Looking for a snappy, reliable laptop at around €500. Help appreciated.

EmacB

My girlfriend has finally decided to replace her awful old Dell laptop. Waiting 10 minutes for it to do anything has finally got to her. It was a dud from the start. I've been tasked with finding a new one as I know slightly more than her.

Above all else the new laptop needs to be snappy and reliable. It would be used for writing a PhD thesis. So that'd involve having several programs like chrome, word, powerpoint, adobe as well as some chemistry programs (Chemdraw and Mestre nova fwiw) open at the same time.

She has no intention of using it for gaming or movies. It doesn't need to have much storage. I suppose even a 256gb SSD would suffice.

She isn't too concerned with aesthetics, thickness, weight or battery life either.

She has always been reluctant to buy online as she likes the peace of of mind of knowing she can just walk back into the shop if she has any issues, but that's obviously out of the question now. Therefore a well-known supplier is preferential. Amazon or laptopsdirect at a push.

I appreciate any help anyone can give finding a laptop like that.
Thanks

get the lenovo here

https://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/lenovo-ideapad-5-ryzen-5-4500u-6-cores16gb256gbfree-dosips-screenbacklit-keyboard-at-lenovo-rewards-with-newsletter-3447308

need to register on email to get 10% off code -> sent by email

then also use the code on the uk deals page

use both codes for 20% off total price

pick your options - you can get for less than €500.

very good new cpus

parcel motel etc for delivery