comfortable and precise experience, rivaling more expensive models ^[1].

There are a few drawbacks, such as the USB-C port not supporting video output and the display’s brightness limitations, but these are minor issues. Overall, the ASUS Vivobook 16 M1605 is a fantastic option for students, remote workers, or anyone on a budget ^[1].

Next, we’ll take a closer look at another affordable option, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook 14.

2. Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook 14 (2023)

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook 14 pairs an Intel Core i3-N305 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of eMMC storage, offering dependable performance for everyday tasks at a budget-friendly price.

Its 14-inch IPS display features a 1080p resolution and a brightness level of 329cd/m², making it ideal for streaming and working on documents. While the screen’s color accuracy might not meet the needs of professional creators, it still delivers clear and vibrant visuals for day-to-day use ^[4].

This Chromebook handles tasks like Google Workspace apps and web browsing effortlessly, catering to the needs of most users. One of its standout features is the battery life, lasting between 8 to 12 hours on a single charge. This makes it a great choice for students or remote workers who need a device that can keep up all day without frequent charging ^[6][1].

The build quality is impressive for a budget laptop, featuring a sturdy plastic chassis that feels well-made. Modern additions like Wi-Fi 6E and a fingerprint reader enhance its appeal, though the inclusion of just one USB-C port might feel restrictive ^[6][1].

Expert Reviews highlights its brighter, more colorful screen and solid construction as standout features among budget Chromebooks ^[4].

While it’s not designed for demanding tasks like video editing, it excels at running productivity apps, web browsing, and streaming platforms such as Netflix or Disney+. With its reliable performance, long battery life, and modern features, this Chromebook is a strong contender in the sub-$500 category ^[4].

Next, we’ll take a look at how the Acer Aspire Go 15 stacks up in terms of performance and value.

3. Acer Aspire Go 15

The Acer Aspire Go 15 offers a solid option for budget-conscious users, featuring an Intel i3-N305 processor and 8GB of DDR5 RAM. Its 15.6-inch IPS display provides 1080p resolution with decent viewing angles. With a brightness of 300 nits, it performs well indoors but falls short in color accuracy, making it less suitable for tasks like photo or video editing.

This laptop includes practical connectivity features like a USB-C port with video output and power delivery, HDMI, and two USB-A ports. Storage can be expanded by installing an NVMe hard drive, which addresses the limited 128GB UFS storage in the base model. The battery lasts about 7-8 hours during typical use, though heavier tasks will reduce this. Its plastic construction keeps the weight manageable at 3.75 pounds.

Performance-wise, the Aspire Go 15 handles everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and office work with ease. It can even run older games at low settings. The small number pad is handy for numeric input but feels cramped during extended use. Budget-friendly trade-offs, such as downward-firing speakers and a lack of keyboard backlighting, are noticeable but acceptable at this price.

Compared to similar options like the ASUS Vivobook, the Aspire Go 15 stands out with its expandable storage and lightweight design. While its display isn’t quite on par with the Lenovo IdeaPad, it’s a great choice for students and home users looking for an affordable Windows laptop.

Next, we’ll take a closer look at the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5, a 2-in-1 device offering more flexibility for users on a budget.

4. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021)

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021) continues to be a budget-friendly favorite in 2025, thanks to its 13.3-inch OLED display. This screen offers rich colors and crisp visuals, making it a great choice for both work and entertainment. Weighing only 1.5 pounds, it’s designed for easy portability – perfect for students and professionals who are always on the move.

With a battery life of up to 15 hours, it easily lasts through a full day of use. The detachable keyboard allows you to switch between laptop and tablet modes effortlessly. Powered by the MediaTek Helio P60T, it handles tasks like browsing, document editing, and video streaming without a hitch. Plus, Chrome OS paired with Android app compatibility adds extra versatility, even with the device’s mid-range hardware.

One downside is its limited connectivity, offering just a single USB-C port. The 128GB eMMC storage works well for those who rely on cloud-based solutions. While it may not match the power of some competitors, its stunning display, long battery life, and lightweight design make it a great pick for casual use and media consumption.

Next, we’ll take a look at the Microsoft Surface Go, another compact device with its own set of features.

5. Microsoft Surface Go

The Microsoft Surface Go is a lightweight and portable option in the budget laptop category, weighing just 1.15 pounds. Despite its sleek design and quality build, it remains affordable, priced under $500. Its 10-inch PixelSense touchscreen display delivers a sharp 1800 x 1200 resolution, making it suitable for work tasks and streaming videos.

Powered by the Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor and running Windows 11 in S mode, the Surface Go handles everyday tasks like browsing, email, and document editing with ease. Its compact size offers a full Windows desktop experience in a portable package.

