What does the Fox say?

[leggo PE]

So are you using your laptop in conjunction with two external monitors, or do you just need one monitor and the laptop screen? Just asking, because there are a few ways to accomplish this that doesn't require a displayport.

One monitor and the laptop screen. I just want the miniDP connection in the laptop because that’s the cable I have that makes it connect properly with my current loaned crappy Dell laptop.

 

[Supe]

If its the displayport on your current monitor you're worried about keeping, then you may have better luck looking for a USB-C connection in your price range, which can output DP signals and connect with a conversion cable or adapter. Otherwise, I would do what you can to use the HDMI out. Displayports on laptops are normally associated with higher end gaming laptops, which will be 2x-3x minimum of your target price point.

The HP 15-dy2076nr is available from BJ's right now for $500, though you may be able to get others to price match. i5, 8GB RAM, and a USB-C port. You will hate yourself with anything less than that, because Windows will crawl and multitasking will be painful. I believe this is the same model I bought my daughter for school a year and a half ago and it's held up just fine. Outside of that, you may want to look at some refurbs, though they can be hit or miss.

 

[leggo PE]

I ended up going with this guy, which Best Buy could price match down to $499.99 and looked nearly identical to the one you linked to at BJ’s:

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/hp-15-...gb-ssd-natural-silver/6461987.p?skuId=6461987
It should be fine! Just gotta figure out what cord I need to get to hook up the additional monitor. I prefer a direct cord connection vs a dock, since I have no other need for a dock with my Bluetooth mouse and corded Headphone/microphone situation.

 

[Supe]

You will want either a USB-C to displayport cable, or if your monitor has (and odds are, it does) an HDMI input, I would just use an HDMI cable and leave the side of the laptop and USB-C port free.