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Under $500 is the toughest budget tier to shop in: you’re choosing between ChromeOS simplicity and the cheapest possible Windows laptops, and corners get cut somewhere. The good news is that a genuinely well-reviewed Chromebook at this price beats a mediocre Windows laptop for most everyday tasks, browsing, streaming, docs, and video calls.
Best Laptops Under $500
| Model | Price | Key Specs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 | ~$399 | Fast boot, long battery life, ChromeOS simplicity | The best all-around pick in this price range |
| Dell 15 Laptop (Intel, entry config) | from ~$400 | Intel Iris Xe graphics, full Windows 11 | Buyers who need Windows-specific software on the tightest budget |
| Asus Chromebook CX15 | ~$159 | Basic web browsing, streaming, email | The absolute lowest-cost option for light, occasional use |
Our pick: the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 offers the best real-world experience under $500, snappy performance, long battery life, and none of the compromises that plague ultra-cheap Windows laptops at this price. If you specifically need Windows software, the entry-level Dell 15 is a reasonable option, just keep expectations modest.
What to Expect at This Price
- Expect 4-8GB RAM and modest CPUs, fine for browsing and documents, frustrating for heavy multitasking.
- ChromeOS laptops tend to feel faster than similarly-priced Windows laptops because the OS is lighter weight.
- If your budget can stretch to $580-700, our under $800 guide has noticeably better options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a $400 laptop worth buying?
Yes, for basic tasks. A well-reviewed Chromebook at this price handles browsing, streaming, and document editing comfortably. Just don’t expect it to handle heavy multitasking or demanding software.
Should I buy a Chromebook or Windows laptop under $500?
A Chromebook, unless you have specific Windows-only software needs. See our Chromebook vs. Windows comparison for a full breakdown.
See our full Best Laptops 2026 hub for more picks across every budget.