I'm looking to replace my current laptop and need some help from those with their eyes on the market. I primarily use my laptop for Microsoft office, email, basic Internet, Netflix, some basic programming language software, and some older Steam games. I take my laptop everywhere, so I'm looking for something sturdy, lightweight, and with great battery life. Battery life being a big priority. What would y'all recommend for me, ideally under $500? TIA

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Posted by ILikeLSUToo

Central, LA

Member since Jan 2008

18018 posts

Posted on 2/8/16 at 4:51 pm to Upperdecker

quote:
Battery life being a big priority.

How much? Some laptops rated for 5+ hours, others for 10+. You won't necessarily get the latter for $500, though.

For a traditional ultrabook design, Dell XPS 13 comes to mind to fulfill all criteria and actually perform very well, but it's $799 base price. There are some cheaper 2-in-1s like the Yoga 3, if you can tolerate the 11.6" screen. Also, Surface 3 (non-pro).

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Posted by DisplacedBuckeye

Member since Dec 2013

71923 posts

Posted on 2/8/16 at 4:59 pm to Upperdecker

Under $500, I'd go with an Inspiron 15. Battery lasts around 5 hours. If you need more than that, you'll likely need to increase your budget.

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Posted by GeauxColonels

Tottenham Fan | LSU Fan

Member since Oct 2009

25604 posts

Posted on 2/8/16 at 5:35 pm to Upperdecker

quote:
I'm looking to replace my current laptop and need some help from those with their eyes on the market. I primarily use my laptop for Microsoft office, email, basic Internet, Netflix, some basic programming language software, and some older Steam games. I take my laptop everywhere, so I'm looking for something sturdy, lightweight, and with great battery life. Battery life being a big priority. What would y'all recommend for me, ideally under $500? TIA

I was looking online this afternoon for a new laptop for very similar usage needs. Battery life was the main reason I haven't pulled the trigger on anything yet. In my searching, there's not much with decent battery life for under $500. I did see several for not much more than 500 with stated battery life anywhere 6 to 8 hours.

Anyone have preference on brand? Or recommendations on which brands to stay away from?

This post was edited on 2/8/16 at 5:39 pm

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Posted by DisplacedBuckeye

Member since Dec 2013

71923 posts

Posted on 2/8/16 at 6:13 pm to GeauxColonels