With so many choices out there, it hard to find the best laptop for video editing under $500, so we created a list that helps you to find the best video editing laptop according to your need.
Long ago it’s hard to imagine that heavy tasks such as video editing can be done on a laptop. But, Newly designed laptops with potent processors and integrated graphics cards make it easier to edit videos on a notebook.
These days laptops can handle everything your throw at them without breaking a sweat. You can edit, merge or mix videos just smooth as butter and makes your film amazingly elegant.
With a budget of $500, you can find a laptop with a powerful processor that can render videos smoothly, however, it comes with dedicated graphics and mid-range processor so you can easily render HD videos, but for 4K videos editing you need a high performing laptop and dedicated graphics card.
If that’s your need than checkout our list of Best Laptop For Video Editing Under $1000.
Best Laptop For Video Editing Under $500
Here is the list of best laptops, check it out.
1) Acer Aspire 5
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 256 GB SSD
Acer Aspire 5 is always on the top list when someone needs a powerful workhorse within a budget. Acer’s Aspire series is mainly famous for its affordability, superior specs inside, and gorgeous display.
Several configuration options are available for Aspire 5, such as Intel or Ryzen processors, Touch display or non-touch display, and integrated or dedicated media. Some of the configurations on the list come within your budget, and others cost you a little bit more.
The model which we include here sports the 10th generation Intel i5 processor and comes within $500. Other models, such as Ryzen, feature a 3rd generation processor, and in terms of performance and power efficiency, they are fast behind even the 10th generation Intel i3 processor.
On the other hand, If you want to bet on the Ryzen processor, we recommend impelling the Ryzen 4th generation processor.
Speaking about display, at $500, you’ll get a beautiful 15.6 inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920 X 1080 pixels. The display is powerful enough to produce bright and detailed images so you can edit videos more precisely.
As far as storage is concerned, you’ll get 8 GB RAM and 256 GB solid-state drive. Both memory and storage are upgradeable. Plus, SSD helps laptops to boot up fast and gives a convenient data transfer experience.
On the graphic side, Acer offers integrated Intel UHD graphics and helps users to edit photos or videos with vivid colors and detailed images. Thanks to Acer’s Lithium-ion battery, you can get up to 6 hours of juice continuously.
The affordability has some flaws such as average build quality, heating issues during heavy tasks, and not great options for playing AAA games.
However, by featuring a potent processor and good battery life, Acer Aspire 5 has something form everyone that makes it one of the best laptops for video editing under $500.
2) Lenovo Ideapad 3
- Display :- 14 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 512 GB SSD
Lenovo Ideapad 3 is a great choice if you need a small screen laptop with reliable specs. For starting, you’ll get a powerful 10th generation Intel Core i5 processor that pairs with an integrated Intel UHD Graphics card and delivers superior performance whether you browse the internet, play entry-level games, or editing YouTube videos.
It has a plastic build quality, but it feels robust, sturdy and ensures it can stay with you for a long time.
The laptops run on Windows 10 operating system and support all video editing apps such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Fillmore, DaVinci, etc. In addition to this, the 14-inch display gives enough room to multitask with ease.
The display features a resolution of 1920 X 1080 pixels and produces clear images during sunny days. In addition to this. Lenovo equipped it with 8 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD out of the box.
If you do lots of typing and require laptops with snappy keys, then Lenovo Ideapad 3 is just the product you’ve been looking for. The keys are responsive and come with fast traveling that takes your typing to the next level.
Lenovo provides a decent webcam that produces clear and detailed images for video conferencing or taking selfies.
All of the fancy specs come with two main trade-offs – low battery life and fingerprint sensor. If you work from home and need a device with mighty specs and compromise with battery juice, then Lenovo Ideapad is the best laptop for video editing under $500.
3) Asus Vivobook 15
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 256 GB SSD
If you need a 2 in 1 laptop for video editing then the Asus Vivobook 15 is a top-notch choice for you. It pairs with the 10th generation Intel Core i5 processor and delivers pleasing performance on the go.
It comes with an ErgoLift hinge and has a silky smooth dual action that holds the display securely at any angle.
Best of all, the 15.6-inch touch display allows you to multitask with ease and enhances your productivity. The touch display features an 88% screen-to-body ratio of 45% NTSC, 5.7 mm ultraslim bezel, and 178-degree viewing angle. The touch screen feels smooth and responsive.
