Best Laptops 2021 Under 700

Finding the perfect laptop can feel like navigating a minefield, especially when budget is a primary concern. This review is designed for value-conscious shoppers seeking the best laptops under $700 in 2021. We will explore models that balance performance, features, and affordability, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Why Choose a Laptop Under $700?
Laptops in this price range provide excellent value for everyday tasks. They are ideal for students, home users, and professionals needing a portable workstation for basic productivity. They offer a sweet spot between functionality and cost.
Shortlist of Top Laptops (Under $700, 2021)
Here’s a quick look at some of the top contenders, catering to different needs:
- For General Use: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5
- For Portability: Acer Aspire 5
- For Chromebook Enthusiasts: HP Chromebook x360 14
- For Gaming (Entry-Level): ASUS VivoBook 15
Detailed Reviews
Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 stands out as a versatile 2-in-1 laptop. It offers a comfortable keyboard, a responsive touchscreen, and decent performance for everyday tasks.
Its flexible design allows for multiple usage modes, including laptop, tablet, tent, and stand. This makes it suitable for various activities, from note-taking to media consumption.
Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 is a solid all-around laptop offering a good balance of performance and features. It typically includes a decent processor, ample RAM, and a comfortable keyboard.
Its slim design makes it easily portable, while its battery life is sufficient for a full workday. It's a great option for students or professionals needing a reliable machine for on-the-go productivity.
HP Chromebook x360 14
For users who primarily work online, the HP Chromebook x360 14 is an excellent choice. Chromebooks are known for their speed, simplicity, and security, relying heavily on cloud-based applications.
The x360's 2-in-1 design adds to its versatility, allowing it to be used as a tablet or laptop. It's a great option for browsing, streaming, and basic productivity tasks.
ASUS VivoBook 15
The ASUS VivoBook 15 often features a dedicated graphics card (though often entry-level), making it capable of handling some light gaming and graphically intensive tasks. It offers a larger screen for enhanced productivity and multimedia consumption.
It's a good option for users who need a laptop for more than just basic tasks but don't want to break the bank. Keep in mind that gaming performance will be limited compared to dedicated gaming laptops.
Side-by-Side Specs Table
Laptop | Processor | RAM | Storage | Graphics | Screen Size | Battery Life (Approx.) | Performance Score (Out of 10) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 | AMD Ryzen 5 4500U | 8GB | 256GB SSD | Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics | 14" | 8 hours | 7.5 |
Acer Aspire 5 | Intel Core i5-1035G1 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | Integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics | 15.6" | 7.5 hours | 7 |
HP Chromebook x360 14 | Intel Core i3-10110U | 8GB | 64GB eMMC | Integrated Intel UHD Graphics | 14" | 10 hours | 6.5 |
ASUS VivoBook 15 | AMD Ryzen 3 3250U | 8GB | 256GB SSD | Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics | 15.6" | 6 hours | 6 |
Note: Performance scores are based on general use, productivity, and light gaming capabilities.
Practical Considerations
Before making a purchase, consider your specific needs and usage scenarios. Think about the software you’ll be using, the type of tasks you’ll be performing, and your portability requirements.
Battery life is crucial if you plan to use your laptop on the go. Storage space is important if you need to store a lot of files locally. Consider the keyboard and trackpad quality for comfortable typing and navigation.
Pay attention to port selection, including USB ports, HDMI, and headphone jack. A webcam is also essential for video conferencing and online meetings.
Summary
Choosing the best laptop under $700 involves carefully balancing performance, features, and price. The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 offers versatility with its 2-in-1 design, while the Acer Aspire 5 provides a solid all-around experience.
The HP Chromebook x360 14 is an excellent choice for cloud-based work, and the ASUS VivoBook 15 can handle some light gaming. Consider your priorities and make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Take Action!
Ready to find your perfect laptop? Browse the recommended models and read user reviews to get a better understanding of each laptop's strengths and weaknesses. Visit your local electronics store to get hands-on experience with the laptops before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Can I play games on a laptop under $700?
- A: Yes, but gaming performance will be limited. Look for laptops with dedicated graphics cards or powerful integrated graphics. Don't expect to play the latest AAA titles at high settings.
- Q: How much RAM do I need?
- A: 8GB of RAM is generally sufficient for most users. If you plan to run multiple programs simultaneously or work with large files, consider 16GB.
- Q: What is the difference between an SSD and an HDD?
- A: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). SSDs offer significantly faster boot times, application loading, and file transfer speeds. Opt for a laptop with an SSD for a smoother and more responsive experience.
- Q: Is a Chromebook right for me?
- A: Chromebooks are a good option if you primarily work online and use cloud-based applications. They are typically more affordable and secure than traditional laptops. But they may not be suitable if you need to run specific desktop software or require offline functionality.
- Q: What does 2-in-1 laptop mean?
- A: 2-in-1 laptops are designed with a flexible hinge or detachable keyboard. This allow users to use the machine as a traditional laptop, or rotate screen to be used as tablet.

















