When it comes to laptops under $500, two popular options that come to mind are the ASUS VivoBook 15 and the HP Chromebook 14. Both of these devices offer impressive features and performance at an affordable price point, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we'll delve into the details of each laptop to help you decide which one is best for you.
Display and Design
The ASUS VivoBook 15 boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, providing vibrant colors and crisp text. The laptop's body is made of plastic, but it has a premium feel to it, with a sleek and slim design that weighs just 3.5 pounds. In contrast, the HP Chromebook 14 features a 14-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, which is suitable for basic tasks like browsing and streaming. The Chromebook's design is more compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 3.2 pounds.
Performance
Under the hood, the ASUS VivoBook 15 packs an 8th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD, making it suitable for tasks like office work, web browsing, and streaming. The laptop also features a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX110 graphics card, which is a bonus for casual gamers. On the other hand, the HP Chromebook 14 is powered by an Intel Celeron N3350 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage. While it's not as powerful as the VivoBook, the Chromebook is designed for cloud-based applications and can handle basic tasks with ease.
Operating System
One of the main differences between these two laptops is the operating system. The ASUS VivoBook 15 runs on Windows 10, which offers a wide range of software compatibility and flexibility. In contrast, the HP Chromebook 14 runs on Google's Chrome OS, which is designed specifically for web-based applications and Android apps. If you're already invested in the Google ecosystem and prefer a simple, intuitive interface, the Chromebook might be the better choice.
Battery Life
In terms of battery life, the HP Chromebook 14 has a significant advantage, with up to 13 hours and 30 minutes of usage on a single charge. The ASUS VivoBook 15, on the other hand, offers around 8 hours of battery life, which is still respectable but not as impressive.
Ports and Connectivity
Both laptops feature a range of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and headphone jacks. However, the ASUS VivoBook 15 has an additional SD card slot, which is useful for photographers and videographers. The Chromebook 14 also features Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6, while the VivoBook 15 has Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5.
Conclusion
When it comes to laptops under $500, the ASUS VivoBook 15 and HP Chromebook 14 are both excellent options, but they cater to different needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more powerful laptop with a larger display and Windows 10 compatibility, the VivoBook 15 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a more portable device with a simple interface and long battery life, the Chromebook 14 is an excellent option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and what you plan to use your laptop for.
