Buying guide for best budget laptops
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Needing a new laptop shouldn't become a financial burden. The reality is, the high cost of some laptops can act as a barrier, preventing many from accessing the technology they need. While high-end models can cost well over $1,000, there are many affordable options that offer solid performance for everyday tasks, browsing and entertainment.
Not sure where to start? We're here to help equip you with the know-how you need to navigate the complex laptop market and find the best budget-friendly laptop for your needs. Unsurprisingly, when shopping for a new laptop, it’s essential to consider how much you want to spend. Once you’ve determined your budget, the next step is to consider the specs and features you want. Your primary considerations should be the processor, display size and type, battery life, storage, memory and connectivity.
The BestReviews Testing Lab tested and evaluated all the latest budget-friendly models that pack all the features and performance you need for both work and play. Our top choice is the Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop, which features a lightweight design that’s great for studying or working on the go.
Expert Tip
When you first unbox your laptop, go through all of the important
security measures first: Update your operating system, and ensure that you have 2-Factor authentication set up where possible.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
Which budget laptop is best?
Best of the Best
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7520U | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB | Display: 15.6” full HD | Battery Life: 8 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 1 HDMI Port, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
Although there are laptops on the market with even stronger features, the Acer Aspire 3 offers a great value proposition for everyday users without compromising quality. Its affordable price makes it a budget-friendly option, yet it still boasts a premium build and a 15.6-inch Full HD display, perfect for enjoying streaming content.
With 8GB of RAM, you can multitask without experiencing significant lag, and the AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor allows it to run smoothly. It has a thin, lightweight design that gives it excellent portability, and the front-facing camera offers decent video quality even in low-light conditions.
It uses noise-reduction technology to clear up the picture and includes voice processing to enhance sound quality during calls.
Overall, the Acer Aspire 3 strikes a great balance between affordability and functionality for everyday tasks. It excels at handling web browsing, schoolwork, light gaming and enjoying HD content, making it an excellent choice for casual users and budget-conscious buyers looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Best Bang for the Buck
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 512 GB | Display: 15.6" FHD | Battery Life: 10 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 4 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
The Lenovo IdeaPad1 is a budget-friendly laptop that's excellent for school or working while traveling. With a wide 15.6-inch display and fast AMD Ryzen 5 processor, this laptop is well-equipped to handle various computing tasks.
It features 8GB of RAM, which is enough for multitasking and running several apps simultaneously. Its 512GB of local storage allows you to store files offline, and the HD webcam is excellent for video calls.
Unlike most laptops, this unit delivers impressive audio thanks to the integrated dual Dolby Audio speakers. Plus, the borderless screen has an 87% active area zone, making it superb for streaming content.
The battery life can last up to 10 hours with moderate usage, and fast charging lets you get a two-hour boost in just 15 minutes of charging.
Outstanding Deal
Processor: Intel N200 Pentium | RAM: 16 GB | Storage: 128GB | Display: 15.6" HD | Battery Life: 11 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 3 USB, 1 HDMI, | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
The HP 15.6-inch Anti-Glare HD Laptop laptop will not disappoint those who want a slim, lightweight laptop for working while on the go. It offers enhanced multitasking capabilities and a plethora of features to help boost productivity.
For starters, this laptop has a crisp 15.6-inch screen that's terrific for graphic editing and streaming HD TV shows and movies. The Intel N200 processor features four cores and four threads with a clock speed up to 3.7 GHz, and combined with 16GB of RAM, facilitates efficient processing, even when running multiple high-powered applications.
The webcam has integrated dual array microphones for crystal-clear audio during video calls, and 128GB of SSD storage makes it more convenient to store and access local files.
Plus, this laptop comes with a free one-year trial of Office 365, which includes Microsoft Word and Excel, and also 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage, so you can store all your favorite videos, music, photos and more.
Simple yet Solid
Processor: Intel Core i3-N305 | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 15.6" FHD | Battery Life: 8 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 2 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
Don't be fooled by the Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim Laptop's compact build. It's packed with all the features you might expect from a more robust computer. However, its lightweight design is its main draw and makes it one of the most portable laptops.
The Intel Core i3 processor is perfect for basic computing tasks, such as web browsing, email, word processing and spreadsheets. And you can easily multitask without experiencing a dip in performance, thanks to its 8GB of RAM.
