2024's best low-cost laptops: Windows 11 PC notebooks and inexpensive Chromebooks

 2024's best low-cost laptops: Windows 11 PC notebooks and inexpensive Chromebooks

Searching for the ideal inexpensive laptop? You're in the proper location. We've evaluated a wide range of inexpensive laptops to compile a list of our favorite choices, all of which are under $600/£600. You can get a notebook that suits your needs, without breaking the wallet, for everything from work and homework to Netflix and browsing to emails and more. However, it's important to briefly define certain expectations before we get started.

The laptops listed below are unlikely to satisfy your needs if you're looking for one that can play games quickly or one that you can use for video editing or rendering; instead, you should check out our guides to the best laptops and best mid-range laptops. Although excellent for daily use, low-cost laptops are just not powerful enough to do more demanding activities. But, they are far less expensive than fully specified alternatives, so this lot should suit your needs if you want to get the essentials without going over budget. This is our guide to the top low-cost laptop available right now.

Which cheap laptop is the best?

We believe that the finest low-cost laptop for the majority of people is the Asus VivoBook X1500EA (buy now). Although it is the priciest option on our list, if you have the extra cash and want a machine that will last for many years, it is definitely worth it. You won't be let down with an Intel i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and an incredible 512GB of storage.

The top inexpensive laptops available right now are:

1. Verdict on the Asus VivoBook X1500EA Hardware

boasting impressive specifications for the price, such as a potent 10th generation Intel i7 processor, 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, and a 15.6-inch Full HD screen. It's a good option for casual gaming and multitasking.

Advantages

high definition display

Excellent features for the cost

Better battery life could be achieved.

The speakers lack quality.

Purchase now

Specifications of the Asus VivoBook

15.6-inch Full HD IPS Screen; Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor; 8GB RAM; 512GB SSD for storage; Windows 11

48.2 x 29.3 x 6.4 cm; 1.7 kg in dimensions

The most expensive device on this list is the VivoBook X1500EA, which is now offered at a fantastic price. However, if your budget allows it, we believe it's well worth grabbing as its specifications far outperform those of any other choice, giving you a respectable amount of future-proofing in the process.

The 15.6-inch Full HD screen, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage have greatly impressed us. The 10th generation Intel i7 processor, however, is the true gem. Even if it's not the newest version, it still has more than enough capability to satisfy your multitasking and app needs. You may also play various games thanks to Intel's integrated Iris Plus graphics.

Rocket League and other less demanding games should not cause any issues, and if you experiment with the different quality settings, you could even be able to get away with other games (although this is very depending on the games you attempt).

Overall, this is a great option if you want to dabble in casual gaming and are a multitasker because you're getting a lot of value for your money.

2. Verdict on Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Items

This AMD-powered model's 15.6-inch Full HD 120Hz screen finds a cost-effective balance. Even though it's not a powerful gaming system, it performs nicely for routine chores and light games.

Advantages

Cons of Windows 11 Solid build

The speakers lack quality.

Not utilizing USB-C

Purchase now

specs for the Dell Inspiron 15 3000

15.6-inch Full HD display; AMD Ryzen 5 3500U mobile processor with Radeon Vega 8 graphics; 8GB of RAM; 256GB of storage; Windows 11 operating system; Dimensions1.99 x 24.9 x 36.39 cm; 1.96 kg

There are apparently 10,000 distinct flavors available for Dell's Inspiron 15 series laptops. We decided on this AMD-powered model because it is reasonably priced and has excellent specs for the money.

Its 15.6-inch Full HD screen, which has a 120Hz refresh rate for fluid, snappy scrolling, is big enough, in our opinion, to view anything from text to spreadsheets without straining your eyes. But don't be misled—this device won't allow you to play games at 120 frames per second. Even though Cyberpunk 2077 and other difficult games won't be easily defeated by its integrated AMD Radeon Graphics anytime soon, you should still be able to play casual games and other less demanding titles at lower settings.

Aside from gaming, its AMD Ryzen 3 5425U CPU, 8GB RAM, and 256GB of storage make it a powerful work and media machine that lets you carelessly switch between open programs. Additionally, Windows 11 is preinstalled on it. 

