Scoring a well-equipped laptop for under $600 isn’t easy, especially when you’re looking for strong specs and a reliable display. But right now, the Asus Vivobook 15 is hitting that sweet spot at just $550 on B&H, down from its regular $700 price tag—and it delivers more than you’d expect at this price point.
This isn’t a barebones budget build—it’s got a modern Intel Core i7-1355U processor, a generous 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, which is excellent for those who want both performance and storage without compromise. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display offers solid visuals, better color accuracy, and wide viewing angles—definitely a cut above typical TN or low-end VA panels in this range.
While it lacks a dedicated GPU, the Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics still allow for some light gaming and smooth video playback. And with a total weight of just 3.75 pounds, it’s easy to carry whether you’re headed to work, class, or a café. Battery life is moderate—the 42Wh battery should get you through several hours of everyday use, though it’s not designed for all-day unplugged work.
Port selection is decent, too: you get three USB-A ports, one USB-C, an HDMI 1.4 port, and a 3.5mm combo jack, alongside features like a backlit keyboard and a 720p webcam with privacy shutter—great for Zoom calls and working in low light.
If you’re after a productivity-focused laptop that balances performance, portability, and affordability, the Asus Vivobook 15 at $550 is an excellent value, especially for students, office users, or casual creators.