The device provides up to 9 hours of battery life, and the fast-charging feature (80% in an hour) makes it convenient for users on the go. Additional features include a microSD card slot for extra storage and a headphone jack for easy audio access.

“The Surface Go is a great little device for anyone who wants a portable, flexible Windows tablet that can also serve as a laptop”, says Tom Warren, Senior Editor at The Verge.

Starting at $399, the base model is a good entry point, but adding the Surface Type Cover and Pen (sold separately) turns it into a 2-in-1 device, perfect for both work and play. Its seamless integration with Office 365 and OneDrive makes it especially appealing for those already using Microsoft services.

Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, a USB-C port, and a microSD card slot for additional storage.

If you’re looking for a Chromebook alternative, the HP Chromebook 14 is another option worth considering.

6. HP Chromebook 14

The HP Chromebook 14 is a lightweight laptop, weighing just 3 pounds, making it a great option for students and remote workers. Its 14-inch screen comes in HD or Full HD, offering decent visuals for tasks like browsing and editing documents, though the brightness might not impress.

The battery lasts between 10-12 hours, keeping you powered throughout the day. It also offers a variety of connectivity options, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 5/6, ensuring reliable internet access and peripheral compatibility.

Powered by an Intel Celeron or Pentium processor and paired with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, this Chromebook handles basic tasks smoothly. Running on Chrome OS, it’s perfect for using Google apps and web-based tools, making it a practical choice for education and home use.

“The HP Chromebook 14 offers competitive value for money compared to other Chromebooks in its price range, offering balanced performance and portability”, says Tom’s Guide.

While the display and webcam are fairly basic, its long battery life and lightweight design make it a dependable pick for budget-conscious buyers. If you’re after a 2-in-1 option, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 might be worth exploring for added flexibility.

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7. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a budget-friendly 2-in-1 device that easily switches between a tablet and a laptop, thanks to its detachable keyboard. Weighing just 1.04 pounds, it’s designed for portability without sacrificing functionality.

The 10.9-inch touchscreen offers clear visuals and comfortable viewing angles, making it suitable for both work and entertainment. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, whether you’re commuting or lounging at home.

Powered by the MediaTek Helio P60T processor and 4GB of RAM, the device handles everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and basic document editing with ease. However, it’s not built for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.

Battery life is another highlight, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. With USB-C charging, recharging is quick and convenient. It also supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring stable wireless connectivity for most needs.

“The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3’s compact design, decent performance, and good battery life make it a compelling choice for users seeking a portable Chrome OS device”, says Rtings ^[1].

This Chromebook excels in versatility, functioning as a tablet for casual browsing and as a laptop for typing tasks. Chrome OS ensures smooth integration with Google’s apps and services, boosting productivity.

That said, the smaller screen and limited multitasking capabilities might not suit everyone. If you need a larger display or more powerful performance, you might want to explore other options. But for those prioritizing portability and value, the Chromebook Duet 3 is a strong contender at around $299.

For a more traditional laptop option, consider the Dell Inspiron 15 3000, another budget-friendly alternative worth checking out.

8. Dell Inspiron 15 3000

The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a budget-friendly Windows laptop that handles everyday tasks with ease. Powered by an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it’s a solid choice for those who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.

The 15.6-inch Full HD screen delivers sharp visuals, although its brightness might feel lacking in well-lit environments. An anti-glare coating helps reduce eye strain, making long work sessions more comfortable. Weighing just 3.75 pounds, it’s portable enough for daily use, and the full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad is a handy addition for those working with numbers.

Connectivity is another strong point, with USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports to support various peripherals and external displays. The build quality is sturdy, especially for its price, offering durability without feeling cheap.

The battery provides 7-8 hours of life under moderate use, enough for a typical work or school day. While it handles basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video streaming efficiently, it does have some limitations. The screen’s brightness could be better, and features like biometric authentication are missing.

“The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 provides a good balance of performance, display quality, and portability at an affordable price, which is in line with user expectations for budget laptops in 2025”, notes Dell’s product documentation.

For users needing more flexibility, the laptop supports RAM and storage upgrades, extending its usability. If you’re open to exploring Chrome OS, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 offers an alternative with a different operating system and feature set.

9. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 brings a high-quality QLED display to the budget laptop category. Starting at $449, it offers an appealing mix of premium features and affordability, making it a strong contender under $500.

The 13.3-inch QLED touchscreen offers 100% sRGB coverage, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals – features not typically found at this price point. At just 2.71 pounds and 0.55 inches thick, it’s easy to carry, making it perfect for students and professionals alike. The aluminum chassis adds a polished, high-end feel.

Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, it handles multitasking on Chrome OS with ease. While the 128GB eMMC storage isn’t the fastest, it’s sufficient for everyday files and apps.

“The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a great option for anyone looking for a Chromebook with a high-quality display and long battery life”, says Tom’s Guide in their 2023 review.

