Finding a reliable and capable laptop that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a treasure hunt, especially when you’re aiming for a spacious 15-inch display. Whether you’re a student needing a workhorse for assignments, a professional seeking a versatile machine for everyday tasks, or simply someone who appreciates a larger screen for entertainment, the market offers a surprising amount of value. Navigating the sea of options, from performance specs to build quality and battery life, can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in, dedicated to helping you pinpoint the best 15 inch laptops under 700 that strike the perfect balance between affordability and functionality.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise and present you with a curated selection of the top contenders. We’ve meticulously reviewed and analyzed numerous models, focusing on what truly matters when you’re on a budget. You’ll discover laptops that deliver smooth multitasking, crisp displays for your work and media, and the durability to last. Get ready to discover which 15-inch laptops offer the most bang for your buck, ensuring your next purchase is a smart and satisfying one, all without exceeding that crucial $700 mark.
Before we get to our review of the best 15 inch laptops under 700, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Finding Your Perfect Machine: An Overview of 15 Inch Laptops Under $700
For many users, a 15-inch laptop strikes an ideal balance between portability and screen real estate, making it a versatile choice for work, study, and entertainment. When you set your budget at under $700, you might assume you’ll be compromising significantly on performance or features. However, the market offers a surprisingly robust selection of capable machines that can handle everyday tasks with ease and even tackle more demanding workloads. This price point is particularly attractive for students, professionals on a budget, or anyone seeking a reliable everyday computer without breaking the bank.
The landscape of laptops under $700 is diverse, featuring options from well-established brands like Acer, HP, Lenovo, and Dell, as well as increasingly competitive offerings from others. You’ll commonly find processors ranging from Intel Core i3 and i5 or AMD Ryzen 3 and 5, paired with sufficient RAM (often 8GB) to ensure smooth multitasking. Storage is typically handled by fast SSDs, which dramatically improve boot times and application loading speeds compared to older hard drives. While you might not find the absolute top-tier gaming or video editing powerhouses here, these laptops are more than equipped for browsing, document creation, streaming media, light photo editing, and even some casual gaming.
When evaluating the best 15 inch laptops under 700, key considerations include the display quality, build materials, and the availability of essential ports. Look for Full HD (1920×1080) resolution displays for sharper images and better clarity. While many budget laptops opt for plastic construction, some brands are incorporating sturdier materials or improved designs to enhance durability. Attention to connectivity is also important; ensure the laptop has the necessary USB ports (including USB-C if possible), an HDMI output for external displays, and reliable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Ultimately, the goal when searching for a laptop in this price bracket is to identify a machine that offers the best combination of performance, reliability, and user experience for your specific needs. With a little research and by focusing on the core components and features that matter most, you can confidently find an excellent 15-inch laptop that provides exceptional value without exceeding your $700 budget.
Best 15 Inch Laptops Under 700 – Reviewed
Acer Aspire 5 Slim (A515-56-347N)
The Acer Aspire 5 Slim is a fantastic contender in the budget laptop market, offering a surprisingly capable performance for its price point. With an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking with ease. The 15.6-inch Full HD display is bright and clear, making it suitable for both work and entertainment. The inclusion of a fast SSD significantly improves boot times and application loading, making the overall user experience feel snappy.
While it’s not a powerhouse for demanding gaming or intensive video editing, the Aspire 5 Slim excels as a reliable daily driver. Its sleek and lightweight design makes it portable, and the decent battery life means you can use it on the go without constantly searching for an outlet. The keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions, and the overall build quality feels more premium than its price tag would suggest. For students, professionals, or anyone needing a dependable everyday laptop, this Acer model is an excellent choice.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (82H700FGUS)
Lenovo has a reputation for building solid, no-nonsense laptops, and the IdeaPad 3 (82H700FGUS) is a prime example of that philosophy. Under the hood, you’ll find a capable AMD Ryzen 5 processor paired with 8GB of RAM, providing a smooth experience for a wide range of applications. The 15.6-inch HD display, while not the sharpest on the market, is perfectly adequate for general use and offers good color reproduction. The inclusion of a generous storage capacity, often a large HDD or a smaller SSD, ensures you have ample space for your files.
The IdeaPad 3 strikes a great balance between performance and affordability, making it a compelling option for those on a tight budget. The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, and the overall design is understated and professional. While it might lack some of the premium features found on more expensive laptops, it more than makes up for it in sheer value. For users seeking a dependable machine for everyday computing tasks, study, or work, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a sensible and cost-effective purchase.
