10 Best Budget Laptops 2025 in the United States

This HP 15.6-inch budget laptop is designed with everyday users in mind, particularly students and casual users who need a reliable machine for web browsing, office work, and streaming. It's powered by an Intel Celeron N4500 processor, which is energy-efficient but relatively modest in speed, so it won't handle heavy multitasking or demanding software well. The standout specs include a generous 16GB of RAM and a spacious 1TB SSD, which together provide smooth performance for basic tasks and plenty of storage space. The Full HD IPS display with anti-glare coating offers clear visuals and wide viewing angles, making it comfortable to use for long periods.

Battery life is enhanced by fast charging, allowing you to get up to 50% charge in 45 minutes, which is convenient for on-the-go use. Connectivity options are strong for a budget laptop, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, multiple USB 3.2 ports, HDMI, Ethernet, and an SD card reader, supporting various peripherals and better internet speeds. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro and Microsoft Office adds good value for business or school productivity.

The laptop weighs around 6 pounds, which is heavier than many ultraportables, limiting portability somewhat. The processor's limited power may also restrict performance when running multiple apps or more demanding programs. This laptop is well suited for users who prioritize a large amount of RAM and storage with solid connectivity over raw processing power, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious students and professionals focusing on typical office and media tasks.

The HP 14 Laptop is a solid choice for those in need of a budget-friendly device, especially students or anyone who requires a portable computer for everyday tasks. It features an Intel Celeron N4020 processor paired with 4 GB of RAM, which makes it suitable for basic activities like web browsing, word processing, and streaming videos. The 14-inch micro-edge HD display offers a decent viewing experience, although the 1366 x 768 resolution may not meet everyone's expectations for sharpness.

One of its biggest advantages is its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry around. The battery life is impressive too, with up to 10 hours of usage, which is great for on-the-go productivity. Additionally, the inclusion of Windows 11 Home and one year of Microsoft 365 adds value for users looking for software to get started right away.

This laptop does have its limitations. The storage of 64 GB may be insufficient for users who plan to store large files or install numerous applications, as it relies on flash storage that can fill up quickly. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 allows for some basic gaming and streaming, but it may struggle with more demanding tasks or newer games. Another point to note is the build quality; while it’s portable, some users may find the materials feel less premium compared to higher-end models. Additionally, the lack of an optical drive might be a drawback for those who rely on CDs or DVDs.

The HP Stream 14" is a budget-friendly laptop that offers some surprisingly strong features for its price. Its standout point is the 16GB of RAM, which is quite generous in this category and means you can run multiple apps smoothly without much slowdown. Storage is split between a 128GB eMMC drive and an additional 160GB in a docking station, providing decent space for everyday files and software. The Intel Celeron N4120 processor is an entry-level chip, so while it handles basic tasks like web browsing, word processing, and video calls well, it might struggle with heavier workloads or demanding software. The 14-inch display has a standard HD resolution (1366x768); it's bright and clear enough for casual use, but lacks the sharpness and detail of higher-end screens. Battery life is solid, offering up to 11 hours, which is great for all-day use without frequent charging. The build is slim and portable at just over 3 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

Connectivity options are good for a budget laptop, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a media card reader, so you can connect various peripherals and external displays. It runs Windows 11 in S Mode, which is more secure but limits apps to those from the Microsoft Store, though you can switch out of this mode if needed. A bonus is the included docking station and accessories, adding extra storage and convenience. If you need a simple, affordable laptop for internet, office work, and video calls, this HP Stream is a solid choice. For users seeking sharper visuals or more powerful processing for gaming or intensive multitasking, it may be better to look for something with a stronger processor and a higher-resolution screen.