10 Best Basic Laptops 2025 in the United States

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 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 Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop is a solid choice for those in need of a basic laptop, particularly students or casual users who require reliable performance for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and document editing. With its Intel Dual Core processor and 12GB of RAM, it provides sufficient power to handle multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously, making it a good fit for multitasking. The storage options include a 512GB SSD paired with 128GB eMMC, which ensures fast boot times and ample space for files and applications.

The 15.6-inch FHD display offers a decent resolution of 1920x1080, which is great for enjoying videos and working on projects. Plus, with features like anti-glare technology, users can work comfortably in various lighting conditions. The inclusion of Windows 11 Home adds modern functionality, making the laptop user-friendly with its new interface and compatibility with Android apps. Connectivity is well-handled with a good selection of ports, including USB 3.2, USB-C, HDMI, and a card reader, allowing for easy connections to various devices. Additionally, the laptop supports Wi-Fi 6, ensuring faster internet speeds, which is perfect for online studies or streaming.

There are some drawbacks. The integrated Intel UHD graphics might not satisfy users looking to perform graphic-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. The Celeron processor, while sufficient for basic use, may struggle with more demanding applications over time. Battery life isn’t highlighted as a major feature, so potential buyers should keep that in mind, especially if they need a laptop for extended periods away from a power source. The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 offers a good balance of features for basic laptop needs but may fall short for heavier users or those needing superior graphics performance.