Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
10 Best Cheapest Laptops for Students in 2025: Affordable & Reliable Choices
In 2025, students need reliable laptops to help them with their academic journey, but budget constraints often limit their choices. The best cheapest laptops for students combine affordability with the essential features needed for studying, assignments, and leisure activities. With a plethora of options available on Amazon, it can be overwhelming to find the right one. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 cheapest laptops for students that not only fit your budget but also come with the features that make them suitable for academic use.
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R14K
Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R14K
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R14K is an excellent choice for students seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. This laptop features an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, which is perfect for multitasking and running various applications smoothly. The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides a bright and clear viewing experience, essential for studying and streaming lectures. With 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, students can store their files and applications without any lag.
**Best For:** General academic tasks, video streaming, and light gaming.
**Product Review:** The Acer Aspire 5 offers a perfect blend of performance and affordability. The sleek design and lightweight build make it easy to carry around campus. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge, making it perfect for long days of classes. Additionally, its backlit keyboard is a thoughtful addition for late-night study sessions, offering comfort and visibility.
**Pros:**
– Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor
– Long battery life
– Sleek design and lightweight
– Full HD display
**Cons:**
– Limited storage capacity
– No option for a dedicated graphics card
- 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.
2. ASUS VivoBook 15 F515
ASUS VivoBook 15 F515
The ASUS VivoBook 15 F515 packs a punch in terms of performance and affordability. Featuring an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and 8GB of RAM, this laptop is suitable for students who need to handle casual tasks like browsing, word processing, and video streaming. The 15.6-inch Full HD display ensures vibrant visuals, and with a 128GB SSD, it offers fast boot-up times and application loading.
**Best For:** Casual use, browsing, and educational videos.
**Product Review:** The VivoBook 15’s lightweight design makes it a convenient option for students who need to lug around their laptops. The ergonomic keyboard enhances typing comfort, ideal for long hours of study. Although the storage capacity may seem less, the SSD speed compensates for it, making it a solid choice for students who prioritize performance and cost over storage.
**Pros:**
– Budget-friendly pricing
– Lightweight design
– Ergonomic and comfortable keyboard
– Quick boot-up with SSD
**Cons:**
– Limited storage
– Integrated graphics may limit gaming performance
- Powerful performance: ASUS Vivobook 15 laptop comes with 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4, 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage, this laptop will help you get things done swiftly and efficiently
- Immersive visuals: experience incredible visuals with the 15.6 inch Full HD NanoEdge vIPS display featuring a stunning 83% screen-to-body ratio and an anti-glare coating to reduce unwanted distractions
- Durable design: the laptop is carefully constructed to protect internal components, strengthen the hinge joint and provide a stable platform when using the laptop
- Comfortable experience: the laptop comes with full-size backlit keyboard is perfect for working in dim environments and is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable typing experience
- Extremely portable: the laptop is only 3.97lbs and 0.7 inches thin, this ASUS laptop will keep up with your fast-paced lifestyle.
3. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is the perfect 2-in-1 device for students who are always on the go. Powered by an Intel Core i3-10110U processor and 4GB of RAM, this Chromebook can handle multiple tabs and apps with ease. The 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen allows for a versatile viewing experience, whether you’re taking notes in class or watching videos during your downtime. The Chromebook runs on Chrome OS, making it suitable for web-based applications.
**Best For:** Note-taking, web-based tasks, and multimedia consumption.
**Product Review:** The Flex 5’s 2-in-1 functionality makes it incredibly versatile, allowing students to switch between laptop and tablet modes effortlessly. The battery life extends up to 10 hours, meaning you can work throughout the day without searching for an outlet. However, the limited storage of 64GB may require students to rely on cloud-based solutions.
