10 Best Cheap Chromebook 2026 in the United States

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, lightweight laptop primarily for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and basic productivity. It runs on a MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor paired with 4GB of RAM, which provides smooth performance for typical Chrome OS activities but might struggle with heavy multitasking or more demanding apps. Storage is 64GB SSD, enough for storing essential files and offline apps while relying on cloud storage for larger needs.

The 14-inch HD display offers decent visuals but sticks to 1366 x 768 resolution, which is lower than Full HD and may feel less sharp for some users. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 13.5 hours, making it convenient for full-day use without frequent charging. The build is compact and lightweight at just under 3 pounds, making it easy to carry around. Additional perks include Waves MaxxAudio speakers for better sound quality, a privacy shutter for the webcam, and WiFi 6 support for faster internet connectivity.

Due to the modest RAM and display resolution, this Chromebook is best suited for students, casual users, or those who need a dependable secondary device rather than power users or creators. Its compactness and long battery life make it a reliable companion for work or study on the go, although users should have tempered expectations around screen clarity and multitasking capacity.

The Lenovo Chromebook 15 IdeaPad 3i is a solid option if you're looking for a budget Chromebook that covers the basics well. It’s powered by an Intel Celeron N4500 processor with 4GB of RAM, which handles everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and using apps smoothly but might slow down with many tabs or heavier multitasking. The storage is a bit unique here, combining 64GB eMMC with an expandable 128GB SD card, giving you nearly 200GB of space—quite generous for a Chromebook—and it also includes 2TB of cloud storage for extra files.

The 15.6-inch full HD screen is a nice size for schoolwork or watching videos, though it uses a TN panel that offers less vibrant colors and narrower viewing angles compared to more expensive IPS displays. Still, the anti-glare coating helps reduce reflections, which is great for bright rooms. Battery life is impressive at about 10 hours, making it reliable for a full day of classes or work without needing a charge.

In terms of build, it’s lightweight at around 3.5 pounds and fairly slim, so it’s easy to carry around. The keyboard includes a numeric keypad, useful for data entry. Connectivity is strong with Wi-Fi 6 support and multiple USB ports, plus HDMI for connecting external monitors if needed. Chrome OS keeps things simple and secure, perfect for students or anyone wanting a straightforward device for online classes, video calls, and light productivity. While the Intel Celeron processor won’t handle demanding software or heavy multitasking well, and the display isn’t ideal for color-critical tasks, the IdeaPad 3i offers a good balance of performance, storage, and battery life at its price point. It’s a great pick if you need an affordable Chromebook mostly for web-based activities and basic use.

The HP Chromebook 14 is a budget-friendly option ideal for students, casual users, and anyone needing a lightweight and portable laptop for everyday tasks. It features an Intel Celeron N4120 processor paired with 4 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for web browsing, running apps, and handling basic productivity tasks without much lag. With 64 GB of eMMC storage, it provides enough space for documents, photos, and some apps, though it may be limiting for users with extensive storage needs.

The 14-inch HD display, while not Full HD, is good enough for streaming and daily use, complemented by the anti-glare feature that improves visibility in various lighting conditions. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 supports 4K streaming, though it may not handle more demanding graphical tasks or games smoothly. One of its standout features is the long battery life, advertised to last up to 14 hours, and the fast-charging capability is a bonus for users on the go.

The Chromebook's build is slim and lightweight at 3.24 pounds, making it easy to carry around. However, the plastic build might feel less premium, and the 1366 x 768 resolution is lower than some competitors. It runs on Chrome OS, ensuring regular updates and access to a wide range of apps through the Google Play Store. Connectivity options are robust with multiple USB ports and strong Wi-Fi capabilities. It’s a solid choice for users looking for an affordable and dependable machine for everyday use, though those needing higher performance or more storage might want to explore other options.