As for memory, you’ll get 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD. Both memory and storage options are upgradable. Asus equipped Vivobook with a backlit keyboard that is integrated with punchy keys and comes with a decent distance between keys to type error-free. And
The i5 processor shoulders with integrated Intel UHD graphics and produce beautiful images. Moreover, the HD webcam produces bright and clear images.
Coming to the port, you’ll get 1 X Type C USB 3.2, 1 X Type-A USB 3.2, 2 X Type A USB 2.0, 1 X HDMI, 1 X Micro SD card and 1 X combo audio jack. It only weighs 3.75 lb and makes it easy to carry around.
Asus offers up to 5 hours of battery life which in our experience is great when laptops come with an affordable price tag.
Wrapping Up, If you need a convertible best laptop for video editing under $500 then Asus Vivobook 15 is the best laptop for video editing under $500.
4) HP 14
- Display :- 14 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 128 GB SSD
By featuring a mighty 10th generation Intel Core i5 processor and base clock speed of 1.1 GHz, HP 14 is the king of the hill in terms of power and performance one needs in every budget video editing laptop.
The i5 processor has a base turbo speed of up to .7 GHz and helps the laptop to multitask with ease. Apart from this, it also features a 6 MB Intel smart cache for storing short-term data.
The display comes with 14 inch BrightView WLED backlit Display and pairs with Integrated Intel UHD Graphics that produce beautiful images whether you just watch movies, edit photos, or videos.
Further, It comes with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB SSD. You can configure RAM up to 32 GB. The 128 GB SSD is not enough for most people, however, there is one empty slot available for HDD that fulfills your storage needs.
In terms of ports, you’ll get 1 X USB 3.1 Type-C, 2 X USB 3.1 Type-A, 1 X HDMI, 1 X Media Card Reader, and 1 X headphone combo jack.
The thin design of the laptops makes them easier to carry around and an ideal choice for traveling. The biggest knock against HP 14 is its battery life that lasts only for 5 hours and takes 2 hours to fully charge.
Overall, If you need a thin laptop with powerful performance and can trade off battery life then HP 14 is a top-notch choice for you.
5) Acer Aspire 3
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-1035G1
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics 602
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 256 GB SSD
Acer Aspire 3 is another great device for the best laptop for video editing under $500. Driving this agile device is a potent 10th generation Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor and coupled with integrated Intel UHD Graphics 602 to offer you beautiful images during video rendering.
The powerful i5 processor can stack up against video editing tasks such as arranging clips, adding special effects, or mixing audio. However, they cannot handle 4K video editing or fast video rendering.
This phenomenal laptop is wrapped in a 15-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The display is brighter as well, allowing you to work even during bright sunshine.
256 GB Solid State Drive and 8 GB RAM provide enough memory for multiple apps to run at once without lag or freezing.
The built-in keyboard feels smooth and punchy which takes you typing to the next level. Not to mention, the smooth and responsive trackpad.
The biggest flaw of this device is the short battery life, which lasts only 4 hours and reduces even faster while editing video.
Wrapping up, if you need a powerful device with marvelous performance then the Acer Aspire 3 is a great choice.
6) HP Pavilion X360
- Display :- 14 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i3-1005G1
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 256 GB SSD
HP Pavilion X360 is hands down the best laptop for those who do casual video editing and need a 2 in 1 device. Pavilion’s performance and portability make it an extremely popular series among HP customers.
With the X360 lineup, students and vloggers can enjoy a touch-panel laptop with a convertible design. Gearing up this device is a monstrous 10th generation Intel Dual Core i3-1005G1 processor and runs a base clock at 1.2 GHz and turbo boost at 3.4 GHz.
The 14-inch display features HD resolution with a smooth touch screen. Even though the display resolution is below par, if 2 in 1 is your priority, you have to accept the tradeoff.
Likewise, any budget laptop, HP Pavilion also comes with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB Solid State driver to transfer data quickly.
The overall look is quite good and gorgeous which features a solid build inside and outside as well as a 360-degree flip and fold design.
There are plenty of port options available with this device that lets you connect with an external display, transfer data, and media card reader for directly saving photos or videos from the camera.
7) HP Pavilion 15-CS
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 10th Generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics :- Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM :- 12 GB
- Storage :- 512 GB SSD
HP Pavilion 15 is a powerful workhorse for casual video editing and regular office work. It is powered by a 10th generation Intel Core i5 processor and delivers exceptional performance for your daily needs.
The 15.6-inch display features a Full HD panel integrated with a WLED touch screen. As for graphics, you’ll get integrated Intel UHD Graphics to experience stunning images and smooth rendering during video mixing.