The 15.6-inch, 1080p display looks fantastic and is suitable for streaming HD content. To make long work sessions easier on your eyes, Acer BluelightShield minimizes blue-light levels and its harsh effects.
Though the battery life isn't as stellar as some of the other top budget laptops, given its size, it's impressive how long it can last, with most users getting up to eight hours of moderate usage. Plus, AcerSense optimizes performance by managing storage space and monitoring apps.
Best Budget Chromebook
Processor: Intel Core i3-1215U | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB | Display: 14” full HD | Battery Life: Up to 10 hrs | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 2 USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, 2 USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 | Webcam Resolution: Full HD 1080p
Chromebooks, such as the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop, are known for their streamlined functionality and long battery life, making them a great choice for casual users and those who primarily work on the go. While their focus lies on online tools and cloud storage, Chromebooks offer a smooth operating system, advanced security features and a variety of applications to meet everyday needs. Best of all, they’re oftentimes hundreds of dollars cheaper than PCs and MacOS laptops.
This Chromebook is powered by the fast and reliable Intel Core i3-1215U processor, which, combined with 8GB of RAM, allows you to run multiple applications simultaneously without noticeable lag or a dip in productivity.
You’ll get 256GB of internal SSD storage, and the 14-inch full HD display looks crisp and vibrant. Our testing team was impressed with the comfortable keyboard, which offers deep key travel and feels good to the touch.
Wi-Fi performance was consistent with data plans, and we didn't notice any stuttering or prolonged buffering when streaming HD content or loading web pages.
While Chromebooks don’t offer as many applications as Windows and Mac laptops, contrary to popular belief, they still offer offline functionality for essential tasks like documents, spreadsheets, presentations and emails. For the price, this Chromebook is an excellent buy and perfect for working or casual gaming on the go.
Best for Business
Processor: Intel Core i3-1125G4 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 512GB | Display: 17.3" FHD | Battery Life: 7 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 3 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
If you're a business professional you might need something more robust than what most budget laptops offer. The HP 17 Business Laptop is worth a look for anyone who wants a computer that can handle high-powered apps without slowing down productivity.
The Intel Core i3 processor combined with 8GB of RAM lets you run all kinds of applications, such as graphic editing software and PC games, without any issues. The SSD offers 512GB of flash storage, which is excellent for accessing files quickly.
The touchpad is super responsive, and the full HD anti-glare display is excellent for streaming HD TV shows and movies even in bright environments. Plus, it boasts multiple connectivity ports for superior versatility.
Best for Students
Processor: Intel Celeron N4120 | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 128 GB | Display: 14" HD | Battery Life: 11 hours | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 3 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
This 14-inch HP Ultra Light Laptop is one of the cheapest models around, but there's plenty to love about it. It's a fantastic laptop for students or anyone who wants something lightweight for working or gaming.
Although it's only a 14-inch laptop, it still features 8GB of memory for efficient multitasking, and 128GB of local storage is sufficient for the average user. The screen looks terrific when streaming HD content and the Intel UHD Graphics 600 GPU makes everything look crisp and vivid.
The battery life is fantastic, offering over 11 hours on a full charge, and fast charging can juice up the battery from 0% to 50% in under 45 minutes.
The built-in webcam is ideal for conference calls, and thanks to two microphones and advanced noise-reduction software, the audio is crystal clear. Plus, it has almost no bezel for the best viewing experience.
Best for Everyday Use
Processor: Intel Core i3-N305 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB | Display: 15.6" FHD | Battery Life: 11 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 2 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
The Acer Aspire Go 15 is one of the best all-around budget laptops. It offers several excellent features, including a fast processor, crisp HD screen and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.
The 15.6-inch 1080p Full HD IPS display has a narrow bezel design that allows for detailed viewing and reduces distractions. Its 128GB of onboard flash storage makes it easy to access locally stored files, and 11 hours of battery life will keep you going all day.
This laptop also offers a handful of other neat features, including a BlueLight shield that limits blue-light exposure and a built-in AI assistive tool to help you get the most out of your laptop.
Your video calls will look and sound crystal clear, too. The 720p HD camera features special technology to provide top-notch imagery even in low-light conditions, and Acer PurifiedVoice with AI Noise Reduction provides a high-quality audio experience. To top it off, it's Energy Star-certified, and the body is made from recycled materials.
