Best Laptops under $500 for everyday use

Best Pick

MSI Cyborg 15.6" 2023

70.4 Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 13620H 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel 13620H CPU and GeForce RTX 4050 graphics deliver solid 1080p gaming performance on its 144Hz IPS display. The inclusion of a touchscreen and a backlit keyboard adds unexpected versatility for a gaming-focused machine. This laptop is best for budget-conscious gamers and students who want a capable machine for esports and schoolwork that also offers a touch interface for casual use.

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Price $460
MSI Cyborg 15.6" 2023 laptop

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MSI GK50Z Mechanical Keyboard

12 Score
3840" 0 0

MSI Katana Replacement keyboard for Monochrome Backlit GF66 US Keyboard For GF66 11SC 11UC

8.1 Score
0 0 0

Best Laptops under $1,000 for everyday use

Best Pick

MSI Prestige 13 AI Evo A1MG-029US 13.3"

80.2 Score
13.3" Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor paired with a 13.3" QHD+ OLED touchscreen, delivering strong performance and vibrant visuals for creative work in a sub-1kg chassis. The combination of a 1TB SSD and WiFi 7 connectivity ensures fast local storage and future-proof wireless speeds for mobile professionals. This laptop is best for business travelers and content creators who prioritize a premium, ultra-portable design for productivity and media consumption over gaming capabilities.

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MSI Summit E13 Flip Evo A13MT-243US 13.4" Full HD+ 120Hz 2-In-1 Ink Black 2024

77.3 Score
13.4" Intel Core i7 1360P 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its 12-core Intel 1360P processor and 120Hz touchscreen provide snappy performance in a versatile 2-in-1 form factor. The 1.35kg chassis is highly portable and includes practical ports like Thunderbolt and HDMI 2.1 for connectivity. This laptop is best for students and business travelers who need a compact, responsive device for note-taking and presentations, not for gaming.

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MSI Thin 15.6 inch 144Hz 2025

76.6 Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS 64GB RAM 4096GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
Why we recommend this

Its 64GB of RAM and 4TB SSD provide exceptional capacity for storing large game libraries and running demanding creative software simultaneously. The combination of an RTX 4060 GPU and a 144Hz IPS display delivers smooth, high-fidelity visuals ideal for competitive gaming. This laptop is best for gamers and content creators who prioritize maximum storage and multitasking headroom over extreme portability.

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MSI Titan 18 HX AI 18" 120Hz MiniLED

75.1 Score
18" Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 64GB RAM 6144GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090
Why we recommend this

Its 18-inch Mini-LED UHD+ display and desktop-grade RTX 4090 graphics provide exceptional visual fidelity and raw power for gaming. The 64GB of RAM and 6TB SSD offer immense capacity for demanding creative workloads and large game libraries. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and professional 3D artists who require maximum performance and screen real estate in a portable, albeit heavy, workstation.

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MSI Stealth 18 HX AI Gaming Laptop 18”

71.3 Score
18" Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080
Why we recommend this

Its 18-inch Mini-LED display and powerful RTX 5080 GPU deliver exceptional visual fidelity and performance for demanding games. The robust 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB SSD provide ample headroom for multitasking and large game libraries. This laptop is best for gamers and content creators who prioritize a large, high-quality screen and top-tier graphics power over portability.

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MSI Modern 13 F1MG-010US 13.3" Full HD Platinum Gray

71.2 Score
13.3" Intel Core 7 150U 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel 150U processor and 16GB of RAM provide strong multitasking performance for a compact 1.32kg machine. The 1TB SSD offers ample fast storage, and its lightweight, platinum-gray chassis emphasizes portability. This laptop is best for students or business travelers who need a highly portable Windows 11 Pro system for office tasks and media streaming, not for gaming or intensive creative work.

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MSI Delta Delta 15 15.6"

61.2 Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 7 5800H 8GB RAM 1024GB SSD AMD Radeon RX 6700M
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Ryzen 7 5800H and Radeon RX 6700M discrete graphics provide strong performance for its 1.9kg weight, supported by a responsive 240Hz IPS display. The 82Wh battery and WiFi 6E connectivity enhance its portability for on-the-go use. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and entertainment-focused users who prioritize high refresh rates and solid graphics in a relatively portable package.