HP Pavilion 15-cs (15-cs3053cl)
The HP Pavilion 15-cs series, specifically the 15-cs3053cl model, offers a compelling blend of style and functionality without breaking the bank. This laptop typically features an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, which is more than enough to handle everyday productivity tasks, streaming content, and moderate multitasking. The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides a crisp and clear viewing experience, making it enjoyable for both work and entertainment. HP often includes solid-state drives in these configurations, leading to quick boot-up times and fast application loading.
What sets the HP Pavilion 15 apart is its generally attractive design and good build quality, which often feels more premium than its price point. The keyboard is comfortable to type on, and the touchpad is responsive. While it might not be the most cutting-edge in terms of graphics performance, it’s a robust machine for daily use. For those looking for a well-rounded laptop that can handle everyday computing with a touch of style, the HP Pavilion 15-cs3053cl is a highly recommended option.
ASUS VivoBook 15 (F512JA-AS34)
The ASUS VivoBook 15 (F512JA-AS34) is a standout choice for those seeking a feature-rich and stylish laptop at an affordable price. It often boasts an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for common tasks like browsing, office applications, and media consumption. The 15.6-inch Full HD NanoEdge display is a major selling point, offering incredibly thin bezels for a more immersive viewing experience and a smaller overall footprint. The inclusion of an SSD further boosts performance, making the laptop feel responsive.
ASUS is known for its attention to detail, and the VivoBook 15 reflects this with its lightweight and durable construction. The keyboard is comfortable for extended typing, and the unique ErgoLift hinge subtly tilts the keyboard for improved ergonomics and better cooling. While it’s not designed for heavy gaming, it’s an excellent everyday laptop that combines performance, portability, and a touch of flair. For students, casual users, or anyone wanting a visually appealing and capable machine, the ASUS VivoBook 15 is a great pick.
Dell Inspiron 15 3000 (3511-0439BLK-PUS)
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 series, like the 3511-0439BLK-PUS model, consistently delivers reliable performance for everyday computing needs at a budget-friendly price. Typically equipped with an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, this laptop handles common tasks such as web browsing, email, document creation, and light multitasking without issue. The 15.6-inch HD or Full HD display provides a clear picture for general use, and the inclusion of a solid-state drive ensures quick boot-up and application loading times.
Dell’s Inspiron line is known for its durability and user-friendly design, and this model is no exception. The keyboard is comfortable for typing, and the overall build quality is solid for its class. While it may not have the most powerful graphics capabilities, it’s a dependable workhorse for students, home users, or anyone who needs a straightforward laptop for daily productivity and entertainment. For a no-frills, reliable machine that offers great value, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a strong contender.
The Practicality of 15-Inch Laptops Under $700
For many individuals, a 15-inch laptop represents a sweet spot for productivity and portability. This screen size offers a comfortable viewing area for a wide range of tasks, from document editing and web browsing to light creative work and multimedia consumption, without being overly cumbersome. The larger display makes it easier to multitask, view spreadsheets, and enjoy movies or videos. When combined with a budget-friendly price point of under $700, these laptops become an accessible and highly practical choice for a broad spectrum of users.
The affordability factor is a significant driver for this segment. Many students, professionals on a tight budget, or individuals seeking a reliable secondary device find that laptops in this price range offer exceptional value. They provide the essential functionalities needed for everyday computing without demanding a substantial financial outlay. This allows users to meet their technological needs without compromising on other important expenses, making them a smart economic decision.
Furthermore, the market offers a surprisingly robust selection of capable machines within this category. Manufacturers understand the demand for versatile and affordable devices, leading to the availability of laptops with decent processors, ample RAM, and sufficient storage for everyday use. Whether for coursework, office tasks, or personal entertainment, one can often find the best 15 inch laptops under 700 that effectively balance performance and cost.
Ultimately, the need for 15-inch laptops under $700 stems from a desire for a user-friendly, versatile, and cost-effective computing solution. They cater to a significant portion of the market that requires a functional and reliable device for daily tasks without breaking the bank, making them an indispensable tool for many.
Understanding Key Specifications for Your Budget Laptop
When you’re shopping for a 15-inch laptop under $700, certain specifications will have a significant impact on your overall experience. Focus on the processor: while you might not get the absolute latest generation, aim for at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3. These will offer a decent balance of performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, word processing, and light multitasking. Avoid Celeron or Pentium processors if possible, as they can feel sluggish for anything beyond the most basic operations.
