Computers: As expensive as they are, they’re essential to almost everyone’s life.

Whether it is in the office, at school, or at home, Americans are spending incredible amounts of their time on the internet. The average teenager between the ages of 13 and 18 spends roughly over 72 hours a week using various electronic media such as cell phones, video games, the internet, and music.

Mp3 and DVD players, TV, computers, and video games are major components of a college student’s pastime. So if you’re going to spend lavish money on technology, why not do it in style?

I got the names of the top laptops under $500 thanks to Nick Mokey of Digital Trends.

 #1 Dell Vostro 1000, $399.99

#2 Acer Aspire AS4315-2535, $459.90

#3 Compaq C700T, $479.99

#4 Lenovo ThinkPad R61e, $487.69

#5 Gateway T-6815, $499.99

 To read what Nick has to say about each model, click here.