The best laptop from the Cricut maker doesn’t have to be expensive. This is because applications do not require much power to run efficiently. The best laptop for Cricut Maker under $500 is perfect.
Works perfectly with 4 GB RAM and a screen size of 14 inches or more. This feature is available on many of the budget laptops we review below.
In this article, we will discuss the most important factors to consider when choosing a good laptop and how you can easily find the one that best suits your needs.
However, if you don’t have a Cricut machine yet, check out his recommendations for the Best Cricut Maker on Amazon right now.
Our team of experts has researched the best laptops for Cricut under $500. These laptops allow you to get high-quality, fun, and efficient results with your Cricut.
So let’s dive in and find your best laptop.
Top 9 Best Laptop for Cricut Maker Under $500 2024[Recommended]
To make it easier for everyone who is looking for a best laptop for Cricut Maker under $500, this roundup features, expert-selected only 9 of the best laptops, which naturally makes it easier to operate.
1. HP Notebook: The Overall Best Choice for Cricut Maker
Perfect for the Cricut fan on a budget, this HP Notebook laptop offers solid performance and features.
I recently used the HP Notebook 15.6-inch laptop for a Cricut project. I was impressed with its lightweight and portability.
Easy to carry, it’s an excellent option for people who travel or want a portable workstation for their Cricut needs.
Equipped with an Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor and 32 GB of RAM, it’s easy to multitask and run Cricut Design Space and other programs without interruption.
However, keep in mind that this laptop is not designed for heavy tasks or gaming, but for light use like web browsing, word processing, and using your Cricut.
The 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD ensures faster boot times and larger storage capacity. And, it is enough for those who want to store large files or run various applications.
It has a 15.6″ diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), touchscreen, micro-edge, BrightView display which is very impressive. In this laptop here has latest windows 11 Home – Beautiful, more consistent new design, Great window layout options, Better multi-monitor functionality, Improved performance features.
Overall, the HP Notebook 14-inch high quality is an affordable option for Cricut users and digital crafters looking for a portable and reliable computer for under $500.
2. HP Pavilion 15: The Best Mobile Workstation for Cricut Maker
We recommend this affordable laptop for Cricut users who want a convenient and portable solution without breaking the bank.
I recently purchased his latest HP Pavilion 15.6-inch HD laptop, a touchscreen product, from Amazon. I have to say this is a great little machine for Cricut Windows laptop users.
As a writer and occasional crafter, I think this product is perfect for my needs, especially on his $500 budget. This laptop is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for working on his Cricut projects on the go.
The dual-core Intel Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, coupled with 16GB of RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive, allowed me to run Cricut Design Space without any problems. It’s not a high-end laptop, but it handles my Cricut creation work well.
However, this laptop can handle many demanding programs efficiently, so we recommend it if you do a lot of multitasking.
HP Pavilion 15 is also an aspect that cannot be ignored. It looks fun and brings a refreshing atmosphere to your workspace.
On the other hand, storage is limited to 1TB PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive, which will be convenient for all users.
I found it to be sufficient for Cricut work, but if you need more storage, investing in a larger-capacity portable hard drive or laptop might be a better option.
Please note that this laptop is brand new. Received in good condition. It works very well. However, if you are looking for a refurbished device, this may not be the ideal choice.
All in all, the HP Pavilion 15.6-inch laptop is an affordable and practical solution for a Cricut user and digital crafters looking for a portable device under $500.
It’s great for running Cricut Design Space, but there are some things to consider when it comes to storage capacity and multitasking. Then, complete your craft project.
3. Lenovo V15: Best Ryzen Laptop for Cricut Maker
We heartily recommend the Lenovo V15 laptop as Cricut’s best laptop under $500 for its performance and value.
I recently had a chance to use a Lenovo V15 laptop for a Cricut project, and I was impressed.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor and 16GB of RAM allowed him to run his Cricut software smoothly without any performance lag.
We also found that the 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive not only made programs and files load faster, but also provided us with enough storage space to store all of our design files.
Featuring a 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) screen, this laptop is compact and portable, making it easy to take to events and craft workshops.
The screen resolution is clear and vibrant for accurate color reproduction when designing with Cricut software.
On the downside, the Lenovo V15 laptop doesn’t have a CD-ROM drive, but with more cloud-based or downloadable software, CD-ROM drives are becoming more common.
So, if you are looking for the best laptop for Cricut under $500, the Lenovo V15 laptop will be your best option.
Give your Cricut projects superior performance, a compact and portable design, and plenty of storage for all your creative needs.
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 3: A High-configured Laptop for Cricut Maker
We all know that Lenovo offers great laptops for people looking to enter this market. There are some great deals for beginners, including his IdeaPad, which is more affordable.