RAM is another crucial component. For smooth multitasking, 8GB of RAM is the minimum you should consider. With 8GB, you’ll be able to have multiple browser tabs open, run office applications, and switch between them without significant slowdowns. If you find a model with 16GB within your budget, it’s a definite plus and will offer even greater future-proofing. Consider if the RAM is upgradeable, as this can be a cost-effective way to boost performance down the line.
Storage is where you’ll likely see the most variance. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are vastly superior to Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) in terms of speed and responsiveness. Even a smaller SSD (like 256GB) will make your laptop boot up faster, launch applications quicker, and improve overall system snappiness. If you need more storage, look for laptops that offer both an SSD for the operating system and applications, and perhaps a larger HDD for storing files, or consider cloud storage solutions.
Graphics Capabilities: Integrated vs. Dedicated
For most users looking at laptops under $700, the graphics processing will be handled by integrated graphics. These are built directly into the CPU and are sufficient for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, watching videos, and using productivity software. Intel’s Iris Xe graphics (found in newer Core i5 and i7 processors) offer a respectable step up, allowing for some light photo editing and casual gaming.
While dedicated graphics cards are rare in this price range, if you do stumble upon a deal that includes a lower-end dedicated GPU (like an NVIDIA GeForce MX series or an entry-level AMD Radeon), it can be a significant advantage for more visually demanding tasks. This could include light video editing, more serious photo manipulation, or casual gaming with slightly higher settings. Always check the specific model of the integrated or dedicated graphics to gauge its capabilities.
It’s important to manage expectations. Laptops in this price bracket are not designed for high-end gaming or demanding professional video editing. However, for casual users, integrated graphics are perfectly adequate. If your primary use case involves these more intensive graphical tasks, you would likely need to increase your budget to find a laptop that can comfortably handle them.
Display Quality and Features for Everyday Use
The display is your primary interface with the laptop, so its quality is paramount. For 15-inch laptops under $700, prioritize a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution. This provides a sharp and clear image, making text easy to read and media enjoyable. Avoid lower resolutions like 1366×768, as they can appear pixelated and offer less screen real estate, forcing you to scroll more often.
Consider the display’s brightness and color accuracy. While you won’t find professional-grade color calibration in this segment, look for reviews that mention decent brightness levels (around 250-300 nits) for comfortable use in various lighting conditions. An IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel is highly desirable as it offers wider viewing angles and better color reproduction compared to TN panels, which can appear washed out and have a narrower sweet spot.
Some laptops in this price range might offer touchscreen functionality, which can be a nice-to-have for some users, especially if you’re looking for a more interactive experience. However, don’t sacrifice core performance or display quality for a touchscreen if it’s not a primary requirement for your workflow. Evaluate whether the added cost of a touchscreen is worth the functionality for your specific needs.
Connectivity and Port Selection: Staying Connected
When choosing a 15-inch laptop under $700, the selection of ports can greatly influence your daily workflow and ability to connect peripherals. Look for a good mix of USB-A ports, ideally at least two, for connecting external hard drives, mice, keyboards, and other accessories. USB 3.0 or higher ports are preferable for faster data transfer speeds.
A USB-C port is becoming increasingly standard and is a valuable asset. USB-C can be used for data transfer, display output (via DisplayPort Alt Mode), and even power delivery, allowing you to charge your laptop with a single cable. If a laptop has a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port, that’s an even greater advantage, offering exceptionally high speeds for external storage and docking stations, though this is less common under $700.
Don’t overlook other essential ports. An HDMI output is crucial for connecting your laptop to external monitors or projectors for presentations or an expanded desktop experience. An SD card reader can be very convenient for photographers or anyone who needs to transfer files from memory cards. Finally, consider Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards; aim for Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more stable wireless connections, and Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for reliable connectivity with wireless peripherals.
Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best 15 Inch Laptops Under 700
Finding a capable and reliable laptop that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a treasure hunt. With so many options available, navigating the world of 15-inch laptops under $700 requires a strategic approach. This guide will equip you with the essential knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck and identify the best 15 inch laptops under 700 that meet your specific needs.
1. Processor (CPU): The Brains of the Operation
The processor, or CPU, is the core component that dictates your laptop’s overall speed and performance. For laptops under $700, you’ll primarily encounter processors from Intel and AMD. Intel’s Core i3 and i5 processors are common in this price range, offering a good balance of performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, word processing, and media consumption. AMD’s Ryzen 3 and Ryzen 5 processors are also excellent contenders, often providing comparable or even superior performance at a similar price point, especially in multi-core tasks.