Best for Travel
Processor: Intel Celeron N4500 | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 64 GB | Display: 15.6" FHD | Battery Life: 10 hours | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 2 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
Chromebooks don't pack as much processing power or offer as many features as laptops running Windows operating software. However, among the best is the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Chromebook, which is terrific for students and professionals who want a computer for traveling or working on basic computing tasks.
The 15.6-inch HD display looks fantastic and renders crisp and vibrant visuals whether you're streaming content or video editing. Its 64GB of local flash storage is enough for most users who want to store music, photos, video and documents offline.
The laptop's slim design is where it shines most. It easily slides into backpacks and weighs just 5.5 pounds. The battery life is excellent as well, lasting more than 10 hours on a full charge.
Plus, enhanced security features ensure your sensitive data stays protected. It includes special privacy protection during video calls and a physical laptop lock.
Popular Model
Processor: Intel i3-1215U | RAM: 32GB RAM | Storage: 1TB | Display: 17.3" FHD | Battery Life: 6 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 Pro | Ports: 3 USB, 1 HDMI | Webcam Resolution: 720p HD
The HP Pavilion 17 has a sleek design and offers everything you need to work efficiently in the office. It also packs a handful of features for leisure.
One significant distinction between this unit and other budget laptops is that it comes preloaded with Windows 11 Pro, which offers more tools and capabilities than Windows 11 Home. Designed for business, Windows 11 Pro offers advanced cybersecurity and AI technology to help boost efficiency and productivity.
The 17.3-inch display has a glare-free coating, making it comfortable to view even in bright lighting conditions. The Intel Core i3 processor is fast, and combined with a whopping 32GB of memory, it ensures it never stutters while you're working or gaming.
This laptop offers additional security tools and software, as well as a massive 1TB SSD for local file storage. Plus, it features a full-size keyboard with a numeric keypad.
Best Laptop Under $400
Processor: MediaTek MTK8173C | RAM: 4GB | Storage: 64GB | Display: 14-inch FHD | Battery Life: 12 hours | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1 USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, 1 HDMI 1.4, 1 card reader, 1 headphone jack | Webcam Resolution: SHD
The Lenovo Chromebook S330 is surprisingly sturdy but lightweight, making it an excellent budget-friendly machine for working or web surfing while traveling. It's not as robust as some of our other top picks, but for the price, this laptop will suffice for the casual user.
Our testers noted that the setup process is incredibly easy, especially if you already have a Google account. The processor is highly efficient as well, and our testers didn't notice a decrease in performance when running multiple apps.
In fact, we found that it runs faster and more smoothly than many other Chromebooks we've run through our testing lab. The display looks great under normal conditions, making it solid for streaming HD content, and the battery life can last for an entire day on a full charge.
Sure, this laptop isn't going to win any awards for innovation, design or high-powered processing. However, it's a solid computer for basic computing tasks such as streaming TV shows and movies, casual gaming, web surfing and working on school or office documents.
Plus, its ultralightweight build and impressive battery make it a no-brainer for traveling professionals who want something that's easy to move around and doesn't require constant charging.
Powerful and Versatile
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3; AMD Ryzen 5 | RAM: 8 GB; 16 GB | Storage: 256 GB, 128 GB, 512 GB | Display: 14-inch FHD | Battery Life: 11 hours | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 HDMI 2.1 TMDS, 1 3.5mm audio jack, 1 card reader | Webcam Resolution: FHD
If you're a fan of Chromebooks' simplicity but want something more robust, you can't go wrong with the Asus Chromebook Plus CM34. This laptop provides an excellent combination of versatility and performance, making it one of the best machines for moderate computing while on the go.
Because it boasts excellent processing power, it's one of the heavier Chromebooks around. However, its two-in-one functionality allows users to transform it into a tablet for convenient note-taking, web surfing and gaming.
Our testing team loves this laptop's keyboard for its key placement and excellent tactile feedback. We also love the trackpad, which is highly responsive and registers gestures correctly most of the time. Programs launch quickly, and running multiple Chrome apps and tabs is a piece of cake, as we didn't notice a dip in performance.
Unfortunately, there's very little to appreciate about this laptop's design. It's bulky, and aesthetically, it's not the most pleasant laptop to look at. However, that's not why you're buying it.
Those who don't mind the robust build will appreciate this laptop for its excellent processing power, versatility and battery life, which can last well over 11 hours with moderate usage.