It features two USB-C ports for charging and external displays. The 720p webcam performs adequately for video calls, though it struggles in dim lighting. With up to 13 hours of battery life, it can easily last through a full day, and USB-C fast charging is a handy bonus for quick refuels.

The stunning display enhances the experience of Android apps, making the device more versatile than many Chromebooks. For those interested in gaming, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is another option worth considering.

10. Acer Chromebook 516 GE

The Acer Chromebook 516 GE is a standout option in the budget laptop category, offering impressive performance and a solid set of features. It’s powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 processor and comes with up to 16GB of RAM, making it a great choice for multitasking that goes beyond what you’d typically expect at this price.

The 16-inch QHD+ display is a highlight, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness. It delivers sharp, vibrant visuals and smooth performance, great for streaming and light creative work. Thanks to its 100% sRGB color accuracy, the screen enhances everything from movies to basic design tasks. Plus, the device can handle demanding workloads with ease, making it suitable for both productivity and entertainment.

With a battery life of up to 10 hours, this Chromebook is built to last through long workdays. Its connectivity options include USB-C, HDMI, and an Ethernet port, offering flexibility for peripherals and external displays. Wi-Fi 6E ensures quick and reliable internet speeds, which is especially handy for cloud-based apps and workflows.

This Chromebook is a solid pick for students, remote workers, and even casual gamers. Its port selection includes multiple USB options and an HDMI output, making it easy to connect to external monitors or other devices.

“The Acer Chromebook 516 GE offers premium features like a high-refresh-rate display and strong performance, making it a standout in its price range” ^[6][1].

Now that we’ve covered the top 10 budget laptops, let’s compare their features side by side.

Comparison Table of Key Features

Here’s a detailed comparison of the top 10 budget laptops under $500. This table breaks down the features that matter most, helping you choose the right laptop for your needs.

Each laptop shines in different areas. For example, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i stands out with its bright display and advanced Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. If screen quality is your top priority, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE and Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 deliver excellent visuals with their high-end displays.

This breakdown highlights the key features to consider when narrowing down your options.

Conclusion

Budget laptops in 2025 pack solid performance into devices priced under $500, catering to a wide range of users. From the ASUS Vivobook 16 M1605 with its AMD Ryzen processors to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 featuring a vibrant OLED screen, these laptops show that affordable options can still deliver impressive specs. Features like Wi-Fi 6E in the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i and the gaming-ready Acer Chromebook 516 GE demonstrate how low-cost laptops are keeping up with modern needs.

When choosing the right budget laptop, keep these factors in mind:

• Performance: Match the processor and RAM to your daily tasks.
• Battery life: Options range from 7–8 hours (Acer Aspire Go 15) to up to 13 hours (Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i) ^[5].
• Display quality: Options include basic HD screens, OLED, or QLED panels for better visuals.
• Storage: Choose between 64GB to 512GB, depending on your needs.
• Form factor: Decide between traditional laptops, 2-in-1s, or detachable designs.

For students, Chromebooks like the Lenovo Duet 5 or HP Chromebook 14 offer portability and long battery life. On the other hand, Windows laptops with stronger processors are great for remote workers or multitaskers. Whether you’re tackling productivity tasks, streaming videos, or doing light gaming, these laptops can handle most everyday needs with ease.

If you’re planning for long-term use, investing in extra RAM or storage now can save you from upgrading later. With this information, you’re equipped to find a budget laptop that fits your needs without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Can you buy a good laptop for $500?

Yes, you can find decent laptops under $500 in 2025 that handle everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and streaming without issues. Although there are some compromises, these devices are well-suited for most users’ basic needs ^{[1] [2]}.

Here’s what you can generally expect from modern budget laptops:

• Processors designed for basic productivity
• 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking
• Full HD (1080p) displays
• Battery life between 7 and 13 hours
• Features like Wi-Fi 6E for better connectivity ^{[1] [2]}

For instance, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook is known for its reliable performance with everyday tasks, proving that budget laptops can deliver solid results ^[4].

“Budget laptops under $500 are suitable for general productivity tasks like work, study, web browsing, and casual use. They can also be used for light multimedia consumption, such as watching videos and streaming music.” ^{[1] [2] [3]}

When shopping for a budget laptop, think about the operating system that works best for you – Windows for broader software compatibility or Chrome OS for simplicity. Prioritize models with upgradeable RAM or storage for future-proofing, and stick to trusted brands like ASUS, Lenovo, and Acer for better reliability ^{[1] [2] [3]}.

While you won’t find high-end features like dedicated graphics or ultra-bright screens, budget laptops today offer great value for everyday tasks. The key is to match the trade-offs with your specific needs and preferences.

To help you decide, use the comparison table to weigh the standout features of top budget laptops and find the right fit.