Best DJ Laptops Under $500: Top Affordable Picks for 2023‍

The best DJ laptops under $500 are:

1. ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop
2. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
3. Dell 2022 Newest Inspiron 15 3510 Laptop
4. HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6" HD Touchscreen
5. Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop
6. Samsung Chromebook 4
7. Acer Swift 3 14" Business Laptop
8. HP 14 Laptop (AMD Ryzen 5 5500U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)

As a DJ, having the right equipment is essential for creating unforgettable musical experiences. One crucial piece of gear that often goes overlooked is the laptop. The best DJ laptops allow you to manage your music library, mix tracks seamlessly, and control various functions with ease. In this article, we'll be exploring the top DJ laptops available for under $500, perfect for those on a budget or just starting in the DJ world.

In today's digital age, DJing has evolved from spinning vinyl records to using advanced software and digital audio files. This shift has made having a reliable and powerful laptop a must for aspiring and professional DJs alike. A good DJ laptop needs to have a fast processor, ample storage, and an easy-to-use interface for seamless multitasking.

When looking for the perfect DJ laptop, it's essential to consider factors like performance, portability, and connectivity options. A laptop with a powerful processor and enough RAM will ensure smooth operation when running multiple applications, while a lightweight and compact design makes setup and transportation a breeze. Additionally, having ample connectivity options (such as USB ports or an HDMI output) allows for easy integration with various DJ equipment and accessories.

After extensive research and testing, we've narrowed down the search for the best DJ laptops under $500. These best laptops not only provide the performance and features necessary for a perfect DJ set but also offer excellent value for money. So without further ado, let's dive into the top picks and find the ideal DJ laptop for you.

Best DJ Laptops under $500

I've compiled a list of the top DJ laptops under $500, perfect for those working in the industry or for those who simply love mixing and producing music. Check out these affordable and reliable options below and choose the best laptop for you.

ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop

I highly recommend the ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop for aspiring DJs on a budget who need a reliable device packed with essential features.

Prosowerful 12th Gen Intel 10-Core i3 Processor

• 17.3" Full HD Anti-glare Display

• 256GB SSD and 8GB DDR4 Memory

Cons

• Fewer USB ports compared to other models

• Integrated graphics instead of dedicated GPU

• Slightly heavier than its competitors

Buy ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop on Amazon

I've been using the ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop for a while now, and it's perfect for aspiring DJs who need a dependable laptop without breaking the bank. The powerful 12th Generation Intel 10-Core i3 Processor ensures smooth program running and multitasking, allowing me to keep up with multiple applications and processes without any lag.

The large 17.3" Full HD IPS Anti-glare display provides an excellent viewing experience, making it perfect for managing my DJ software and browsing. Additionally, the 256GB SSD and 8GB DDR4 memory provide more than enough storage and efficient performance for my DJing needs.

However, the VivoBook 17 does have a few drawbacks. It has fewer USB ports compared to other models, limiting the connectivity options when connecting audio devices or external storage. Also, the laptop uses an integrated Intel UHD Graphics instead of a dedicated GPU, which might be less suitable for high-end graphics or video editing. Lastly, the laptop weighs around 4.64 pounds, making it slightly heavier than some other laptops in its category.

Although there are a few cons, the ASUS VivoBook 17 Business Laptop remains an outstanding option for DJs under $500 as it offers great performance and essential features without breaking the bank. The laptop's compelling aspects definitely outweigh the drawbacks, making it a solid choice for those looking to purchase a DJ laptop on a budget. If you are looking for some laptops with bigger screens, check out this list of the best 17-inch laptops under $1,000.

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

This Acer laptop is well worth considering for your DJing needs, thanks to its impressive performance and premium features at an affordable price.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 3 processor

• 20GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage

• Backlit keyboard with fingerprint login

Cons

• Battery life might not be that long

• Can get quite warm during usage

• Some users reported boot issues

Buy Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop on Amazon

After trying out the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, I must say I'm impressed by its performance. The AMD Ryzen 3 processor really delivers the power I need for multitasking and running DJ software smoothly. With its 20GB of RAM and 1TB SSD storage, I've got more than enough space for all my music files and applications.

One aspect I particularly love about this laptop is the backlit keyboard, which has been super helpful when working in dark environments, and the fingerprint login feature adds an extra layer of security. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display is also a bonus as it's anti-glare, making it easier to see my screen during performances.