High-end Chromebook
Processor: Intel i5 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256 GB | Display: 14-inch FHD| Battery Life: 12 hours | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 2 Thunderbolt, 1 x USB-A 3.2, 2 x USB-C 3.2, 1 HDMI 2.1, audio jack | Webcam Resolution: 2K
We like the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 enough to include it in our top picks despite its shortcomings. However, what it does well, it excels at, so we have to recommend it as one of the best mid-tier Chromebooks. Those who want a lightweight and compact machine for basic computing will be more than satisfied with this laptop.
The initial setup and configuration are simple, especially if you have an existing Google account. In terms of performance, it's efficient for web browsing and word processing.
The screen is vivid and reproduces bright colors and visuals, making it suitable for streaming and graphic editing; however the audio quality from the integrated speakers is mediocre.
Our testers were able to squeeze more than 12 hours of usage from this laptop and found that fully charging takes just about 2 hours.
It's not the most flashy or powerful laptop by any means, but it's a solid choice for the average user. It's excellent for web surfing, streaming HD content, light gaming, and office work, and its lightweight build makes it suitable for professionals who travel frequently.
Other budget laptops we considered
Best Budget MacBook
Processor: M2 chip | RAM: 8GB unified (option to add up to 24GB) | Storage: 256GB SSD (option to add up to 2TB) | Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina | Battery Life: Up to 18 hrs | Operating System: macOS | Ports: 2 Thunderbolt, 4 USB | Webcam Resolution: HD 1080p
Apple gadget users and those seeking an alternative to Windows will find the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M2 chip particularly appealing. MacBooks are known for their sleek design, lightweight build and longevity, but there is plenty more about this laptop to love.
For starters, this MacBook Air’s dazzling 13.6-inch Liquid Retina LED screen is perfect for streaming your favorite HD TV shows and movies, and the M2 chip provides blazing-fast performance.
The battery life is exceptional as well, lasting up to 18 hours on a full charge with moderate use. Shoppers can customize this laptop with up to 24GB of RAM and 2TB of internal storage. Plus, it has multiple USB and Thunderbolt ports for connecting accessories.
The Apple MacBook Air 13-Inch with the M2 chip stands out for users seeking a long-lasting and premium laptop experience. While MacBooks carry a higher price tag compared to standard laptops, their renowned build quality, powerful performance and impressive battery life make the Air worth considering.
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop
Processor: Intel Core i3-N305 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB | Display: 14” touch screen full HD 1200p | Battery Life: 8 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 1 USB-C, 1 USB 3.2 | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
More than just a gimmick, two-in-one laptops offer versatility and freedom for users who crave flexibility in their devices. With a 360-degree hinge, the Acer Aspire 3 Spin 14 transforms seamlessly from a traditional laptop to a tablet, making it ideal for drawing, note-taking and enjoying entertainment comfortably anywhere.
This laptop also boasts a fast Intel Core i3-N305 processor that’s perfect for basic computing tasks and 8GB of RAM for efficient multitasking.
An uncommon feature for budget laptops, the touch-screen display enhances productivity, making tasks like scrolling through documents, navigating menus and manipulating on-screen objects more intuitive. It also proves beneficial for gaming, offering a more interactive experience, and for reading e-books, providing a natural page-turning feel.
The Acer Aspire 3 Spin 14 is surprisingly well-built for its price. Although it’s smaller-than-average, it feels sturdy, and the compact design makes it one of the better computers for traveling. Overall, it’s a solid all-around laptop and is more than enough for casual use.
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7000 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB | Display: 16” full HD 1200p | Battery Life: Up to 13 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 1 Thunderbolt, 2 USB-A 3.2, 2 USB-C 3.2 | Webcam Resolution: HD 720p
Hardcore gamers often prefer desktop computers because they offer more customizability and superior processing power than laptops. However, the Asus TUF A16 Gaming Laptop packs plenty of power and is an excellent model for light to moderate gaming while on the go.
The AMC Ryzen 7 7000 CPU is among the best you’ll find in a budget laptop, and the high-end AMD Radeon RX 7600S GPU lets you run PC games at max settings without a dip in performance.
Its 16GB of RAM makes it suitable for advanced gaming and allows it to handle graphics-intensive applications with ease.
Budget-conscious gamers searching for a powerful yet affordable option will find the Asus TUF A16 highly appealing. This laptop boasts advanced specs and features, including a customizable RGB backlit keyboard, making it well-equipped to handle the demands of moderate gaming experiences.
