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Are you a photographer with a sub $ 500 budget looking for the best laptop suitable for photography? If yes, you’re in luck! This review reveals the 7 best laptops for photography under $500. Based on our analysis, we recommend the ✅Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, which is the best on the list.
You will discover why this is so shortly.
Besides the Acer Aspire 5, the other 6 laptops included in this list are equally excellent budget-friendly laptops suitable for photography.
All you need is to keep reading to get the full details on each of these laptops.
A quick one, here’s a comparison table for the best laptop for photography for under $500.
Comparison Table For The Best Laptop For Photography Under $500
Tap on the images to purchase the best laptop for photography for under $500 on Amazon.
| Product Name | Image Name | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Graphics: AMD Vega 8 Graphics Storage: 265 GB SSD RAM: 8 GB Display Size: 15.6-inces |
| 2020 Newest Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3200u Graphics: AMD Vega 3 Graphics Storage: 265 GB SSD RAM: 8 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
| 2022 Newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop |   | Processor: Intel Core i3-1115G4 Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics Storage: 256 GB SSD RAM: 8 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
| ASUS VivoBook 15 Thin and Light Laptop |   | Processor: Intel i3-1005G1 CPU Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics Storage: 128 GB SSD RAM: 8 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
| Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Graphics: Vega 3 Graphics Storage: 128 GB SSD RAM: 4 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
| Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15 Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250U Graphics: Radeon Vega 3 Graphics Storage: 128 GB SSD RAM: 4 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
| 2021 Flagship Acer Chromebook |   | Processor: Intel Celeron N4020 Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600 Storage: 64 GB eMMC RAM: 4 GB Display Size: 15.6-inches |
Compare The Top 7 On One Page
The Best Laptop For Photography Under $500 An Overview;
Briefly, photography involves capturing light using a camera through a digital sensor to create images.
Hence, you can create and edit incredible images with the best quality output with the right equipment.
However, this article focuses on the best laptop for photography under $500.
By this, we mean a laptop that can handle photography needs at its best within the range of $500.
Also, it’s a laptop that supports Photopea and other less demanding software that processes images.
For more clarity, Photopea is an online software used to edit photos, apply effects, add text, crop, or resize images.
Generally, we know how difficult it can be to get a functional laptop, talk more about getting one suitable for photo editing within this 500 dollar budget.
The good news is, some software may not necessarily need a laptop with high-demanding specifications to edit photos.
And, since we are under budget constraints, we have to keep in mind certain features to consider.
We should not depend solely on high-end specs like discrete graphics cards, huge storage options, etc.
Instead, we should focus on getting a laptop with above-average specifications.
Regarding specifications, we suggest a laptop with a newer Gen processor, a sizable RAM for hitch-free multitasking, a Full HD display, good arrays of ports, and the latest Operating System.
More details on this are in the next section below.
Things To Consider When Buying A Laptop For Photography Under $500
These are the feature that can help you get the right laptop for your money;
Processor/Graphics
The processor is the core factor that needs to be considered in any laptop.
Specifically, it processes, computes, and executes all computational tasks given by the user.
Since we are under budget, a low or mid-range processor can handle most basic computational tasks without struggle.
Therefore, if you do basic photo editing such as cropping, adding effects, and others, we recommend a core i3 processor.
However, if you do more than the above, you will have to opt out of the $500 budget to get something better.
Furthermore, to get any of these processors from reliable brands like Intel or AMD.
Alternatively, Intel Celeron will go a long way to doing a clean job.
Likewise, any integrated graphics card from Intel and AMD can handle less demanding functions when combined with the processor.
Also, you can get something higher if you use graphics-intensive software like Photoshop.
As such, dedicated NVIDIA or AMD graphics will perform well without delay.
Ideally, you should define your need based on your budget to get the right laptop.
RAM/Storage
Getting a laptop with a 4 GB RAM size will still allow you to perform your task well.
Although, the performance rate cannot be compared with a laptop with 8 GB and above.
Therefore, get a laptop with a least 8 GB and more to enjoy seamless multitasking and quick switching.
Similarly, an SSD storage option is the best because it is fast, reliable, easy to access and retrieve files.
In this case, an eMMC can go since we are constrained by budget.
Screen Size/Display/Weight
Furthermore, having a laptop with a good display will be an excellent decision.
The screen display will determine how practical your visual experience will be.
Also, it will enhance a wide-angle view, quality images, rich color reproduction without making you squint your eyes.
As such, we recommend a laptop with a 13-15-inch screen size with a Full HD resolution.
This will offer you a stunning photo and video output.
For the weight, one strong determinant of how heavy or light a laptop is is the screen size.
That’s why we suggest a decent screen size between 13-15-inches so to have a reasonable size weight.
Hence, any laptop within 3.5 to 4.5 pounds is considered lightweight.
Ports/Connectivity
You need a laptop with the correct port connections for excellent connectivity and functionality.