**Pros:**
– Versatile 2-in-1 design
– Excellent battery life
– Lightweight and portable
– Touchscreen display
**Cons:**
– Limited internal storage
– May struggle with high-performance tasks
−$74.99
- 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
4. HP Laptop 14
HP Laptop 14
The HP Laptop 14 is a well-rounded option for students on a budget. Equipped with an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 8GB of RAM, it is designed for online classes and everyday computing tasks. Its 14-inch HD display is adequate for browsing and streaming, while the 128GB SSD provides sufficient space for essential applications and documents.
**Best For:** Basic computing tasks, streaming, and online classes.
**Product Review:** One of the standout features of the HP Laptop 14 is its portability. At just 3.24 pounds, it’s easy to carry, making it a great companion for students who attend classes daily. The battery life typically lasts around 8 hours, giving students ample time for school-related activities. However, the performance might lag during heavy multitasking.
**Pros:**
– Affordable pricing
– Lightweight and portable
– Sufficient battery life
– Spacious touchpad
**Cons:**
– Limited processor capability
– Basic display quality
−$65.99
- 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)
5. Dell Inspiron 15 3000
Dell Inspiron 15 3000
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 series is designed with students in mind. Featuring an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, it’s an excellent pick for those handling larger projects. The spacious 15.6-inch screen offers ample space for reading and editing documents. Additionally, its 128GB SSD ensure speedy access to files and programs.
**Best For:** School projects, presentations, and general use.
**Product Review:** The Inspiron 15’s build quality stands out, providing students with a durable machine that can handle day-to-day wear and tear. The battery life also lasts around 7 hours, which is suitable for a full day of classes. Although it isn’t the lightest laptop, it compensates with its robust keyboard and touchpad, which enhance user experience.
**Pros:**
– Solid build quality
– Good performance for multitasking
– Spacious display
– Comfortable keyboard
**Cons:**
– Bulky compared to other options
– Average battery life
- 【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 Go 3
Microsoft Surface Go 3
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 combines portability with adequate performance, making it a favorable choice for students. With an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor and 4GB of RAM, it’s suitable for web browsing, simple applications, and note-taking. The 10.5-inch touchscreen is bright and responsive, offering a comfortable user experience whether in tablet or laptop mode.
**Best For:** On-the-go note-taking and light computing tasks.
**Product Review:** Weighing just over 1.2 pounds, the Surface Go 3 is incredibly portable. Its battery lasts around 10 hours, allowing students to carry it around without needing frequent charges. The limited performance space may hinder more demanding applications but works well for its intended use. The Surface Pen and keyboard cover are sold separately, which can add to the overall cost.
**Pros:**
– Extremely portable and lightweight
– Versatile design
– Long battery life
– Crisp touchscreen display
**Cons:**
– Limited processing power
– Accessories sold separately
- The perfect everyday laptop – Ultra-portable at under 2.5 pounds with a vibrant 12.4” touchscreen for work or play, wherever you are.
- Colors you crave – Available in Platinum, Sage, Sandstone, and Ice Blue, all in a durable, cool metal finish [3].
- Get your work done effortlessly – Stream all the latest releases, and run your favorite day-to-day apps, now with faster performance and up to 16GB RAM and 256GB storage [4].
- Up to 15 hours [1] of battery life – Power through a full day of work, play, shopping, or streaming. Plus, recharge quickly with Fast Charging.
- Fingerprint Power Button – One Touch sign-in provides fast, secure login, cloud access to OneDrive Personal Vault [7] files, and more.
7. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15 is a budget-friendly laptop that doesn’t skimp on features. With an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor and 8GB of RAM, it provides smooth performance for multitasking and handling more intensive applications. The 15.6-inch Full HD display is a major highlight, offering clear visuals for watching lectures and presentations.
**Best For:** Academic use, online classes, and media consumption.
**Product Review:** The dual speakers and Dolby Audio enhance the multimedia experience, making it suitable for entertainment during downtime. This laptop has solid build quality, and its battery lasts around 7.5 hours, fitting well within a student’s daily routine. However, while the laptop is well-rounded, the integrated graphics make it less suitable for gaming.
