Finding a good laptop for under $300 can seem hard. But you can still find a decent device that does everyday tasks well. Many affordable laptops have good speed, clear screens, and solid build quality. They are great for browsing the internet, working, or watching videos.
With so many options, it can be tough to pick the right one. Here are some of the best budget laptops that give you good value for your money.
Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop
- Purposeful Design: Travel with ease and look great doing it with the Aspire's 3 thin, light design.
- Ready-to-Go Performance: The Aspire 3 is ready-to-go with the latest AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor with Radeon Graphics—ideal for the entire family, with...
- Visibly Stunning: Experience sharp details and crisp colors on the 15.6" Full HD IPS display with 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels.
If you need a budget-friendly laptop that is easy to carry and works well, the Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH is a good choice. It is thin and light, so you can take it with you to school or work. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS screen shows clear and colorful images. It’s great for studying, browsing, or watching videos.
The laptop weighs about 3.92 pounds and is around 14.29 x 9.35 inches in size. Its silver color makes it look nice and stylish for daily use. The design is simple but practical for everyday tasks.
This laptop works well for students, casual users, and people who need a portable computer for light work. It has an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor and 8GB of RAM. This combination helps it run smoothly for most daily tasks.
There are a few things to keep in mind. The keyboard does not have backlights, so it can be hard to see keys in low light. The storage is only 128GB SSD, which may fill up quickly. You might want to add more space later. Also, the fan can be a little noisy when the laptop is working hard, and some users say the build quality is average.
Microsoft Surface Pro 2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet (2024)
- [This is a Copilot+ PC] — A new AI era begins. Experience enhanced performance and AI capabilities with Copilot+ PC, boosting productivity with security and...
- [Introducing Surface Pro 13” Touchscreen Display] — The most flexible, powerful 2-in-1 laptop and tablet with AI-accelerated Copilot+ experiences. Surface...
- [Flexibility at Any Angle] — Use with the detachable Surface Pro Flex Keyboard (sold separately). Shift from tablet to laptop to sketchbook with its unique...
The Microsoft Surface Pro 2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet (2024) is a great pick for professionals and students. It is lightweight and versatile, making it easy to carry around. The device has a 13-inch touchscreen display. The screen has sharp visuals and high resolution options up to 2880×1920. It’s built with eco-friendly materials like recycled aluminum and rare earth metals.
The Surface Pro weighs only 3.58 pounds. This makes it easy to take anywhere. It runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. It has 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. This setup helps it run smoothly and quickly. The device supports dual USB-C ports, a detachable kickstand, and stylus use. It also has a battery life of up to 14 hours, so you can work all day.
Many users praise its portability, bright display, and ability to handle multiple tasks. This device is ideal for those who want a lightweight, flexible, and eco-friendly 2-in-1 computer for note-taking, multitasking, and everyday work.
Pros:
- Converts easily between laptop and tablet
- Bright, clear 13-inch touchscreen
- Long battery life with fast charging
Cons:
- Not best for heavy gaming or graphics work
- Limited ports—only two USB-C ports and basic USB 3.0/2.0 connections
- Performance depends on processor choice and workload
This Surface Pro is a simple, reliable device for students and professionals who need a portable computer. It combines style, function, and eco-friendliness in one package.
ASUS L510 Ultra Thin Laptop (L510MA-DS04)
- Efficient Intel Celeron N4020 Processor (4M Cache, up to 2.8 GHz)
- 15.6” FHD (1920x1080) Display
- 128GB eMMC Flash Storage and 4GB DDR4 RAM
The ASUS L510MA-DS04 is a budget-friendly laptop that is easy to carry around. It has a 15.6-inch Full HD screen, so images and videos look clear. The laptop runs on an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, which is good for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and using simple programs. It is lightweight, weighing only about 3.59 pounds, and is just 0.72 inches thick. This makes it simple to take with you anywhere.
The ASUS L510MA-DS04 comes with 128GB of eMMC storage and 4GB of RAM. This setup is enough for most casual users who don’t need a lot of space or power. It runs Windows 10 in S mode and includes a free year of Microsoft 365. This gives you useful tools for work and entertainment.
Best For: Students and casual users who want an affordable, portable laptop for everyday use.
Pros:
- Light and slim for easy carrying
- Clear Full HD display for work and fun
- Includes Windows 10 in S mode and a free year of Microsoft 365
Cons:
- Storage of 128GB may fill up quickly; you might need extra space
- Uses an entry-level processor, so it’s not for heavy tasks
- Screen resolution is standard Full HD, not higher, which may matter for some users
This laptop offers good value for those who want a simple, portable device for daily tasks.
