Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
10 Best and Affordable Laptops for Students in 2026: Top Picks Under $100
Finding the right laptop at an affordable price can be a daunting task for students, especially when balancing quality and performance with the budget. In 2026, the landscape of technology has evolved tremendously, offering a plethora of options that fit student needs without breaking the bank. This article explores the best and affordable laptops for students available on Amazon, helping you make an informed decision.
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R3FZ
Best for: All-around performance
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R3FZ is a versatile laptop that offers a blend of performance, portability, and affordability. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD, this laptop is perfect for multitasking, whether you’re writing essays, attending virtual classes, or streaming your favorite shows.
Pros:
- Excellent performance for both work and entertainment.
- Sleek and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around.
- Long battery life (up to 10 hours).
Cons:
- Limited color accuracy for graphic-related tasks.
- No dedicated graphics card, which may affect gaming experiences.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Hexa-Core Mobile Processor with AMD Radeon Graphics.Maximum Power Supply Wattage 45 W
- 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) Widescreen LED-backlit IPS Display
- 8GB DDR4 Onboard Memory and 256GB NVMe SSD
- 1 - USB 3.2 (Type-C) Gen 1 port (up to 5 Gbps) | 2 - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Ports (one with Power-off Charging) | 1 - USB 2.0 Port | 1 - HDMI 2.0 Port with HDCP support
- Wi-Fi 6 | Backlit Keyboard | Up to 11 Hours Battery Life | Comes with Windows 11 Home
2. HP Pavilion x360 Convertible 14
Best for: Flexibility and design
The HP Pavilion x360 Convertible 14 is a 2-in-1 laptop that gives students the flexibility to switch between laptop and tablet modes. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, making it a powerful choice for students who prefer a touch screen for notes and sketches.
Pros:
- 360-degree hinge allows for various usage modes.
- High-quality touch screen enhances interactivity.
- Solid build quality and attractive design.
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer.
- Heavier than other ultraportable models.
- HP Pavilion x360 14 Laptop with micro-edge Full HD IPS multitouch-enabled touchscreen display
- Windows 11 Home, 12th Generation Intel Core i5-1235U Processor, Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- 8GB RAM, 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 solid-state drive
- Up to 11 hours and 45 minutes video playback battery, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth
- Flexible 360-degree hinge, fingerprint reader, HP QuickDrop wireless file sharing
3. Lenovo Ideapad 3
Best for: Budget-conscious students
The Lenovo Ideapad 3 is one of the best and affordable laptops for students who need a reliable machine for basic tasks. With an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it offers great performance for studying, browsing, and video playback at a very competitive price.
Pros:
- Incredibly affordable without sacrificing performance.
- Decent battery life, ideal for day-to-day usage.
- User-friendly design with a comfortable keyboard.
Cons:
- Limited processing power for advanced graphic programs.
- Display could be brighter.
- 【Memory & Storage】Memory is 12GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. Hard Drive is 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive which allows to fast bootup and data transfer
- 【Processor】 Intel Core i3-1115G4 3.00 GHz 2 Cores Processor (6MB Cache, up to 4.10 GHz), Intel UHD Graphics
- 【Screen】15.6" HD TouchScreen (1366 x 768) Display
- 【Ports】2 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A 3.2, 1 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo, 1 x SD Card Reader, Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi 5) and Bluetooth Combo
- 【Operating System】Windows 11 Home, 64 bit
4. ASUS VivoBook 15
Best for: Stylish design
The ASUS VivoBook 15 comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, making it an excellent choice for students who desire a combination of style and functionality. Its thin and light design is complemented by vibrant colors and a sleek finish, making it aesthetically appealing.
Pros:
- Powerful hardware specifications for efficient multitasking.
- Lightweight and portable design.
- Good battery life.
Cons:
- Limited serviceability.
- Audio quality is average.
- Microsoft Copilot Make complex tasks simple. Get answers, generate images, summarize texts, and more! Unleash your creativity with the power of intelligent assistance
- Stunning 15.6-inch FHD Touch Display Indulge in stunning visuals in breathtaking 1920 x 1080 resolution (16:9) and a 250-nit sustained brightness with vivid colors and a smooth 60Hz refresh rate
- Fast Intel Core i5-1334U Processor With the latest platform technologies for everyday applications, fast connectivity and performance optimization, the Intel Core i5-1334U processor enables casual gaming, creation and productivity
- Intel Iris Xᵉ Graphics Powerful integrated graphics for all your everyday needs from day to night
- Multitask Effortlessly with 16GB Of Memory And 512GB Of Storage Experience lightning-fast performance and speedy multitasking, whether you're gaming, editing, or browsing. Save files quickly and store vast amounts of data. With extensive storage and advanced communication power, PCIe 3.0 SSDs perform well for everyday applications, multiple servers, daily backups, and more
5. Dell Inspiron 15 3000
Best for: Reliability
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a well-rounded laptop featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Ideal for students needing to run multiple applications without a hitch, it’s also well-known for its robust build quality.
