i suggest you to with this laptop https://www.amazon.com/P2540UA-AB51-business-standard-Display-Fingerprint/dp/B06XJJG4PD

i5-7200u processor
8gb ram
1tb hdd
15.6 inch FHD display
windows 10 OS
Fingerprint Reader

for more suggestions you can check this 500 dollar laptop guide

I can tell you this:
500$ laptop's Can't run Minecraft w. modpacks smoothly, then you'd be looking at laptops from 800-1000$ that will be able to do that.
I highly recommend that you don't buy a laptop if you're going to be using it as a gaming computer. Instead spent the 500$ in a desktop instead. They can't be moved that easily no, but they can run Minecraft Modpacks waaaaaaaaaay better than a 500$ laptop.

Hello!
I'm in the Market for a new computer, and here's what I've discovered:

1. You can't get a good laptop that will handle Minecraft (and Modpacks) for under $500.
2. You'd need a minimum of 8GB of RAM to play MC Smoothly.
3. I found that a Desktop may be a better way to spend $500.

But, like you said, you're in the Market for a Laptop, not a Desktop..so, you decide! Laggy MC or Smooth(ish) MC!

- _Subhuman

I'm no expert and can't help you on much of anything, but as someone who bought a laptop years back I can let you in on a few things I discovered.

1. First off, don't get more Hard Drive room than you need. I have 750GB and don't come close to using half of it. I've had this laptop for 5 years.
2. My laptop ended up having a full keyboard, if you use the arrow keys to play minecraft you may want to check the key size before buying.
3. Always Always ALWAYS check the reviews and comments before buying.