Best Budget Gaming Chromebook
Processor: Intel Core i3-1215U | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB | Display: 16” 2K | Battery Life: Up to 13 hours | Operating System: Chrome OS | Ports: 2 USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 2 USB-A | Webcam Resolution: Full HD 1080p
When you think of Chromebooks, gaming probably isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. After all, Chromebooks are essentially stripped-down versions of standard laptops. However, you might be surprised to learn that there are some Chromebooks, such as the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming Chromebook, with the capacity to facilitate light-to-moderate cloud gaming sessions efficiently.
Unlike many Chromebooks that have an Intel Celeron processor, the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming Chromebook’s CPU is a much faster and more reliable Intel Core i3-1215U. That means gamers can play without experiencing any issues.
The 16-inch 2K resolution display looks fantastic and provides excellent color contrast. Plus, unlike some of our other top picks, this laptop boasts a full HD webcam and battery life lasting up to 13 hours on a full charge.
While not ideal for the most demanding games, this Chromebook excels as a budget-friendly option for cloud gaming. Its impressive battery life, stunning display and speedy processor make it a great value proposition for casual gamers who primarily rely on cloud platforms.
Best Budget Business Laptop
Processor: Intel Core i5-1335U | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB | Display: 16” Full HD 1200p | Battery Life: Up to 12 hrs | Operating System: Windows 11 | Ports: 1 USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A | Webcam Resolution: Full HD 1080p
Of all our favorite budget laptops, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 is best suited for business professionals. It has a fast processor, the Intel Core i5-1335U, which isn’t commonly found in budget laptops and offers up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge.
The 16-inch display is broad enough to work comfortably on spreadsheets and other business documents, and the full HD webcam is suitable for conference and video calls. Plus, you’ll get 256GB of internal SSD storage, and 8GB of RAM is enough for multitasking without any problems.
Featuring a fingerprint recognition sensor for biometric authentication, this laptop is built for security, making it an excellent notebook for students and professionals. Whether you need to work on and store sensitive documents or group projects, it keeps all your work safe and secure.
While it doesn’t provide all the bells and whistles that some of our other top picks do, it’s one of the best models for productivity at school or in the office.
Expert Tip
Keep a microfiber cloth handy and clean your laptop screen regularly. Screens can get dusty quickly, and keeping them clean and dirt-free is better for your eyes.
BestRevies Electronics Expert
Operating systems
Each of the major operating systems — Windows, macOS and Chrome OS — is available in the lower price tiers. That said, there are a few nuances and pitfalls to be aware of.
- If you are looking for a budget Apple laptop with MacOS, investigate the MacBook Air. It is consistently their most affordable portable machine. If MacOS is a must but the MacBook Air is not the right machine for you, consider other MacBooks as well. Usually, the next models up are only slightly more expensive.
- If you live your life in the cloud, consider a Chrome OS-based laptop. Chrome OS is a relatively new operating system from Google based on its popular web browser, Google Chrome. For laptops running Chrome OS, the browser is the entire interface, and instead of running local software, everything is in the cloud. Some high-end Chromebooks to consider include the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34, 3i Everyday Notebook Chromebook, and Lenovo Chromebook S330 Laptop.
EXPERT TIP
If you expect to be writing a lot on your laptop, check to see what users have to say in reviews about the keyboards of different models. You'll want to get one that fits your hands comfortably if you’re going to be using it extensively.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
Limitations
Naturally, a “budget” laptop is more affordable than cutting-edge machines, and in the majority of cases, a lower price means less powerful internal hardware. But that is not a bad thing. For example, suppose you spend most of your computer time browsing the web or watching movies. In that case, chances are you don’t need the latest-generation processor or an ultra-powerful video card. You can save a lot of money by finding a budget laptop that makes reasonable compromises.
As you shop, consider the most common hardware compromises you will encounter.
- Video hardware: Most low-cost laptops either use underpowered graphics processing units (GPUs) or power their video by sharing resources with the main processor (the CPU). In these cases, video on the laptop will be adequate, but that’s about it. Watching Netflix will be fine, but your laptop will struggle with more intense video tasks such as playing video games and video editing. The Lenovo IdeaPad1 and HP 17 Business Laptop are among the best budget-friendly laptops with excellent graphics and central processing units.
