Hi everyone. So my old compaq presario CQ42 died last night and I'm devastated. I'm interested in purchasing a new laptop for around $500 or under. I don't need anything special as I have a MacBook already, just something to travel with, browse the web, word documents, a few usb slots (sorry I'm not very technical minded) and a hdmi slot. Something simple and easy to use. Any recommendations on what to look for and where to find a bargain (and not be taken by a salesperson!)
Best Notebook/Laptop for under $500 ASAP
![](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/g/38.jpg)
Comments
Here is a more complete review of the Stream 11
http://www.notebookcheck.net/HP-Stream-11-X360-with-3G-Conve…
Agree with MSY. In last few weeks of Feb, they were clearing ACER laptops for $249. But I think it only had 1GB RAM, which seem sufficient for your needs (browse documents).
There are tons of similar posts in this ******* forum, why can't the posters just use the search engine and look is beyond me.
Thanks everyone. Unfortunately I'm from country vic so going to MSY is not possible ATM although they have some great deals. I like the stream but would prefer something with a bit more grunt. Especially when it comes to having multiple web pages open (more so for the kids so they leave my precious MacBook alone!) I have the usual Jb, Dick Smith, The Good Guys and Harvey Norman so I'll go check it out tomorrow. But anymore recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
Well today only there is a Asus for $359 via DSE + Click and Collect. Failing that, the $398 HP looks OK for it's price: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/deals/computers-tablets/hot-deals-…
They have 4GB, more room for movies, and a DVD drive, but not nearly as portable.
BTW, If you do go for the HP Stream 11, most stores stock them for only a few dollars more than MSY. Do you have an officeworks? Dick smiths may be $1 cheaper than OW so you could price match to get %5 off :D.
http://www.harveynorman.com.au/asus-x205ta-fd005bs-eeebook.h…
http://www.scorptec.com.au/product/Notebooks/Notebooks/58072…
https://www.kogan.com/au/buy/asus_11-6_eeebook_quad-core_ato…I use this one for travelling.
11.6 inch. Weighs barely anything. No fans, stays nice and cool. Battery lasts me around 8-10 hours.
Should be able to get in for around $250 (I paid $249 before Xmas)Don't suppose you could upload the receipt? Thanks.
Im away for work for next 2 weeks, and its back home, sorry
Asus eee book and hp stream 11 on sale at jbhifi for $253
If you want something reasonably priced without waiting for specials, dropping round to your local MSY is a reasonable idea. Their margins are too low to afford pushy salespersons.
The bottom of their ultraportable range is the Stream11, for $279. You may be able to price match at office-works for $265. This meets your stated requirements. There is also a review on laptopmag.
Cons: Although it meets your requirements, the Stream11 is quite limited. You, won't be able to keep dozens of web pages open at the same time, with only 2GB of RAM. You won't be able to store many movies on the 32GB harddisk.
Pro: Small, light and cheap. Can take anywhere without worrying about breaking your back, breaking your bank, or breaking an expensive laptop. Can still handle word documents, basic web browsing etc. no problems.