10 Best Budget Laptops 2025 in the United States

The Lenovo V15 Business Laptop stands out as a solid budget-friendly option with several noteworthy features conducive to everyday use. It’s powered by an Intel Celeron N5100 processor and integrated Intel UHD Graphics, which are sufficient for basic multitasking and general computing tasks. The laptop's 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD provide generous memory and fast storage, ideal for users who manage large files or need ample space for applications.

The 15.6-inch FHD display offers clear and vibrant visuals, which is great for both work and entertainment, considering the anti-glare feature helps reduce eye strain during extended use. At 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs), it’s relatively lightweight and portable, making it a good choice for on-the-go usage. The laptop's connectivity options, including USB 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, and an RJ-45 Ethernet port, ensure versatile connectivity. Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 also contribute to its connectivity strengths. Security features like a camera privacy shutter and Firmware TPM 2.0 enhance user privacy and data protection. Additionally, it comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, offering a robust and updated operating system.

The audio quality is supported by Dolby Audio technology, providing a better audio experience than many other laptops in this price range. However, there are some downsides to consider. The Intel Celeron processor, while adequate for basic tasks, might be limiting for more demanding applications or high-performance computing. The laptop's build, although modern and durable, is primarily plastic, which may not feel as premium as metal alternatives. Despite these limitations, the Lenovo V15 remains a strong contender in the budget laptop category, especially for students, professionals, or anyone needing a reliable device for everyday computing without breaking the bank.

The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 G2 Business Laptop is a compelling option in the budget category, providing impressive performance and features suitable for professional use. Its AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor delivers excellent speed and efficiency, which is ideal for multitasking and handling demanding applications. Coupled with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, this laptop ensures smooth operation even with multiple programs running simultaneously. The 1TB PCIe SSD offers ample storage space and quick data retrieval times, which is a significant plus for users with large files or extensive software needs.

The 16-inch FHD+ display delivers clear and crisp visuals, enhanced by integrated AMD Radeon 680M graphics, making it suitable for both work and casual multimedia use. However, the display's 45% NTSC color gamut may not be ideal for color-sensitive tasks like professional photo or video editing. Portability is decent, with a relatively lightweight design at 5 pounds and a sleek profile. Build quality appears robust, adhering to the ThinkPad's reputation for durability, and the inclusion of security features like a fingerprint reader and TPM 2.0 chip enhance its appeal for business users.

Connectivity options are comprehensive with Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, multiple USB ports including USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet, ensuring versatile compatibility with various devices and peripherals. The backlit keyboard is a convenient feature for working in low-light environments. The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 G2 is a strong contender for those seeking a budget-friendly yet powerful laptop for professional tasks.

The HP Pavilion 15.6" HD Touchscreen Anti-Glare Laptop is a strong contender in the budget laptop category, offering several standout features. It is equipped with an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, which, while not the most powerful, should handle everyday tasks efficiently. The 16GB RAM is a significant advantage, allowing for smooth multitasking and running multiple applications simultaneously. Storage also shines with a 1TB SSD, providing ample space and fast data transfer speeds.

The inclusion of a touchscreen is a nice bonus for those who prefer that functionality, although the 1366 x 768 resolution is a bit low compared to Full HD displays, which might make the visuals less sharp. The laptop's battery life of up to 11 hours is commendable, ensuring it can last through a workday without needing frequent recharges. The build quality is decent with a sleek silver design that is both modern and portable, weighing in at 3.74 pounds. However, it's worth noting that this laptop lacks an optical drive, which could be a drawback for users who still rely on CDs or DVDs.

It runs on Windows 11 Home, providing access to the latest features and updates from Microsoft. While the integrated graphics card isn't suitable for heavy gaming or graphic-intensive tasks, it should be adequate for standard use like browsing, streaming, and office work. In summary, this HP Pavilion laptop is ideal for budget-conscious users who need a reliable machine for everyday tasks, school, or light work, but it may not be the best choice for those requiring high-resolution displays or gaming capabilities.