We mean a laptop with decent connection ports that will allow you to connect your device without hitches.
As such, it should come with at least USB 2.0 and 3.2 so you can easily charge and transfer files with ease.
In addition, an HDMI port will enable you to connect your laptop to a wider interface when need be.
Also, the RJ45 port enhances multiple connections under one network, whereas, for audio connections, you’ll need a headphone/microphone jack to be connected.
Operating System/Battery Life
Finally, there’s a need to have a laptop with the latest version of the Operating System so you can work with all applications and software without struggle.
Given this, there are three dominating Operating Systems in the market: Windows, Mac, and Chrome.
However, what your sub $500 budget can afford will be either Windows or Chrome OS because macOS is quite expensive.
Lastly, ensure to get a laptop with decent battery life to get your work done on time without interruption.
Generally speaking, we suggest getting a laptop with at least 7 hours of battery life.
Having noted these things, let’s go to the review proper.
Our 7 Best Laptop For Photography Under $500
1. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
Acer Aspire 5 slim laptop is one of the mid-range laptops with excellent performance.
It offers reliable features to bring more productivity with lesser stress.
Design/Display/Weight
The laptop has an attractive silver lid with an Acer logo placed at the center of the top cover.
Also, it comes top-notch with a standard keyboard that offers excellent typing with a strain-free experience.
Even more, the backlit is an added dose of excitement because you can freely work at night without a struggle.
This budget laptop from Acer comes with well-selected ports for easy connection.
Given so, it has USB 2.0 and 3.1 ports that allow you to charge your laptop and also transfer files.
You can also multitask with an HDMI port that allows you to connect to work with a dual-screen simultaneously by connecting both devices via an HDMI cable.
With the RJ45 port, you can connect multiple devices to one network connection without interruption.
This budget laptop has impressive display features
As such, it comes with a 15.6 screen display with a Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution.
The narrow bezels enhance quality visual appearances and protect the eyes from being strained.
Lastly, on this part, the laptop is quite lightweight at 4 pounds.
Performance
This Acer laptop can easily get your editing work done with the latest AMD Ryzen 4000 Series Mobile Processor.
Also, it empowers your workflow with AMD Radeon Graphics, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 256 GB SSD storage.
These specs will gracefully handle your editing applications and software without struggling.
Operating System/Battery Life
This sleek laptop comes with the latest Window 10 Home Operating System.
Lastly, it has an average battery life that can last for up to 7.5 hours, depending on usage.
Pros
- It comes with a standard backlit keyboard.
- Awesome display.
- Above-average performance.
Cons
- The touchpad isn’t responsive.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
2. 2020 Newest Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
Here we have the 2020 Newest Acer Aspire 5 slim in the list of the best laptop for photography under $500.
Design/Display/Weight
This laptop packs a lot of power into its silver aluminum chassis.
It has two built-in stereo speakers that ensure clear communication and filters out background noises.
The 720p webcam featured at the top bezel provides crisp and rich color during video calls and zoom meetings.
Furthermore, with a high definition quality 15.6 screen, the laptop delivers beautiful pictures with adequate color reproduction.
More so, it is portable at 3.97 pounds.
Performance
Performance-wise, it is powered by AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor, AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics, 8 GB RAM, and 256 GB SSD storage.
Above all, these specs can handle other tasks like writing, music production, photo storage, etc.
Operating System/Battery Life
It comes with Windows 10 OS and offers up to 7.5 battery life.
Pros
- It has an SSD storage option.
- Quality audio feature.
- Quality webcam.
- Fast processing speed.
- Great at multitasking.
Cons
- The sound quality is not so excellent.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
3. 2022 Newest Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop
Design/Display/Weight
This Lenovo laptop has an unusual sand-colored chassis.
Over the webcam is a privacy shutter that allows you to keep your system intact away from the invasion of privacy.
In addition, the laptop comes with a fingerprint reader on the power button, allowing you to access the laptop via your biometrics.
More so, its display is a 15.6-inch screen fitted into narrow bezels for a perfect visual experience.
Also, the display features a Full HD 1920 x 10801 resolution which provides more precise images that keeps the viewers captivated for a long time.
On the weight, the laptop weighs 3.74 pounds.
Performance
The laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and Intel UHD Graphics for all basic computational tasks.
In addition, it comes with 8 GB DDR4 RAM and 256 GB SSD storage.
These combined will deliver all duty fast without delay.
Operating System/Battery Life
However, the laptop runs on Windows 11 OS, and it’s powered by 1 Lithium-ion battery.
Pros
- It is lightweight.
- Good connection ports.
- Latest Window 11 OS.
Cons
- The Windows 11 OS has a few complications.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
4. ASUS VivoBook 15 Thin and Light Laptop
Here’s another sturdy and lightweight laptop for all photographers on the go.
Design/Display/Weight
This Asus laptop is well crafted with a gray aluminum chassis.