Pros:
- Solid build quality and design.
- Good array of ports for connectivity.
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors.
- Display could use more vibrancy.
- 【15.6" Full HD Touchscreen】The 1920 x 1080 resolution boasts impressive color and clarity. IPS technology for wide viewing angles. Energy-efficient LED backlight. Designed with tiny rubber feet and bumpers on the hinge that keep it from skidding and provide additional stability.
- 【11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 Processor】Ultra-low-voltage platform. Quad-core, eight-way processing provides maximum high-efficiency power to go. Your always-ready experience starts as soon as you open your device. Turn on, boot-up, and log-in quickly.
- 【16GB DDR4 RAM + 1TB PCIe SSD】16GB RAM can smoothly run your games and photo- and video-editing applications, as well as multiple programs and browser tabs all at once. A 1TB NVMe PCIe solid slate drive that leaves the power at your fingertips with the fastest data transfers currently available.
- 【Easy-to-use Technology】Long-lasting battery and express charge capability, to keep going for longer. Comes with Express Charge capabilities that minimize the time you spend tethered to an outlet and will recharge your battery 80% in 60 minutes. Built-in media reader for simple photo transfer.
- 【Windows 11 Professional】Experience the most secure Windows ever built with fast boot times, increased responsiveness, and added protection against phishing and malware. Plus, you can switch out of S mode.
6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Best for: Portability
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is tailored for students who prioritize portability. With a lightweight build and a 12.4-inch touchscreen, this laptop is perfect for on-the-go studying. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 128GB SSD but also comes in other configuration options.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable design.
- Excellent build quality.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface.
Cons:
- Limited storage in base model.
- Keyboard lacks backlighting.
- Microsoft Surface Laptop Go | Certified Refurbished, Amazon Renewed | 12.4-inch (1536 x 1024) LCD Touchscreen Display | Windows 10 Professional
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box.
- 256GB Solid State Drive, 16GB RAM, Intel Core i5-1035G1 CPU, Convenient security with Windows Hello sign-in, plus Fingerprint Power Button with Windows Hello and One Touch sign-in on select models., Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi: 802.11ac Wireless LAN, Run your favorite apps and keep up on social media with a 10th Gen Intel Core Processor.
7. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
Best for: Versatile Chromebook
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is a fantastic option for students who mostly use web applications. Featuring an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB RAM, and a 64GB eMMC, it’s designed for performance on Chrome OS, making it perfect for online research and assignments.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing with a decent performance.
- Versatile 2-in-1 design is great for presentations.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons:
- Limited offline capabilities.
- Only suitable for basic computing tasks.
- Touch Screen Type :Capacitive.Aspect Ratio:16:9
- Work from home, school, or anywhere with the outstanding combination of performance, connectivity, and entertainment enabled by 10th generation InteI Core processors. The Lenovo Flex 5 offers intelligent performance features that adapt to you for a personalized, intuitive, and responsive experience
- This 2-in-1 laptop combines a keyboard and touchscreen to make it easy to interact with everything on your display. You can also use the Lenovo digital pen (sold separately) to quickly write, click or drag files right on the screen
- The 13.3-inch FHD display in this slim, light 360° convertible Chromebook offers beautiful visuals, while narrow bezels minimize distractions. Two user-facing stereo speakers keep you immersed in the experience
- Use your Google account to easily access files, videos, music, and documents stored on the cloud from anywhere. With up to 10 hours of battery life, you'll stay productive
8. HP 14 Laptop
Best for: Compact design
The HP 14 Laptop is a sleek, lightweight device powered by an AMD Athlon processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD. This is ideally suited for casual browsing, school assignments, and watching videos without any complicated software requirements.
Pros:
- Compact size allows easy storage and portability.
- Quick boot-up time with SSD storage.
- Bright, clear display.
Cons:
- Performance might be limited for multi-tasking.
- Battery life could be improved.
- READY FOR ANYWHERE – With its thin and light design, 6.5 mm micro-edge bezel display, and 79% screen-to-body ratio, you’ll take this PC anywhere while you see and do more of what you love (1)
- MORE SCREEN, MORE FUN – With virtually no bezel encircling the screen, you’ll enjoy every bit of detail on this 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (2)
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Tackle your busiest days with the dual-core, Intel Celeron N4020—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (3)
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (4) (5)
- STORAGE AND MEMORY – An embedded multimedia card provides reliable flash-based, 64 GB of storage while 4 GB of RAM expands your bandwidth and boosts your performance (6)
9. Samsung Galaxy Book Go
Best for: Long battery life
The Samsung Galaxy Book Go stands out thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon chip which provides excellent battery life. Featuring 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, it’s perfect for students who prioritize long use between charges.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life, lasting up to 18 hours.
- Lightweight and ultra-portable.
- Stunning AMOLED display.
Cons:
- Limited processing power for heavy applications.
- Occasional app compatibility issues with Windows.