ASUS Vivobook Go 11.6” HD Slim Laptop (L210KA-ES04)
- Windows 11 Home in S Mode All the power of Windows 10 with enhanced security and performance with a redesigned look — complete with new tools, sounds, and...
- 11.6" HD display The 11.6" 1366 x 768 60Hz display brings visuals to life with 200 nits peak brightness.
- Intel Celeron N4500 processor The newest Intel Celeron processors offer amazing video conferencing abilities, faster wireless connectivity, improved overall...
Looking for a small, light laptop that doesn’t cost a lot? The ASUS Vivobook Go 11.6” HD Slim Laptop is a good choice. It weighs only 2.35 pounds and has a thin design. The screen is 11.6 inches. It runs on an Intel Celeron N4500 chip, has 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD. You can use it for browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos. The battery lasts about 12 hours, so you can stay connected all day.
This laptop isn’t meant for heavy work or running many programs at once. It’s best for everyday tasks. The body feels durable, and it has enough ports for basic needs. It’s a smart choice for students, travelers, or anyone who needs a simple, portable computer at a low price.
Best for: Students, travelers, and casual users who want a small, lightweight laptop for browsing, emailing, and media.
Pros:
- Very light and easy to carry at just 2.35 pounds
- Long battery life of around 12 hours
- Affordable, under $200, for basic use
Cons:
- Not powerful enough for multitasking or demanding apps due to 4GB RAM and Celeron chip
- You can’t upgrade the RAM or SSD later
- Parts are soldered in, so updates or speed may be slower over time
This laptop is good if you want something simple, portable, and budget-friendly. It is easy to carry, lasts long on battery, and does basic tasks well.
ASUS Vivobook L210 Laptop (L210MA-DB01)
![[2021 Version]ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210 11.6” ultra thin, Intel Celeron N4020 Processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC storage, Windows 10 Home in S mode with...](https://reviewsparrow.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/image.php?url=YUhSMGNITTZMeTl0TG0xbFpHbGhMV0Z0WVhwdmJpNWpiMjB2YVcxaFoyVnpMMGt2TkRGdllVMVRWWE5QVmt3dWFuQm58MTc0Nzc4MTAxNw= "9 Best Laptops Under $300: Affordable Choices That Don’t Compromise on Quality 9")
- Aspect Ratio:16:9.Keyboard layout:qwerty
- Efficient Intel Celeron N4020 Processor (4M Cache, up to 2.8 GHz)
- 11.6” HD (1366 x 768) Slim Display
If you want a small, light, and inexpensive laptop, the ASUS Vivobook L210 (L210MA-DB01) is a good pick. It has an 11.6-inch HD screen, which is big enough for everyday tasks. The laptop is very slim, just 0.7 inches thick, and it weighs about 2.2 pounds. This makes it easy to carry in a bag or backpack.
The laptop runs on an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and has 4GB of RAM. It can handle simple tasks like browsing the internet, writing documents, and watching videos smoothly. The battery lasts up to 12 hours, so you can use it all day without needing to charge. It features a tough, lightweight design, Wi-Fi to connect to the internet, and a microSD slot to add more storage if needed.
This laptop is great for students, travelers, or anyone who needs a simple device for everyday use and easy portability.
Best For: Students, casual users, and travelers who want an affordable and portable laptop for daily tasks.
Pros:
- Very light and easy to carry
- Long battery life, up to 12 hours
- Good enough for browsing, streaming, and basic work
Cons:
- Only 64GB of storage, so you may need to add more with a microSD card
- Basic power, not for heavy multitasking or demanding programs
- No backlit keyboard or optical drive, which can limit some uses
This laptop is ideal if you want something small, light, and easy on your budget.
Lenovo IdeaPad 1 14 Laptop
- This everyday laptop is powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, 4GB DDR4 RAM, and 64 GB M.2 PCIe SSD storage
- Enjoy videos or browse online on a 14" HD display panel, framed by narrow bezels
- Dolby Audio delivers crystal-clear sound through the built-in dual stereo speakers
The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 14 Laptop is a good choice for students, travelers, and remote workers who want an affordable and easy-to-carry device. It has a clear 14-inch HD screen that makes watching videos and browsing simple. The laptop’s sleek Ice Blue case looks nice and makes it light enough to carry everywhere. It weighs just 3.09 pounds, so you won’t feel tired carrying it.
This laptop has an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB SSD. It handles everyday tasks well, like checking emails, browsing the web, streaming videos, or chatting with friends. The battery last up to 12 hours, so you can use it all day without needing to recharge. Overall, it’s a trustworthy and compact laptop for light use and daily tasks, all at a good price.
Best For: students, casual users, and remote workers who want an inexpensive, portable laptop for basic work and fun.
