Finding the perfect laptop can feel like a daunting task, especially when juggling budget constraints. But fear not, tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike, because we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best laptops under $850. Whether you’re a student looking for a reliable machine for coursework, a creative professional needing a portable powerhouse, or just someone seeking a solid device for everyday tasks, this list has something for everyone.
We’ve meticulously reviewed and analyzed a wide range of options, taking into account factors like performance, design, battery life, and overall value. We’ve also considered user feedback and expert opinions to ensure that our picks offer the best possible experience within this budget. Get ready to discover the best laptops under $850 that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
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A Glimpse into the World of Laptops Under $850
Navigating the vast and ever-evolving landscape of laptops can be a daunting task, especially when trying to find the perfect balance between performance, features, and budget. For those seeking a reliable and capable laptop without breaking the bank, the $850 price point presents a sweet spot. This range offers a diverse selection of laptops catering to various needs, from everyday computing and light work to multimedia consumption and casual gaming.
Laptops in this category typically come equipped with Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, offering sufficient processing power for everyday tasks, web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking. Many models also feature 8GB or 12GB of RAM, ensuring smooth and responsive performance even when handling multiple applications. The majority of these laptops utilize integrated graphics, which provide adequate performance for basic visuals and video playback.
While not designed for high-end gaming, some best laptops under $850 feature dedicated graphics cards from AMD or NVIDIA, enabling smoother gaming experiences at lower settings. Additionally, storage options range from traditional hard drives to faster SSDs, impacting performance and storage capacity. Screen sizes typically fall within the 13.3 to 15.6-inch range, with varying display resolutions and touch screen capabilities.
Overall, laptops under $850 are a fantastic option for students, professionals, and casual users who need a reliable and versatile device without sacrificing affordability. They provide a blend of performance, features, and portability, making them ideal for everyday tasks and entertainment. With careful consideration of your individual needs, you can find the perfect laptop within this price range to suit your lifestyle and budget.
5 Best Laptops Under $850
Acer Aspire 5 A515-47-R74Z
The Acer Aspire 5 is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle everyday tasks and light gaming. It features a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, making it capable of handling multitasking, browsing, and streaming with ease. The 15.6-inch Full HD display is bright and vibrant, and the battery life is decent, lasting around 7-8 hours on a single charge.
However, the keyboard could be better, and the build quality feels a bit flimsy. Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 is a solid value for the price, offering a good balance of performance and features for students, casual gamers, and anyone needing a reliable everyday laptop.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14ITL6
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is another excellent choice in this price range, offering a well-rounded experience with a comfortable design and decent performance. Its AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD ensure smooth multitasking and everyday productivity. The 14-inch Full HD display is bright and clear, and the keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions.
While the battery life could be better, lasting around 5-6 hours, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 makes up for it with its light and portable design, making it perfect for students or anyone who needs to carry their laptop around frequently. Its sleek appearance and competitive price point make it a compelling option in this segment.
HP Envy x360 13-ay0000
The HP Envy x360 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that offers both productivity and entertainment in a sleek and compact package. It boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. The 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen display is bright and responsive, and the 360-degree hinge allows for easy switching between laptop and tablet modes.
The HP Envy x360 is also equipped with a long-lasting battery that can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. However, the keyboard can feel a bit cramped for those with large hands. Despite this, the HP Envy x360 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a portable and versatile laptop with a premium design and good performance.
ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA
The ASUS VivoBook 15 is a solid all-around laptop that offers good value for its price. It features an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, providing ample power for everyday tasks and light productivity work. The 15.6-inch Full HD display is bright and clear, and the keyboard is comfortable for typing.
While the battery life is not exceptional, lasting around 6-7 hours, the ASUS VivoBook 15 compensates with its sleek design and lightweight build. It’s a great option for students, casual users, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable laptop for everyday use.
Dell Inspiron 15 3511
The Dell Inspiron 15 is a dependable laptop that delivers a good balance of performance and features at an affordable price. It is equipped with an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, providing smooth multitasking and a responsive user experience. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers good viewing angles and color accuracy.
However, the battery life could be better, lasting around 5-6 hours on a single charge. Despite this, the Dell Inspiron 15 is a solid option for students, casual users, and anyone seeking a reliable and affordable laptop for everyday tasks and light productivity work. It’s also available in a variety of colors to match your personal style.
Why You Should Consider Laptops Under $850
While the allure of high-end laptops with cutting-edge features is undeniable, the reality is that most users can find everything they need in a quality laptop priced under $850. This price point offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for students, professionals, and casual users alike.