**Pros:**
– Good performance for the price
– Full HD display
– Solid sound quality
– Comfortable keyboard
**Cons:**
– Average battery life
– Limited gaming capabilities
−$240.00
- Work smart and seamlessly every day across multiple applications simultaneously while on the go with the robust performance of the latest AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS (6C / 12T, 3.3 / 4.55GHz, 3MB L2 / 16MB L3) processor, combines portability and durability, letting you work, study, and play on the go. capable of a variety of work computing needs, whether it is high-definition video editing, programming development or interior design, always can help you.
- 15.3" WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC, 60Hz Non-touch display is backed by integrated AMD Radeon 660M Graphics for a clean and smooth picture. 720p HD Camera with Privacy Shutter and integrated digital microphone, whether you look at tables or read documents, or preview videos, you can get high-definition picture quality.
- 16GB DDR5 SDRAM Memory; 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD.
- Wi-Fi 6, 11ax 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.3; 2x USB-A (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1), 1x USB-C (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1), with USB PD 3.0 and DisplayPort 1.2, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x SD card reader, 1x Power connector. Microsoft Copilot gives you intelligent answers. Access with just thetouch of the Copilot key.
- Windows 11 Home, English (64-bit); Luna Grey. Non-backlit, Full-size, keyboard with numeric keypad ensures that typing is supremely comfortable. Make a statement wherever you go with the IdeaPad Slim 3 15 laptop, built for lightness and thinness, measuring up to 10% slimmer than the previous generation, this sturdy build stands up to harsh drops with military-grade durability for extreme travel conditions.
8. HP Stream 14
HP Stream 14
The HP Stream 14 is an ultra-budget laptop designed for online learners and students who only need basic functionalities. It is powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 processor and comes with 4GB of RAM. The 14-inch HD display offers enough clarity for reading and browsing. Moreover, the laptop includes 64GB of eMMC storage, which is complemented by a one-year subscription to Office 365.
**Best For:** Online learning, browsing, and light productivity tasks.
**Product Review:** This laptop is lightweight and offers a battery life of around 12 hours, making it exceptional for a day at school. The compact size is convenient for portability, and the inclusion of Office 365 is a great incentive for students. However, the storage capacity may require reliance on external drives or cloud storage for files.
**Pros:**
– Inexpensive price point
– Very portable
– Excellent battery life
– One-year Office 365 subscription included
**Cons:**
– Limited processing power
– Small internal storage
−$90.00
- 【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】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.
9. Asus Chromebook C223
Asus Chromebook C223
The Asus Chromebook C223 offers a lightweight yet capable laptop for students looking for a budget option that emphasizes portability. Powered by an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4GB of RAM, it’s designed for basic tasks such as writing, email, and browsing. The 11.6-inch HD display provides adequate visuals for standard classroom tasks.
**Best For:** Basic classroom tasks, note-taking, and research.
**Product Review:** The C223’s compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal laptop for students who want something they can easily carry in a backpack. Its durable construction can withstand daily use. The battery life lasts approximately 12 hours, ensuring students can get through full days without needing to recharge. However, the small screen may not cater to everyone’s viewing preferences.
**Pros:**
– Very lightweight and portable
– Impressive battery life
– Durable build quality
– Budget-friendly
**Cons:**
– Limited display size
– Average performance for multitasking
- system_ram_type: ddr4_sdram
- [11.6/'' HD Display] 1366x768 resolution boasts impressive color & clarity. Anti-glare Energy-efficient LED screen.
- [Intel Celeron N3350 Processor] Ultra-low-voltage platform. Dual-core, two-way processing provides maximum high-efficiency power to go. Stereo Speakers & 720p HD camera with Built-in microphone.
- [4GB DDR4 RAM] Plenty of high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run your games as well as multiple programs. [32GB eMMC flash memory] provides enhanced storage capabilities, streamlined data management, quick boot-up times & support for high-definition video playback.