On top of the panel, HP equipped it with a Wide Vision HD Camera along with an Integrated Dual Array digital microphone that produces crystal clear images during office meetings, video conferencing, or using Skype.
Best of all, you’ll get 12 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD out of the box. Both RAM and SSD improve laptops’ performance drastically and allows you to edit photos smoothly. As for design, you’ll get HP’s sleek and thin design as ever before with premium build quality.
With integrated backlit keys you can easily type in a low light environment or during the night.
Starting with light office work to casual video editing, HP Pavilion 15 can handle everything you throw at it without sweating too much.
8) Acer Aspire 5 (Ryzen)
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 4th Generation Ryzen 3 4300U
- Graphics :- AMD Radeon Graphics
- RAM :- 4 GB
- Storage :- 128 GB SSD
This model of Acer Aspire 5 comes with a 4th generation Ryzen 3 4300 U processor which is a great option for those who need a potent yet affordable machine with immense potential inside. On the graphics side, it is equipped with integrated AMD Radeon Graphics which gives clear images during video editing or playing entry-level gaming such as Minecraft or GTA.
It is noteworthy to mention that AMD’s 4th generation processor can compete with Intel’s 9th and 10th generation processor. However, 3rd generation processors of AMDs are far behind when it comes to performance and power efficiency.
So, if you want to get your hands dirty on an AMD processor make sure you pick the above 4th generation processor.
For storing and running apps smoothly, Acer offers 4 GB RAM and 128 GB SSD out of the box. Both RAM and storage are insufficient for Video Editing so we recommend upgrading them for seamless video editing performance.
To sum up, if you’re not a big fan of Intel processors and looking to try something new, then the Acer Aspire 5 is a top-notch choice for you.
9) Lenovo Ideapad 5
- Display :- 15.6 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 4th Generation Ryzen 5 4500U
- Graphics :- AMD Radeon Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 512 GB SSD
Offering a powerful Ryzen 5 processor and fast SSD storage, Lenovo Ideapad 5 is hands down the best laptop for video editing under $500. For starting you’ll get a potent 4th generation Ryzen 5 4500U processor along with six cores and 4.0 GHz turbo speed.
In addition to this, the Ryzen processor coupled with enhanced AMD Radeon graphics delivers exceptional images for your daily needs. The 15.6 inches full HD display comes with 300 nits brightness and 45% NTSC color gamut.
There is also an 8 GB RAM and 512 GB NVMe SSD that offers incredible performance during video editing. For security purposes, Lenovo has added a fingerprint reader that takes your data security to a whole new level.
Just below the display, you’ll get a nice and snappy keyboard that offers fast traveling keys and a clicky sound. Though, there is no number pad. Finally, you’ll get up to 5 hours of battery juice from this monster, however, during a heavy task such as gaming, video, or photo editing, it reduces quickly.
10) Acer Swift 3
- Display :- 14 Inch display with 1920 X 1080 pixels resolution
- Processor :- 4th Generation Ryzen 7 4700U
- Graphics :- AMD Radeon Graphics
- RAM :- 8 GB
- Storage :- 512 GB SSD
Acer Swift 3 is another great choice for Best Laptop for video editing under $500. Typically it has a price range of $500 to $600. So if you can grab it on holidays, you’ll get it under $500, otherwise, you need to spend some extra bucks for getting this baby. Believe me, it’s worth that extra $100 bucks.
It comes with Ryzen 7 4700U Octa-Core processor and pairs with integrated AMD Radeon graphics to give you stunning performance with beautiful images.
The 14-inch display features a Full HD panel with a 16:9 aspect ratio and IPS panel. The Ryzen 7 processor is capable of handling heavy video editing, mixing, and rendering precisely without freezing your laptop or generating too much heat.
Despite being slim and portable, Acer Swift 3 offers incredible build quality. Best of all, it offers up to 11 hours of battery backup which is the longest we’ve ever seen in a budget video editing laptop.
Swift 3 comes with 8 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD that works smoothly during intense tasks and an SSD ensures fast boot time. The RAM is soldered which means you are stuck with 8 GB RAM for the rest of your life.
To sum up, Acer Swift 3 surely brings techy heaven for video editors but with no memory up-gradation option, it might turn down some folks.
Final Words
Now, its time to put an end to our list of best laptop for video editing under $500 – Just like any budget laptops above notebooks offers your tremendous performance without breaking your bank and stay for long.