- Screen resolution: Because many of these laptops come with reduced graphics resources, it’s not uncommon to see screen resolution capped at a middle-of-the-road resolution like 1080p. If you absolutely need a laptop with a higher screen resolution (like 1440p or even 4K), you may need to consider looking at more traditionally priced laptops. You won't find many 4K options at the lowest price range, but even most budget-friendly laptops have full HD displays. Notable laptops include the Acer Aspire 3, Lenovo IdeaPad1, HP 15-inch Laptop and the Acer Aspire 5.
- Processors (CPUs): This is a big one. The CPU determines the overall speed of the machine and can’t be upgraded after purchase. The CPU is one of the most expensive components of any computer, so when you see an inexpensive laptop, that generally means that CPU power may be questionable. To make things even more confusing, different classes of CPUs are hard to compare. In general, the fastest CPUs you will see in the budget laptop category are N-series and U-series Intel Core i3 and Core 3 processors. Intel Celeron processors typically offer the next step down in terms of both power and price. The AMD Ryzen 3 Series is also a common CPU for budget laptops. Budget laptops with faster processors include the Lenovo IdeaPad1 and ASUS Chromebook Plus CM34 Flip, both featuring an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, and the Acer Chromebook Spin 714, which has an Intel i5 CPU.
A word about Chromebooks
The best budget laptops are, in some cases, Chromebooks. What is a Chromebook? These “cheap laptops” arrived on the scene in 2011, and at first, people were skeptical because they are inexpensive computers that run on the Chrome OS and are dependent upon Wi-Fi connectivity to operate. They are great for web browsing and other Wi-Fi-reliant tasks.
Nowadays, these affordable laptops have earned a place at the table. The reason: consumers have realized that there are situations in which a Chromebook is the best buy. For example, they are great for students. If a cash-strapped student simply needs to access lessons, tests or other educational content online, this is a very economical purchase indeed.
Chromebooks come from all sorts of manufacturers and not just the “low-end” ones. Long-respected brands are making these affordable laptops, and you needn’t spend a fortune to get one of the best Chromebooks.
Expert Tip
If you travel a lot with your laptop, buy an extra power adapter. Having one at home and one for traveling means that you’ll always be prepared, even if one gets lost.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
Pricing
The best laptops with a “budget” price point cost between $250 and $600. On the low end of the range, you will find smaller machines with modest specs that are good for working in a browser or streaming video. Chromebooks often fall into this range.
On the high end of the $250 to $700 range are models that run faster, have more built-in memory and storage and, in some cases, have improved screen resolutions. For example, the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Laptop, Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop and Acer Chromebook Spin 714 are the most expensive of our top picks, ranging from $450 to $750. The cheapest models are the Lenovo Chromebook S330, Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop and HP 14-inch Ultra Light Laptop, all under $350.
If you find a laptop at an unbelievably low price, it may be underpowered and worth avoiding. If you're open to spending more than $600, consider the most modern laptops or MacBooks.
Tips
- Pay attention to the types of processors found in different laptops. Comparing processor power across brands can be tricky because speed ratings are rarely consistent from one manufacturer to another. If you encounter an unfamiliar processor, search for comparisons to known brands online. If a laptop is marketed with a processor that either doesn’t list its speed or doesn’t provide any comparison data, don’t buy it.
- Buy a model that has as much RAM as you can afford. Random-access memory, better known as RAM, affects how many tasks a computer can take on simultaneously. While having more RAM doesn’t actually make a computer faster, computers with more RAM generally feel faster because background tasks aren’t slowing them down. Many low-cost laptops come with 4GB RAM onboard, which really isn’t enough to provide a satisfactory experience. We recommend getting one with at least 8GB of RAM, if not 16GB. Most laptops have 4GB or 8GB of RAM, but some premium machines, such as the HP 15-inch Laptop, have 16GB.
- Count your peripherals to determine how many ports you will need. Make a list of all of the things you may need to connect to your machine at the same time, including your mouse, keyboard, speakers, printer and phone. Note the different ports you will need and how many of each you will need. If you have trouble finding a laptop within your price range that meets all of your port requirements, consider buying a compatible dock or port replicator to add more.
- Note the stated battery life. Good battery life can mean the difference between a leisurely day spent out and about with your laptop (at the beach, in nature, on an airplane) and a stressful day where you wonder constantly whether you’re going to run out of juice and if there is an outlet or cord nearby for you to use. We tested several models and found that three laptops offer fantastic battery life that lasts well over 10 hours with moderate usage. They were the Lenovo Chromebook S330 Laptop, Asus Chromebook Plus CM34 Flip and Acer Chromebook Spin 714.