- Aspect Ratio:16:9
- POWERFUL, YET QUIET: Keep your cool with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 compute platform that delivers responsive, instant-on performance that runs without a fan — for a lightweight device that’s fast and quiet
- POWER FOR HOURS: Email, hold virtual meetings, stream videos, check social media and more; Samsung Galaxy Book Go helps you stay connected and cordless with up to 18 hours on a fully charged battery*
- SLEEK, SLIM, SHOCKPROOF: Durably designed and shockproof with a convenient 180-degree hinge, this compact and light laptop computer spells sophistication in Silver
- PAIR YOUR GALAXY DEVICES: Easily jump from work to personal life with your paired Galaxy devices; Set it up as a second screen with your phone and tablet, share documents with Quick Share, play mobile games on a larger display, and connect your Galaxy Buds Pro earbuds
10. MSI Modern 14
Best for: Creative students
The MSI Modern 14 is a laptop that appeals to creative students. Featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, this laptop offers a perfect balance of performance and graphics capability, ideal for design tasks and media editing.
Pros:
- Great performance for creative applications.
- Stylish and lightweight design.
- Decent battery life.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other options on this list.
- Limited upgrade options.
With these options, students can find the best and affordable laptops that fit their budget without sacrificing quality. Each laptop offers unique features catering to different needs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Buying Guide: Best and Affordable Laptops for Students
Choosing the right laptop as a student is crucial for managing your studies effectively without overspending. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find a balance between performance, portability, and price.
1. Determine Your Needs
Academic Requirements:
- Type of Courses: Consider what software and tools you’ll be using (e.g., design software, programming tools, basic word processing).
- Research Requirements: Will you need to access processing-heavy applications or just basic web browsing and document editing?
Use Cases:
- General Tasks: Note-taking, web browsing, streaming.
- Creative Work: Graphic design, video editing, programming.
- Gaming: If you also plan to game, look for a laptop with a dedicated GPU.
2. Key Specifications to Consider
Processor (CPU):
- Intel Core i3/i5 or AMD Ryzen 3/5: Sufficient for most student tasks.
- Performance: Look for at least a quad-core processor for better multitasking.
Memory (RAM):
- Minimum 8GB: This is the standard for smooth operation.
- Upgrade Options: Check if the RAM is upgradeable, especially if you plan on keeping the laptop for a while.
Storage:
- SSD vs. HDD:
- SSD (Solid State Drives): Faster, more reliable, and recommended for performance.
- HDD (Hard Disk Drives): More storage for your money, but slower.
- Recommended Storage: At least 256GB SSD or 1TB HDD for general use.
Display:
- Screen Size: 13-15 inches is a sweet spot for portability and usability.
- Resolution: Aim for at least Full HD (1920×1080) for clear visuals.
Battery Life:
- Minimum 6-8 Hours: Essential for long days on campus.
- Consider charging options: Rapid charging can be a bonus.
Weight:
- Lightweight & Portable: Aim for a laptop under 4 pounds for easy carrying.
3. Operating System
Windows:
- Great compatibility with most software; good for gaming and general use.
macOS:
- Preferred for creative work; however, generally more expensive.
Chrome OS:
- Affordable and great for web-based tasks; best for light usage, primarily web browsing and document work.
4. Budget Tips
Set a Budget:
- Determine a clear price range (ideally between $300 to $800).
Look for Discounts:
- Check for student discounts, refurbished models, or sales events like back-to-school and Black Friday.
Financing Options:
- Some retailers offer installment plans or financing options to help spread the cost.
5. Where to Buy
Online Retailers:
- Amazon, Best Buy, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Apple offer a range of student-friendly options.
Physical Stores:
- Local electronics retailers may have sales and provide hands-on experience before buying.
University Resources:
- Check if your university has partnerships with manufacturers for educational discounts.
6. Recommended Affordable Laptops for Students
1. Acer Aspire 5
- Specs: Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD.
- Pros: Great performance, good battery life, solid build quality.
- Price: Around $550.
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
- Specs: Intel Core i3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD.
- Pros: Excellent keyboard, decent performance for the price.
- Price: Approximately $400.
3. HP Pavilion x360
- Specs: Intel Pentium, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD.
- Pros: 2-in-1 versatility, touch display.
- Price: About $500.
4. ASUS VivoBook 15
- Specs: Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD.
- Pros: Sleek design, good performance, lightweight.
- Price: Around $600.
5. Chromebook (Google Pixelbook Go)
- Specs: Intel Core m3, 8GB RAM, 64GB SSD.
- Pros: Long battery life, lightweight, runs Chrome OS efficiently.
- Price: About $600.
7. Final Tips
- Read Reviews: Look for user reviews and expert opinions to gauge performance and reliability.
- Warranty & Support: Ensure that the warranty period is reasonable, and consider customer support reputation.
- Future Proofing: If your studies require high-performance software, aim for higher specs to avoid needing an upgrade soon.
By following this guide, you should be well on your way to finding an affordable laptop that meets your academic needs and fits your budget!
