Finding a reliable laptop for less than $500 can be challenging amid the flood of mediocre choices available online.
Prioritize models featuring a 1080p display and a minimum of 8GB RAM to ensure smooth operation and enhanced video quality. While advanced features may be absent at this price range, these selections focus on essential functionality.
These recommendations demonstrate that inexpensive laptops can deliver solid performance without major shortcomings.
PCWorld earns confidence in its laptop evaluations and purchasing guidance through decades of specialization. Established in 1983, the publication annually assesses over 70 laptops, with each recommendation undergoing hands-on testing by specialists using performance metrics and thorough usability checks. Coverage spans all budget levels to assist in matching devices to financial constraints.
For optimal value in a sub-$500 laptop, consider the Acer Aspire Go 15 (2025), which offers a large 1080p IPS panel and capable handling of routine tasks. Its Intel Core i3-N355 processor suits streaming, internet surfing, and light productivity or educational applications, though it avoids demanding workloads.
The typing experience on this model is comfortable, with approximately 1.5mm of key travel as noted in evaluations. Connectivity includes two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI outlet, a headphone/microphone combo port, and a Kensington security slot. During tests, it achieved nearly seven hours of runtime, sufficient for a typical workday.
Though lacking in visual appeal, this device outperforms many peers in its category for fundamental operations at the budget price.
For an economical option that manages core activities without strain, the Asus Chromebook CX15 excels in online navigation, media playback, and messaging. Its 15.6-inch 1080p screen and standard keyboard contribute to a more premium feel than expected for the cost.
Equipped with an Intel Celeron N4500 processor and 4GB RAM, it performs adequately for simple tasks like browsing, video watching, and email management, but may slow under heavy multitasking. Endurance reaches slightly more than 10 hours per charge, supporting a full day's usage reliably.
Suitable for users avoiding resource-intensive software like photo editing or high-end gaming, the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 delivers efficient operation. The Intel Core i5 processor paired with 8GB RAM maintains speed during multitasking, such as managing multiple browser tabs alongside video conferencing.
Weighing lightly with a sleek white exterior, it features a 1080p screen for comfortable viewing and a full HD camera that enhances clarity in virtual meetings on platforms like Zoom or Google Meet, free from distortion or delays.
This model emphasizes straightforward reliability, with quick startup, consistent responsiveness, and quiet, cool operation. Advances in Chrome OS make it particularly suitable for browser-centric workflows.
Additional options examined include the Acer Aspire Go 15 for its extended battery duration and quality 1080p display within the $500 limit. The Acer Chromebook Spin 312 serves as a compact convertible ideal for light browsing and media but lacks high speed. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i provides a 16-inch screen, metal construction, and ample specifications relative to cost. The Asus Chromebook Plus CX14 surpasses Celeron-based rivals and is available at Walmart for $299.99 during promotions.
Windows laptops receive comprehensive evaluations from PCWorld, involving GPU and CPU benchmarks, endurance assessments, and practical usability trials to identify limits and enable comparisons. Chromebooks undergo web-oriented performance examinations.
Explore detailed insights into PCWorld's laptop testing processes for further understanding.
As Ashley Biancuzzo, I manage laptop and Chromebook content at PCWorld. Occasionally reviewing Chromebooks myself, I also track evolving consumer technology landscapes, including AI integrations, eco-friendly materials, and enduring market shifts. Outside work, I enjoy video games, reading novels, and spending time with my adopted greyhound, Allen.
The key decision between a simple Chromebook and a feature-rich Windows machine under $500 hinges on personal habits and expectations. Powerhouses are unrealistic at this budget, yet viable choices exist for everyday requirements.
Chromebooks stand out for affordability and superior battery performance; I rely on one for professional writing and revisions, where it proves sufficient. For frequent travelers, opt for devices under three pounds for portability. If undecided, review the following concise purchasing guidance.
Seeking a straightforward sub-$500 laptop for routine use? The Acer Aspire Go 15 delivers consistent performance, a clear 1080p display, up to nearly 12 hours of battery, and an ergonomic keyboard, all below $300.
For a dependable Chromebook in the same range, the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 offers quick handling of tabs and calls, a vibrant 1080p panel, and a capable HD camera, ensuring uncomplicated dependability.
Typically, sub-$500 laptops have non-upgradable RAM due to onboard soldering, though certain models allow storage expansions or replacements—verify this aspect if relevant prior to purchase.
The term 'laptop' commonly refers to Windows PCs or Macs, but Chromebooks qualify as laptops running Google's Chrome OS rather than Windows or macOS. Tailored for Google services like Drive and Docs, they perform optimally with internet access.
Budget laptops generally fall short for serious gaming; consider Windows models or cloud-gaming Chromebooks, which cost more than entry-level versions. Standard Chromebooks support browser-based games and Android titles adequately, but advanced play requires subscriptions to services like GeForce Now alongside stable connectivity.
Certain recent processors with built-in graphics handle contemporary PC titles at reasonable resolutions. Testing revealed Intel's Iris Xe graphics enabling 1080p gameplay at 30 frames per second for select recent releases, though outcomes differ significantly with outdated components.
Recent advancements in Intel and AMD integrated graphics have substantially improved gaming capabilities, allowing budget or slim devices to support play without dedicated hardware concerns.