However, I did notice that the battery life was not lasting as long as I'd hoped, meaning I have to carry a charger around with me just in case. In addition, the laptop can get pretty warm – especially on the underside – so it's important to keep an eye on that during longer DJ sessions. Lastly, some users have mentioned problems with the booting process, which can be concerning, although I haven't experienced it personally.

In conclusion, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop has its share of quirks but offers incredible value for money, making it a fantastic choice for aspiring DJs on a budget.

Dell 2022 Newest Inspiron 15 3510 Laptop

This Dell Inspiron is an efficient choice for DJs on a budget with solid performance and useful features.

Pros

• High-speed 16GB RAM

• 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD

• Anti-glare 15.6-inch HD display

Cons

• Intel Celeron N4020 processor

• No backlit keyboard

• Limited USB ports

Buy Dell 2022 Newest Inspiron 15 3510 Laptop on Amazon

As a DJ, I was on the lookout for a laptop that would not break the bank, and the Dell 2022 Newest Inspiron 15 3510 caught my eye. With the 16GB high-bandwidth RAM and 256GB SSD, I found that running multiple applications and loading sound files was quite smooth.

The 15.6-inch HD Anti-Glare display made it easy to work under different lighting conditions such as clubs and outdoor events, reducing strain on my eyes. The built-in stereo laptop speakers provided decent sound output when I needed to preview tracks without using headphones.

However, the Intel Celeron N4020 processor isn't the fastest on the market, but it gets the job done for basic DJing tasks. I was slightly disappointed when I realized that the laptop didn't come with a backlit keyboard, which would have made it easier to identify keys in darker environments.

Another minor inconvenience was the limited number of USB ports, as I often need to connect multiple devices simultaneously. Nevertheless, considering the reasonable price, the Dell 2022 Newest Inspiron 15 3510 offers a decent performance for aspiring DJs and anyone who needs a basic, budget-friendly laptop.

HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6" HD Touchscreen

This HP Notebook Laptop is a sleek, budget-friendly option for DJs seeking a reliable device under $500.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design

• Convenient touchscreen display

• Fast boot-up and data transfer with 1TB PCIe SSD

Cons

• Limited screen resolution (1366 × 768)

• No dedicated GPU

• No backlit keyboard

Buy HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6" HD Touchscreen on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use this HP Notebook Laptop for my DJ gig and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Its lightweight and slim design made it easy to transport between my home and the venue, fitting comfortably into my bag without any hassle.

One aspect that I truly appreciated was the convenience of the touchscreen display. This feature allowed me to quickly navigate through my music library and software, making it much simpler to set up my playlists on the spot. The Intel Core i3 processor may not be the most powerful out there, but it still offered enough performance for my DJ software to run smoothly.

However, there were a few downsides. The screen resolution is limited to 1366 × 768, which is not particularly bad, but it would have been nice to have a Full HD display for better visual clarity when working with my music software. Also, the laptop does not have a dedicated GPU, which can be a drawback for those who require a bit more graphical power for certain applications and multitasking.

Another small inconvenience was the absence of a backlit keyboard. This would have been helpful for working in low light conditions, such as dimly lit clubs or late night gigs. Despite these shortcomings, the laptop still delivers an overall enjoyable experience for the price point.

In conclusion, the HP Notebook Laptop is a great choice for budget-conscious DJs looking for a lightweight and touchscreen-equipped device. Although it has a few limitations, like the screen resolution and lack of dedicated GPU, it still offers a solid performance suitable for DJing needs.

Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop

A great budget-friendly option for aspiring DJs looking to get their hands on a reliable and affordable laptop, with decent performance.

Pros

• 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor for smooth multitasking

• 8GB of DDR4 RAM for running multiple applications

• 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD for fast bootup and data transfer

Cons

• Limited battery life of up to 7 hours

• No backlit keyboard

• Display resolution at 1366 x 768 pixels

Buy Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop on Amazon

I recently tried out the Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop, and despite its budget-friendly price, it didn't disappoint me. The 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor ensured that music software applications ran smoothly and efficiently, allowing me to toggle between multiple tasks without any lag.

During my time with the Ideapad 3, I appreciated the 8GB of high-bandwidth DDR4 RAM, making it easier to run several browser tabs and applications at once. In addition, the 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD provided fast bootup and data transfer. If you have a lot of data-intensive functions, check out this list of the best laptops for data science.

However, one downside I noticed was the limited battery life. With only up to 7 hours, a user may need to plug in the charger during long DJ sessions. Additionally, with no backlit keyboard, using it in darker environments might prove a bit challenging. Lastly, it's worth noting that the 15.6" HD Touchscreen display has a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, which may not be suitable for those who prefer higher resolutions.