In terms of portability, this laptop weighs 3.75 pounds.
Furthermore, the keyboard and touchpad offer decent responsiveness but are not remarkable.
It has well-spaced keys with 1 millimeter to deliver excellent typing accuracy.
Moving further to its display, the vibrant display features a 15.6-inches with Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution.
With this, it offers sharp and bright images with perfect colors.
Performance
This Asus premium laptop is configured with the Latest 10th Gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor and Intel UHD Graphics.
This configuration delivers efficiently in all basic computational tasks leaving no stone untouched.
In addition to the processor and graphics are 8 GB RAM and 128 GB SSD storage.
This will offer you fast boot up, stress-free multitasking, and easy storage performance.
Operating System/Battery Life
Windows 10 OS functions well on this laptop.
Lastly, this Asus laptop is equipped with a 1 A battery.
Pros
- It looks good in slate gray.
- It is durable in aluminum chassis.
- Enough multitasking power.
Cons
- Poor viewing angles and dull display.
- Sound quality is not so great.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
5. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
Acer did not deviate from its regular pattern when building this laptop.
Although there is nothing new to its design, this laptop is the best compact and sleek laptop to consider.
Design/Display/Weight
Here’s an Acer Aspire 5 slim laptop made of light aluminum materials, giving it a sleek and modernized look.
You can walk and work anywhere with this amazing laptop because it is lightweight and portable.
It weighs 3.97 pounds.
Next, it comes with a 15.6-inches screen size featuring FHD 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Also, the display comes along with an IPS panel and a standard LED-backlit.
Overall, this will offer quality pictures with unique colors.
Performance
Although, just like most laptops featured in this review, this is equipped with a low-end configuration.
Specifically, it comes with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U and AMD Radeon Vega 3 Mobile Graphics.
In addition to that, it has 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 128 SSD storage options.
Overall, the system won’t lag when performing basic tasks, including basic photo editing.
Operating System/Battery Life
This laptop is equipped with a Windows 10 OS, and it offers up to 7.5 hours of battery life.
Pros
- Average battery life.
- Above-average productive performance.
- Slim and lightweight.
Cons
- Small RAM size.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
6. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15 Laptop
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 takes the sixth spot for the best laptops for photography under $500.
Design/Display/Weight
This is more of a professional laptop smoothly built with a black plastic chassis, giving it an attractive appearance.
One downside about this laptop is the keyboard is not backlit.
This means you’ll have to do all your work in a well-lit environment to avoid straining the eyes.
Furthermore, the laptop still maintains the regular 15.6-inches screen size but with an HD 1366 x 768 resolution.
Consequently, you can view from all angles and have a good visual experience.
In addition, the HD resolution will offer a decent quality image but is not as promising as a laptop with FHD.
It weighs 4.84 pounds.
Performance
In terms of performance, this laptop comes with the latest AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor and AMD Radeon Vega 3 graphics.
Even more, it comes with 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 128 GB SSD storage.
In all, this laptop will handle basic tasks well without lagging.
Operating System/Battery Life
It also features a Windows 10 S Operating System.
Lastly, it has an impressive battery life that can last for 9 hours on a single charge.
Pros
- Flexible 180-degree hinges.
- Well-selected ports.
- Decent display features.
Cons
- No backlit.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
7. 2021 Flagship Acer Chromebook
Lastly, we have the 2021 Flagship Acer Chromebook in the list of the best laptops for photography for under $500.
Design/Display/Weight
This laptop comes with a touchscreen with which you can navigate with just a tap from your finger.
It looks standard and well built in its plain aluminum chassis.
Although there’s nothing too special about the laptop, it has the firepower to deliver efficiently.
More so, it has standard connectivity ports with which you can plug in all your peripherals with ease.
For the display, it comes top-notch with a 15.6-inches display with FHD 1080p.
For the weight, the laptop weighs 4.19 pounds.
Performance
Like most Chromebooks, this computer is powered by Intel Celeron N4020 Processor, Intel UHD Graphics, 4 GB DDR4 RAM, and 64 GB eMMC storage.
We know that this storage might not be enough to store all your edited photos.
As such, you have free access google cloud storage offered by most Chromebook.
Operating System/Battery Life
Unlike every other laptop in this review, this runs on Chrome OS and is powered by‎ 1 Lithium-ion battery.
Pros
- Chrome OS.
- Accessible google cloud storage.
- It has a functional touchscreen.
Cons
- Mid-range performance.
Tap on the image to purchase the best laptop for photography under $500 on Amazon.
Conclusion On The Best Laptop For Photography Under $500
Having seen the varieties of laptops listed above, at least there is a conviction that your sub $500 could get a reliable laptop for your basic photo editing jobs.
All you need to do is decide which you can afford and make the right choice.
We recommend the ✅Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop because it has the firepower to deliver effectively.
Click the link above to get it now on Amazon.