3. Verdict on the Asus Chromebook CX1100

An affordable choice that, in spite of its modest hardware and Chrome OS, would be perfect as a spare or a younger child's first PC.

Advantages

Appropriate port selection

Reasonable cost

Cons

Tiny screen, large bezels

Not the quickest

Purchase now

specifications for the Asus Chromebook

11.6-inch LED backlit HD screen; Intel Celeron processor; 4GB of RAM; 64GB of storage; OSDimensions: 37.79 x 23.7 x 6.3 cm; weight: 1.2 kg; Chrome OS

As of this writing, the Asus Chromebook CX1100 is available for an incredibly low price. It's not a typo, either. Being among the most affordable notebooks from a reputable brand, its cost makes it an excellent choice for a first PC or a backup device.

It does, however, run Chrome OS, Google's proprietary operating system, which is far less feature-rich than Windows. Nevertheless, you can download a wide variety of Android apps, and we believe it's ideal for performing everyday chores like emailing, surfing, watching media, and more.

Although Intel's Celeron N3350 processor and 4GB of RAM are less powerful than those of other, more costly devices on this list due to their pared-down design, they should still be sufficient for casual users, especially considering the smaller 11.6-inch, 1366 x 768 screen.

4. Verdict on the Huawei MateBook D 15 Things

Together with its impressive features, this elegant notebook has a built-in fingerprint sensor, quick charging, and a fashionable appearance.

Advantages

65W USB-C charger Stylish appearance Drawbacks

Uncomfortable webcam location

Absence of keyboard backlight

Purchase now

Specifications of the Huawei MateBook D 15

15.6-inch IPS FullView screen; Intel Core i3-10110U processor; 8 GB of RAM; Storage256 GB Windows 10 OS

Size: 47.29 x 28.8 x 7 cm; weight: 1.53 kg

We believe Huawei's MateBook D 15 is among the greatest low-cost laptop selections currently on the market because it is currently priced reasonably. An 11th generation Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of speedy SSD storage round out the impressive specs.

We were also impressed by the integrated fingerprint sensor and the 65W USB-C charger that comes with the device, which charges quickly enough to last for up to two hours.

Aside from its specs, we believe it to be among the most attractive laptops on this list, with a design that strongly resembles Apple's. With its 15.6-inch Full HD screen and lightweight 1.56 kg, you'll feel like you've got your money's worth as soon as you open it.

Huawei's offering is on par with the best when you include Wi-Fi 6, the newest advancement in fast Wi-Fi intelligence (albeit you'll need a recently launched router to take use of it).

5. Verdict on the Asus Vivobook E510MA Things

A very reasonably priced Windows 10 laptop that can rival Chromebooks in price.

Advantages

has a 15.6-inch Windows 10 display. Cons

The screen isn't fully HD

What you pay for is what you get.

Purchase now

specifications for the Asus Vivobook E510MA

Dimensions: 45.79 x 29.2 x 6.4 cm; 1.4 kg; Screen: 15.6-inch Full HD; Processor: Intel Pentium Silver N5030; RAM: 4GB; Storage: 128 GB; OS: Windows 10.

Another Asus product, the second-cheapest notebook on our list, is now available for a very reasonable price. It's not a Chromebook, despite its low cost; Windows 10 is preinstalled on it.

This, in our opinion, makes it the perfect laptop for casual users or somewhat older kids who want to utilize fully functional programs and applications for school or hobbies. Although the resolution of its 15.6-inch screen isn't Full HD (1365 x 768 pixels), we think it's still sharp enough for pleasant use.

Because of your savings, you're only receiving an Intel Celeron N4020 CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, but again, when it comes to first laptops, you could do much worse. In addition, the Enter key is emphasized in vivid green, which speeds up everything—as we are all aware.

6. Verdict on Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 Items

With its elegant appearance and small 12.4-inch size, this gadget is a great alternative for daily chores and portability, and there are even higher-spec models available.

Advantages

Selfassured, refined style

Top-spec model operates efficiently Cons

For light all-day use, the battery saver mode is essential.