There’s also AMD Ryzen laptop for those looking for a high-end experience, and there’s also a Legion laptop.
Luckily, the app works with more affordable products like the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i, so you don’t have to spend all your money on Legion for Cricut. That’s what we’re focused on.
First of all, what’s great about this laptop is that it’s stylish and well-built. I’m not saying it has the best components in its class, but honestly, you get what you need for the price. You can’t wait too long.
Fortunately, day-to-day performance is good, so that’s another plus point you get here. The trackpad and keyboard are easy to use, so this is a good thing if you’re looking for something similar.
Check out the details below to better understand what I’m talking about.
- 15.6-inch FHD micro-edge display
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
- 8GB RAM DDR4
- 512GB PCIE SSD
What you get with this laptop is more than enough, and some would argue that it’s not enough, but given the price you paid and the fact that it’s his Cricut laptop, you have nothing to lose.
You can get what you need without having to worry about it. I still believe that laptop is good in their own right and are perfectly fine to use.
My only complaint is that the RAM is only 8 GB, but with Cricut, you’re looking for a great product that works fine.
5. HP Chromebook x360: A Budget-friendly Laptop for Cricut Maker
I highly recommend the HP Chromebook x360 laptop to anyone looking for an affordable yet powerful Cricut creation device.
I recently had a chance to use an HP Chromebook x360 laptop, and I have to say I was impressed with its features.
The lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry, and the stylish mineral silver finish makes it even more appealing.
The 14-inch HD screen is perfect for viewing his Cricut projects, and the anti-glare feature is useful when working in bright environments.
As a Cricut user, the Intel Celeron N400 processor provides smooth performance for my production needs. The device’s long battery life (up to 14 hours) is a plus for sleepless nights and intense viewing sessions.
When the battery starts to run low, HP Quick Charge technology charges your device quickly, charging it to 50% in just 45 minutes.
One thing I have to mention is that the HP Chromebook 14 laptop runs on Chrome OS. This means using Android apps and the Chrome browser for all tasks.
It fits most of my Cricut needs, but it may seem like a drawback for those looking for a more versatile tool.
Additionally, the device comes with 4GB of RAM, which can limit the smoothness of multitasking, especially when dealing with resource-intensive apps.
The 32GB eMMC storage was sufficient for my project, but if you plan on storing larger files, be prepared to invest in external storage.
All in all, the HP Chromebook x360 Laptop is an ideal choice for a Cricut user looking for an affordable and reliable device. Please note that there are limitations regarding RAM, storage, and dependency on Chrome OS.
6. Dell Inspiron 11 Chromebook: Best Functional Laptop for Cricut Maker
This Dell Chromebook is an affordable option for Cricut users who can work within limits.
I recently used the Dell Chromebook 11 for a Cricut project and found it to have some pros and cons.
The affordability of this laptop is a big selling point for me, and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry. The battery life is also great, lasting up to 10 hours without recharging.
The downside is that the laptop’s storage capacity is limited to 4GB, which may not be enough for people who want to store large amounts of project files. Additionally, the screen is non-touch, which can limit the creativity of some Cricut users.
The Dell Chromebook 11 runs Chrome OS and has a Celeron N3060 processor and 4GB of 1600MHz DDR3 RAM is very fast. 32GB eMMC storage is more faster than previous model.
The non-touch LCD screen has an anti-glare coating and is suitable for use in a variety of lighting conditions. This laptop also has many ports, including multiple USB (3.0) ports for connecting external devices.
All in all, the Dell Chromebook 11 is an affordable option for Cricut users who don’t need a feature-rich laptop.
The lightweight design and long battery life make it a convenient option, but the limited storage space and lack of touch functionality may disappoint some users.
7. Acer Chromebook Spin 314: Best All-Rounder Laptop for Cricut Maker
We recently tested the Acer Chromebook Spin 314. We found it a reliable and affordable laptop for Cricut users under $500, with great screen quality and long battery life.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 314 features a 14-inch HD 168p IPS touchscreen that provides sharp images and makes working with your Cricut projects an enjoyable experience.
The touchscreen is very responsive, but be aware that it is very sensitive, and touching it accidentally can cause unexpected behavior.
The Chromebook has a powerful Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor and 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM. Still, it’s more than capable of performing basic tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, and using Cricut Design Space.
One of my favorite things about the Acer Chromebook is its incredible battery life, which can last up to 12 hours on a single charge.
This feature allows you to work on your Cricut projects all day long without having to worry about constantly charging it.
The only downside is that the 128GB eMMC storage capacity is limited, so if you have a large library of designs and projects, it will fill up quickly. However, it offers built-in cloud support to help alleviate storage issues.
Overall, the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 is a solid and affordable laptop for Cricut users, priced under $500. The best screen quality, long-lasting battery, and attractive design make it a fun personal project.
