With laptops becoming indispensable these days, it’s great to learn that their prices have generally reduced over time. So, even with a budget of below $600, it’s still possible to find some incredible rigs. In fact, the options are so many that you’d struggle to pinpoint one machine that suits your exact needs.
But worry not! We’ve gone to great lengths to bring you this review of the best 2-in-1 and traditional laptops so you can make an informed verdict.
Contents
| Laptop Model | Weight | Storage | Screen Size | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dell Inspiron 5000 | 4.85 lbs | 1 TB | 15.6 inches | |
| Lenovo ThinkPad E580 | 4.7 lbs | 240-1000 GB | 15.6 inches | |
| HP SVA | 4.30 lbs | 2 TB | 15.6 inches | |
| ASUS VivoBook | 3.7 lbs | 1 TB | 15.6 inches | |
| Lenovo IdeaPad | 4.41 lbs | 1 TB | 17.3 inches | |
| Acer P2 | 4.65 lbs | 500 GB | 14.3 inches |
1. Dell Inspiron 5000 Flagship 2-in-1 Touchscreen Laptop
Our top pick is this Dell Inspiron 5000 which comes fully loaded with an impressive set of features for the asking price.
For starters, it is provided with a really strong 360-degree hinge which makes it easy-to-use either in, tablet- or stand-mode. On top of that, the PC runs on the latest Windows 10 64-bit operating system out of the box and has no bloatware issues.
Featuring a 15.6-inch TrueLife Full HD IPS screen with a resolution of 1920 x1080 pixels, the display is not only bright but also mind-blowing. It provides great clarity while playing games or watching movies. In addition to that, the display is LED backlit and supports 10-finger multi-touch for enhanced user experience.
A highlight of this rig is its i5-8250U 8th Generation Intel Core processor with Turbo Boost technology. The powerful processor makes the machine fast and efficient enough to handle a multitude of tasks. Similarly, it packs 8GB of DDR4 memory space thereby allowing you to run more applications at the same time with ease.
In terms of storage capacity, the computer features 1 TB of HDD which, though slow, provides an ample amount of space for all your data. The Inspiron 5000 is also integrated with Intel UHD Graphics 620 making it an ideal gaming and video streaming machine.
Additionally, it comes with nearly all the connectivity options you would expect to find in a PC at this price segment. Basically, you will get two USB 3.1 ports, one USB 2.0 port, and one HDMI v1.4b port. Also included is a 3-in-1 memory card reader designed to support SDHC, SDXC, and SD memory cards.
Further, the Dell Inspiron 5000 packs built-in speakers featuring Waves MaxxAudio Pro technology along with headphone/microphone combo jack. As such, you can listen to some good music while working. Also, it is integrated with 802.11ac WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2 technology that aid in fast data transfers.
Pros
- A powerful processor that can handle anything you throw at it
- Loads of storage space for all your documents and media files
- Fast startup
- A high-performance screen that delivers clear images
- Quality construction
Cons
- A little on the heavier side
- Average battery life
2. Lenovo ThinkPad E580 2018 Premium
Lenovo is well-known for providing a tough range of computers packed with a good set of specifications. This model ThinkPad E580 is a premium PC that is expertly designed for business purposes. While it’s priced under $600, it features the portability, performance, and security users need.
One key feature that sets the ThinkPad E580 apart from the competition is its customization options when it comes to storage and memory space. As far as memory space is concerned, you can choose from 4GB/8GB/12GB/16GB/24GB/32GB of DDR4 RAM. In terms of storage capacity, the PC presents you with the option of 1st HDD 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB SSD.
Performance-wise, the machine is powered by a 7th Gen 2.5GHz i5-7200U Intel Core processor. Consequently, it can easily handle heavy multitasking and gaming thanks to the Intel HD Graphics 620. Further, it boasts an Anti-Glare screen display with a 1366 x 768 resolution to let you enjoy crisp and vivid HD playback.
For security concerns, the ThinkPad E580 employs a built-in fingerprint reader that prevents unauthorized access to the device. The sensor also allows secure login without having to key in a password.