Lightly recessed, non-backlit keyboard

Purchase now

Specifications of the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2

12.4" PixelSense touchscreen; 11th generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor; 8 GB of RAM; 128 GB of storage

Version: Windows 11 Size1.13 kg; 27.82 x 20.62 x 1.57 cm

Although Microsoft's stunning Surface Laptop Go 2 costs a little bit more than $500/£500, we couldn't resist include it considering the design and construction quality that it offers.

According to us, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 is a charming low-cost touchscreen laptop that is incredibly portable, remarkably powerful, and attractive. It delivers the essentials of the Surface Laptop experience to those on a budget, just as you would anticipate.

It comes in a variety of attractive colors, and we believe that its 12.4-inch screen makes it the perfect option for anyone who want something that fits into even the smallest of bags. At this price point, the Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB SSD are all pretty good.

There are some concessions made. Its display lacks the costlier models' vibrancy and contrast. There is no illumination on the keyboard, and the touchpad is made of plastic rather than glass.

Higher-specced variants are available if you're prepared to pay a little bit more, but this will undoubtedly work well for you as a daily driver for work and movies.

7. Verdict on Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Stuff

This clever Chromebook has a stylish appearance, USB-C charging, and can be turned into a tablet.

Advantages

Cons: USB-C charging; compact design

The screen attracts fingerprints.

Purchase now

Specifications of the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3

11" HD screen; Intel Celeron processor; 4 GB RAM; and 4 GB of storage64 GB of OSChrome OS

29 x 20.78 x 1.78 cm; 1.2 kg in dimensions

With the help of its unique hinge, this Chromebook can instantly transition from a laptop to a tablet. With an 11-inch Full HD screen, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage, this should be a very capable entry-level workhorse that can also be used for occasional Android gaming and movie viewing.

For anyone seeking a more minimalist machine than a Windows or Mac substitute, this machine with its appealing design and USB-C charging capabilities can be a good option.

8. HP 17-cn0000sa Product Evaluation

This low-cost laptop has a wide 17-inch Full HD display, which makes it perfect for watching TV and movies.

Advantages

large screen for content viewing

Quick charging and respectable battery life

Cons

possibly more potent

Purchase now

specs for HP 17-cn0000sa

17-inch Full HD screen

Intel Core i3-1125G4 processor Processor

4GB of RAM

SSD storage with 256GB of capacity

Windows Operating System

Measurements: 25.78 x 40.07 x 2.06 cm; weight: 2.05 kg

While its 4GB of RAM and Intel Core i3 processor might not excite a spec-aficionado, the 256GB SSD storage on this stylish laptop is more than plenty.

Even though it lacks the power for demanding activities, its enormous 17-inch Full HD screen, quick charging, eight hours of battery life, and extravagant style have allowed it to make our list.

We adore a lot of things for this price when you include materials manufactured from plastic that ends up in the ocean.

How to pick the finest low-cost laptop

A laptop that is inexpensive and falls at the lower end of the specification range is referred to as a budget laptop. In order to undercut the laptops included in Stuff's best mid-range laptop guide and best premium laptop guide, these machines are reasonably priced, but they frequently compromise on build quality and computing capability.

These low-cost laptops won't be playing high-end games anytime soon, as we indicated in the introduction, but they're perfect if all you need is a basic word processor and web browser. We have a variety of Windows and ChromeOS computers with varying screen sizes and performance capabilities (unfortunately, no cheap MacBook exists).

Budget laptops don't always require you to make compromises, but it's still necessary to identify your main priorities. For example, a notebook with the longest battery life may not have the strongest components, and a 13-inch screen may make it difficult to view two papers side by side.

Checking out Stuff's list of the top tablets is also recommended because these are wonderful options for doing homework and web browsing when combined with a keyboard accessory.

How we evaluate the top low-cost laptops

Our round-ups feature as many product reviews from us directly as we can, compiled from our decades of combined experience. This means that when choosing low-cost laptops, we should consider features, performance, design, and specs.

In order to make sure that you only see the greatest products, we base our decisions elsewhere on our expertise, product specifications, and user reviews.