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10 Best Cheapest Laptops for Students in 2025: Quality Meets Affordability
Finding affordable yet powerful laptops for students can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s crucial to focus on features that enhance productivity while staying within a budget. In 2025, the best cheapest laptops for students combine performance, design, and functionality that can cater to various academic needs, from taking notes to completing assignments and conducting research.
Here’s a curated list of the top 10 cheapest laptops for students available on Amazon, complete with in-depth reviews highlighting their features, strengths, and weaknesses.
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R6Z2
−$38.00
- 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
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R6Z2 is a powerhouse among budget laptops, perfect for students who need a reliable device without breaking the bank. It boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD display, Ryzen 5 processor, and 8GB of RAM, making it ideal for multitasking.
Features:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor
- 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB NVMe SSD
- Full HD (1920 x 1080) display
- Backlit keyboard and ample ports
Pros:
- Great performance for the price
- Good battery life (up to 8 hours)
- Thin and lightweight design
Cons:
- Limited onboard storage
- Integrated graphics may not handle high-end gaming
2. HP 14 Laptop
−$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)
The HP 14 Laptop stands out with its sleek design and decent performance capabilities, making it a top pick for students who prioritize portability. This model features a 14-inch HD display, an Intel Core i3 processor, and 8GB of RAM.
Features:
- Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor
- 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- 14-inch HD display
- Long battery life up to 10 hours
Pros:
- Compact design for easy transport
- Good value for money
- Sufficient for general use and light gaming
Cons:
- Limited graphics performance
- The sound quality could be better
3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
−$22.00
- 【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
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is designed for budget-conscious students who require both performance and style. With its powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor and sleek body, it’s one of the best cheapest laptops for students.
Features:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor
- 8GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD
- 15.6-inch Full HD display
- Privacy shutter on the webcam
Pros:
- Great performance for multitasking
- Sufficient storage for documents and media
- Good build quality
Cons:
- Battery life could be improved
- Slightly heavier than competitors
4. ASUS VivoBook 15
- 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
With its modern design, the ASUS VivoBook 15 offers students not just aesthetic appeal, but also efficient performance. This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and features a 15.6-inch display.
Features:
- Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor
- 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD
- Full HD display with narrow bezels
- Fingerprint sensor for easy login
Pros:
- Stylish and lightweight construction
- Good battery life
- Fast performance for everyday tasks
Cons:
- Smaller storage capacity may deter some
- Integrated graphics not ideal for gaming
5. Dell Inspiron 14 3000
- 【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.
The Dell Inspiron 14 3000 series combines reliability with affordability. It’s equipped with a 14-inch HD display and features an Intel Core i3 processor, making it an excellent choice for college students.
Features:
- Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor
- 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD
- 14-inch HD display
- Durable design with a good keyboard
Pros:
- Excellent customer support
- Affordable pricing
- Sufficient performance for schoolwork
Cons:
- Limited battery life
- Smaller storage capacity
6. Microsoft Surface Go 3
- 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.
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 takes versatility to another level, with its 2-in-1 design. This laptop/tablet hybrid is perfect for students who want flexibility in their studying methods.
Features:
- Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor
- 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC storage
- 10.5-inch PixelSense display
- Lightweight and portable
Pros:
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Great for note-taking and reading
- Excellent touch response
Cons:
- Limited performance for heavier tasks
- Smaller screen may not suit everyone
7. Toshiba Dynabook Satellite
- Safety: UL Listed. This item is up to UL's nationally recognized standards for high-level electronic safety
- Fit for Toshiba Dynabook E Series E10 E10-S1 E10-S2, fit for Satellite Pro C40 C50 C40-G C40-H C40-J C40-K C50-E C50-H C50-J C50-K Laptop (Not fit for Dynabook X Series & Tecra C40 C50) Do not buy if your laptop requires more than 2.1A.
- After-sales services: This product is eligible for replacement or returns within 30 days, and the manufacturer provides an additional 12 Months Guarantee
- Output: 19V 2.1A Input:100-240V
- Package Includes: 1 X Power Adapter
The Toshiba Dynabook Satellite is a budget-friendly option, combining performance and reliability perfectly suited for students.
Features:
- Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor
- 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD
- 15.6-inch full HD display
- Weighs just 4.1 pounds
Pros:
- Good processing power for multitasking
- Attractive design
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Limited storage space
8. Samsung Chromebook 4
- Get more done with this Samsung Chromebook and its Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz processor, 11.6" display, 4GB Ram and 32GB storage.
- Access a rich library of apps, games, music, movies, TV, books, magazines, and more using the preinstalled Google Play store.
- This Samsung Chromebook's Chrome OS allows this unit to power up in seconds allowing you to get to work faster than ever.
