10 Best Basic Laptops 2025 in the United States

The HP Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop is designed as an entry-level device suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing, video calls, and office work. It features an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, which is a basic quad-core chip offering decent efficiency but limited power for demanding software. A standout feature is its 16GB of DDR4 RAM, which is quite generous for this class and helps keep multiple apps running smoothly. Storage includes 128GB eMMC onboard plus an additional 160GB via a docking station, providing ample space for documents and media, though the eMMC is slower compared to traditional SSDs. The 14-inch HD (1366x768) display is bright and anti-glare, but the resolution is modest, so image sharpness and detail may feel limited for some users.

It runs Windows 11 Home in S Mode, which offers security and performance benefits but restricts installing apps outside the Microsoft Store unless switched out of S Mode. Connectivity is solid, including USB-C, USB-A ports, HDMI, and a media card reader, supporting a range of peripherals. The laptop is lightweight at just over 3 pounds, making it portable. The low-voltage CPU typically supports decent battery endurance for basic use. The build appears practical with a clean silver design but likely modest materials given the price segment.

Including a 1-year Office 365 subscription and a useful docking station bundle adds value especially for productivity-focused users. This HP Stream is best suited for students, casual users, or anyone needing a budget-friendly laptop for simple computing rather than heavy multitasking or advanced creative work.

The HP 14 Laptop is designed for users seeking a basic yet functional computing experience. It features an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of storage, making it suitable for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, word processing, and streaming videos. The 14-inch Micro-edge display offers a decent viewing experience, though its HD resolution (1366 x 768) may not satisfy those looking for sharp graphics or high-resolution content. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 allows for 4K streaming, but gaming performance will be limited due to the laptop's entry-level specifications.

Its thin and portable design, weighing just 3.24 pounds, makes it easy to carry, which is a significant plus for students or professionals on the go. The battery life is commendable at around 10 hours, allowing for a full day of usage without needing to recharge, which is ideal for work or school settings.

However, there are some drawbacks. The storage capacity of 64 GB might feel restrictive, especially if you plan to install multiple applications or store large files. Additionally, the use of Windows 11 S limits you to apps available in the Microsoft Store, which could be a drawback for users who need more flexibility in their software choices. Moreover, the RAM is also on the lower side for multitasking, which might affect performance if too many applications are open simultaneously.

The Dell Inspiron Touchscreen Laptop is well-suited for students and business professionals. Featuring an Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7 processor, it offers solid performance for daily tasks. The substantial 32GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the 1TB SSD provides generous and fast storage, making it ideal for storing large files and applications.

The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen display, with its narrow bezels and anti-glare feature, delivers sharp visuals and comfortable viewing. Its 220 nits brightness might be less impressive in bright environments. Running on Windows 11 Pro, it offers robust security and multitasking features beneficial for professionals and students alike. Connectivity options include two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, an HDMI 1.4 port for external displays, a headphone/microphone combo jack, and an SD card reader. Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth ensure reliable wireless connections, although some might prefer the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard.

The laptop's build is sleek and portable, weighing only 3.65 pounds and measuring 0.69 inches in thickness, making it convenient for on-the-go use. While the integrated Intel UHD Graphics is sufficient for basic graphics tasks, it may not satisfy users seeking advanced gaming or heavy graphical work. This laptop is a solid choice for students and professionals needing reliable performance, ample storage, and a high-quality display for their daily computing needs.