- Consider the size. If you are thinking about buying a laptop with an 11-inch screen, make sure the diminutive size isn’t too small for your hands. Some users complain that there isn’t enough room to type comfortably on the corresponding keyboard. If you want a bigger laptop, consider one with a 15-inch or 16-inch display, such as the Acer Aspire 3 or Acer Aspire 5. However, if you want something more compact, it's best to go with a laptop that has a 13-inch or 14-inch screen, such as the HP Spectre x360 Convertible Laptop and ASUS Chromebook Plus CM34 Flip.
- Plan ahead. If you’re waiting for the laptop of your dreams to go on sale, pay attention to online events around the time of Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Of course, there will be sales during other parts of the year as well.
How we analyzed
We studied the specs and design of dozens of laptops to determine performance. We also incorporated our own testing notes from similar products to draw comparisons and take into account customer reviews to make the best recommendations. We primarily analyzed processing power, display quality, storage size, memory capacity, battery life and connectivity.
Expert Tip
If you have renter’s or homeowner’s insurance, check to see if any laptop you buy is covered — you may get better coverage than a manufacturer’s performance plan.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
FAQ
Q. Do these laptops have touch screens?
A. Laptops that feature touch screens, sometimes referred to as two-in-ones, cost more to make, so it is rare to see a laptop with a touch screen in the budget category. If you need a laptop that also functions as a tablet, a two-in-one laptop may be a better choice for you.
Q. What is an SSD? Should I buy a laptop that has one?
A. There are two types of computer hard drives: traditional disk drives (HDDs), which have moving parts, and solid-state drives (SSDs), which store data in flash memory. SSDs have no moving parts and are several orders of magnitude faster than HDDs. Solid-state drives are more expensive to manufacture than hard-disk drives, so expect the price difference to be reflected in laptop prices. If you can afford one, an SSD is one of the biggest speed increases you can make, and they are a worthwhile investment both in terms of user experience and hardware longevity.
Q. How long can I expect my new laptop to last?
A. It will depend on the model you go with, but in most cases, you can expect it to last between three and five years. Tech advances quickly, and even web browsers require more resources each day, so like all machines, a budget laptop eventually won’t be able to keep up with your work.
Q. How important are screen size and resolution?
A. It depends on your intended use of the laptop. A larger screen (measured on the diagonal from corner to corner) is obviously easier to see. For the sake of portability, however, you might want something smaller. Keep in mind, too, that while there are some larger screens (over 15 inches) in the “budget” category, many are closer to 11 inches.
In addition to size, take note of the screen resolution of any laptop you are considering. Does it have an anti-glare coating? LED backlights? Further, find out if the resolution is HD, Full HD or something even greater. In the budget range, screen resolutions may not be as well-defined as they are in the high-end range.
Q. Can I get a good gaming laptop in the budget price range?
A. Gaming laptops are great in their own right, but a quality laptop for gaming is going to cost more than our stated price range of $200 to $600 for low-cost laptops. A good budget laptop will still deliver when it comes to working with office apps, streaming video and performing tasks that rely on a Wi-Fi connection and web browser. If you’re interested in a device for hardcore gaming, though, expect the price minimums to be higher.
Q. Should I just get a tablet instead?
A. Tablets can be less costly than laptops, but will a new tablet give you the functionality you need? It depends, of course, on what your situation is. Tablets have touch screens, which you may or may not appreciate, and they are great for using social media and web browsing. They tend to get very good battery life, and they score big points in the portability department. You can find a tablet that costs far less than a laptop, but there are also high-end tablets that cost far more than the budget laptops discussed here — especially since most tablets do not include a physical keyboard
Laptops have more memory, more ports and connectivity points (HDMI, USB), and larger screens than tablets. You can easily type on your laptop keyboard and save or print documents as needed. Notably, many laptops in the budget range do not have touch screens, and the battery life may be lackluster as compared to a tablet.
Our expertise
As a writer for BestReviews, Kevin Luna has extensively tested and covered laptops, from MacBooks to Chromebooks to gaming PCs. He is knowledgeable about the differences between a high-end laptop and a mid-tier model and loves comparing their extensive feature sets. He has used several computers over the years and is familiar with the specs, features and functionality that determine overall performance. BestReviews tech expert Jaime Vazquez also contributed his insights on what makes some budget laptops more worthy than others.