8. HP Stream Premium 14: Best Budget-Friendly Laptop Cricut Maker
I highly recommend this laptop to anyone looking for an efficient and affordable Cricut project tool.
HP Stream 14-inch When I first unpacked his laptop, I was surprised by its bright royal blue color and sleek design. It’s very thin and light, so you can easily carry it to work or anywhere.
With an impressive battery life of over 10 hours, you can work on your Cricut projects without charging constantly.
The Wi-Fi antenna on this laptop was a big change for me. Provides a strong and reliable internet connection. This is important when downloading Cricut designs or looking for inspiration.
I also appreciate that a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 is included. Access to programs like Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to help you stay organized and improve your Cricut projects.
On the other hand, we have to admit that 6GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage can seem limiting at times.
This laptop is great for basic Cricut and streaming tasks, but struggles with more demanding applications and large design files. That said, the compromise makes sense, considering the price.
Finally, if you’re looking for an affordable and efficient laptop for your Cricut projects, the HP Stream 14-inch Laptop, Intel Celeron N4120, is a great choice. It features a portable design, long battery life, and robust Wi-Fi connectivity.
However, please note that there are some limitations regarding RAM and storage capacity. Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase, and it fits my Cricut needs ideally.
9. ASUS Vivobook 14: High-Performance Laptop for Cricut Maker
Personally, I think that despite some drawbacks, the ASUS Vivobook 14 is a good choice for Cricut users on a budget.
When he started using the ASUS Vivobook 14 laptop, he was pleasantly surprised by its smooth performance, especially when running Cricut Design Space.
ASUS Vivobook 14 is equipped with an Intel Core i5-1235U processor and Intel Iris Xᵉ Graphics, this laptop is designed to provide an ultrafast and smooth experience.
8GB of high-speed DDR4 memory and 256GB of SSD storage help you perform various tasks efficiently. Plus, the option to expand your memory with an SSD gives you more flexibility if you need more storage in the future.
The 14-inch 1080p Full HD IPS display offers vibrant colors, making designing and previewing your projects even more fun on this laptop.
The slim, lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the all-day battery life makes it perfect for on-the-go Cricut crafting sessions.
ASUS Vivobook 14 offers multiple interfaces for seamless connectivity with devices and peripherals.
However, while using this laptop, I discovered some drawbacks. One notable issue is the keyboard layout. It may take some time to get used to it.
Additionally, 8GB RAM is enough for heavy multitasking or running demanding applications. The laptop comes with 256 GB of storage, but storage may be limited if you store a large number of design files.
All in all, the ASUS Vivobook 14 is a viable option for Cricut users on a budget who value portability and battery life. Although it has some limitations, it offers a good balance of price, performance, and functionality for basic Cricut-related tasks.
How to choose the best laptop for Cricut Maker under $500
Choosing the best laptop for Cricut Maker under $500 requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. Cricut design software like Cricut Design Space doesn’t require high-end hardware, but you do need a laptop to run it without any issues. Here are some steps to make an informed decision.
Check the system requirements: First, check the official system requirements for Cricut Design Space on the Cricut website. Make sure the laptop you choose meets or exceeds these requirements. Minimum requirements include a Windows 8 or later or macOS 10.15 or later operating system, 4 GB RAM, and an available USB port. Please note that requirements may have changed.
Processor: Look for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i3 or equivalent AMD processor. It should have enough processing power to run Cricut Design Space without any problems.
Storage: Cricut Design Space itself doesn’t require much storage, but we recommend having at least 256 GB of storage for your files and projects. Consider a laptop with an SSD (solid-state drive) for faster data access and system startup times.
RAM: Aim for a laptop with at least 8 GB of RAM. Increasing RAM improves multitasking and overall system performance.
Display: A sharp, color-accurate display is vital for designing and editing projects. Look for a laptop with an IPS (in-plane switching) display for better viewing angles and color reproduction. Full HD resolution (1920×1080) is recommended.
Graphics Card: Cricut Design Space is primarily CPU-dependent and does not require a dedicated graphics card. An integrated graphics card is sufficient, but make sure it meets the software requirements.
Battery life: If you plan to use your laptop while traveling, consider a model with a long battery life to avoid frequent charging.
Portability: Depending on your preferences, you may want a laptop that is lightweight and portable so you can easily transport it between your workspace and your Cricut machine.
Operating System: Cricut Design Space is available for Windows and macOS. Choose the operating system you’re most familiar with, and make sure the laptop you choose supports it.
Budget: Keep your budget at $500, but be open to refurbished or older models that may offer better specs in the same price range.
Read Reviews: Read user reviews and expert opinions to see how the laptop performs in real-world scenarios, including running design software like Cricut Design Space, before making your final decision.
