Searching for the ideal laptop? Keeping track of the latest technology can be overwhelming, but fear not! Our team of experts has tested and rated the top 7 laptops. Their recommendations factor in brand reputation, performance, cost, and special features, helping you to choose the perfect fit.
Before you make your decision, our experts have compiled essential factors to consider when buying your new laptop. Let's delve into the world of laptops and find your perfect match.
Our Top Picks
Explore our experts' top 7 laptops under $500 and what makes them the best.
Best Overall
Best For Work & Play
Best For Business
Best Versatile
Best Under $200
Best For College Students
Check Price
Best Apple MacBook Laptop
What To Look For When Shopping For A Laptop
When buying a new laptop, here are several factors you should consider to ensure you get the best fit for your needs:
- Screen Size: Choose a suitable screen size (e.g., 13-inch, 15-inch) and resolution (e.g., Full HD, 4K) that complements your work, study, gaming or entertainment needs.
- Operating system: Decide between Windows 11, ChromeOS, or macOS based on your familiarity and the software you'll be using. Each OS has its strengths and limitations.
- Battery life: Opt for a laptop with good battery life to ensure productivity and entertainment on the go without constantly needing to charge.
- Storage/Memory: Choose sufficient storage capacity (HDD or SSD) for your files, applications, and multimedia. Higher RAM (memory) ensures smooth multitasking and better performance.
- Connectivity: Check the number and type of ports available, such as USB, HDMI, and Thunderbolt, to ensure compatibility with your peripherals and accessories.
- Processor: Select a processor that matches your usage demands. Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors offer various performance levels for different needs.
- Weight/Portability: Consider the laptop's weight if you'll be carrying it frequently, especially if you're a student or a professional on the go.
- Graphics: For gaming or graphic-intensive work, look for laptops with dedicated graphics cards for better performance.
- Webcam: Evaluate the quality and placement of the built-in webcam, especially if you'll be attending online meetings or video conferencing regularly.
- Special features: Look for additional features like touchscreens, 2-in-1 convertible designs (laptop/tablet mode), backlit keyboards, and fingerprint sensors for added convenience.
Best Overall
Specifications:
- Display: 1366 x 768 pixels
- Operating system: Chrome OS
- Battery life: 14 hours
- Ram: 4 GB DDR4
- Weight: 3.24 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
The HP Chromebook 14 Laptop is a versatile powerhouse for home, work, school, and anything in between. With an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, HD display, and long-lasting battery, it's perfect for any task or entertainment binge.
The portable design and lightweight build make it easy to carry anywhere. Smoothly stream 4K content and play games with Intel UHD Graphics 600. With 4 GB RAM and 64 GB eMMC storage, it's the best overall laptop, offering performance, convenience, and value.
Best For Work & Play
Specifications:
- Display: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Ram: 8 GB DDR4
- Operating system: Windows 11
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Weight: 5.04 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
The HP 15.6 inch Laptop PC, with Intel Core i3-1215U, 8 GB RAM, and 128 GB SSD, is the ultimate choice for work and play. Its long-lasting battery and thin design ensure productivity on the go.
You can enjoy vibrant visuals on the micro-edge bezel Full HD IPS screen powered by Intel UHD Graphics. With reliable performance, plenty of storage, and fast SSD, multitasking becomes simple. This laptop's Wi-Fi 6 connection enhances streaming experiences for entertainment wherever you are.
Best For Business
Specifications:
- Display: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Operating system: Windows 11
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Ram: 12 GB DDR4
- Weight: 3.72 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
Experience seamless performance with the SGIN 15.6 Inch laptop featuring Intel Celeron N5095 Quad-Core processor and 12GB RAM. Windows 11 pre-installed, ensures smooth multitasking and quick responsiveness.
The laptop's lightweight design coupled with a powerful 38000 mWh battery, offers up to 8 hours of on-the-go productivity. With a vibrant 1920x1080 Full HD IPS screen and versatile connectivity options, it's perfect for business tasks.
Best Versatile
Specifications:
- Display: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Operating system: Windows 11
- Battery life: 6 hours
- Ram: 6 GB LPDDR4
- Weight: 2.86 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
Get super productive with the Ruzava/Aocwei 14" Windows 10 laptop, featuring an Intel N4020 DUAL-CORE processor for seamless multitasking. The 6GB RAM and 64GB Emmc storage, expandable up to 1TB SSD, offer ample space for documents, photos, and videos.
Its 5000mAh battery ensures extended usage, while dual WiFi and versatile ports provide smooth connectivity. Weighing just 1.30 kilograms, it's portable and adaptable with a 180-degree rotatable 14-inch Full HD screen. Whether for work, study, or entertainment, this laptop's versatility makes it a perfect fit for any need.
Best Under $200
Specifications:
- Display: 1366 x 768 pixels
- Operating system: Windows 11
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Memory Ram 4 GB DDR4
- Weight: 2.31 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
This ASUS Vivobook L210 11.6" ultra-thin laptop is great for beginners or if you're on a budget for both. Its Intel Celeron N4020 Processor and Intel UHD graphics offer unparalleled speed and efficiency for creating and working.
You can enjoy vivid visuals on the 11.6” HD Slim Display. With 128GB eMMC storage and 4GB DDR4 RAM, your files are stored securely. Windows 11 Home in S mode provides advanced security features. Its slim, portable design and versatile ports make it suitable for work, study, and more. it's the best laptop under $200 giving you an edge when you're looking for a laptop on a budget without compromising performance.
Best For College Students
Specifications:
- Display: 1366 x 768 pixels
- Operating system: Windows 11
- Battery life: 7 hours
- Ram: 8 GB DDR4
- Weight: 4.07 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
Get the most out of your college experience with the Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop. Its 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and 8GB RAM ensure seamless multitasking. The 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD offers quick boot-up and data transfers.
Its 15.6" HD touchscreen gives you immersive visuals. Multiple ports, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth provide versatile connectivity. With its powerful performance, this laptop is the perfect one for any college student's academic journey. And it will also be useful during those gaming breaks and binge watching.
Best Apple MacBook Laptop
Specifications:
- Display: 1366 x 768 pixels
- Operating system: OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion
- Battery life: 9 hours
- Ram: 4 GB LPDDR3
- Weight: 2.64 pounds
Highlighted by Our Experts:
Unlock the world of Apple at a budget-friendly cost with the Apple MacBook Air MD711LL/B 11.6-Inch Laptop Renewed. This renewed laptop offers the quintessential Apple experience without straining your budget.
While not Apple-certified, it's meticulously inspected, tested, and cleaned by Amazon's professionals, ensuring excellent condition and over 80% battery capacity. Great for business, studying, and creative work, whatever the purpose - this laptop got you covered.
Our expert-tested guide ensures you're on the right track to finding the perfect laptop for your needs. From work to entertainment, gaming to studying, our recommendations have you covered. Whatever your purpose, you'll be well-prepared!