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MSI Delta Delta 15 15.6" laptop
Price $860

MSI Venture 16 AI

60.6 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 7 255H 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its 16-core Intel 255H processor and integrated Intel Arc Graphics with 16GB of dedicated VRAM provide a significant boost for AI-assisted tasks and creative workloads. The 16-inch touchscreen display adds a practical, interactive layer for content consumption and light productivity. This laptop is best for developers and data scientists who need dedicated graphics memory for local AI model testing and prototyping without a discrete GPU.

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MSI Venture 16 AI laptop
Price $657

MSI Sword 15.6" 144Hz 2023

59.8 Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 12650H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel i7-12650H and RTX 3060 graphics provide strong performance for gaming at the 1080p resolution of its 144Hz IPS display. The chassis is relatively portable for a gaming laptop at 2.10kg, and it includes a full-size backlit keyboard with a numpad. This machine is best for gamers prioritizing smooth frame rates in competitive titles and users needing a versatile system for both gaming and general multitasking.

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MSI GF Series GF Series 15.6"

57.8 Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 11800H 8GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
Why we recommend this

Its 144Hz display and RTX 3060 GPU provide a smooth, capable gaming experience for titles at 1080p. The 8-core Intel i7-11800H processor offers strong performance for its class, though the 8GB RAM is a limiting factor. This laptop is best for budget-conscious gamers prioritizing high frame rates in esports titles over maximum graphical settings.

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MSI GF Series GF Series 15.6" laptop
Price $869

Best Laptops under $2,000 for everyday use

Best Pick

MSI Prestige 13”AI+ Ukiyoe Edition 13.3"OLED Stellar Gray 2025

89.5 Score
13.3" Intel Core Ultra 7 258V 32GB RAM 1000GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its standout 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED display and Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with 32GB of RAM deliver vibrant visuals and robust multitasking for creative workflows. The sub-1kg chassis and unique, individually numbered Ukiyo-e Edition design offer exceptional portability and collector-grade build quality. This laptop is best for digital artists and designers who prioritize a stunning, color-accurate screen and AI-powered Copilot+ features in an ultra-portable form factor.

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MSI Creator M14 A13V A13VF-081US 14" 2.8K Lunar Gray, Gray

87.7 Score
14" Intel Core i7 13620H 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
Why we recommend this

Its 14-inch 2.8K display and RTX 4060 graphics provide a potent, portable package for creators needing color accuracy and GPU power. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB SSD offer excellent multitasking headroom and storage for large project files. This laptop is best for digital artists and content creators who prioritize a high-resolution screen and strong performance in a compact, sub-4-pound chassis.

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MSI Summit Flip EVO 13 in Touch 2-in-1 Ink Black, Black

82.8 Score
13.3" Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its standout 18-hour battery life and Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with Intel Evo certification deliver premium all-day performance in a CNC unibody chassis. The 2-in-1 design with MSI Pen 2 support and a 3.06 lb weight make it exceptionally portable and versatile for on-the-go use. This laptop is best for business professionals and students who need a reliable, all-day machine for presentations, note-taking, and multitasking across numerous applications.

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MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6 165Hz

79 Score
15.6" Intel Core i9 14900HX 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070
Why we recommend this

Its 24-core Intel 14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics deliver high frame rates for demanding games on its 165Hz QHD+ display. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM provides ample headroom for multitasking and content creation workflows. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and streamers who need maximum performance from a desktop-replacement machine.

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MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6 165Hz laptop
Price $1,599

MSI Stealth 14 AI 14" 2024

78.2 Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
Why we recommend this

Its 14-inch 165Hz display and RTX 4050 GPU deliver smooth performance in a compact, portable chassis. The inclusion of WiFi 7 and Thunderbolt connectivity provides excellent future-proofing for fast data transfers. This laptop is best for gamers and multimedia users who prioritize a high-refresh-rate screen and modern wireless tech in a smaller form factor.