Brand and Warranty: Choose a reputable laptop brand that offers great customer support and warranty options. This is useful if you have problems with your laptop.
How to test laptops for Cricut Maker Under $500
At BestLaptopsVenture, we put each laptop through a series of standard tests and benchmarks. Measure graphics power, processor capacity, battery life, screen brightness, and more. Tested on multiple platforms and form factors.
We use popular industry standard benchmarks like Geekbench and 3DMark to understand how well a laptop can multitask and run games. We also use each machine to evaluate usability factors such as comfort and durability.
We also tested battery life by simulating long and moderate web browsing. I kept the screen brightness at 200 nits. This is quite modest for many low-priced models, but it’s close to the maximum.
We then asked them to browse popular websites until they ran out of energy. This tells you how much work you can do on a single charge.
FAQs of Best Laptop for Cricut Maker Under $500
Can I use a laptop to run my Cricut?
Yes, in most cases, you can use any laptop you want to use with your Cricut, but it must have a decent screen and at least 4 GB of RAM.
What is the best laptop to use with Cricut Explore AIR 2?
Honestly, when using any of the laptops listed here with the Cricut Explore Air 2, you won’t encounter too many issues, so it’s safe to say that the overall experience will be fine.
Which laptops are compatible with Cricut?
Laptops compatible with Cricut include:
HP
DELL
ACER
Apple
Gigabyte etc
Almost all kinds of laptops are compatible with Cricut.
Which laptops are not compatible with Cricut Design Space?
Not compatible with laptops other than Windows or Mac operating systems.
Is a laptop or tablet suitable for my Cricut?
Laptops are better for Cricut than tablets.
Is 8 GB RAM enough for my Cricut design space?
Yes, 8 GB RAM is definitely enough for Cricut Design Space.
What are the best laptops under $500 that work with Cricut?
In my experience, some of the best laptops under $500 that work well with Cricut include the Lenovo IdeaPad 3, Acer Aspire 5, and HP 14z.
These laptops balance performance and affordability, making them perfect for Cricut users on a budget.
Which laptops are compatible with Cricut Design Space and are affordable?
Affordable laptops eligible for Cricut Design Space include the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop, Acer Aspire 5, and HP 14z.
These laptops have at least 4 GB of RAM and a 2.4 GHz or faster processor, which are the minimum requirements to run Cricut Design Space.
Are 2-in-1 laptops under $500 compatible with Cricut?
Yes, 2-in-1 laptops under $500 are compatible with Cricut. The Lenovo Flex 5 is a solid choice with an AMD Ryzen 3 processor, 4GB RAM, and 128GB SSD.
This convertible laptop allows you to work on your Cricut projects in laptop mode and tablet mode.
What are the best laptop alternatives to Cricut Explore Air 2 under $500?
We found the Lenovo IdeaPad 3, Acer Aspire 5, and HP 14Z laptop to be the best laptop options for the Cricut Explore Air 2 under $500.
These laptops have enough processing power and memory to handle Cricut Design Space so that you can create beautiful projects with Explore Air 2.
Can I buy a laptop for digital scrapbooking on a budget of $500?
Yes, if you have a budget of $500, you can buy a digital scrapbooking laptop. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3, Acer Aspire 5, and HP 14z laptops are good choices for digital scrapbooking enthusiasts.
These laptops provide the performance you need for photo design and editing software without breaking the bank. Also, check out our list of the best video editing laptops under $1,000 for heavy video editing.
Does Cricut require a specific type of computer, or will it work on a laptop under $500?
Although Cricut doesn’t require a specific type of computer, it’s important to make sure the laptop you choose meets the minimum system requirements for Cricut Design Space.
Most laptops under $500 have at least 4 GB of RAM and a 2.4 GHz or faster processor and will work well with your Cricut machine.
However, if you have the option of a more expensive laptop, consider an Apple laptop like the MacBook Air or HP Pavilion.
Can I run Cricut on my Chromebook?
No, unfortunately, Design Space only requires a Windows or Mac operating system. Chromebooks run Google’s Chrome operating system, but are not supported by Design Space.
How much memory does my Cricut need?
When using a Cricut, the amount of RAM required varies. In some cases, you don’t even care about 4GB RAM. However, the most common misconception about RAM is that there is never enough RAM.
Best Laptop for Cricut Maker Under $500 Review – 2024
Conclusion on Best Laptop for Cricut Maker Under $500
We have discussed the 9 best laptop for Cricut Maker under $500.
If you are on a tight budget, I personally recommend buying the ASUS Vivobook 14 laptop. This is the best of all the laptops mentioned. All of these laptops perform well, but not as well as more expensive laptops.
We hope this article helped you choose the best Cricut Maker laptop under $500 that suits your needs.
Read also: Best Laptops for Cricut Under $300
