Best Chromebooks Under $500 in 2025: Affordable Picks Worth Buying
Looking for the best Chromebooks under $500 in 2025? Chromebooks have become the go-to choice for students, families, and casual users thanks to their simplicity, security, and affordability. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a reliable, long-lasting device.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top Chromebooks you can buy for under $500 this year, with options that balance performance, build quality, and Auto Update Expiration (AUE) support—so you know you’re getting a device that will stay updated for years to come.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Display | RAM / Storage | AUE Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acer Chromebook Spin 514 | 14″ FHD Touch | 8GB / 128GB SSD | June 2031 | Students, Pros |
| Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i | 14″ FHD Touch | 8GB / 256GB SSD | June 2030 | Portability, Travel |
| ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 | 12″ HD Touch | 4GB / 32GB eMMC | June 2029 | Families, Casual |
| HP Chromebook x360 14a | 14″ HD Touch | 4GB / 64GB eMMC | June 2030 | Casual Users |
| Acer Chromebook 315 | 15.6″ FHD | 4GB / 64GB eMMC | June 2029 | Home, Streaming |
The Best Chromebooks Under $500 in 2025
1. Acer Chromebook Spin 514 (14″)
Acer’s Spin 514 delivers strong performance and durability with its aluminum chassis, AMD Ryzen processor, and 2-in-1 convertible touchscreen. It’s a top pick for students or professionals who need a little more power while staying under budget.
A mid-range Chromebook with a premium feel, ideal for productivity and classroom use.
2. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i (13.3″)
This compact 2-in-1 Chromebook combines portability and performance with a snappy Intel Core i3 processor and a crisp FHD touchscreen. The backlit keyboard and decent battery life make it great for working on the go.
Portable and versatile, this Chromebook is perfect for students or remote workers who need flexibility.
3. ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 (12″)
Designed with families and casual users in mind, the CM3 offers a compact form factor, 360° hinge, and support for stylus input. It’s lightweight, quiet, and great for web browsing, streaming, or light schoolwork.
A budget-friendly Chromebook with a tablet-like feel—great for shared home use.
4. HP Chromebook x360 14a (14″)
The HP x360 14a offers a reliable, everyday experience with a flexible 2-in-1 design and responsive touchscreen. While the specs are modest, it handles web apps and video streaming comfortably.
A no-fuss Chromebook that gets the basics right—ideal for casual users or students on a budget.
5. Acer Chromebook 315 (15.6″)
If you’re looking for an affordable Chromebook with a larger screen, the Acer Chromebook 315 offers a spacious 15.6-inch Full HD display, making it a solid choice for home use, casual browsing, and streaming. While it doesn’t have the premium build of higher-end models, it covers everyday tasks with ease at a very accessible price.
Big screen, budget-friendly—ideal for browsing, streaming, and light productivity at home.
What to Expect from a Chromebook Under $500
When shopping for a Chromebook under $500, it’s important to set realistic expectations. While these devices are affordable, they’re designed primarily for web-based tasks, cloud applications, and light productivity.
Performance
You’ll typically find:
- Processors: Intel Celeron, Intel Core i3, or AMD Ryzen 3
- RAM: 4GB to 8GB, sufficient for web browsing, streaming, and office tasks
- Storage: 64GB to 128GB, with heavy reliance on cloud storage
These specs are optimized for Chrome OS, which runs efficiently even on modest hardware.
Build Quality
Many Chromebooks in this price range offer plastic builds, though some—like the Acer Spin 514—feature more durable aluminum designs. Touchscreens and 2-in-1 convertible hinges are increasingly common, even under $500.
Display
Expect:
- HD to Full HD resolution
- Screen sizes ranging from 12″ to 17.3″
- Touchscreen capabilities in most models
Battery Life
Most Chromebooks under $500 boast 8 to 12 hours of battery life, making them ideal for all-day use at school or home.
AUE Support
Every pick in this guide still has several years of Auto Update Expiration (AUE) support remaining, meaning you’ll continue to receive security and software updates for the foreseeable future. Be sure to check the AUE date before purchasing.
Who Should Buy a Chromebook Under $500
A Chromebook under $500 can be a smart investment for a wide range of users, but they’re not for everyone. Here’s who will benefit most from these budget-friendly devices:
Students
Chromebooks are especially popular in schools thanks to their simplicity, long battery life, and seamless integration with Google Workspace tools like Docs, Sheets, and Classroom. A model under $500 can easily handle research, assignments, and video calls.
Families and Shared Use
For households that need a shared device for web browsing, streaming, and light productivity, a Chromebook in this price range offers great value. Built-in security features and parental controls make them a safe choice for kids.
Casual Users
If you primarily use a laptop for email, browsing, social media, and streaming, a Chromebook under $500 is more than sufficient. The lightweight operating system keeps things fast and responsive without the need for heavy specs.
Remote Learning and Light Work
For users engaged in remote learning or simple work tasks—such as writing, video conferencing, and cloud-based apps—a Chromebook in this budget range gets the job done.
Alternatives If You Can Spend More
If your budget stretches beyond $500, you’ll unlock a broader selection of Chromebooks with upgraded specs, premium builds, and longer support timelines. Here is a great option worth considering if you’re willing to invest a bit more:
Acer Chromebook Spin 714
- Why: A premium Chromebook with a sleek aluminum build, Intel Core i5 processor, and 8GB+ RAM.
- Best For: Professionals, students in demanding fields, and users who want better multitasking and display quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Many Chromebooks in this price range are ideal for students thanks to their long battery life, fast boot times, and seamless integration with Google Workspace tools like Docs and Classroom.
Yes, Chromebooks support Microsoft Office apps via the web, and some models can also run Android versions of Office apps from the Google Play Store. For full desktop Office features, a Windows laptop is still recommended.
Most new Chromebooks offer up to 10 years of software updates under Google’s AUE policy. That means even a budget model can remain secure and functional for several years.
It depends on your needs. Chromebooks are great for web-based tasks, streaming, and education, while Windows laptops offer more flexibility for running traditional desktop software.
Consider Windows Laptops
If you need to run traditional desktop software or want more flexibility, a Windows laptop may be a better choice. We’ve compared both options in our guide:
Chromebook vs Windows Laptop: Which One Is Right for You?
Final Thoughts
A Chromebook under $500 can deliver excellent value for students, families, and casual users who need a reliable, easy-to-use laptop. Whether you prioritize portability, a larger screen, or 2-in-1 flexibility, there’s an option that fits your needs without stretching your budget.
Plus, all the Chromebooks we’ve featured include several years of Auto Update Expiration (AUE) support—so you’ll stay secure and up-to-date for the long haul.
Need Help Choosing the Right Chromebook?
Still deciding which Chromebook is right for you? Check out these resources:
- Chromebook vs Windows Laptop: Which One Is Right for You?
- How to Check Chromebook AUE: Ensure Your Device Stays Updated
Or, if you want personalized recommendations, we offer consulting to help you choose the perfect tech setup for your needs: Book a Consultation Here
