Best Laptops Under $500 2019

Stop throwing your money away! Finding a reliable laptop that doesn't break the bank can feel impossible. But fear not, fellow cost-cutters, because we've scoured the market to bring you the best laptops under $500 of 2019. This guide is designed specifically for budget-conscious individuals who need a functional machine without emptying their wallets.

Why a Budget Laptop Matters

For many, a high-end laptop is simply not an option. A budget laptop provides essential functionality for students, writers, or anyone needing basic computing tasks. Don't let the price tag fool you – these laptops can handle everyday tasks with ease.

The Best Laptops Under $500: Our Top Picks

We've compiled a shortlist of laptops that offer the best bang for your buck in different areas. Our selection caters to various needs, from basic productivity to light gaming.

For the Student: Acer Aspire 5

The Acer Aspire 5 often topped the lists back in 2019. It offered a good balance of performance and portability. Expect to find it with an AMD Ryzen 3 processor or Intel Core i3, and a decent amount of RAM.

For the Writer: HP Stream 14

If all you need is a machine for writing, the HP Stream 14 is a great choice. It's lightweight, affordable, and comes with a comfortable keyboard. However, storage is limited, so relying on cloud storage is recommended.

For Light Gaming: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14

While not a gaming powerhouse, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14 (certain configurations) could handle some older titles or less demanding games. Its 2-in-1 design also adds versatility. Look for models with dedicated graphics if possible.

Detailed Reviews

Acer Aspire 5 Review

The Acer Aspire 5 was a strong contender in the budget laptop space. It typically offered a responsive processor and sufficient RAM for multitasking. Battery life was decent, but not exceptional.

The display quality was generally acceptable for the price, though not the brightest. The build quality was mostly plastic, but it felt reasonably sturdy. This machine was a solid all-around performer for the price.

HP Stream 14 Review

The HP Stream 14 prioritized affordability and portability. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. Performance was adequate for basic tasks like writing and web browsing.

The biggest downside was its limited storage, often relying on eMMC storage. A significant upside was its price point for those who prioritize extreme budget-friendliness.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14 Review

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14 offered versatility with its 2-in-1 design. This allowed it to be used as a laptop or a tablet. Certain configurations with dedicated graphics could handle light gaming, making it more versatile.

Battery life might be shorter than other options. Its overall value lay in its ability to transform between laptop and tablet form factors.

Side-by-Side Specs Table & Performance Scores (Estimated)

Note: Performance scores are approximate and can vary based on specific configurations. Check specific model numbers for accurate specs. These estimates are based on general benchmarks of the CPUs commonly found in these laptops.

Customer Satisfaction Survey Data (Based on 2019 Reviews)

Based on various customer reviews from 2019:

• Acer Aspire 5: Users generally praised its performance for the price and its comfortable keyboard. Common complaints revolved around the display quality.
• HP Stream 14: Users appreciated its portability and low price. The limited storage was a significant drawback for many.
• Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14: Users liked its 2-in-1 functionality. Battery life and the performance of integrated graphics were the primary concerns.

Maintenance Cost Projections

Budget laptops typically have lower maintenance costs than high-end models. The primary potential expense is battery replacement, which might be needed after a few years. General cleaning and occasional software updates are also recommended to keep the laptop running smoothly.

Avoid dropping the laptop, as repairs can be costly. Investing in a protective case can help prevent damage. If a hard drive fails, replacement would be a major cost factor as well.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right laptop under $500 in 2019 required careful consideration of your needs. The Acer Aspire 5 provided a solid all-around performance. The HP Stream 14 was the most budget-friendly and portable option. The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14 offered versatility with its 2-in-1 design.

Consider your primary use case and weigh the pros and cons of each model. Don't sacrifice essential features for a slightly lower price. Always check warranty information and return policies before purchasing.

Take Action!

Ready to find your perfect budget laptop? Head to your favorite online retailer and compare prices and configurations. Read user reviews and watch video reviews to get a better understanding of each model's strengths and weaknesses. Make an informed decision and get the most for your money!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can these laptops handle video editing?

A: Light video editing might be possible on the Acer Aspire 5 or Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 14. However, don't expect professional-level performance. Rendering times will be slow.

Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on these laptops?

A: It depends on the specific model. Some laptops have soldered RAM, meaning it cannot be upgraded. Check the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing. The Acer Aspire 5 often allowed for RAM upgrades.

Q: Is the storage sufficient on the HP Stream 14?

A: The 32GB eMMC storage on the HP Stream 14 is very limited. It is recommended to use cloud storage services extensively or purchase an external hard drive.

Q: What operating system do these laptops come with?

A: Generally, they all came with Windows 10 Home in 2019.

Q: Are these laptops good for online classes?

A: Yes, all of these laptops are suitable for online classes. They can handle video conferencing, document editing, and web browsing.