As a staple in households worldwide, laptops have become essential tools for everyday use, be it for work, school, or entertainment purposes.
Among the numerous laptop brands available in the market, HP has established itself as a reliable and trusted manufacturer, offering a wide range of devices catering to various needs and budget constraints.
For those who seek to find the perfect balance between affordability and performance, HP laptops under $500 are an ideal pick.
In this technologically advanced era, laptop users have specific requirements that need to be addressed when choosing the right device. HP understands these needs and, therefore, provides a diverse selection of laptops that cater to every taste. But, finding the best HP laptop under $500 can be a challenging task, considering the countless options at your disposal.
When selecting an HP laptop, it’s vital to consider crucial factors such as processor speed, storage capacity, RAM, graphics, battery life, and screen size, among others. These factors will ultimately impact your overall user experience and determine whether the laptop will serve your intended purpose efficiently. It is essential to thoroughly analyze the components and features you require, as they vary significantly across HP’s vast product range.
I have spent considerable time researching and testing numerous HP laptops to help ease the decision-making process for those seeking a budget-friendly and efficient device. By considering essential factors like performance, portability, and battery life, I have narrowed down the top contenders in the HP laptop category below $500. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list to find the device that suits your needs the best.
10 Best HP Laptops Under $500
I have curated the top HP laptops available for under $500, providing you with excellent options to consider for your next purchase.
1. HP Newest 14″ Ultralight Laptop
This laptop is a great choice for students and business users looking for an affordable, lightweight, and efficient device.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Long battery life
- Adequate performance for daily tasks
Cons
- Limited storage capacity
- Windows 11 Home in S mode (switchable)
- Not suitable for heavy multitasking or advanced software
When I first used the HP Newest 14″ Ultralight Laptop, I was impressed with its sleek design and how easily I could carry it from one place to another. The 14-inch HD display provides a comfortable viewing experience, which works well for basic tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and working on documents.
The Intel Celeron N4120 processor, along with the 8GB RAM, delivers sufficient performance for daily activities. However, it may not be suitable for heavy multitasking or running advanced software like video editing programs. As a student, I appreciate the long battery life of up to 11 hours, allowing me to work without worrying about charging it constantly during the day.
One of the drawbacks I noticed is the limited storage capacity of 64GB eMMC and 128GB Micro SD. While this might be enough for some users, it could be limiting for those who need extra space. Additionally, the laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode, which restricts some app installations, but this can be switched out of if necessary.
Overall, the HP Newest 14″ Ultralight Laptop is a solid option for anyone looking for an affordable, portable, and efficient device for basic tasks. However, if you require more storage space or advanced computing capabilities, you might want to explore other options.
2. HP Newest Pavilion 15.6″ HD Touchscreen Laptop
This HP Pavilion laptop is a great choice for those seeking a powerful and reliable device under $500.
Pros
- Impressive performance with Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor
- 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD for smooth multitasking and ample storage
- Touchscreen display with anti-glare technology
Cons
- HD resolution (1366 x 768) may not be suitable for some users
- Lacks an optical drive
- Bulky design compared to more recent HP models
I recently got my hands on the HP Newest Pavilion 15.6″ HD Touchscreen Laptop, and I couldn’t be more pleased with its performance. The Intel Core i3 processor, coupled with 16GB of RAM, provides an efficient computing experience, allowing me to switch between multiple applications seamlessly. The 1TB SSD not only offers ample storage for my files but also contributes to a faster boot time and data transfer.
The touchscreen with anti-glare technology really stands out, making it easy for me to browse and interact with my content. However, the HD resolution (1366 x 768) might not be suitable for those who prefer sharper displays for graphic-intensive tasks. Another thing to keep in mind is the lack of an optical drive. While this won’t be an issue for many users relying on digital downloads, it might deter those who still use CDs and DVDs.
When it comes to design, the Pavilion is slightly bulkier compared to some of the more recent HP models, but it’s still easy to carry around. With up to 8 hours and 30 minutes of battery life, I can use it for long periods without constantly searching for an outlet.
In conclusion, the HP Newest Pavilion 15.6″ HD Touchscreen Laptop offers outstanding value for the price, making it an ideal option for those looking for a powerful and reliable device under $500. Despite a few drawbacks, its performance, ample storage, and touchscreen capabilities undoubtedly make it a top contender in the budget HP laptop category.
3. HP 2022 Stream 14″ HD BrightView Laptop
This affordable HP laptop is a great choice for students and light users seeking good performance, portability, and looks.