What’s more? It has a multitude of ports including two USB 3.1 ports, one HDMI 1.4B, one USB Type-C Gen 2 and one USB 3.1 port. You can, therefore, transfer data and watch videos or charge other devices. And with the HDMI port, you can connect the PC to a display or monitor for better viewing experience or multitasking.
Moreover, the machine is fitted with stereo speakers coupled with dual-microphone. This makes it perfect for people who wish to listen to some good music. Last but not least, it includes Bluetooth 4.1, 802.11ac WiFi and Gigabit Ethernet LAN connectivity options.
Pros
- Decent battery life for up to 7 hours
- Excellent HD graphics
- Upgradable storage and memory
- Amazing audio quality
- One-year limited warranty
- HD 120p webcam for video calling and teleconferencing on Skype
Cons
- Slightly heavier and big
3. HP SVA 15.6-inch HD BrightView (2018 Model)
Powered by an i5-8250U 8th Gen Intel Quad-core processor, this PC creeps on to the list of best laptops under $600 with its powerful configurations. The processor lets you enjoy smooth performance while running multiple programs simultaneously. Therefore, if you work with multiple types of software at the same time or you’re a developer, the machine can be a great buy.
Apart from the powerful processor, it features a diagonal HD display with WLED-backlit technology that delivers amazing visuals. It is also integrated with Intel UHD Graphics 620 card that boasts up to 6230MB of graphics memory. This makes it an excellent choice for casual gamers, photo editors as well as people who love streaming videos.
Its other major highlight is, of course, the built-in 12GB of DDR4 memory coupled with 2TB of SATA hard drive that offers a decent amount of storage space for all your data. The huge memory space, on the other hand, ensures amazing performance for all everyday tasks.
Moving on, the HP SVA comes with a DVD Re-Writable Drive so you can watch or even write DVDs via the built-in optical drive. In addition to that, it is fitted with stereo speakers and HD Audio to provide you with amazing entertainment experience. A headphone and microphone combo also comes in handy.
Another area that the PC really shines is connectivity options. For the price, you get one USB 2.0 port, an HDMI port, and two USB 3.1 ports. It also comes with a media reader for quick photo transfer. Additionally, it supports Bluetooth and 10/100/1000 GbE LAN that allows for high-speed wireless connections.
Pros
- Allows video chat with great clarity
- Solidly-built full-size keyboard featuring island style and numeric keypad
- Lightweight for convenient carrying
- Fast and handles high memory applications without issues
- Perfect for playing games
Cons
- Sound quality should have been better
4. ASUS VivoBook FHD (F510UA-AH51)
If you are looking for a thin and lightweight computer under $600, this ASUS VivoBook might be just what you need. It weighs only 3.7 pounds and has an ultra-thin 0.8-inch profile. This makes it easy to carry while traveling so you can work on-the-go.
Specs-wise, the computer operates on an i5-8250U Intel Core processor that delivers exceptional performance. For ease of handling intensive tasks, it comes equipped with an 8GB of DDR4 memory. On top of that, the device boasts 1TB of HHD internal storage that provides more than adequate space to store your important files.
As if that’s not enough, it is fitted with a USB 3.1 Gen 1 port with an “any-way-up” design for quick and easy connections. The port also allows for up to 5X faster data transfer speeds. Also included is an HDMI port, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 port as well as 802.11 ac WiFi that delivers lightning-fast connections.
Additionally, the ASUS VivoBook employs an anti-glare HD display featuring NanoEdge bezel technology to provide you with crisp and stunning visuals. Similarly, it boasts four display modes including manual, normal, eye-care, and vivid that can be adjusted with just a single click.
More so, it is outfitted with a chiclet keyboard with decent palm rest to ensure comfortable typing experience. To ensure secure logins, the device includes a fingerprint sensor that enables fast login since you don’t need to input a password.