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MSI Stealth 14 AI 14" 2024 laptop
Price $1,069

MSI Raider GE68HX 16"

75.9 Score
16" Intel Core i9 14900HX 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
Why we recommend this

Its 24-core Intel 14900HX processor and RTX 4070 graphics deliver top-tier performance for demanding AAA games and 3D rendering. The inclusion of a high-refresh-rate display, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and a touchscreen adds significant versatility beyond raw power. This laptop is best for competitive esports players and 3D animators who need maximum frame rates and fast asset processing.

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MSI Cyborg 15.6" 15 B2RW

74.9 Score
15.6" Intel Core 7 240H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

Its RTX 5060 GPU and 32GB of DDR5 RAM provide strong performance for modern gaming at its 144Hz FHD display. The 1.95kg weight offers solid portability for a gaming laptop, despite its average 55Wh battery. This machine is best for gamers who prioritize high frame rates and multitasking performance over extreme thinness or all-day battery life.

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MSI Crosshair 16" HX AI

74.8 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

Its 16-core Intel 255HX CPU and RTX 5060 graphics deliver strong performance for high-refresh gaming and creative tasks, supported by a 240Hz QHD IPS display. The 90Wh battery and 32GB of DDR5 RAM provide solid endurance and multitasking headroom for a 2.5kg machine. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and content creators who prioritize raw frame rates and application performance over extreme portability.

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MSI Vector 16 HX AI 16” 240Hz

73.6 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor and RTX 4070 graphics provide robust power for high-fidelity gaming on its 240Hz QHD+ display. The laptop's connectivity, including Thunderbolt support, enhances its versatility for a high-performance desktop replacement setup. This device is best for competitive gamers and streamers who prioritize high refresh rates and strong GPU performance in a 16-inch form factor.

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MSI Modern 15 H

70.5 Score
15.6" Intel Core 9 270H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its 32GB of DDR5 RAM paired with a 14-core Intel Core 9 processor provides exceptional headroom for demanding multitasking and development workloads. The inclusion of a touchscreen and WiFi 6E connectivity adds modern versatility to its practical 1.9kg chassis. This laptop is best for developers running multiple virtual machines or data scientists working with large local datasets.

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MSI 16" VenturePro 16

69.1 Score
16" Intel Core 9 270H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel 240H CPU and discrete RTX 5050 GPU provide strong performance for gaming and creative tasks, supported by a 120Hz IPS display. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD offer excellent multitasking and fast load times, while the 16-inch multi-touch screen adds versatility. This laptop is best for gamers and content creators who need a powerful, touch-enabled workstation for demanding applications and media editing.

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MSI Venture Venture 16 AI A2HM Venture 16 AI A2HMTG-047US 16" Touchscreen

69.1 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 7 255H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the powerful 16-core Intel 255H processor paired with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, making it a serious multitasking machine. The 16-inch IPS touchscreen adds a layer of versatility for creative workflows and interactive tasks. This laptop is best for developers and data scientists who need robust CPU performance and ample memory for compiling code or running virtual machines, but not for gaming.

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MSI Pulse 16"

68.8 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 9 185H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
Why we recommend this

Its 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz display and RTX 4070 graphics deliver exceptionally smooth, high-fidelity visuals for fast-paced gaming. The powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and 90Wh battery support sustained performance for demanding tasks. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and content creators who prioritize high refresh rates and strong graphics performance in a portable package.

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MSI Pulse 16" laptop
Price $1,899
Check Price at Adorama
Also available open box & refurbished:

MSI Venture Pro Venture Pro A15 AI+ 15.6" 2025

57.9 Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 8GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor and discrete Nvidia GeForce RTX 5050 graphics provide solid AI acceleration and creative performance. The 15.6-inch touchscreen adds a layer of direct interaction for design work, complementing its 1TB SSD for ample project storage. This laptop is best for creators and students who need AI-assisted software and light-to-moderate graphics tasks, but its 2.8kg weight makes it less ideal for frequent travel.

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MSI Venture Pro Venture Pro A15 AI+ 15.6" 2025 laptop
Price $1,250

MSI Delta Delta 15.6" 2022

50.8 Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 7 5800 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD AMD Radeon RX 6700M
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Advantage pairing of a Ryzen 7 5800H and Radeon RX 6700M graphics delivers strong 1080p gaming performance in a surprisingly thin and light 4.19-pound chassis. The 240Hz display ensures exceptionally smooth visuals, a key feature for competitive play. This laptop is best for gamers who prioritize high frame rates and portability without needing top-tier ray tracing.

