10 Best Budget Laptops 2025 in the United States

The Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) stands out in the budget laptop category with some impressive features usually found in higher-end models. It uses a Snapdragon X Plus 10-core processor, which is efficient and offers good performance, especially for everyday tasks and AI-powered applications. With 16GB of fast LPDDR5x RAM, it handles multitasking smoothly without slowing down. The 512GB SSD provides ample and speedy storage for files and programs, far better than traditional hard drives. The 13.8-inch touchscreen display has a sharp resolution (2304 x 1536 pixels) and supports HDR, delivering vibrant colors and clear visuals, making it a pleasure for work or media consumption.

Battery life is a major advantage, with up to 20 hours on a single charge, which is excellent for long days away from outlets. The laptop is thin and lightweight, weighing just under 3 pounds, with a durable aluminum build that makes it easy to carry around without feeling fragile. It also features useful AI enhancements through Windows 11 Copilot+, such as improved video calls and quick access to documents, adding value for productivity and creativity.

On the downside, because it runs on an ARM-based Snapdragon processor, some traditional Windows software may not run as smoothly or be compatible compared to laptops with Intel or AMD chips. The integrated Adreno graphics are fine for everyday use and light media work but won’t satisfy users needing strong gaming or video editing power. This Surface Laptop is a strong choice for budget buyers wanting a stylish, portable device with great battery life and AI features, but less ideal if you rely on heavy software or gaming.

The Lenovo V-Series V15 Business Laptop offers strong performance features that stand out in the budget laptop category. Its AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads can handle multitasking and demanding applications smoothly. Paired with a very generous 40GB of DDR4 RAM and a fast 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, it allows quick boot times and plenty of space for files and programs. The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides clear visuals suitable for everyday tasks, though it may not deliver the color accuracy or brightness found in higher-end models. Connectivity options are solid, including USB Type-C, USB 3.2, HDMI, RJ45 Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6, which covers most needs for both home and office use. The numeric keypad is a useful addition for those who work with numbers frequently.

The laptop weighs about 3.64 pounds and has a slim profile, making it reasonably portable, though not the lightest in its class. Build quality is dependable for everyday business or study tasks, though it isn’t positioned as a rugged or premium device. Windows 11 Pro is included, offering useful productivity and security features out of the box. The integrated AMD Radeon graphics are sufficient for casual use but not suitable for gaming or graphics-intensive work.

This Lenovo V15 model makes a solid choice for users who prioritize strong processing power, ample RAM, and fast storage at a budget-friendly price, especially for business or study contexts. However, if portability, battery life, or advanced graphics are key priorities, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

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.