In conclusion, the Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop is a great choice if you're an aspiring DJ looking for a budget laptop with sufficient performance to handle essential music applications. Just keep in mind its limitations when it comes to battery life, keyboard, and display resolution.

Samsung Chromebook 4

The Samsung Chromebook 4 is perfect for aspiring DJs on a budget looking for a reliable and portable option.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design

• Durable build with military-grade materials

• Long battery life (12.5 hours)

Cons

• Limited storage (32GB)

• Not suitable for heavy multimedia work

• Chrome OS may be limiting for some users

Buy Samsung Chromebook 4 on Amazon

As a DJ, I continuously need lightweight and portable devices for my gigs. The Samsung Chromebook 4's compact design and 11.6" display make it easy for me to carry around. I appreciate the military-grade durability, ensuring that my laptop withstands the challenging environment of constant travel and setup. While it may be small for some, you can always consider adding an external display. Also check out this list of the best laptops for military use.

The battery life is another significant selling point for me, as it lasts about 12.5 hours on a single charge. This music production laptop allows me to work on my own music and attend to other tasks without worrying about running out of power in the middle of a performance.

However, I did come across some drawbacks while using the Samsung Chromebook 4. With only 32GB of storage, I find myself constantly transferring files to external storage solutions. It's not a deal-breaker, but I do wish it had more built-in storage for my growing music library.

The Chromebook 4's performance may not be ideal for heavy-duty multimedia work, such as video editing or extensive audio production. However, for DJs looking for a laptop to browse for new tracks, manage playlists, and handle essential DJ software, it is more than adequate. If you have a lot of video editing tasks, check out this list of the best laptops for video editing under $1,000.

Lastly, the Chrome OS might not be for everyone. While it's streamlined and easy to use, some users might prefer a more flexible operating system with wider app compatibility.

Overall, I genuinely enjoy using the Samsung Chromebook 4 for my DJing needs. Its portability, durability, and battery life are top-notch, and this laptop is perfect for those on a budget. However, be prepared to invest in external storage and work within the confines of the Chrome OS.

Acer Swift 3 14" Business Laptop

This Acer Swift 3 is a solid choice for DJs seeking a budget-friendly laptop under $500 with impressive features.

Pros

• Powerful processor (i5-1135G7)

• 8GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD

• 14" Full HD IPS ComfyView Display

Cons

• Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics

• Limited port variety

• No dedicated numeric keypad

Buy Acer Swift 3 14" Business Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Acer Swift 3, and I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight it was, making it perfect for DJs on the go. The laptop is surprisingly zippy for its price, thanks to the 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor. Running multiple applications, including DJ software, was no issue, and I had plenty of RAM and SSD storage to work with.

The display was crisp and easy to read even in low-light conditions, which is essential when performing set after set. However, the laptop doesn't offer a dedicated numeric keypad that some DJs might find useful when working with their mixing software.

Though the Acer Swift 3 has an integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, the performance is satisfactory for a DJ laptop under $500. But if you're looking for high-end graphics or video editing capabilities, you might need to explore other options.

The Acer Swift 3 comes with a backlit keyboard and built-in fingerprint reader, providing convenience and security for my files and applications. My only gripe was the limited port options - while it does have USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports, it lacked an SD card slot or additional USB ports for extra gear. Despite that, this laptop delivers a versatile and affordable option for DJs seeking a budget-friendly, functional laptop perfect for performances and beyond.

HP 14 Laptop (AMD Ryzen 5 5500U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)

This HP 14 laptop is an excellent choice for DJs on a budget, thanks to its performance, portability, and Full HD display.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Mobile Processor

• Lightweight and thin design

• Vibrant 14-inch Full HD display

Cons

• Limited 256GB SSD storage

• Average 8GB RAM may not be suitable for heavy multitaskers

• No optical storage device

Buy HP 14 Laptop (AMD Ryzen 5 5500U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) on Amazon

As a DJ, I've found that the HP 14 laptop is perfect for my needs. The AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor offers surprisingly robust performance, handling all of my digital audio workstation (DAW) applications with ease. I'm able to run multiple applications smoothly and can perform live comfortably.

When I'm on the road, carrying the laptop around is no hassle. It is thin, lightweight, and fits easily in my backpack. I appreciate that the laptop's design doesn't scream "gaming laptop" but still delivers a solid performance that satisfies my DJ work requirements.

The Full HD display is a real selling point for me. Watching videos and browsing through my music library is a delight with such crisp visuals. The anti-glare screen allows me to work on my mixes efficiently, even under the bright stage lights or in outdoor settings.

