The Best Notebooks Below US$500

Even though tablets are all the rage nowadays, some people would opt to buy notebooks instead despite the steep price largely because of hardware difference. With a notebook, users type with an actual keyboard, view the webpages on a larger screen, and can even connect with HDMI without the use of an adapter.

Now, laptop enthusiasts would be delighted to know that the new batch of portable computers can now be bought for prices US$500 and below, thanks to its AMD Fusion E-350 processor that enables to work both as a dual-core processor and graphics chip. And because Fusion does not take much power, these notebooks are assured of a longer battery life compared to its contemporaries.

Laptop Magazine compiled the best notebooks under $500 and here are their top choices. You can read the full reviews on the source link.

HP Pavilion dm1z (pictured) – For only $479, this notebook earns the Editor’s Choice tag for its good graphics performance and long battery life. Users can also rely on its superior sound quality, CoolSense technology, and comfortable keyboard. It has, however, a distracting fan and a slow hard drive.

Acer Aspire AS5253 – This Fusion-powered notebook offers long battery life and good performance despite its low price. It gets high scores for its comfortable keyboard, good-quality webcam, and relatively light weight; while it earns low marks on its lackluster speakers and low-efficient wireless connectivity.


MSI CR650 – Costing $499, this AMD-powered laptop from MSI gets high marks for its strong sound, long battery life, strong graphics performance, and sleek design. However, its lid picks up fingerprints, while it takes a while to boot.

Toshiba Satellite C655D – For $398, users can get a netbook with a larger screen, textured finish, and above average battery life. Its performance though is very much like a netbook, plus its space bar is shorter than usual.