Pros
- Slim and lightweight design
- Responsive performance
- Comes with Windows 11 and 1-year Office 365
Cons
- Only 64GB SSD storage
- Might need to switch out of Windows S mode
- Limited tech support for bundled software
As someone who has tried multiple laptops throughout the years, the HP 2022 Stream is a pleasant surprise. I find the sleek rose gold design refreshing and fashionable. At just 3.24 pounds, it is comfortable to carry around, making it ideal for students or anyone on the go.
In terms of performance, the Intel Celeron N4120 Processor and 4GB DDR4 RAM ensure smooth multitasking and optimum functionality. The 14-inch HD BrightView display is crisp and vivid, providing an enjoyable experience while watching videos or browsing the web. However, it has a 64GB SSD, which may be limited for users who plan to store a lot of files and applications. It might be necessary to rely on external storage or cloud services.
One aspect I found a little tricky was the laptop coming with Windows 11 S mode. This more restrictive version of Windows only allows users to install apps from the Microsoft Store. Thankfully, switching out of S mode is a simple process, and the seller provides clear instructions on how to do so. The laptop also includes a 1-year subscription to Office 365, but activating it may require additional assistance.
Overall, the HP 2022 Stream is an impressive budget-friendly laptop with stylish looks and decent performance. It is suitable for light users who need a functional machine for everyday tasks, such as browsing the internet, creating documents, or watching videos. For those needing more storage space or advanced features, they may need to explore other options in the market.
4. HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6″ HD Touchscreen, Intel I3, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD
This HP laptop delivers reliable performance and a sleek design at an affordable price, making it well worth considering.
Pros
- Impressive 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD
- Touchscreen display for added convenience
- Lightweight design at just 3.75lbs
Cons
- Screen resolution is limited to 1366×768
- The keyboard may feel slightly cramped for some
- Lacks a dedicated graphics card
Upon unboxing my new HP Notebook, I was struck by its sleek, silver appearance and lightweight construction. Setting it up was a breeze, and I was quickly immersed in its responsive performance, thanks to the Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and upgraded 32GB DDR4 RAM. Multi-tasking was a no-brainer with the ample memory size and speedy SSD.
I genuinely enjoyed the 15.6” touchscreen display, which provided a whole new level of convenience and interaction with my device. Despite the somewhat lower resolution at 1366×768, the screen’s brightness and color accuracy made up for it.
However, as an avid writer, I noticed that the keyboard felt a bit cramped, taking some time to get used to it. Additionally, while the integrated Intel UHD Graphics were suitable for everyday tasks, the laptop’s gaming capabilities might be limited due to the lack of a dedicated graphics card.
In conclusion, the HP Notebook Laptop is an excellent choice for those in search of an affordable device with solid performance, ample storage, and the added convenience of a touchscreen. Just be aware of its limited gaming capacity and slightly cramped keyboard design.
5. HP Elitebook 840 G5 Laptop (Renewed)
The HP Elitebook 840 G5 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance laptop under $500.
Pros
- Powerful Intel Core i7 processor
- 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD for fast performance
- Crisp 14″ Full HD display
Cons
- Possible overheating during long usage
- Some function hotkeys may need BIOS update
- Thick screen border
I recently had the opportunity to use the HP Elitebook 840 G5, and I must say, its performance was impressive for a laptop under $500. The Intel Core i7 processor, combined with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, made multitasking a breeze and allowed me to work on various tasks without any slowdowns.
The 14-inch Full HD display provided crisp and clear visuals, which made it enjoyable to watch videos and work on documents. However, the thick screen border does take away from the overall look of the laptop, but it doesn’t affect functionality.
One downside I experienced was that I noticed the laptop getting warm after extended periods of use. This could be an issue for some users if they plan on using this laptop for long sessions. Additionally, a few of the function hotkeys did not work initially; I had to update the laptop’s BIOS to get them working correctly.
In conclusion, the HP Elitebook 840 G5 (Renewed) is a great option for those looking for a powerful, affordable laptop. Its combination of performance, display quality, and overall functionality make it a worthwhile choice for anyone on a budget. However, be prepared to potentially deal with some overheating issues and necessary updates to achieve optimal performance.
6. HP Stream Laptop, 14″ HD Display, Intel Celeron N4120 Processor
The HP Stream Laptop is a decent option for those seeking a budget-friendly laptop for basic tasks and light usage.