- [Standard Keyboard] Allows you to enjoy comfortable & accurate typing. [Intel HD Graphics 500] with shared video memory provide solid image
10. Dell Latitude 3420
Dell Latitude 3420
The Dell Latitude 3420 is targeted at students requiring a reliable laptop for business-related tasks. It features an Intel Core i3 processor with 8GB of RAM, facilitating productivity and casual multimedia use. The 14-inch HD display is suitable for most academic activities, and the 256GB SSD ensures ample storage.
**Best For:** Business students, presentations, and general academic activities.
**Product Review:** This laptop boasts a professional look and durable design, ideal for students attending business-related programs. Battery life runs up to 8 hours, which is decent for academic use but can require more frequent charging during intensive tasks. The Latitude 3420 delivers balanced performance for multitasking, making it a sound investment for students.
**Pros:**
– Professional appearance
– Suitable for multitasking
– Durable build
– Enhanced storage capability
**Cons:**
– Requires more frequent charging for intensive tasks
– Design may not appeal to all students
- 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. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com.
These selections represent some of the best cheapest laptops for students available on Amazon in 2025. Each option serves a unique purpose, ensuring that students from different fields and preferences can find a suitable laptop for their needs.
Buying Guide: Cheapest Laptops for Students
When it comes to buying a laptop for school, students often have budget constraints. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best budget-friendly laptop.
1. Set Your Budget
- Determine how much you can afford. Cheap laptops typically range from $200 to $600.
- Keep in mind that while cheaper options save money, they may lack in performance and durability.
2. Identify Your Needs
- Academic Requirements: What software will you need? Arts students may need graphics software, while science students may need specific applications.
- Usage: Will you use it for browsing, note-taking, or heavy multitasking? Define your priorities to make an informed choice.
3. Specifications to Consider
- Processor (CPU): Opt for at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 for decent performance. For basic tasks, an Intel Pentium or Celeron can suffice.
- RAM: Aim for a minimum of 8GB. This will allow for smooth multitasking with applications and browser tabs.
- Storage: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). Look for at least a 256GB SSD if you can find it in your budget.
- Display: A 14 to 15.6-inch screen is ideal for portability and usability. Consider resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) is preferable over HD (1366×768) when within budget.
4. Battery Life
- Students often need a laptop that can last through lectures and study sessions without needing a recharge. Aim for a battery life of 6 hours or more.
5. Operating System
- Windows: Offers the most software compatibility, perfect for students using specialized programs.
- Chrome OS: Chromebooks are usually cheaper and great for browsing, but are limited in software compatibility. Perfect for basic tasks like writing and research.
- macOS: Generally more expensive. Consider only if you specifically need Mac-exclusive software.
6. Durability and Portability
- Lightweight laptops are easier to carry. Look for models with a robust build quality since they will likely endure some wear and tear.
7. Extra Features
- Keyboard: Comfortable and responsive keys for typing assignments.
- Ports: Ensure it has enough USB ports and possibly HDMI for connecting to external displays.
- Webcam and Microphone: Important for online classes and meetings.
8. Check for Discounts and Offers
- Look for student discounts or back-to-school sales. Brands often offer special deals for students.
9. Read Reviews
- Check online reviews for specific models. User experiences can shed light on reliability, battery life, and performance.
10. Consider Refurbished Options
- Refurbished laptops from reputable manufacturers can provide significant savings while still offering good specifications.
11. Warranty and Customer Support
- Choose brands with a good warranty and customer support. This is critical for students who may need quick assistance.
Popular Budget Laptop Options (As of 2023)
- Chromebooks: Acer Chromebook Spin series, Lenovo Chromebook Duet
- Windows Laptops: HP Stream, Asus VivoBook series, Lenovo IdeaPad series
- Refurbished Options: Look for deals on Dell Latitude or HP ProBook models
Conclusion
Finding a budget-friendly laptop doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your needs and navigating through essential specifications, you can make a smart and economical choice. Happy shopping!