Of course, there are a few drawbacks. The 256GB SSD storage, though faster than traditional HDDs, can be limiting if you have a vast music library. Additionally, while 8GB RAM is sufficient for most tasks, heavy multitaskers might feel restricted with this amount of memory.

In conclusion, the HP 14 laptop is an affordable and highly suitable choice for DJs looking for a reliable laptop under $500. Its performance and portability, coupled with the visually impressive Full HD display, make it a fantastic option for those on the go or performing live shows. Just keep in mind the limitations in storage and RAM if you require more capacity for multitasking and storing music. HP also makes some of the best laptops for lawyers, you can check them out.

Buying Guide

When I'm looking for the best DJ laptop under $500, there are a few key features and factors that I consider. These help me make sure I'm choosing a great laptop, that will be great for my needs without breaking the bank.

Performance

First and foremost, I think about the performance of the laptop. Since DJs often run multiple applications simultaneously, it's essential that the laptop have a powerful processor, like an Intel Core i5 or equivalent, and at least 8GB of RAM. These specs will ensure that the laptop can handle multiple tasks without lagging.

Storage

Storage is another crucial factor. I want a laptop with enough storage space to hold all my music files, DJ software, and other important data. Ideally, I'd prefer a laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD) over a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), since SSDs are faster and more reliable. A minimum of 256GB storage should suffice, but I can always expand the storage later with an external drive if need be.

Display and Resolution

A laptop's display is key for seamless DJing. I prefer to have a laptop with a minimum screen resolution of 1920x1080 pixels (also known as Full HD). This higher resolution ensures that I can view multiple applications or see intricate waveforms in my DJ software with ease. The display size is subjective, but I think a 13-inch to 15-inch screen strikes a good balance between portability and usability.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important consideration, especially if I plan to DJ at events without easy access to an outlet. A long-lasting battery, preferably with at least 6 hours of run time, gives me the freedom to move around and set up wherever I want without worrying about finding power cords or charging points.

Build Quality and Portability

Lastly, I look for a laptop with solid build quality and portability. Since I'll be transporting the laptop frequently and using it in different environments, it's essential that it's durable and reliable. A slim, lightweight design can be a bonus, making it easier to carry around.

To sum up, when searching for the best DJ laptop under $500, I focus on performance, storage, display, battery life, and build quality. If a laptop checks off all these boxes, I can confidently consider it as a great option for my DJing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good laptops for DJing on a budget?

I've found that the HP Pavilion 15, Acer Aspire 5, and Lenovo IdeaPad 3 are solid options for those on a budget. Each of these laptops is under $500, and they offer a good balance between performance and price. They're reliable, come with decent hardware specifications, and are suitable for beginner and intermediate DJs.

Which laptops under $500 work best with Serato?

For Serato DJ software, the minimum requirement is an Intel 64-bit 1.07 GHz processor and 4 GB of RAM, but I recommend at least an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor and 8 GB of RAM. The Acer Aspire 5 and Lenovo IdeaPad 3 should work well with Serato. However, it's important to note that as your needs grow, you may want to upgrade to a more powerful machine later on.

What affordable laptops do DJs usually use for music production?

For music production, you'll need a laptop with a more powerful processor and more RAM compared to what's needed for DJing. Budget laptops like the HP Pavilion 15 and Acer Swift 3 are popular among DJs, as they come well-equipped for this purpose, featuring 8-16 GB of RAM and at least 256 GB of storage.

What specs should I look for in a budget DJ laptop?

When selecting a budget DJ laptop, I prioritize the processor, RAM, and storage space. A minimum of an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage should be sufficient for most beginner and intermediate DJs. Don't overlook connectivity options, like USB ports and an HDMI output, which can come in handy when connecting controllers, audio interface, or displays during performances.

Are there any cheap laptops for DJing recommended on Reddit?

On Reddit, I've seen many DJs recommend budget laptops like the HP Pavilion 15, Acer Aspire 5, Lenovo IdeaPad 3, and Asus VivoBook 15. These laptops consistently receive positive feedback from the community due to their affordability and performance. It's always a good idea to research further, read user reviews, and compare specifications to find the best fit for you.

Can you suggest some laptops under $500 for music production?

Sure! I'd recommend checking out the HP Pavilion 15, Asus VivoBook 15, and Acer Swift 3. These laptops offer reliable performance with their Intel Core i5 processors, at least 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage. As always, it's a good idea to consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget when choosing a laptop.