Pros
- Good performance with Intel Celeron N4120 Processor
- Ample storage space (320GB)
- Comes with 1-Year Office 365 subscription
Cons
- No SD card slot
- Limited display quality (1366 x 768 resolution)
- Some users reported missing advertised features (e.g. touchscreen)
HP Stream Laptop, 14″ HD Display, Intel Celeron N4120 Processor
I recently had the chance to use the HP Stream Laptop, and I noticed that this laptop is a great choice for users who need a budget-friendly option for basic computer needs, like browsing the web, working on office documents, and light entertainment. The Intel Celeron N4120 Processor, combined with 16GB of RAM, makes it run smoothly while handling multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously.
The storage is a significant plus point, with 320GB (64GB eMMC + 256GB Card) offering room for your files and essential software installation. Additionally, it comes with a 1-Year Office 365 subscription, which is a handy addition for students and professionals alike.
However, this laptop does have a few drawbacks, such as the absence of an SD card slot, which might be an inconvenience for some users. The display quality, while being HD with a 1366 x 768 resolution, isn’t impressive compared to other options in the market. A few users also mentioned missing features advertised, like the touchscreen capability, which may lead to disappointment for those expecting it.
In conclusion, if you are looking for an affordable HP laptop under 500 dollars and don’t require top-notch features or an excellent display, the HP Stream Laptop could be an option to consider. It’s suitable for light usage, such as browsing, document editing, and video streaming. However, bear in mind the mentioned shortcomings and manage your expectations accordingly.
7. HP 2022 15.6″ HD BrightView Laptop
This HP laptop is a suitable choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with balanced performance.
Pros
- Fast boot-up times with 256GB PCIe SSD
- Adequate RAM for smooth multitasking (8GB DDR4)
- Energy-efficient 15.6″ HD display
Cons
- Average processor (Intel Pentium Silver N5030)
- Limited graphics capability (Intel HD Graphics 605)
- No backlit keyboard
I recently used the HP 2022 15.6″ HD BrightView Laptop, and my experience with it was mostly positive. The laptop boots up quickly, thanks to its 256GB PCIe SSD. As someone who runs multiple applications simultaneously, I found the 8GB DDR4 RAM to provide a smooth multitasking experience without noticeable lag.
The 15.6″ HD display delivers clear visuals with decent color reproduction, and its energy-efficient LED screen is easy on the eyes during extended use. However, this laptop’s Intel Pentium Silver N5030 processor, while capable of handling daily tasks, might struggle with more resource-intensive applications.
Another drawback I noticed is the lack of a backlit keyboard, which can be challenging when working in dimly lit environments. The limited graphics capability, with the Intel HD Graphics 605, may not be suitable for heavy gaming or graphics-intensive tasks. Nonetheless, for its price, the laptop offers reasonable performance.
In summary, the HP 2022 15.6″ HD BrightView Laptop is a viable option for someone looking for an affordable HP laptop, primarily for everyday tasks. However, if you need a device for gaming or more demanding applications, you may have to consider investing in a laptop with a more powerful processor and graphics card.
8. HP Newest Flagship 15.6 HD Pavilion Laptop
This HP laptop is an excellent choice under $500, offering great performance, storage, and a solid user experience.
Pros
- Powerful Intel Pentium Silver N5030 with 4 cores
- 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD for smooth performance and ample storage
- Full-size keyboard and various I/O ports
Cons
- Display resolution limited to 1366 x 768
- Not suitable for heavy graphics applications
- Windows 11 Home in S mode, requiring a switch for non-Microsoft Store apps
After using this HP laptop, I found it to be quite efficient for everyday tasks. The Intel Pentium Silver N5030 processor with 4 cores ensures smooth performance, while the 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB SSD make multitasking and storing files a breeze.
The display is decent, but the limitation to 1366 x 768 resolution might not be ideal for those who need a higher resolution for work or entertainment purposes. Also, the Intel UHD Graphics 605 is not suitable for heavy gaming or graphic applications.
In terms of design, I appreciate the full-size keyboard, which allows for comfortable typing. Moreover, the assortment of I/O ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and RJ45, offers excellent connectivity options.
One thing to note is that this laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode, which means you’ll need to switch out of S mode if you want to install non-Microsoft Store apps. The instructions provided in the description make the process easier.
In conclusion, the HP Newest Flagship 15.6 HD Pavilion Laptop is a solid choice for students and home users under $500. Its performance, storage, and overall user experience make it a good option for everyday use. However, if you require a higher-resolution display or plan to use it for heavy gaming and graphic applications, you might want to consider other alternatives.
