10 Best Budget Laptops 2025 in the United States

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 15.6 inch laptop is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable, everyday laptop. It runs on an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor with 4 cores and 8 threads, providing enough power for basic tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and working on documents. The 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM helps keep things running smoothly, and the 128 GB SSD storage is fast, though somewhat limited in space if you plan to store lots of files or large apps. The screen is a 15.6-inch HD touchscreen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. While it offers touch functionality and anti-glare coating, the display resolution and color range are on the modest side, which means it’s fine for casual viewing but not ideal for high-quality photo or video editing.

Portability is decent, with a weight of around 3.5 pounds and a slim profile, making it easy to carry around. Battery life is impressive at up to 12 hours, so it can last a full day of moderate use without needing a recharge. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast wireless connections, plus a good selection of ports like USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI for external devices. The laptop also includes useful privacy features like a physical camera shutter and a microphone mute button. It runs Windows 11 Home in S Mode, which is secure but somewhat restrictive as it only allows apps from the Microsoft Store unless you switch out of S Mode.

This HP laptop suits students, professionals, or anyone needing a budget-friendly, reliable machine for everyday tasks. However, its lower screen resolution and limited storage might be a drawback for users with more demanding needs.

The Dell Inspiron Touchscreen Laptop offers a solid balance of performance and features for budget-conscious users such as students and professionals. It is powered by an Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7 processor, which provides sufficient performance for everyday tasks and light multitasking. The 32GB RAM is an excellent feature, ensuring smooth operation even with multiple applications open. Storage-wise, the 1TB SSD is generous, offering quick access to your files and ample space for software and documents. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display delivers clear and vibrant visuals, and the touchscreen functionality adds versatility for different usage scenarios.

The brightness level of 220 nits is somewhat low, potentially affecting visibility in bright environments. The build quality is decent, featuring a sleek and lightweight design that is easy to carry around, making it suitable for students and professionals who need to transport their laptop frequently. Connectivity options are comprehensive, with multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Bluetooth, ensuring compatibility with various peripherals and easy connection options. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro enhances the laptop's appeal for business and educational use, bringing advanced features and better security.

One drawback is the integrated Intel UHD Graphics, which may not suffice for intensive graphical tasks or gaming. Nonetheless, this laptop is a practical choice for those seeking a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank.