Notebookcheck's Top 10 Laptops under 1,000 Euros
August 2019 update. Here you will find the best notebooks under 1000 USD/Euros reviewed by Notebookcheck over the last few months. Our list of top models is regularly updated, maintained and commented on and should assist in purchasing decisions.
The range between 500 and 1000 USD/Euros probably includes the largest selection of notebooks, starting with business devices and multimedia machines with different sizes up to compact and mobile subnotebooks and obviously the popular class of convertibles or 2-in-1 devices, respectively. If you want to find your favorite device very quickly and you are not limited to a special type of device, then this overview might be of help. Otherwise, we can recommend our category charts:
- Top 10 Notebooks under 300 Euros
- Top 10 Notebooks under 500 Euros
- Top 10 Budget Gaming Notebooks (under 1000 Euros)
- Top 10 Budget Office Notebook (under 800 Euros)
The following table lists the best Windows-based notebooks under 1000 USD/Euros (>10-inches, no Chromebooks) that were reviewed by Notebookcheck over the last 10 months. If ratings are equal, the latest review is listed first. The table can be sorted by clicking on its headers and filtered by entering text in the field above it (e.g. "matte").
Note: The cheapest street price at the time of the last revision of this article applies to the following list. The sales prices shown in the following table and in the price comparison with the individual articles are automatically updated daily and can therefore differ!
Best Notebooks under 1,000 USD/Euros as of June 2019
| Pos. | Date | Rating | Image | Model | Height | Weight | Size | Resolution | Screen | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10/2018 | 87% | ![]() | Microsoft Surface Pro 6, Core i5, 128 GB Intel Core i5-8250U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 128 GB SSD | 8.5 mm | 781 g | 12.3" | 2736x1834 | glossy | |
| 2 | 02/2019 | 87% | ![]() | Lenovo IdeaPad 730S-13IWL 81JB0004US Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 256 GB NVMe | 11.9 mm | 1.1 kg | 13.3" | 1920x1080 | glossy | |
| 3 | 05/2019 | 86% | ![]() | Lenovo ThinkPad E490-20N8000RGE Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, SSD | 19.9 mm | 1.8 kg | 14" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 4 | 07/2019 New! | 86% | ![]() | Lenovo ThinkBook 13s-20R90071GE Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 16 GB Memory, 512 GB SSD | 15.9 mm | 1.3 kg | 13.3" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 5 | 02/2019 | 88% | ![]() | Lenovo ThinkPad L390-20NR0013GE Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 256 GB NVMe | 18.8 mm | 1.5 kg | 13.3" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 6 | 10/2018 | 83% | ![]() | Microsoft Surface Go MHN-00003 Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y Intel UHD Graphics 615 4 GB Memory, 64 GB eMMC | 8.3 mm | 523 g | 10" | 1800x1200 | glossy | |
| 7 | 03/2019 | 83% | ![]() | Lenovo ThinkPad E590-20NC0003GE Intel Core i7-8565U Intel UHD Graphics 620 16 GB Memory, 512 GB SSD | 19.9 mm | 1.9 kg | 15.6" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 8 | 03/2019 | 84% | ![]() | HP ProBook 430 G6-5TJ89EA Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 256 GB SSD | 18 mm | 1.4 kg | 13.3" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 9 | 11/2018 | 87% | ![]() | Huawei MateBook D 14 W50F Intel Core i5-8250U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 256 GB SSD | 16 mm | 1.5 kg | 14" | 1920x1080 | matte | |
| 10 | 03/2019 | 87% | ![]() | Lenovo Ideapad S530-13IWL Intel Core i5-8265U Intel UHD Graphics 620 8 GB Memory, 256 GB SSD | 14.8 mm | 1.2 kg | 13.3" | 1920x1080 | glossy |
Top 10 of the previous 10 months at the time of writing, current articles are listed first
Link: all reviewed notebooks below 1,000 Euros, ordered by total rating
Editors' Comments
1st - Microsoft Surface Pro 6
The Surface Pro 6 with the Core i5 processor currently retails for about 1000 Euros, but it is even less expensive with the Core m3. You still get one of the best windows tablets on the market and the i5 SKU is already pretty quick. The Core i7 SKU is slightly faster and the throttling is not too bad, but is it really worth the premium? We don't think so for most users, and the i5 should be sufficient.
There are also differences in terms of SSD storage: The 128 GB drive is pretty slow, but the other models are faster. Design, build quality, and display are once again very good, but Microsoft still saves money on the ports, which is annoying. You should also note that you still have to buy a Bluetooth keyboard or Microsoft's Type Cover to get the full notebook experience.
Top 10 Laptops
Multimedia, Budget Multimedia, Gaming, Budget Gaming, Lightweight Gaming, Business, Budget Office, Workstation, Subnotebooks, Ultrabooks, Chromebooks
under 300 USD/Euros, under 500 USD/Euros, 1.000 USD/Euros
Best Displays, for University Students
Top 10 Smartphones
Smartphones, Phablets, ≤5-inch, Camera SmartphonesNotebookcheck's Top 10 Smartphones under 160 Euros
Pricecompare
2nd - Lenovo IdeaPad 730S-13IWL
The Lenovo IdeaPad 730S is a very slim and very light Ultrabooks, but the stability is still decent. We also like the design, the quiet operation and the decent display contrast. So is the 13.3-inch device a good investment for less than 1000 Euros?
It depends on what you are looking for, because the performance is not great and the number of ports is limited. The device is also limited in terms of maintenance and upgrades.
If you want an ultra portable device, though, which also looks nice and offers decent battery runtimes, the Lenovo IdeaPad 730S is definitely worth a look.
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3rd - Lenovo ThinkPad E490
Lenovo's ThinkPad E490 is a successful office laptop for a reasonable price. The sturdy chassis of the ThinkPad E-series is no surprise, but there has not been a lot of changes in the recent years. We are not surprised by the good input devices, either. The laptop is very quiet, despite the decent performance, and the battery runtime is convincing. We also like the matte screen in general, only the colors disappoint a bit.
You have to accept that the ThinkPad only comes with a 12-month warranty. There is not full-size SD reader, either. However, you should be able to live with that, because the ThinkPad E490 is once again a very good overall package.
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4th - Lenovo ThinkBook 13s
Is it a typo? What is a ThinkBook? No, Lenovo actually introduced a new series in addition to the familiar ThinkPads and the IdeaPads for private users. The design language differs from the ThinkPads, but it is supposed to carry over many of its qualities.
The first device is the ThinkBook 13s, which is like an IdeaPad with some ThinkPad features. Some business features, for example in the security department, are missing, but this should not be a big issue for private users. The port situation is more annoying because the USB-C port does not support power delivery.
Highlights include the matte screen with almost full sRGB coverage, long battery runtimes, and obviously the compact and high-quality aluminum chassis, which will please fans of the MacBook Pro 13. If you have not been a big fan of the traditional ThinkPad design, you should risk a look, because some qualities have been transferred onto the ThinkBook.
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5th - Lenovo ThinkPad L390
ThinkPads everywhere: Lenovo continues to expand its portfolio of ThinkPads, so you basically get a device for almost every taste and budget. The ThinkPad L390 is a solid 13-inch device, which does not cost more than 1000 Euros and is still powerful enough. The possibility of upgrades and numerous ports complete the offer.
However, similar to the previous model, you will have to accept the low color gamut of the screen, so the ThinkPad L390 is not suited for picture editing. The number of business features is also limited, but this is no problem for private users. The missing Thunderbolt port on the other hand might be a bigger issue.
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6th - Microsoft Surface Go
So affordable and already a high-quality convertible! The Microsoft Surface Go already starts for less than 500 Euros, but this version is shipped without physical keyboard. You can either use a Bluetooth keyboard or the optional Type Cover, which will increase the price noticeably. The storage is also limited on the base model at just 64 GB, and Microsoft charges a hefty premium for the 128 GB option. You can at least use the microSD reader to store more data.
The quality of the magnesium case is excellent, the Surface lasts long on battery, and you get a bright as well as high-contrast screen. The performance is not that bad, either. You notice that the Surface Go is no real notebook when you look at the ports, because one USB-C port will have to suffice.
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7th - Lenovo ThinkPad E590
The ThinkPad E590 is the 2019 model of Lenovo's affordable office laptop. Compared to the Lenovo ThinkPad E580, there are only minor changes, and you pay much less than 1000 Euros for most SKUs. There is still no Thunderbolt 3, and the battery runtime is even a bit shorter than before. All in all, the ThinkPad E590 is once again a decent and inexpensive office notebook.
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8th - HP ProBook 430 G6
The HP ProBook 430 G6 inherits the case of the much more expensive EliteBooks and leaves quite an impression in the segment of inexpensive office laptops. The notebook is also another choice in other regards: It offers a full-size SD card reader, for example.
The battery runtime is also good, only the display is a bit disappointing with the dim backlight and the limited color gamut. The warranty is limited to just 12 months.
Still, the HP ProBook 430 G6 is a good choice if you want a high-quality chassis and upgrade options.
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9th - Huawei MateBook D 14
Good chassis, long battery runtimes, and decent security features. Huawei is not really an established manufacturer in this segment, but the MateBook D 14 still leaves a good impression. The device is no bargain in comparison to other systems in this ranking, but the features are at least on par for a similar price. The display has problems with viewing angles and color gamut, but the color accuracy ex-works is good in return.
Pricecompare
10th - Lenovo IdeaPad S530-13IWL
A 13.3-inch laptop from Lenovo with good performance, replaceable SSD, and quick-charge functionality? The IdeaPad S53-13IWL meets the description. Unfortunate that you have to live with a glossy screen and the number of ports is limited as well – you should be willing to carry around adapters if you often use accessories.
The battery runtime is average, the speakers are not great, and we recommend headphones for longer listening sessions.
All in all, the IdeaPad S530 is a very solid office notebook, which might not offer any highlights, but it is a reliable companion.
Pricecompare
Top 10 in Comparison
Size Comparison
Measurement Results
| HP ProBook 470 G5 | Microsoft Surface Go MHN-00003 | Microsoft Surface Pro 6, Core i5, 128 GB | Huawei MateBook D 14 W50F | Lenovo IdeaPad 730S-13IWL 81JB0004US | Lenovo ThinkPad L390-20NR0013GE | Lenovo Ideapad S530-13IWL | Lenovo ThinkPad E590-20NC0003GE | HP ProBook 430 G6-5TJ89EA | Lenovo ThinkPad E490-20N8000RGE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Response Times | ||||||||||
| Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% * | 36 (18, 18) | 44 (22, 22) | 42 (22, 20) | 41 (21, 20) | 75.2 (32.8, 42.4) | 42.8 (22.8, 20) | 41 (22, 19) | 40 (21.2, 18.8) | 40.8 (22.8, 18) | 48.4 (25.2, 23.2) |
| Response Time Black / White * | 28 (16, 12) | 25.6 (11.6, 14) | 25 (14, 11) | 37 (21, 16) | 38 (22, 16) | 30 (15.2, 14.8) | 30 (16, 14) | 27.6 (16.8, 10.8) | 30.4 (16.4, 14) | 38.4 (21.2, 17.2) |
| PWM Frequency | 1020 (99) | 20800 (50) | 200 (90) | 543.5 | 30490 (99) | 192 (90) | 26040 (40) | 1250 (99) | ||
| Screen | ||||||||||
| Brightness middle | 400 | 456 | 463 | 291 | 355.1 | 298 | 306 | 254 | 255 | 305 |
| Brightness | 374 | 426 | 450 | 276 | 336 | 278 | 287 | 251 | 238 | 295 |
| Brightness Distribution | 87 | 88 | 83 | 85 | 83 | 81 | 78 | 90 | 88 | 90 |
| Black Level * | 0.63 | 0.31 | 0.32 | 0.46 | 0.32 | 0.33 | 0.21 | 0.2 | 0.18 | 0.23 |
| Contrast | 635 | 1471 | 1447 | 633 | 1110 | 903 | 1457 | 1270 | 1417 | 1326 |
| Colorchecker DeltaE2000 * | 4.34 | 1.3 | 3.76 | 4.3 | 2.93 | 6.5 | 5.96 | 5.6 | 5.4 | 5.3 |
| Colorchecker DeltaE2000 max. * | 8.29 | 3 | 7.35 | 10.01 | 4.39 | 23.9 | 11.34 | 15.4 | 19.5 | 18.9 |
| Greyscale DeltaE2000 * | 3.51 | 1.4 | 3.18 | 4.21 | 3.6 | 5.6 | 6.9 | 3.1 | 3.8 | 2.3 |
| Gamma | 2.45 90% | 2.24 98% | 2.53 87% | 2.46 89% | 2.071 106% | 2.08 106% | 2.35 94% | 2.22 99% | 2.41 91% | 2.09 105% |
| CCT | 6570 99% | 6687 97% | 6994 93% | 6867 95% | 7161 91% | 6669 97% | 7554 86% | 6450 101% | 7100 92% | 6246 104% |
| Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998) | 55 | 62.3 | 59 | 41 | 61 | 38.4 | 59 | 36.3 | 39.4 | 37.7 |
| Color Space (Percent of sRGB) | 84 | 96.8 | 90 | 64 | 95 | 60.1 | 90 | 57.1 | 62.5 | 58.2 |
| Colorchecker DeltaE2000 calibrated * | 1.1 | 2.68 | 3.18 | 1.83 | 4.9 | 2.69 | 4.9 | 4.1 | 5 | |
| Noise | ||||||||||
| off / environment * | 30.5 | 30.5 | 28.2 | 30.4 | 29.3 | 29.4 | 29.4 | |||
| Idle Minimum * | 30.5 | 30.5 | 28.2 | 29.5 | 30.4 | 29.3 | 29.4 | 29.4 | ||
| Idle Average * | 30.5 | 30.5 | 28.2 | 29.5 | 30.4 | 29.3 | 29.4 | 29.4 | ||
| Idle Maximum * | 30.5 | 30.5 | 28.2 | 29.5 | 30.4 | 29.3 | 30 | 29.4 | ||
| Load Average * | 33 | 33.6 | 33.4 | 30.6 | 34.4 | 30.6 | 32.5 | 30.2 | ||
| Load Maximum * | 38 | 32.6 | 39.5 | 31.5 | 37.4 | 30.6 | 32.5 | 30.9 | ||
| Heat | ||||||||||
| Maximum Upper Side * | 38.4 | 44 | 39.7 | 41.6 | 43 | 47.5 | 39.4 | 43.8 | 38.3 | 39.9 |
| Maximum Bottom * | 40.1 | 43 | 41.1 | 44.2 | 43.4 | 51.3 | 40.5 | 43.9 | 41.1 | 45 |
| Idle Upper Side * | 25.4 | 26 | 34.5 | 27.4 | 29 | 25.4 | 25.6 | 25.5 | 23.8 | 24.7 |
| Idle Bottom * | 24.9 | 24.4 | 30.7 | 27.6 | 29.8 | 26.3 | 25.3 | 27 | 24.4 | 25.8 |
| Battery Runtime | ||||||||||
| Reader / Idle | 1123 | 771 | 1066 | 1414 | 974 | 807 | 1098 | 969 | 1063 | |
| H.264 | 457 | 384 | 725 | 566 | 506 | 546 | 687 | |||
| WiFi v1.3 | 485 | 448 | 545 | 597 | 668 | 419 | 396 | 383 | 569 | 485 |
| Load | 140 | 180 | 118 | 129 | 83 | 77 | 105 | 145 | 117 | |
| Power Consumption | ||||||||||
| Idle Minimum * | 3.4 | 2.88 | 4.3 | 3.7 | 2.8 | 3.8 | 2.8 | 3.72 | 3.5 | 2.76 |
| Idle Average * | 9.6 | 4.8 | 8.7 | 6.9 | 5.5 | 6.8 | 5.6 | 7.8 | 5.76 | 5.96 |
| Idle Maximum * | 11.8 | 7.5 | 9.4 | 8.4 | 7.7 | 9.8 | 7.4 | 10.32 | 8.3 | 6.57 |
| Load Average * | 43 | 16.9 | 24.5 | 32 | 39.9 | 32.4 | 41.6 | 30.24 | 34.8 | 28.2 |
| Load Maximum * | 61 | 23.8 | 36 | 32.6 | 54.1 | 52 | 55 | 44 | 45.7 | 43.6 |
* ... smaller is better



