9. HP 14 Laptop Snowflake White
The HP 14 Laptop is a budget-friendly, sleek option for users who need a reliable device for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Impressive battery life with fast charge
- One-year Microsoft 365 subscription included
Cons
- Limited to 4 GB RAM
- 64 GB storage may not be sufficient for some users
- Windows 11 Home in S mode may be limiting for some applications
As someone who uses a laptop on the go, I appreciate the thin and lightweight design of the HP 14 Laptop. The 14-inch micro-edge HD display is a pleasant surprise, offering a 79% screen-to-body ratio and sharp visuals.
Powered by the dual-core Intel Celeron N4020 processor, this device can handle multitasking with ease. I didn’t experience any lag or slowdowns with my daily tasks, although the 4 GB RAM may be a constraint for those who need more memory.
Another notable feature is the 11 hours and 30 minutes of battery life, which means I can work or stream content without constantly worrying about charging my laptop. The added bonus of HP Fast Charge technology, going from 0 to 50% in approximately 45 minutes, is a time-saving convenience.
Although the 64 GB eMMC storage is adequate for light users, it might prove insufficient for those needing to store more files, photos, or videos. However, it’s worth mentioning that with the included one-year subscription to Microsoft 365, cloud storage options are readily available.
The HP 14 Laptop operates on Windows 11 Home in S mode, which boasts increased security and fast boot times. However, this mode restricts the use of apps and features found outside the Microsoft Store, which might be limiting for some users.
Overall, I recommend the HP 14 Laptop in Snowflake White to anyone who requires a budget-friendly, portable device for their everyday computing needs.
10. Newest HP 14″ HD Laptop
I recommend this HP laptop for budget-conscious shoppers who need a basic and reliable laptop for daily tasks.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Smooth performance for everyday tasks
- Compact and stylish design
Cons
- Limited storage capacity
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- No touch screen or backlit keyboard
I recently had the opportunity to test the Newest HP 14″ HD Laptop, and I have to say it’s an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option. This laptop is not only affordable, but it also offers all the basic features needed for day-to-day work, such as email, browsing, and Word documents.
The laptop’s performance is quite smooth, with the Intel Celeron N dual-core processor delivering a snappy experience for everyday tasks. The 4GB of RAM does a good job of handling multitasking without any hiccups. However, when it comes to storage, the 64GB SSD might leave you wanting more, especially if you plan to store many files, but for most people, it should be enough for light usage.
What really caught my eye was the compact and stylish design. The laptop comes in a unique Dale Pink color, which stands out from the usual laptop designs. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for students or professionals on the go.
While this HP laptop is an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers, it’s essential to recognize its limitations. This laptop is not designed for heavy-duty tasks like video editing or high-end gaming. Furthermore, it lacks a touch screen and a backlit keyboard, which are features many people have come to expect from laptops these days.
Overall, if you’re looking for a basic, reliable, and budget-friendly laptop, the HP 14″ HD Laptop is a great choice. The performance is smooth and satisfactory for everyday tasks, and the design is stylish and portable. Just be aware of its limitations and ensure it meets your requirements before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top HP Laptops Under $500?
In my experience, some of the best HP laptops under $500 include the HP 14 Laptop, HP 15 Laptop, HP Stream Laptop, and HP Chromebook 14. These laptops offer a great balance between performance, build quality and affordability.
Which Affordable HP Laptops Have The Best Performance?
For the best performance in an affordable HP laptop, I recommend looking into the HP 14 and HP 15 models, as they often come with more powerful processors and larger amounts of RAM. Additionally, be sure to check the specific configuration of the laptop, as higher-end specs will result in better performance.
Where Can I Find The Best Deals On HP Laptops Under $500?
To find the best deals on HP laptops under $500, keep an eye on online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy for discounts and sales events. You can also check HP’s official website for special promotions and clearance deals. Additionally, some local stores and student discount programs may offer affordable options.
What Features Should I Consider When Choosing An HP Laptop Under $500?
When choosing an HP laptop under $500, consider the processor, RAM, storage, screen size and resolution, battery life, and overall build quality. You should prioritize features based on your needs, whether that’s productivity, media consumption, mobility, or a mix of everything.
How Do HP Laptops Under $500 Compare To Other Brands?
HP laptops under $500 hold up well against other brands in terms of build quality, features, and performance. While some specific models from other brands might have an edge in certain aspects, HP has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and affordable laptops that cater to a wide range of users and needs.
Are There A Specific HP Series Recommended For Budget Laptops?
Yes, for budget-friendly laptops, I recommend checking out the HP Stream, HP Chromebook, and some configurations of the HP 14 and HP 15 series. These series offer solid performance and value without breaking the bank. Keep in mind that the specific features and performance can vary depending on the model and configuration.