With a budget of $500, students can get a very capable laptop perfect for coursework, research, assignments, entertainment and more. Laptops in this range deliver good performance with better build quality, displays, storage, and extra features compared to cheaper models.
10 Best Laptops Under $500 for Students
For students who can spend around $500, here are 10 of the top laptops to consider:
1. Asus Vivobook 15
- 15.6” Full HD Display
- AMD Ryzen 3 3250U Processor (Dual-Core, 2.6 GHz)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD Storage
- AMD Radeon Graphics
- Windows 10 Home
With a 15.6” 1080p display, Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, the Asus Vivobook provides fast performance for work and entertainment. The SSD boosts speed over traditional hard drives. Lightweight at just 3.5 pounds.
2. Acer Aspire 5
- 15.6” Full HD IPS Display
- Intel Core i3-1005G1 (Dual-Core, 1.2 GHz)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- Intel UHD Graphics
- Windows 10 Home
The Aspire 5 from Acer also features a 15.6” 1080p screen powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB RAM. The generous 256GB SSD contributes to the responsiveness. Robust selection of ports include USB Type C.
3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
- 14″ Full HD Display
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U (6 Cores, 2.1 GHz)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- AMD Radeon Graphics
- Windows 10 Home
This Lenovo IdeaPad packs great performance into a slim 14” size with its Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB of speedy SSD storage. The AMD Vega graphics make it capable for light gaming and video editing in addition to everyday usage.
4. Dell Inspiron 15 3000
- 15.6” Full HD Touch Display
- Intel Core i3-1115G4 (Dual-Core, 3.0 GHz)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- Intel UHD Graphics
- Windows 10 Home
Dell’s Inspiron 15 3000 brings a touchscreen display to the mix along with an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB RAM. The generous 256GB SSD enables snappy performance. Strong value option from a reputable brand.
5. Asus Chromebook Flip C434
- 14” Full HD Touch Display
- Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB eMMC Storage
- Chrome OS
This versatile Asus Chromebook Flip has a convertible design with a 14” touchscreen. The crisp 1080p display, Core m3 performance, and aluminum design make it a nicely equipped mid-range Chromebook option.
6. Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook
- 14″ Full HD Touch Display
- Intel Core i3-10110U Processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB eMMC Storage
- Chrome OS
Another 14” convertible Chromebook, the Lenovo Flex 5 packs an Intel Core i3 CPU, great speakers and a bright responsive touchscreen. The ample connectivity including USB-C and microSD card slot make it suitable for students.
7. HP 14” HD Touch Laptop
- 14″ HD Touch Display
- 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- Windows 10 Home
This budget HP laptop provides great value with its Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD powering the 14” HD touchscreen. It handles daily tasks, streaming, and lightweight photo editing. A robust selection of ports enhance connectivity.
8. Asus Zenbook 14
- 14” Full HD Display
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U (6-Core)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- AMD Radeon Graphics
- Windows 10 Pro
On the more premium side, the thin and sleek Asus Zenbook 14 packs impressive specs like an AMD Ryzen 5 CPU, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD into a compact aluminum body ideal for students on the go.
9. Acer Aspire 5 Slim
- 15.6” Full HD IPS Display
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200U (Dual-Core, 2.6 GHz)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- Windows 10 Home
Another great budget option from Acer, the Aspire 5 slim model maximizes portability at just 0.71” thin. Performance remains strong with its Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD powering the 15.6” 1080p screen.
10. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3
- 11.6” HD Touch Display
- MediaTek MT8183 Processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB eMMC Storage
- Chrome OS
The petite 11.6” Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3 convertible runs nimbly with its MediaTek processor, touchscreen display, and ample 64GB storage. The durable build makes this budget 2-in-1 suitable for active student lifestyles.
Conclusion: With a budget around $500, students can get excellent laptops with fast processors, more RAM, SSD storage, nice displays, and great connectivity options. Any of these capable picks will handle daily homework and entertainment needs while delivering good portability.