Laptops under $850 often feature powerful processors capable of handling everyday tasks with ease, including browsing the web, streaming videos, and working on productivity software. Many models also come equipped with sufficient RAM and storage to support multitasking and ensure smooth performance. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, from those who need a reliable machine for work to those looking for a device for entertainment and light gaming.
Furthermore, these laptops prioritize portability and battery life, making them perfect for students who need to carry their device around campus or professionals who work on the go. You can find sleek and lightweight models that won’t weigh you down, while still offering a comfortable typing experience and a vibrant display.
Choosing from the best laptops under $850 can be a smart decision for anyone who values practicality without breaking the bank. With a wide range of options available, there’s a model out there that can meet the specific needs of every user.
What to Look for in a Laptop Under $850
When choosing a laptop under $850, you have to consider your specific needs and priorities. Do you need a device for work, school, or entertainment? How important is portability? What about battery life? Consider the following key features:
- Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors offer excellent performance for everyday tasks and basic gaming.
- RAM: At least 8GB of RAM is recommended for smooth multitasking.
- Storage: A 256GB SSD is sufficient for most users, while a 512GB SSD provides more storage space.
- Display: A 13.3-inch or 15.6-inch display with a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution is ideal for a crisp and clear viewing experience.
- Battery Life: Aim for a laptop with at least 8 hours of battery life to avoid constantly searching for an outlet.
Best Laptops Under $850 for Work and School
Laptops for work and school need to be reliable and capable of handling demanding tasks. Look for models with a comfortable keyboard, a good trackpad, and a bright display. These are some features that are essential for these tasks:
- Connectivity: Consider laptops with a variety of ports, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and SD card reader.
- Software: Some laptops come pre-loaded with useful software like Microsoft Office, which can save you money in the long run.
- Security: Features like a fingerprint reader or a webcam with a privacy shutter can enhance the security of your device.
Best Laptops Under $850 for Gaming and Entertainment
For gaming and entertainment, you’ll want a laptop with a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and a good display. Consider the following features:
- Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card, like an NVIDIA GeForce MX series or AMD Radeon RX series, is essential for smooth gaming performance.
- Display: A 144Hz or 165Hz refresh rate display provides a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
- Sound: Look for laptops with speakers that deliver quality audio for an immersive entertainment experience.
Best Laptops Under $850: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Machine
Finding the perfect laptop can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. But don’t worry! There are plenty of fantastic laptops available under $850 that can meet your needs without breaking the bank. This buying guide will help you navigate the options and make an informed decision.
1. Purpose: What Will You Be Using Your Laptop For?
The first step is to determine what you’ll be using the laptop for. This will guide your decision on everything from the processor to the display size. Are you primarily using it for work, school, entertainment, or a combination of these? If you’re a student, you’ll likely need a lighter laptop with long battery life. For work, you might prioritize a machine with a larger screen or better performance. Knowing your purpose will help narrow down your choices and ensure you invest in the right features.
2. Processor: Powering Your Performance
The processor, often referred to as the CPU, is the brain of your laptop. It determines how fast your computer can process information and run programs. For everyday tasks like browsing the web, email, and light productivity, a processor like the Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 will be sufficient. However, if you plan on running more demanding applications like video editing, gaming, or graphic design, you’ll need a more powerful processor like an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5.
3. RAM: The Multitasking Muscle
RAM (Random Access Memory) is like your laptop’s short-term memory. It allows your computer to store data it’s currently using, allowing for faster access and smoother multitasking. You’ll want at least 8GB of RAM for a comfortable experience with multiple tabs open, programs running, and general productivity. If you plan on doing more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, consider upgrading to 12GB or 16GB of RAM for optimal performance.
4. Storage: Your Digital Filing Cabinet
Storage refers to the space available on your laptop to store files, programs, and operating systems. You’ll typically have a choice between a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). HDDs offer more storage space at a lower cost, but they are slower than SSDs. SSDs are faster, providing quicker boot times and application loading, but they come with a smaller storage capacity. When choosing the best laptops under $850, look for models with at least 256GB of SSD storage for a good balance of speed and space.
5. Display: Your Visual Experience
The display is your primary interface with your laptop, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs. The size, resolution, and type of display can all impact your experience. A larger display is great for multimedia, while a smaller one is more portable. Higher resolution displays offer sharper images, but they might come with a higher price tag. Consider your preferences and usage habits when choosing the best laptops under $850.
6. Battery Life: Staying Powered Up
Battery life is crucial for laptops, especially if you’re on the go. A longer battery life allows you to work, study, or enjoy entertainment for extended periods without needing to plug in. Look for laptops with at least 8 hours of battery life, but keep in mind that actual battery life will vary depending on usage.