Pros:
- Easy to carry because it is light and small
- Lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge
- Low price makes it easy for many to buy
Cons:
- Only 64GB storage, so you might need extra space or cloud storage
- Can slow down with heavy use due to only 4GB RAM and simple processor
- Camera quality is basic, and the laptop may respond slowly with heavy tasks
Microsoft Surface Pro 2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet (2024)
- [This is a Copilot+ PC] — A new AI era begins. Experience enhanced performance and AI capabilities with Copilot+ PC, boosting productivity with security and...
- [13" OLED Touch Screen Display] — Cinematic display on-the-go. 1M:1 contrast ratio delivers a wider range of colors.
- [All day battery life] — 14 hours of battery life[5], fast charging with 65W PSU via Surface Connect or USB-C.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet (2024) is a good choice if you want a device that can do both laptop and tablet tasks. It has a bright 13-inch OLED touchscreen. The screen shows clear images with up to 2880 x 1920 resolution and a high contrast ratio of 1 million to 1. This makes it great for work, watching videos, or playing games.
Inside, it has a Snapdragon X Elite processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. These specs help the device run smoothly even when you use many apps or do heavy tasks. It is lightweight, weighing just 3.65 pounds. The device includes a detachable keyboard and an adjustable kickstand. You can flip it from a tablet to a laptop easily. The battery lasts up to 14 hours, so you can use it all day without charging.
This device is good for people who need a versatile and powerful tool at a budget price. It works well for work, digital art, and entertainment.
Pros:
- Bright 13-inch OLED touchscreen with sharp details
- Light and easy to carry with a detachable keyboard and kickstand
- Fast Snapdragon X Elite processor with plenty of RAM and memory
Cons:
- Only runs ARM64 apps, so some older or special software might not work
- Battery life depends on how you use the device
- Screen brightness and color may not be as vivid as more expensive screens
This Surface Pro 2-in-1 is a great mix of power and portability. It fits well for people who want flexibility without spending a lot.
ASUS VivoBook L203MA Ultra-Thin Laptop (L203MA-DS04)
- Efficient Intel Celeron N4000 Processor (4M Cache, up to 2.6 GHz)
- 11.6” HD (1366 x 768) Display with HD webcam
- Compatible with Google Classroom; run Google Classroom on Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer 11
The ASUS VivoBook L203MA Ultra-Thin Laptop (L203MA-DS04) is a good choice for students and casual users. It is lightweight and easy to carry. The laptop weighs only 2.2 pounds and is just 0.7 inches thick. Its 11.6-inch HD screen shows bright and clear images. This makes it nice for browsing the internet or working on documents.
The laptop is powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 processor. It has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. This setup helps with basic tasks like email, writing, and online videos. The battery can last up to 10 hours on a full charge. It has multiple ports for connecting accessories. The Windows 10 operating system can be switched on and off easily. Overall, it is a dependable and affordable device for light work.
This laptop is best for students and people who want a portable device. It is good for surfing the web, editing simple documents, and watching videos.
Pros:
- Very light and small, easy to carry around.
- Long-lasting battery, works up to 10 hours without charging.
- Bright HD screen makes daily use more fun and easy.
Cons:
- 64GB storage is small. It can fill up fast if you save many files or apps.
- The processor and RAM limit how well it handles many apps or heavy tasks.
- HDMI output supports only up to 1080p, so it can’t connect to 4K displays.
The ASUS VivoBook L203MA is a simple, portable, and affordable choice. It is perfect for basic tasks and daily use.
Laptop Computer with Windows 11, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage, Includes Accessories (Black)
- 【Powerful Performance & Large Storage】 G-Anica laptop computer powered by the GMS-certified Windows 11 system and the Intel Dual core processor. The laptop...
- 【10 inch HD Resolution Display】G-Anica Windows 11 laptops equipped 10 inch FHD screen to enjoy clear and lively images. Narrow borders and large screen to...
- 【Long Battery Life & Easy to Carry】G-Anica laptop comes with a built-in long battery life, ensuring long battery life. Laptops are lightweight, making it...
If you need an affordable and lightweight laptop, this Windows 11 model is a good choice. It has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The laptop weighs only 2 pounds, so you can carry it easily. It’s perfect for work, school, or casual use.
The 10-inch HD screen shows clear pictures. The Intel Celeron Dual Core processor helps the laptop run smoothly. It comes with useful accessories like a mouse, mouse pad, earphones, and a laptop bag. These make it easy to start using right away. You can connect to other devices using HDMI, USB, or Bluetooth, so you stay connected wherever you go.
This laptop is best for students, busy professionals, or anyone who wants a portable device for everyday tasks and browsing.
Pros:
- Very light and small. Weighs only 2 pounds, easy to carry.
