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10 Best Affordable Laptops & Computers for 2026 Under $100
The search for the best affordable laptops computers has become increasingly vital for students, professionals, and casual users alike. In 2026, various options offer excellent performance without breaking the bank. With many choices available on Amazon, this article will cover the top 10 affordable laptops that combine quality, performance, and value for money.
Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R14K
Review
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R14K is a popular choice among users seeking a reliably efficient laptop. Featuring an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, this laptop provides a satisfactory balance between performance and battery life, making it especially suitable for students and remote workers. Its 15.6-inch Full HD display offers vibrant colors, ensuring an enjoyable viewing experience, whether you’re binge-watching shows or working on projects.
Additionally, with 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB SSD, multitasking becomes effortless. This laptop also includes an ergonomic keyboard and Bang & Olufsen audio, enhancing the overall user experience.
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Excellent display quality
- Good battery life
- Fast SSD storage
Cons:
- The webcam quality could be better
- Powerful Productivity: AMD Ryzen 3 3350U delivers desktop-class performance and amazing battery life in a slim notebook. With Precision Boost, get up to 3.5GHz for your high-demand applications
- Maximized Visuals: See even more on the stunning 15.6" Full HD display with 82.58% screen-to-body, 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels
- Backlit Keyboard and Fingerprint Reader: Biometric fingerprint reader and Windows Hello sign-in options help keep your Acer PC secure
- Internal Specifications: 4GB DDR4 on-board memory (1 slot available); 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage (1 hard drive bay available) to store your files and media
- Acer's Purified.Voice technology, features enhanced digital signal processing to cancel out background noise, improve speech accuracy and far-field pickup, which not only makes calls clearer, but makes talking to Alexa easier than before.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3
Review
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is an affordable laptop that doesn’t skimp on features. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor and equipped with 8 GB of RAM, it handles day-to-day tasks with ease. The 14-inch Full HD display makes it a compact and portable option, perfect for students or professionals on the go. Its storage capacity of 512 GB SSD allows for ample space to store documents, presentations, and multimedia files.
Furthermore, the IdeaPad 3 provides a comfortable keyboard experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. The device also features a privacy shutter for the webcam, addressing modern concerns about online security.
Pros:
- Compact design for portability
- Excellent performance for its price
- Privacy options for the webcam
Cons:
- Average battery life
- 【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
HP Pavilion x360
Review
If you’re looking for versatility, the HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 laptop may be the perfect fit. This device offers the flexibility of a touchscreen and a 360-degree hinge, enabling it to function as both a laptop and a tablet. With an Intel Core i5 processor and 8 GB of RAM, it performs well for most applications and casual gaming. The 14-inch Full HD display is responsive and vivid, making it great for watching movies or browsing the web.
Its 256 GB SSD provides quick access to stored files and programs, simplifying multitasking. With HP’s fast charge technology, you can recharge the battery to 50% in just over 45 minutes, ensuring you’re back to work in no time.
Pros:
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Good performance for various tasks
- Fast charging capabilities
Cons:
- Limited storage space
- This 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, and may arrive in a generic box
ASUS VivoBook 15
Review
The ASUS VivoBook 15 is an exemplary model of affordability meeting performance. Featuring an Intel Core i3 processor and 8 GB of RAM, it is perfectly capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, document editing, and streaming multimedia content. The laptop comes with a 15.6-inch Full HD display that ensures crisp visuals, making your tasks more enjoyable.
One key feature is the NanoEdge design that maximizes screen real estate, offering an immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the VivoBook 15 has a fingerprint sensor for added security, making it a great choice for those concerned about privacy.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Good value for performance
- Fingerprint sensor for security
Cons:
- Speakers could be improved
- 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
Dell Inspiron 15 3000
Review
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable laptop at a reasonable price. This model comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a 256 GB SSD. The 15.6-inch display, while standard, is bright and works well for both work and leisure activities. The keyboard is comfortable for typing, and the touchpad is highly responsive.
Dell’s customer service has always been a strong point, so users can feel secure knowing they have support available if needed. This laptop is a well-rounded option that caters to a broad range of computing needs.
Pros:
- Good customer support
- Decent battery life
- Comfortable keyboard
Cons:
- A bit heavier than competitors
- 【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.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Review
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is an excellent option for those seeking a portable laptop without sacrificing performance. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easily portable, perfect for students and travelers. Powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB SSD, the Laptop Go is capable of handling everyday tasks efficiently.
The 12.4-inch touchscreen display is vibrant and responsive, offering a tactile experience for both work and entertainment. Battery life is impressive, making it ideal for users who require a laptop for on-the-go usage.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Excellent display quality
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Limited storage options
- 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.
