Laptops are among the most portable computers available, and budget laptops that stand out are thin, lightweight, and designed with style in mind.
Once upon a time, it would have been unimaginable to purchase a laptop for $500 that offered fast processors, plenty of memory and an SSD storage drive without suffering from low resolution screens and unresponsive keyboards. Today though, they exist.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5
The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 represents an enormous step up from its predecessor with a stunning 13.3-inch OLED screen, enhanced Qualcomm processor, and extended battery life. Unfortunately, however, it lacks mobile broadband connectivity or biometric features and a headphone jack is absent – all major drawbacks.
Overall, the Duet 5 is an outstanding option for professionals looking to complete some serious work on the go. Its eye-catching OLED display stands out, while its healthy 11-hour battery life impresses. Plus, fast connectivity and solid performance all at an attractive price are hallmarks of quality performance.
However, its narrow aspect ratio may feel confining if used all day as a tablet and it lacks features such as headphone jack and expandable storage.
2. Acer Aspire 5
This laptop may not be the slickest or most stylish machine available, but it does an admirable job of meeting its price point. Boasting solid construction, 1080p display resolution and light travel weight capabilities; this budget option stands up well against competitors.
Tiger Lake processor provides enough speed for basic tasks and the large screen makes videoconferencing enjoyable. Furthermore, this laptop features a standard USB-C port for fast data transfer as well as the option of connecting an external monitor. Unfortunately it also comes equipped with some unnecessary bloatware like Norton popups and notifications which must be disabled if you wish to work uninterruptedly.
The only real drawback is its relatively modest touchpad, which may prove frustrating when using multi-touch gestures in Windows. Furthermore, there’s no backlight.
3. Dell Inspiron 14
Though Dell Inspiron may conjure images of dull plastic work machines, this model stands out with a sleek design and outstanding performance that make it the ideal solution for students and professionals looking to speed through workflows. At an economical price point, this Dell Inspiron provides great value.
The Inspiron 14’s 10th-generation processor and 16GB of RAM offer enough muscle for complex programs like Photoshop and InDesign, but you may experience occasional stutters when running multiple apps at the same time. Battery life was excellent–we tested its video looping performance with no endpoint before concluding our review.
The Inspiron 14 is not packed with ports, but does provide two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connections and an HDMI port supporting video output of 1,920-by-1,080 resolution. Furthermore, there’s a 3.5mm headset jack and SD card slot.
4. HP Chromebook 14b-nb0010nr
This HP Chromebook boasts an attractive and modern design that’s sure to grab kids and teachers alike. The textured plastic lid features an eye-catching glossy HP logo and has a brushed finish to prevent scratches and fingerprints, opening it reveals an appealing white keyboard deck with display bezels for years of reliable service.
This AMD-powered laptop easily handles web browsing and basic Android apps, but may struggle when trying to simultaneously run multiple Chrome tabs and a video. Furthermore, its processor struggles with more challenging games like Alto’s Odyssey or Super Mario Run.
Relentlessly sail through your day and enhance your entertainment with this trustworthy PC. 8GB of RAM ensures seamless multitasking while 128GB SSD storage provides ample space for files. Watch movies in HD with this ENERGY STAR(r) and EPEAT silver registered laptop featuring an anti-glare touchscreen!
5. Lenovo Flex 5i
The Lenovo Flex 5i convertible laptop offers exceptional value for its price point. Equipped with 13th generation Intel processors that are powerful enough to manage most general tasks and an expansive color touch screen. In addition, this premium device boasts an ergonomic keyboard and stylish exterior design.
This laptop is thin and lightweight, making it convenient to carry around. The display offers ample brightness for multitasking purposes while its keyboard and touchpad provide comfort during use. Furthermore, an active pen for inking comes included with each purchase.
The Lenovo Flex 5i laptop is an excellent option for students thanks to its affordable price and great performance. Equipped with 13th generation Intel processors and integrated graphics capable of handling most school workloads, its battery lasts approximately eight hours on a charge while its ergonomic keyboard offers superior comfort – not forgetting its impressive selection of ports including Thunderbolt 4. Available in Arctic Grey or Abyss Blue colors for easy selection.