When evaluating CPUs, pay attention to the generation. Newer generations generally offer better efficiency and performance improvements. For example, an 11th or 12th Gen Intel Core i5 will likely outperform an older 8th Gen i5. Similarly, a Ryzen 5 5000 series processor will be more capable than a Ryzen 5 3000 series. Don’t be afraid to compare benchmark scores for specific processors if you’re looking for a bit more power for more demanding applications.
2. RAM (Memory): Multitasking Powerhouse
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is crucial for multitasking. It’s where your laptop stores actively running applications and data, allowing for quick access. For a smooth experience in 2023 and beyond, 8GB of RAM is the absolute minimum you should aim for in a 15-inch laptop under $700. This will allow you to comfortably run multiple browser tabs, a word processor, and perhaps a music streaming service simultaneously without significant slowdowns.
If your budget allows, stretching to 16GB of RAM will provide a noticeable improvement in responsiveness, especially if you plan on running more memory-intensive applications, editing photos, or working with larger datasets. While 4GB might be found in some budget models, it will likely lead to frustration as you’ll experience lag and slow performance when attempting to multitask. Prioritize 8GB as the baseline and aim for 16GB if possible within your $700 budget.
3. Storage: Speed vs. Capacity
When it comes to storage, you’ll typically find two main types: Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid State Drives (SSDs). SSDs are significantly faster than HDDs, meaning your laptop will boot up quicker, applications will launch faster, and files will transfer at a much higher speed. For a modern computing experience, an SSD is an absolute must-have. Most laptops under $700 that offer SSDs will come with capacities of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB.
For general use, a 256GB SSD is often a sweet spot, providing enough space for your operating system, essential applications, and a good amount of personal files. If you plan on storing a large media library, a 512GB SSD would be ideal, but it might push you towards the upper end of your $700 budget. If a laptop comes with a smaller SSD (like 128GB), consider if it also offers an additional HDD bay for expansion or if you’re comfortable using cloud storage solutions to supplement your local storage.
4. Display: Size, Resolution, and Quality
The 15-inch screen size is a popular choice for its balance between portability and usability. Most 15-inch laptops under $700 will feature a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, which is ideal for crisp text and vibrant images. Avoid laptops with lower resolutions like HD (1366 x 768) as they will appear less sharp, especially on a larger 15-inch panel.
Beyond resolution, consider the display panel type. While most budget laptops use TN panels, which offer faster refresh rates but poorer viewing angles and color accuracy, some may incorporate IPS panels. IPS panels provide much better viewing angles and color reproduction, making them superior for general use and media consumption. If color accuracy and wide viewing angles are important to you, try to find a laptop with an IPS display, even if it means a slight compromise elsewhere.
5. Build Quality and Ports: Durability and Connectivity
While you’re not looking for premium materials at this price point, decent build quality is still important for longevity. Many laptops in the sub-$700 category will feature plastic construction. Look for laptops that feel sturdy and don’t have excessive flex in the chassis or keyboard. A comfortable and responsive keyboard is also a key consideration for productivity.
The selection of ports can significantly impact your connectivity options. Essential ports to look for include at least two USB-A ports for connecting peripherals, an HDMI port for external displays, and a headphone jack. A USB-C port is becoming increasingly common and is a valuable addition for its versatility in data transfer, charging, and display output. Consider how you typically use your laptop and ensure the port selection meets your needs.
6. Graphics Card (GPU): Integrated vs. Dedicated
For most users looking for the best 15 inch laptops under 700 for everyday tasks, integrated graphics are sufficient. Processors from both Intel (Intel UHD Graphics, Intel Iris Xe Graphics) and AMD (AMD Radeon Graphics) come with integrated graphics that are capable of handling web browsing, streaming, productivity software, and even light photo editing. These graphics solutions are built directly into the CPU, making them energy-efficient.
If you have any intention of playing casual games, dabbling in more demanding photo or video editing, or engaging in any GPU-intensive tasks, you’ll want to look for a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. However, finding a laptop with a dedicated GPU under $700 is rare and often involves significant compromises in other areas. If gaming or heavy creative work is a priority, you might need to slightly increase your budget or consider refurbished options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tasks can I expect a 15-inch laptop under $700 to handle well?
Laptops in this price range are generally excellent for everyday productivity tasks. This includes web browsing, email, word processing, spreadsheet management, and watching videos. They can also handle light photo editing and casual gaming, especially if the games are not graphically intensive. You’ll find that most of these laptops offer a smooth experience for these common uses.
For more demanding tasks like professional video editing, high-end gaming, or running complex simulations, a laptop under $700 might struggle. While they can open and perform basic operations with these programs, the performance will likely be slow and frustrating. If your primary need involves heavy multimedia creation or cutting-edge gaming, you might need to consider increasing your budget.