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Premium Laptops for everyday use

Best Pick

MSI Stealth 16" A16 16.0" Core Black, Black

86.8 Score
16" AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
Why we recommend this

Its 16-inch OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate provides exceptional motion clarity and contrast for gaming and media, powered by a GeForce RTX 5070 Ti GPU. The inclusion of WiFi 7 and a generous port selection, including Thunderbolt, enhances its connectivity for a high-end laptop. This machine is best for competitive gamers and content creators who prioritize visual fidelity and fast response times in a relatively portable 16-inch form factor.

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MSI Vector 16" HX AI 2025

79.8 Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080
Why we recommend this

Its Intel 275HX processor and RTX 5080 graphics deliver top-tier performance for demanding games and creative tasks. The 16-inch 240Hz QHD display offers a smooth, bright visual experience, supported by a robust port selection including Thunderbolt and WiFi 7. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and 3D artists who require maximum frame rates and rendering power in a desktop-replacement form factor.

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MSI Vector 16" HX AI 2025 laptop
Price $2,633

MSI Titan 18"

75.9 Score
18" Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080
Why we recommend this

Its 18-inch Mini-LED display and GeForce RTX 5080 graphics deliver exceptional performance for gaming and creator tasks. The robust Intel Ultra 9-285HX processor and 32GB of RAM provide a powerful foundation for demanding workloads. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and 3D artists who require top-tier performance and a large, high-resolution screen.

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MSI Titan 18" laptop
Price $3,999
Check Price at Amazon
Also available at:
Also available open box & refurbished:

MSI Katana 15.6 165Hz

70.6 Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 14650HX 8GB RAM 4096GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070
Why we recommend this

Its 16-core Intel i7-14650HX and NVIDIA RTX 5070 graphics deliver strong performance for gaming and content creation, supported by a 165Hz QHD display. The generous 64GB of DDR5 RAM and 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD provide exceptional multitasking headroom and storage for large projects. This laptop is best for gamers and creators who need a high-spec machine for demanding titles and video editing, prioritizing raw power over extreme portability.

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MSI Creator HIDevolution Z16 A11UET 16"

63.7 Score
16" Intel Core i7 11800H 32GB RAM 4096GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
Why we recommend this

Its 16-inch QHD+ 120Hz touch display and Intel 11800H CPU paired with an RTX 3060 GPU provide strong performance for creative applications. The custom 4TB dual-SSD storage and 64GB of RAM, installed by HIDevolution with premium thermal paste, ensure exceptional multitasking and fast load times. This laptop is best for professional video editors and 3D artists who need a high-performance, large-screen Windows workstation with extensive, pre-configured storage and memory.

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MSI Thin Prestige 13 EVO 13.3"

61.6 Score
13.3" Intel Core i5 1240P 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the 12-core Intel 1240P processor paired with 16GB of DDR5 RAM, delivering strong performance for multitasking within a remarkably portable 0.99kg chassis. The laptop's 75Wh battery supports extended mobile use, and its build quality emphasizes a professional, ultra-thin design. This device is best for business travelers and students who prioritize a lightweight, responsive machine for productivity tasks over high-end gaming or creative work.

MSI Cyborg 17 2024

54.9 Score
17.3" Intel Core 7 240H 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

Its 17.3-inch 144Hz display and RTX 5060 GPU deliver smooth frame rates for modern games, backed by a powerful 10-core Intel CPU. The generous 32GB of DDR7 RAM and 2TB SSD provide ample headroom for multitasking and large game libraries. This laptop is best for gamers seeking a large-screen experience with strong performance for 1080p gaming.

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MSI GP Series GP Series 15.6"

48.4 Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 11800H 8GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
Why we recommend this

Its 8-core Intel i7-11800H and RTX 3080 GPU deliver high-end gaming performance in a relatively portable 2.38kg chassis. The 144Hz IPS display ensures smooth visuals, though the 8GB of RAM is a limiting factor for some tasks. This laptop is best for competitive gamers prioritizing high frame rates in 1080p esports titles over creator workloads.

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