Is your laptop getting slow and looking old? Do you need a technology revamp? Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend thousands to get a nice laptop computer. While you may think that many netbooks can be bought at a bargain price, you may not be aware that even some of the best laptops cost less than $700. Here are a few sleek and powerful budget laptops that will give you more bang for your buck.
Lenovo ThinkPad X130e ($499)
The Lenovo ThinkPad X130e is an 11-inch laptop featuring a sturdy and impact-proof build that can survive more than a few smacks and drops (not that that kind of behavior should be encouraged!). As an education-targeted laptop, the ThinkPad is best for college students who need basic computing needs such as word processing, file storage, and web browsing. This classroom-ready laptop is in similar ballpark with the iPad, but is more versatile for daily use. Some of its notable features include full-sized comfortable keypads, AMD E300 APU, Bluetooth functionality, and a semi-rugged exterior that can stand backpack bumps.
Acer Aspire V5 1716867 ($550)
Looking ‘silky silver’ on the outside, the Acer Aspire V5 1716867 packs the horsepower of a budget ultrabook into an 11-inch laptop. Among its note-worthy features and specs include a 500GB hard drive, Bluetooth, Core i5 processor, 6GB RAM, USB, and HDMI. It is a great budget laptop to consider, but several sacrifices have been made to shrink down all those features in one small package. If you want the most computer features in small chassis for the least money, the Aspire V51716867 is an excellent choice.
Dell Inspiron 17R ($599)
The Dell Inspiron laptops are among the few devices that offer huge screens for a minimal investment. Sporting sleek and colorful designs, the Dell Inspiron 17R comes with exciting features like Core i5 and i7 Ivy Bridge processors, up to 500GB storage drive, a 32GB SSD and many more. It weighs 4.1 pounds, which is a little heavier than the ultrabook. But tech fans will be delighted to know that this laptop also includes a disc drive. If you are looking for a laptop with huge screen price at an affordable price, this is a good laptop choice. The Inspiron 17R is good enough to perform everyday computing tasks, but its poor screen resolution is a reminder of the device’s budget origins.
Sony Vaio E15 ($699)
As Sony’s first ever mainstream laptop with an Ivy Bridge processor, the Vaio E series definitely makes a statement. With its dashing 150-inch display and sophisticated design, the Vaio E15 is a favorite among media professionals who are looking for pocket-friendly laptops. This laptop also features a Core i5 Ivy Bridge processor, HD Graphics of 4000 GPU, 6GB RAM, and a 400 rpm drive. Overall, the Vaio E15 is a good option for individuals looking for a 15-inch laptop that can perform more than just basic computing tasks.