HP Stream 14
Review
The HP Stream 14 is one of the best value laptops designed primarily for web-based use, making it ideal for students and light users. It features an Intel Celeron processor, 4 GB of RAM, and a 64 GB eMMC storage. While not the most powerful option, it excels in basic tasks like web browsing, document creation, and streaming.
The 14-inch HD display is adequate for everyday computing tasks, and the ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. It also comes with a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365, a nice perk for productivity-focused users.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight design
- Comes with Office 365 subscription
Cons:
- Limited processing power
- 【Upgraded】Seal is opened for upgrade only, 1-Year warranty on Upgraded RAM/SSD and original 1-Year Manufacture warranty on remaining components. 【14" HD BrightView Display】14-inch diagonal 1366 x 768 (HD) bright view display. The captivating clarity and brilliance will surely enhance your work and entertainment endeavors.
- 【Intel Celeron N150】Immerse yourself in a world of power and efficiency, where an ultra-low-voltage platform optimizes energy usage. Experience seamless multitasking and smooth performance with the 4-core, 4-way processor.
- 【16GB DDR4 RAM】Seamlessly tackle resource-intensive tasks, smoothly run multiple applications simultaneously, and enjoy lightning-fast responsiveness that keeps you in the flow.【288GB Storage (128GB eMMC + 160GB Docking Station Set)】Massive storage space for your files, applications, and multimedia content, providing fast and reliable data access.
- 【Intel UHD Graphics】Enjoy solid image quality that brings your everyday content to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.【720p HD Camera】Provides high quality video calls, virtual meetings and online interactions.
- 【Windows 11 Home in S Mode】【Dimensions & Weight】Item dimension: 12.76 x 8.86 x 0.71 inches, 3.24 lbs.【Ports】1 x USB-C 3.0, 2 x USB-A 3.0, 1 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x Media Card Reader, 1 x Headphone/ Microphone combo, 1 x AC Smart Pin. 【1 Year Office 365】【Bonus Docking Station Set】1x 7-in-1 Docking Station with 128GB Storage, 1x 32GB MicroSD Card with Adapter, 1x Type-C Data Cable, 1x 3-in-1 Charging Cable, 1x Suede Cleaning Cloth.
Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
Review
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is a fantastic convertible laptop that is budget-friendly and versatile. With its Intel Core i3 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB eMMC storage, it is perfectly suited for cloud-based tasks, web browsing, and streaming content. The 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen display provides a sharp and immersive experience.
What sets the Flex 5 apart is its 360-degree hinge, allowing it to convert effortlessly into tablet mode for flexible usage. Its overall build quality and design are commendable, making it an appealing choice for those in need of a functional, portable device.
Pros:
- Versatile touchscreen design
- Excellent for web-based tasks
- Solid build quality
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- 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
Lenovo ThinkPad E15
Review
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 offers a business-class experience at an affordable price. Powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a 256 GB SSD, it performs well for multitasking and demanding applications. The keyboard is one of the best in the industry, known for its tactile feedback and comfort during long typing sessions.
The ThinkPad E15’s 15.6-inch FHD display ensures vibrant visuals while maintaining good battery life. The security features, including a fingerprint reader and TPM chip, make it a great choice for professionals who prioritize data security.
Pros:
- Exceptional keyboard quality
- Robust build and security features
- Solid battery life
Cons:
- Heavier than other models
- AI-POWERED PERFORMANCE - The ThinkPad E16 Gen 2 laptop, powered by Intel Core Ultra processors, delivers AI-assisted productivity with dedicated AI engines, including a low-power neural processing unit for enhanced battery efficiency. Built to meet the US Department of Defense's MIL-STD 810H standards, it ensures a perfect balance of reliability and durability.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE - Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 125U (up to 4.3GHz) Processor with 12-cores for superior efficiency and speed, 16GB of DDR5 RAM for seamless multitasking, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD for fast storage and reduced load times, ensuring smooth and responsive performance for all your tasks
- CRISP DISPLAY & PRIVACY - Features a HD webcam with privacy shutter for crystal-clear video calls and enhanced security, while the 16" WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare Touchscreen display with Intel graphics delivers crisp visuals, supported by the ability to connect 3 external monitors via HDMI & Thunderbolt 4 Ports at 4K (3840x2160) @60Hz (without docking station)
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY - Features a backlit keyboard, fingerprint reader for enhanced security. Equipped with Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, Ethernet (RJ-45), HDMI 2.1 and an Audio combo jack for versatile connectivity. Includes Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for fast, reliable wireless performance
- OPERATING SYSTEM - Windows 11 Professional 64-bit, with AI-powered Copilot, offers intelligent assistance for a variety of tasks. Ideal for School Education, Designers, Professionals, Small Business, Programmers, Casual Gaming, Streaming, Online Class, Remote Learning, Zoom Meeting, Video Conference, etc
ASUS Chromebook Flip C434
Review
Last but not least, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 is an outstanding convertible laptop ideal for casual users and education environments. It features an Intel Core m3 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of eMMC storage. The 14-inch Full HD touchscreen is responsive and provides vivid colors, making it perfect for entertainment and productivity tasks.