7. Ports and Connectivity: Staying Connected
It’s important to consider the ports available on your laptop. Do you need multiple USB ports for peripherals like external hard drives or printers? Do you need an HDMI port to connect to an external monitor? Make sure the best laptops under $850 you’re considering have the ports you need to ensure seamless connectivity and compatibility with your existing devices.
By considering these key factors and matching them with your individual needs and budget, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect laptop under $850.
FAQs
FAQs
What should I look for in a laptop under $850?
When choosing a laptop under $850, prioritize your needs. Consider the purpose: Are you mainly browsing the web and working on documents? Do you need to run demanding programs like video editing software? For casual use, a basic processor and limited RAM might suffice. However, for more demanding tasks, a powerful processor and ample RAM are essential. Don’t forget about storage – SSDs offer faster loading times and a smoother overall experience compared to HDDs.
Finally, think about portability. If you need a lightweight laptop for travel, a smaller screen size and lighter build will be more suitable. However, if you prefer a larger screen for productivity or entertainment, a larger laptop with a heavier build might be a better choice.
What are the best laptops under $850 for students?
For students, a reliable and versatile laptop is key. Look for models with long battery life, comfortable keyboards, and lightweight designs for easy transportation between classes. Consider laptops with a decent amount of RAM for multitasking and a good-sized SSD for storing schoolwork and software. Some models also offer a touchscreen display, which can be helpful for note-taking and interactive learning.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the specific needs of the student. If they mainly need the laptop for note-taking and basic tasks, a more affordable option might suffice. However, if they’re studying graphic design or other demanding fields, a more powerful laptop with a dedicated graphics card might be necessary.
Are there any laptops under $850 good for gaming?
While you won’t find a high-end gaming rig for under $850, there are some decent options for casual gamers. Look for laptops with dedicated graphics cards, like the NVIDIA GeForce MX series or AMD Radeon RX series. These GPUs offer better performance for games compared to integrated graphics. You’ll also want to prioritize a higher refresh rate display for smoother gameplay.
Keep in mind that even with a dedicated GPU, you might need to adjust graphics settings in games to achieve a playable framerate. However, these laptops can handle popular titles like Fortnite and League of Legends with decent settings.
What about laptops under $850 for work?
For work purposes, a laptop with a comfortable keyboard, long battery life, and decent performance is essential. Choose a model with enough RAM to handle multitasking and a good-sized SSD for storing documents and software. A larger screen size can be beneficial for productivity, but portability might be a priority depending on your workflow.
Consider features like a built-in fingerprint reader for enhanced security or a backlit keyboard for working in low-light conditions. Ultimately, the best laptop for work depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Can I find a laptop under $850 with a touchscreen?
Yes, there are several laptops under $850 that offer a touchscreen display. This feature can be helpful for various tasks, including note-taking, drawing, and navigating apps. However, not all touchscreens are created equal. Some offer a better response time and accuracy than others.
When choosing a touchscreen laptop, consider the size and resolution of the display, as well as the type of panel used (e.g., IPS or TN). A higher resolution and a wider viewing angle will provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
Is it better to get an SSD or HDD under $850?
For a laptop under $850, an SSD is generally a better choice. SSDs offer much faster loading times and overall performance compared to HDDs. This translates to quicker boot times, faster application launches, and a smoother user experience.
While HDDs are typically cheaper, the speed difference is significant for everyday tasks. If you’re on a tight budget, you could consider a laptop with a smaller SSD and a larger HDD for storing files. However, prioritizing a larger SSD for your main operating system and frequently used applications will result in a much more responsive and enjoyable experience.
How do I choose the right laptop under $850 for my needs?
Choosing the right laptop under $850 involves considering your specific needs and preferences. First, determine the purpose of the laptop: Will you primarily use it for work, school, gaming, or general entertainment? Then, consider factors like screen size, battery life, keyboard comfort, storage capacity, and performance.
Don’t be afraid to read reviews and compare different models to find the best option for your budget. It’s also helpful to consider the brand reputation and warranty offered by the manufacturer. Ultimately, the best laptop for you is the one that meets your requirements and fits your budget.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect laptop under $850 can feel like a daunting task. But, as you’ve seen from our list, there are plenty of excellent options available that offer a balance of power, portability, and affordability. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or a professional on the go, you can find a laptop that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
So, don’t settle for less than what you deserve. Explore our recommendations for the best laptops under $850 and take the first step towards finding your ideal computing companion. Invest in a laptop that fits your budget and enhances your productivity, creativity, and entertainment experience.