Best PC Under $500

Finding a high-performing PC on a budget is easier than ever, thanks to a wide range of affordable options that don’t compromise on quality or features. Whether you’re looking for a reliable computer for... work, school, or everyday tasks, our expertly curated list highlights the best PCs under $500, ranked by real user reviews. Explore top-rated choices that deliver impressive performance, value, and versatility—proving you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the technology you need.
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What to look for in the best PC under $500

1. Processor Performance

Look for PCs with modern, energy-efficient processors such as Intel Core i3, AMD Ryzen 3, or similar. These offer good everyday performance without breaking the bank.

2. RAM and Storage

Aim for at least 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster boot times and application loading. Some budget PCs may come with 4GB RAM, but upgrading later is often possible.

3. Expandability and Ports

Check if the PC allows for upgrades like additional RAM or storage in the future. Also, ensure it has enough USB ports, HDMI output, and other connections you might need for peripherals.

4. Operating System and Software

Confirm whether the computer comes with an operating system pre-installed (like Windows 11) to avoid extra costs. Some budget PCs may use Linux or offer free trials of productivity software.
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  1. 1
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - Optiplex 3040 Sff Core I5-6500 3.20Ghz 8GB 500 GB Win 10 64Bit

    About this product

    A compact desktop PC featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 500GB storage.

    A compact desktop PC featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 500GB storage.

    $240.32
    SAVE $58
    Your price for this item is $240.32
  2. 2
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - 7010 Desktop PC, I5 3470 3.2Ghz, 8GB, 500GB HDD, DVD-Rom, Windows 10 Home, USB Wifi, USB Keyboard & Mouse, 90 Day

    About this product

    A refurbished desktop PC featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10 Home.

    A refurbished desktop PC featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10 Home.

    $318.76
    SAVE $56
    Your price for this item is $318.76
  3. 3
    HP Refurbished (Good) - Elitebook 820 G3 12.5" Screen-Intel Core I5-6300U - 8GB Ddr4 - Dual Drives-Fast 256 GB M.2 SSD + 500 GB HDD, Win. 10 Pro

    About this product

    A refurbished laptop featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, SSD and HDD storage, and Windows 10 Pro.

    A refurbished laptop featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, SSD and HDD storage, and Windows 10 Pro.

    $279.99
    SAVE $340
    Your price for this item is $279.99
  4. 4
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - Optiplex 5050 I5 - 6500 3.2 Ghz, 8 GB Ram, 1 Tb HDD, Windows 10 Pro

    About this product

    A reliable desktop featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, and Windows 10 Pro.

    A reliable desktop featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, and Windows 10 Pro.

    $306.97
    SAVE $193
    Your price for this item is $306.97
  5. 5
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - 790 Intel I5 4GB 500GB HDD Windows 10 Home Wifi Ultra Small Form Factor PC

    About this product

    A refurbished Dell 790 PC with Intel i5 processor, 4GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10.

    A refurbished Dell 790 PC with Intel i5 processor, 4GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10.

    $340.01
    SAVE $60
    Your price for this item is $340.01
  6. 6
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - PC Computer 7010 Desktop Core I5 16GB 500GB HD - Windows 10

    About this product

    A refurbished desktop featuring a Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 500GB hard drive, and Windows 10.

    A refurbished desktop featuring a Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 500GB hard drive, and Windows 10.

    $344.26
    SAVE $60
    Your price for this item is $344.26
  7. 7
    DELL Refurbished (Good) - Gaming Optiplex RGB Computer PC, Intel Core I5, Rx 550 4GB, 16GB Ram, 512GB SSD, 24 Inch Monitor, Wifi, Windows 11 Pro Great response from the company (shipping took a little longer due to holiday season) but staff responded

    About this product

    A refurbished desktop PC with RGB lighting, Intel Core i5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and 24" monitor.

    A refurbished desktop PC with RGB lighting, Intel Core i5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and 24" monitor.

    (6)
    $589.99
    SAVE $90
    Your price for this item is $589.99
  8. 8
    LENOVO Refurbished (Good) - M900 Tiny Desktop PC, I5 6500T 2.5G Cpu, 8GB Ram, 128 GB SSD, DVD Multi Drive, Windows 10

    About this product

    A compact refurbished desktop featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD, and Windows 10.

    A compact refurbished desktop featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD, and Windows 10.

    (2)
    $229.99
    SAVE $190
    Your price for this item is $229.99
  9. 9
    HP Refurbished (Good) - Tiny 800 G2, Mini Desktop, I5 6500T, Ddr4, 8GB, 500GB, Win 10 Pro, Keyboard & Mouse(Brand Vary) Refurb

    About this product

    A compact refurbished mini desktop with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 500GB storage, and Windows 10 Pro.

    A compact refurbished mini desktop with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 500GB storage, and Windows 10 Pro.

    $289.99
    SAVE $40
    Your price for this item is $289.99
  10. 10
    LENOVO Refurbished (Good) - Thinkcentre M92P Tiny Desktop Intel Core I5 3470T 2.9Ghz 16GB Ram 500GB HDD Windows 10 Pro Square PC

    About this product

    A compact desktop featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10 Pro.

    A compact desktop featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 500GB HDD, and Windows 10 Pro.

    $387.00 Your price for this item is $387

FAQ

What features should I look for in a PC under $500? + -

When shopping for a PC under $500, focus on essential features like a modern multi-core processor, at least 8GB of RAM, and solid-state drive (SSD) storage for faster performance. Also consider the number of USB ports, HDMI output, and upgradability options.

Can I use a budget PC for gaming or creative work? + -

Budget PCs under $500 are best suited for everyday tasks like web browsing, office work, and streaming. While some light gaming or basic creative work is possible, demanding games or professional software may require more powerful hardware.

Are PCs under $500 suitable for students or remote work? + -

Yes, many PCs in this price range are ideal for students and remote workers. They can handle word processing, video calls, online research, and other productivity tasks efficiently.

How long can I expect a budget PC to last? + -

With proper care and regular software updates, a well-built budget PC can last several years. Performance may gradually decrease as software requirements increase over time.

Is it possible to upgrade components in a PC under $500? + -

Some budget PCs allow upgrades such as adding more RAM or swapping out the storage drive. However, compact designs or all-in-one models may have limited upgrade options. Always check the specifications before purchasing if upgradability is important to you.

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