The Samsung Chromebook 4 appeals to students seeking a no-frills, budget laptop primarily for browsing and productivity software.
Features:
- Intel Celeron processor
- 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC storage
- 11.6-inch HD display
- Lightweight and portable
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Long battery life (up to 12 hours)
- Simple to use for everyday tasks
Cons:
- Limited hardware performance
- Not suitable for heavy applications
9. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
−$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
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is a 2-in-1 convertible laptop designed for flexibility and performance. Its touchscreen capability makes it an excellent tool for students.
Features:
- Intel Core i3 processor
- 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC storage
- 13.3-inch FHD touchscreen display
- 360-degree hinge
Pros:
- Versatile usage as a laptop and tablet
- Good display quality
- Great performance for the price
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- May not handle gaming well
10. HP Stream 14
−$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.
The HP Stream 14 provides students with an affordable option packed with essential features for education. With its lightweight design and solid performance, it is worth considering.
Features:
- Intel Celeron N4000 processor
- 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC storage
- 14-inch HD display
- Comes with a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Good for basic tasks
Cons:
- Limited performance
- Inadequate storage for multimedia files
These best cheapest laptops for students in 2025 offer varying features to meet different academic needs. It’s always advisable to analyze which features matter most for your specific use case, from lightweight designs for portability to robust performance for multitasking. Depending on your major or course load, one of these laptops is sure to suit your academic lifestyle perfectly.
Buying Guide: Cheapest Laptops for Students
Navigating the world of student laptops can be overwhelming, especially when trying to balance budget constraints with performance needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the best budget-friendly laptops for students.
1. Determine Your Needs
a. Usage:
- Basic Tasks: If you only need it for web browsing, word processing, and email, look for an inexpensive model.
- Multimedia: If you plan to stream videos, use photo editing software, or play light games, opt for a laptop with a better processor and graphics.
- Software Requirements: Make sure the laptop meets the system requirements for any specific software you’ll need, such as programming or design tools.
b. Portability:
- Weight: Consider how often you’ll be carrying it around. A lightweight model is easier on the go.
- Battery Life: Look for at least 6-8 hours of battery life to last through classes and study sessions.
2. Key Specifications to Consider
a. Processor (CPU):
- Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3: Good for general use.
- Intel Pentium or Celeron: Ideal for basic tasks.
- Avoid outdated processors as they may struggle with modern applications.
b. RAM:
- 8 GB: Recommended for multitasking.
- 4 GB: Minimum for basic tasks; may not be sufficient for future needs.
c. Storage:
- HDD: Cheaper, but slower. Look for at least 500 GB if choosing HDD.
- SSD: Faster and more reliable. A 256 GB SSD is suitable for most students.
- Cloud Storage: Consider what you might save online to reduce the need for large storage.
d. Display:
- Size: A 13-15 inch screen is generally portable, while a 15-17 inch is better for media consumption.
- Resolution: Aim for at least 1920 x 1080 for better clarity.
3. Operating System
a. Windows: Common and supports most software.
b. Chrome OS: Great for students focused on web-based tasks. Lighter on resources and often cheaper.
c. MacOS: Generally more expensive; consider if you need specific Apple software.
4. Price Range
a. Budget: Set a budget, ideally between $300-$600 for a good mid-range student laptop.
b. Deals and Discounts: Look out for student discounts, holiday sales, or refurbished options from reputable sellers.
5. Brands to Consider
- HP: Reliable with a good variety of budget options.
- Acer: Offers solid performance at lower price points.
- Lenovo: Known for its durable laptops, particularly the IdeaPad series.
- Asus: Has a range of affordable and well-built models.
- Dell: Offers good budget options with decent support.
6. Where to Buy
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, and manufacturer websites often have exclusive deals.
- Local Electronics Stores: Sometimes offer clearance or open-box discounts.
- Refurbished Models: Consider certified refurbished laptops from manufacturers or authorized sellers for significant savings.
7. Additional Features to Look For
- Connectivity: Check for at least 2 USB ports, HDMI output, and Wi-Fi 5 or higher.
- Keyboard and Trackpad: Test for comfort and responsiveness, especially if you’ll type extensively.
- Webcam and Microphone: Essential for online classes and meetings.
8. Final Tips
- Research Reviews: Read customer reviews and professional opinions on performance and reliability.
- Future-proofing: Aim for slightly higher specs if your budget allows to keep the laptop relevant for more years.
- Warranty: Check warranty options and customer support reputation to protect your investment.
By carefully considering your specific needs and following this guide, you can find an economical laptop that will help you succeed in your studies without breaking the bank. Happy shopping!