Its 360-degree hinge allows for flexibility in use, whether in laptop or tablet mode. The Chromebook’s lightweight design and all-day battery life make it exceptionally portable, nudging it toward the top of any shortlist for affordable laptops.
Pros:
- Convertible touchscreen design
- Good battery life
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Limited processing power for heavy tasks
- 14 inch Touchscreen FHD 1920x1080 4-way NanoEdge display featuring ultra-narrow bezels (5mm thin) around each side of the display that allows for a 14 inch screen to fit in the body of a 13inch laptop footprint.
- The FHD display has a durable 360 degree hinge that can be used to flip the touchscreen display to tent, stand, and tablet mode.
- Powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor (up to 3.4 GHz) for super-fast and snappy performance. If you use a ton of tabs or run lots of apps, this has the power to get it all done with ease.
- 4GB DDR3 RAM; 64GB eMMC storage and 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1) and 1s Type-A (Gen 1) ports plus a super bright backlit keyboard.
- The lightweight (3lbs) all-aluminum metal body makes the C434 both durable and beautiful for a timeless look that will never go out of style.
Buying Guide: Best Affordable Laptops and Computers
When searching for the best affordable laptops and computers, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you receive good value for your money. This guide will help you navigate your options effectively.
1. Define Your Purpose
Before diving into specifications, identify how you plan to use the laptop or computer:
- Basic Tasks: Browsing, word processing, and streaming? Look for entry-level models.
- Content Creation: Graphic design or video editing? Aim for mid-range options with better graphics and processing power.
- Gaming: For gaming, focus on laptops with dedicated graphics cards.
2. Budget Range
Establish a budget. Affordable laptops typically range from $300 to $700:
- Under $300: Basic models suitable for light use.
- $300 – $500: Decent performance for most everyday tasks.
- $500 – $700: Better specifications for multitasking and moderate gaming.
3. Operating System
Consider the OS that best suits your needs:
- Windows: Most versatile for software compatibility.
- macOS: Great for design and creative work but generally pricier.
- Chrome OS: Affordable and excellent for web-based tasks.
4. Key Specifications
a. Processor (CPU)
- Intel Core i3 or Ryzen 3 for basic use.
- Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 for multitasking and light gaming.
b. Memory (RAM)
- 4GB: Minimal for basic tasks.
- 8GB: Ideal for multitasking.
- 16GB: Recommended for demanding applications (though may exceed budget).
c. Storage
- HDD: More affordable, but slower. Opt for a minimum of 500GB.
- SSD: Faster, improving overall performance. Aim for at least 256GB.
d. Display
- Size: 13” to 15” for portability, 17” for better viewing experience.
- Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) is preferred for clarity.
e. Battery Life
Look for a model with a battery life of at least 6-8 hours for daily use.
5. Build Quality and Design
Consider the weight and material:
- Plastic: More affordable but less durable.
- Metal: More robust but may increase cost.
- Lightweight options are better for portability.
6. Brand Reputation and Warranty
Research brands known for reliability:
- Top Affordable Brands: Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, HP, Dell.
- Ensure the model comes with a decent warranty (usually 1 year).
7. Additional Features
- Keyboard and Trackpad Quality: Test if possible, as comfort is key.
- Ports: USB-C, HDMI, and USB 3.0 for connectivity.
- Upgradability: Consider models with easy access to upgrade RAM or storage later.
8. Where to Buy
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy often have deals.
- Refurbished or Open-Box Options: Consider sites like eBay or manufacturer stores for discounted models.
9. Read Reviews and Comparisons
Before finalizing a purchase:
- Check user reviews and professional ratings.
- Compare similar models to weigh features against price.
Conclusion
Finding the best affordable laptop or computer requires balancing performance, price, and your specific needs. Use this guide to make an informed choice that fits your budget while meeting your everyday tasks. With careful research and understanding of your requirements, you can discover a reliable device that won’t break the bank.
