Can confirm

For under $500, prioritize Chromebooks for better performance and build quality. Acer Chromebooks and some Lenovo models offer good value. If you need Windows, consider a refurbished business-grade laptop (like a ThinkPad) for better durability than a new budget Windows machine at this price. Focus on RAM (8GB ideal) and SSD storage for a smoother experience.

Like someone mentioned, going for a refurbished business machine is probably the smartest move for build quality. I would suggest being really cautious with the entry-level consumer lines from brands like HP or Dell at this price point tho. IIRC, their hinges and chassis can be a bit hit or miss once you get under that 500 dollar mark. I'm not 100% sure if they've improved the materials lately, but a few years back the screen flex was honestly kinda scary. I think I heard that Asus has been doing okay with their budget stuff recently, but you might want to consider checking if the RAM is soldered before buying. A lot of these budget Windows machines are basically impossible to upgrade nowadays which really hurts longevity. If you find a specific deal you're looking at, feel free to post it and I'll see if I can help you vet it.

To add to the point above: I really have to agree that the build quality on new machines under five hundred dollars is just not as good as expected. I have had issues with hinges and screen bleed on almost every budget consumer laptop I have touched lately. It is honestly pretty disappointing how flimsy the chassis have become. From a DIY perspective, your best bet is sticking with a used business line from a brand like Lenovo or Dell. You can not go wrong with their enterprise hardware because they are actually designed to be opened up and repaired. I usually just buy a used one and upgrade the components myself. It is much safer than gambling on a brand new plastic laptop that will probably fail right after the warranty ends. Unfortunately, the cheap stuff at big box stores is just not built for longevity anymore.

> Concerned about build quality and longevity. Would Chromebooks be better than Windows at this price point? Unfortunately the build quality on new stuff under five hundred is just not as good as expected lately. I have had issues with hinges and plastic casing on so many budget units... it is honestly pretty frustrating. Quick question tho, are you planning on lugging this around in a backpack every day or is it mostly just gonna live on your coffee table? It really reminds me of my old mountain bike. I had this steel frame one for a decade and it was indestructible, then I upgraded to a modern one and the gear shifts started sticking after like three rides. Everything feels like it is designed to be replaced instead of repaired now. I spent half my weekend trying to fix a leaky faucet that was supposedly top of the line but it was mostly just cheap plastic inside. Anyway lol sorry kinda went off on a tangent there.

Big if true

Same boat, watching this