Are 15-inch laptops under $700 suitable for students?
Absolutely. A 15-inch laptop under $700 is a fantastic option for students. The larger screen size provides a comfortable viewing experience for long study sessions, research, and writing papers. They offer a good balance of portability and screen real estate, making them suitable for carrying to classes and studying in different locations.
These laptops typically come with enough power to handle coursework, online learning platforms, note-taking applications, and research. They are also generally affordable, which is a significant consideration for students on a budget. You can expect them to be reliable companions for your academic journey.
What processor specifications should I look for in a 15-inch laptop under $700?
For a 15-inch laptop under $700, aim for processors that offer a good balance of performance and efficiency. Intel Core i3 or i5 processors (from recent generations like 11th, 12th, or 13th Gen) are excellent choices. AMD Ryzen 3 or Ryzen 5 processors are also very competitive and often provide strong multi-core performance for the price.
These processors will ensure that your laptop runs smoothly for everyday tasks and even some moderate multitasking. Avoid Celeron or Pentium processors if possible, as they are generally designed for very basic computing and might feel sluggish even for common operations. Prioritizing a Core i5 or Ryzen 5 will give you a noticeable performance upgrade.
How much RAM is recommended for a 15-inch laptop under $700?
For a 15-inch laptop in this price bracket, 8GB of RAM is the sweet spot and highly recommended. This amount allows for comfortable multitasking, meaning you can have multiple browser tabs open, run productivity software, and switch between applications without significant slowdowns. It’s the standard for a smooth user experience in this price range.
While some laptops might come with 4GB of RAM, it’s advisable to avoid them if possible, as this can lead to performance issues, especially as you open more applications or browser tabs. If you find a great deal with 4GB, check if it’s upgradeable, as adding more RAM later can significantly improve your laptop’s responsiveness.
What type of storage is best for a 15-inch laptop under $700?
The best storage option to look for in a 15-inch laptop under $700 is a Solid State Drive (SSD). SSDs are significantly faster than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), leading to much quicker boot times, faster application loading, and overall snappier performance. Even a smaller SSD (like 256GB) will provide a much better experience than a larger HDD.
While some budget laptops might still come with HDDs, try your best to opt for an SSD. If you need more storage space, consider a laptop that offers an SSD for the operating system and primary applications, and perhaps a larger HDD for storing files like photos and videos. However, prioritize the speed of an SSD for your main drive.
Are these laptops good for gaming?
For casual gaming and older titles that are not graphically demanding, a 15-inch laptop under $700 can be suitable. Integrated graphics from Intel (like Iris Xe) or AMD (like Radeon Graphics) are capable of running many popular esports titles at lower settings and resolutions, providing a playable experience.
However, if you’re looking to play the latest AAA games with high graphics settings or engage in demanding online multiplayer games, you will likely find these laptops to be underpowered. Dedicated graphics cards (Nvidia GeForce or AMD Radeon) are typically found in laptops outside this price range and are crucial for a smooth gaming experience with modern titles.
What are the typical display specifications of a 15-inch laptop under $700?
Most 15-inch laptops under $700 will feature a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution display. This resolution is standard for a good viewing experience and is sharp enough for most daily tasks, including browsing, productivity, and media consumption. You’ll also commonly find displays with an anti-glare or matte finish, which helps reduce reflections in bright environments.
While the resolution is generally good, be aware that panel quality can vary. Some displays might have limited color accuracy or viewing angles. If color vibrancy and wide viewing angles are critical for your work or entertainment, you might want to check specific reviews for the models you’re considering, though these are less common features at this price point.
Final Verdict
Navigating the landscape of affordable technology doesn’t mean compromising on performance or essential features. As we’ve explored, numerous compelling 15-inch laptops under $700 offer robust capabilities for everyday productivity, entertainment, and even light creative work. From versatile everyday machines perfect for students and home users to powerful options for multitasking professionals, the selection available demonstrates that exceptional value can be found within this price bracket. By understanding your specific needs and leveraging the insights from our reviews and buying guide, you can confidently identify the device that best aligns with your budget and workflow, ensuring a smart and satisfying purchase.
Ultimately, finding the best 15-inch laptops under 700 is about making an informed decision that empowers your digital life without breaking the bank. Whether your priority is a crisp display for immersive viewing, ample storage for your digital library, or smooth multitasking for efficient work, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make a discerning choice. Embrace the possibilities that come with a well-chosen, budget-friendly laptop and unlock your full potential in computing, all while enjoying the generous screen real estate that a 15-inch model provides.