10 Best Budget Chromebook 2025 in the United States

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Chromebook is a solid option for those seeking a budget-friendly device. It features a 15.6” FHD display with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, offering clear and vibrant visuals which are great for streaming and everyday use. The Intel Celeron N4500 processor, paired with 8GB of RAM, ensures smooth performance for typical Chromebook tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. However, it may struggle with more demanding applications or multitasking heavy workloads due to its entry-level processor.

The 64GB eMMC storage, while adequate for basic needs and Chrome OS operations, might be limiting if you need substantial local storage, though cloud storage options can help mitigate this. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, with up to 10 hours of usage, allowing for extended use without frequent charging. The Chromebook's build is both slim and lightweight, weighing just 5.49 pounds, making it portable and easy to carry around. Connectivity is well-covered with multiple USB ports, including USB-C, ensuring compatibility with various peripherals.

The build quality is decent for a budget device, although the plastic construction may not feel as premium. Additionally, the 720p camera is sufficient for video calls, but don’t expect high-definition clarity. Running on Chrome OS, it benefits from regular updates and enhanced security features. This Chromebook is ideal for students, casual users, or anyone needing a secondary device for simple tasks.

The HP Chromebook 14 is a budget-friendly option suitable for basic home, work, and school tasks. Equipped with an Intel Celeron N4120 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it offers decent performance for everyday activities like web browsing, document editing, and streaming videos. The 64 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential apps and files, but it might feel limited for users with more extensive storage needs.

The 14-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 is adequate for most tasks, although it isn't as sharp as higher-resolution screens. The anti-glare feature is a nice touch, making it easier to use in various lighting conditions. One of the standout features of this Chromebook is its impressive battery life, lasting up to 14 hours on a single charge, which is ideal for on-the-go use. The thin and lightweight design (3.24 pounds) enhances its portability, making it convenient to carry around in a backpack or bag.

Chrome OS ensures a secure and straightforward user experience, with access to a wide range of apps through the Google Play Store. The inclusion of Intel UHD Graphics 600 allows for smooth 4K content streaming, although it's not suitable for heavy gaming. The build quality of the HP Chromebook 14 is solid, and it comes with a one-year limited hardware warranty for added peace of mind. However, users looking for more powerful performance or higher storage capacity might find this Chromebook lacking. It is best suited for casual users or students who need a reliable, portable device for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.

The ASUS Chromebook CX1 offers a solid combination of performance and features for a budget Chromebook. With an Intel Celeron N4500 Processor and 8GB of RAM, it delivers a snappy and smooth operating experience that is well-suited for everyday tasks like browsing the web, streaming, and using productivity apps. The 64GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential files and applications, and the inclusion of a 2TB Google One cloud storage plan for three months adds significant value for users who need more storage capacity. The 15.6-inch Full HD NanoEdge display is expansive and provides clear and immersive visuals, making it ideal for media consumption and working on documents.

Build quality is another strong point; the Chromebook is lightweight at just 3.97 lbs and meets Military Grade standard MIL-STD 810H, ensuring durability. On the connectivity front, it comes with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, enhancing wireless performance and compatibility. The keyboard is ergonomic, featuring a chiclet design and a physical numeric keypad, which is convenient for data entry tasks. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 11 hours on a single charge, suitable for long work or school days.

However, there are some drawbacks. The Intel Celeron N4500, while adequate for basic tasks, might struggle with more demanding applications or multitasking. Storage capacity, while sufficient for basic use, is limited compared to higher-end models. Additionally, the operating system is Chrome OS, which, while secure and efficient, may not support all applications that users may need, limiting versatility. Despite these limitations, the ASUS Chromebook CX1 is a strong contender in the budget Chromebook category, offering a robust feature set at an affordable price.