Pros
- Ideal for daily computing needs and entertainment
- Delivers sharp and vivid images
- Responsive touchpad
- Super light and compact for superior portability
- Keyboard feels ergonomic
Cons
- Slow hard drive but can be upgraded to an SSD drive
- The keyboard is not backlit
5. Lenovo IdeaPad 330 17.3-inch Business Laptop
For anyone looking for a great all-around business computer that can handle anything thrown at it, we would suggest this model from Lenovo. Boasting 8GB of DDR4 RAM which is considerably faster compared to DDR3 technology, the PC makes running multiple applications effortlessly. Also, you can bet on lightning-fast responsiveness.
In addition to that, it operates on an i5-7200U 7th Gen Intel Core processor that provides reliable performance, especially when transitioning between web tabs. When it comes to storage capacity, you will get 1TB of a hard drive which is a little slower than SSD storage. However, the storage is adequate enough for storing plenty of documents, media files, and even programs.
Another advantage of this device is that it comes with an HD display featuring a brilliant resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels. The display also employs anti-glare technology so you can enjoy great visual clarity while browsing the web or watching movies. Besides, it packs Intel HD Graphics 620 for use in casual gaming and basic video or photo editing.
What is more, the touchpad is fitted with a multi-finger gestures function that provides a whole different level of user experience. Its full-size keyboard is also ergonomically built for comfortable typing at top speeds.
For cable-free and high-performance networking, the PC is compatible with 802.11ac WiFi. It is also compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n wireless networks so you can share files or surf the web with minimal fuss. Best of all, it supports wired networking for added convenience.
Last but not least, this Lenovo IdeaPad is fitted with Bluetooth 4.1 technology that enables you to transfer data wirelessly up to 30’ range.
Pros
- Burns and plays CDs and DVDs flawlessly
- Quick and easy setup
- Designed to meet the demands of a rigorous day
- Generous screen size with stunning clarity for a better viewing experience
- The touchpad is extremely responsive when it comes to touch, zoom and click
- Easy to run multiple programs all at once
Cons
- The hard disk is rather slow when it comes to accessing files
6. Acer TravelMate HD Business Laptop
Although this Acer Laptop stands at the sixth position in our list, it is a powerful machine that comes with some of the latest technologies. With 14-inch HD display, the PC boasts a generous screen coupled with a 180-degree hinge for better visuals. Overall, the display is fairly bright in any lighting conditions.
On top of that, it features a 1.6mm travel keyboard with backlit technology designed to illuminate the computer’s keyboard keys. Therefore, you will have no issues working in dim lit conditions. Like most of the PCs in this guide, this too comes equipped with Intel HD Graphics 620. This makes it perfect for completing tasks such as photo editing, editing large spreadsheets and even light gaming.
Next, the Acer Travelmate is powered by an i5-6200U Dual-core Intel Core processor clocked at 2.8GHz. Thanks to this powerful processor, the computer outputs incredible performance for all day-to-day tasks. In addition, it is provided with 8GB of DDR4 RAM that delivers exceptional multi-tasking power. Its storage is also well managed with 500GB of a hard disk drive.
What’s more? It packs a good number of ports including USB 3.0 Gen 1 Type-C and an HDMI port. The USB 3.0 port enables data transfer at fast speeds while the HDMI port allows you to connect it to large-screened devices. Also, it houses a VGA and Ethernet port and is fully compatible with 802.11ac WiFi connections networks so you can enjoy fast wireless browsing.
More importantly, the Acer Travelmate is fitted with an HDR webcam designed to optimize image capturing and video shooting in areas with poor lighting. Consequently, the PC is able to deliver great recording quality.
Pros
- Comes with Macafee antivirus for added security
- Bright screen with sharp images
- Runs quiet, smoothly and rarely freezes up
- Can read and write DVDs in various formats
- Memory can be upgraded via the card reader
Cons
- Spacebar is not incredibly sensitive to touch
- Battery life is short for around 4 hours
Final Words
When it comes to the best laptops under $600, you can expect to find a high-quality device that can serve as an everyday PC as well as a gaming or business machine. However, you need to make sure you pay more attention to the hardware and specifications. That said, the Dell Inspiron 5000 Flagship remains to our overall best choice for computers under $600. Compared to the rest of the models, it offers a superior blend of performance, design, and functionality.
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