- Includes handy accessories such as a mouse, earphones, and a bag.
- Runs smoothly with 8GB RAM and a dual-core processor.
Cons:
- Only 128GB of storage, so you might need extra space for large files.
- The 10-inch screen is small, not ideal for watching videos or detailed work.
- The basic specs may not handle heavy programs or gaming well.
This laptop is simple, portable, and perfect for light use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops Under $300
When choosing a laptop under $300, focus on a few important things. First, check how fast it runs. You want it to do your tasks without slowing down. Next, look at the screen. A clear and bright display makes it easier to see everything. Also, see if it has enough ports to connect your favorite devices like a mouse or charger.
Battery life is also important. You don’t want it to die in the middle of your work. Durability matters too. Pick a laptop made with sturdy parts so it can handle daily use. Keep these points in mind to find a laptop that fits your needs and keeps your budget in check.
Performance Capabilities
When you pick a laptop for under $300, it’s important to know what it can do. These laptops usually have basic parts, like Intel Celeron or AMD Athlon processors. They work fine for simple tasks but struggle with heavy programs. Most of these laptops come with 4GB to 8GB of RAM. More RAM helps you switch between apps easier and run more programs at once. Storage is often small and slow, with eMMC or hard drives. This can make files load slowly and might slow down the laptop.
The graphics are usually built-in, like Intel UHD or AMD Radeon. These share memory with the main system. Because of this, they don’t handle gaming or graphics work well. Overall, a $300 laptop works best for simple things. You can browse the internet, write documents, and watch videos smoothly. But it will have trouble with more demanding tasks or new software.
Display Quality
Display quality is very important when choosing a laptop under $300. Look for screens with a resolution of 1920×1080, called Full HD. This makes images look sharp and bright. If the screen is 14 inches or bigger, Full HD is even better.
Choose an IPS panel if possible. IPS displays have wider viewing angles, so pictures look good from the side, and colors are more accurate. Avoid cheap TN or VA panels if you can, because they don’t show colors as well.
Brightness also matters. Look for a screen with at least 200 nits. Brighter screens are easier to see in sunlight or bright rooms. If the screen is even brighter, it’s better for outdoor use.
Think about the screen finish too. Matte screens reduce glare and reflections. This makes it easier to see the screen in bright places.
Port Selection
Port selection is important on a budget laptop because it shows how easy it is to connect your devices. Look for laptops that have different ports like USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and headphone jacks. These ports help you connect your phone, external monitor, or speakers easily. An SD card reader or microSD slot can help if you want to add extra storage or move files fast. Modern options like Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 are useful because they let you connect wirelessly faster and are good for the future. Budget laptops usually have just the needed ports. Check that these ports include what you need most, like for a second screen or quick data transfer. This way, your laptop works well for your daily tasks without missing important ports.
Battery Life
Want to know how long a budget laptop can last on a single charge? Battery life depends a lot on how you use it. If you do light tasks like browsing the internet or watching videos, the battery can last longer. But if you run demanding programs or play games, it will drain faster. Laptops with energy-saving processors like Intel Celeron or AMD Ryzen 3 usually run longer on a single charge. Smaller screens and lower resolution also help save power. The size of the battery, measured in mAh or Wh, shows how much energy it can hold. But how long it lasts depends on how efficient the laptop is and features like Wi-Fi speed and screen brightness. Turning off background apps and lowering brightness can help your battery last even longer. This way, you can stay productive without needing to find an outlet all the time.
Build Durability
When you buy a budget laptop, it’s important to think about how tough it is. A strong build means the laptop can handle daily use and accidental bumps. Look at the materials used for the case. Plastic is common, but it might not last as long as aluminum or magnesium. Check if the hinges are reinforced. Sturdy hinges stop the screen from loosening or breaking. A solid keyboard frame also helps it stay strong over time. Make sure the case is sealed well. This keeps dust and dirt out and protects the inside parts. The glass and bezel around the display matter, too. Good quality glass resists cracks and scratches if you drop the laptop by accident. If the laptop has shock resistance ratings, see what heights it can handle when it falls. Picking a laptop with good durability means it will last longer and stay reliable.
Upgrade Options
When you buy a budget laptop for less than $300, it’s good to think about upgrades. Many cheap laptops have parts that are soldered onto the motherboard. This means you can’t change or add more RAM or storage easily. If you want more space, adding an external drive like a USB flash drive or an external SSD is a simple choice. Upgrading storage inside the laptop usually means replacing the old drive with a new one, which can be tricky and may need technical skills. Some models let you upgrade RAM, but many have it soldered so you can’t change it. Before buying, check what parts can be upgraded. Planning ahead helps your laptop last longer and work better. Remember, always look at the specifications first to see what upgrades are possible.
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