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/ By Vlad Tabaranu / Guides / 0 Comments

5 Best Budget Laptops of 2025: Affordable Picks That Don’t Skimp on Performance

If you want the best budget laptops of 2025 without sacrificing performance, you’ve got some great choices.

The ACEMAGIC 15.6 inch FHD features a powerful Intel processor, making it suitable for various tasks.

If portability is a priority, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 stands out with its rapid charging capabilities, so you won’t be stuck waiting for it to power up.

The ASUS Vivobook 15 is perfect for multitasking, thanks to its efficient Ryzen processor.

If you’re after long battery life, the HP 15.6 laptop is a reliable option that can keep you going throughout the day.

Lastly, the lightweight HP Stream 14 is ideal for users who are always on the move, providing convenience without compromising performance.

These budget laptops of 2025 really do cover all your needs!

Key Takeaways

When choosing budget laptops in 2025, focus on a few key features to get the best performance for your money. First, make sure you pick a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM. If you plan to multitask or run demanding applications, aim for 16GB. This will help your laptop run smoothly, even when you have several programs open at once.

Next, look for laptops that come with Solid State Drives (SSDs). These drives offer faster boot times and quicker access to your files. This means you’ll spend less time waiting for your laptop to start up or load your documents, which enhances your overall productivity.

A Full HD display (1920 x 1080 pixels) is also important. This resolution provides sharp, clear visuals, making it easier for you to enjoy streaming video or working on projects. If you do a lot of video conferencing or graphic design, a good display can make a big difference.

Battery life should be a top priority too. Choose a model that lasts over 11 hours on a single charge. This way, you can easily take your laptop to school or work without worrying about finding an outlet. A long-lasting battery is essential for all-day use.

Lastly, consider the weight of the laptop. Aim for something around 1.3 to 1.5 kg, which is light enough for easy portability. Also, check for ample connectivity options like USB 3.0 and HDMI ports, which will allow you to connect to various devices and accessories.

In summary, to find the best budget laptops of 2025, look for those with 8GB or more RAM, SSDs, Full HD displays, long battery life, and lightweight designs. Prioritising these features will ensure you get a reliable device that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

ACEMAGIC 15.6 inch FHD Laptop Computer

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ACEMAGIC 15.6 inch FHD Laptop Computer - 4 Core Intel® N150 Processor Up to 3.6GHz (Beat N100/N97/N5095) Laptops,16GB DDR4 512GB SSD Notebook,Support WiFi 5,BT5.0, 3*USB3.2, 5000mAh Battery,Metal Case
  • 【The Newest 12TH GEN N150 PROCESSOR】ACEMAGIC TX15 Laptop powered by latest 12th generation Twin Lake N150 processor (4C/4T, 6MB Cache, burst frequency 3.6GHz), this means that the N150 is able to automatically boost its frequency to deliver lightning-fast processing speeds when handling high-load tasks.The N150 is known for its excellent energy efficiency ratio. Compared to the N100, it is a 30% increase in performance, capable of delivering a high-performance experience while reducing energy consumption and improving battery life without the need for anxiety.
  • 【16GB RAM & 512GB ROM】The TX15 Laptop comes with 16GB of high-speed RAM, this laptop is able to handle the demands of multitasking with ease. Whether you're running multiple apps, browser tabs, or video editing at the same time, it stays smooth and unobstructed, boosting productivity. Storage comes with a 512GB SSD, which is huge enough to fulfill all your needs while delivering blazing fast data read and write speeds. This means faster system startup, app loading times, and shorter file transfer waits.
  • 【15.6-inch High-definition Screen】: ACEMAGIC TX15 Laptop adopts FHD 1920x1080P 15.6-inch display, the high-definition screen provides wide visual field and ensures detailed images and rich colors.TX15 notebook screen combines the appropriate screen ratio and anti-glare design, which reduces reflections and protects your eyes from fatigue, even in bright environments. The TX15 is not only suitable for daily office work and study, but also meets the high-quality visual needs of entertainment and gaming.
  • 【Rich Expansion Interface】 TX15 laptop has built-in 802.11ac WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0 for quick access to your network and devices so you can enjoy the online world. It is designed with 1 x Type C (data transfer), 3 x USB3.2 Gen1, 1 x HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm audio combo connector, 1 x SD card reader, 1 x DC and other interfaces, and supports Wi-Fi 5,BT5.0, to meet the diversified office needs.
  • 【Portability and long battery life】The TX15 notebook is made of lightweight materials and precision manufacturing process to keep the overall weight of the notebook within reasonable limits and the thickness is greatly reduced. You Portability and long battery life】 easily carry it in your backpack or handbag, whether it's for daily commuting, long-distance traveling or cafe work. Equipped with a 5000 mAh high-capacity, high-density battery, which, combined with the low power consumption of the N150 CPU, ensures that the notebook can support a long period of use on a single charge.

When you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop in 2025, the ACEMAGIC 15.6 inch FHD Laptop is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for both students and professionals. With a 12th Gen Intel® N150 processor, this laptop gives you a 30% boost in performance. This makes it great for multitasking and even video editing. You’ll appreciate the 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD, which ensure smooth operation and quick access to your files. The 15.6-inch FHD display provides vibrant visuals, making your work and entertainment more enjoyable. Plus, its lightweight design means you can easily take it anywhere.

This laptop is ideal for those who need a reliable device without breaking the bank. If you’re a student or a professional on the go, this model combines solid performance with portability.

One major advantage of the ACEMAGIC laptop is its excellent performance. The 12th Gen Intel® N150 processor not only offers a 30% performance boost but also handles multitasking and video editing with ease. You’ll find that high user ratings consistently praise its design and usability, with a customer rating of 4.4 out of 5. Additionally, its slim, lightweight design makes it easy to carry, whether you’re heading to class or a meeting.

However, it’s essential to consider a few downsides. The integrated graphics may not meet your needs if you’re into high-end gaming or use graphic-intensive applications. You’ll also notice the absence of a dedicated Ethernet port, which limits your wired internet options. Lastly, while it serves basic audio needs, the speakers might not satisfy those looking for high-quality sound.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Laptop

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Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 | 14 inch Full HD Laptop | Intel N100 | 4GB RAM | 128GB SSD | Windows 11 Home in S mode | Abyss Blue
  • Designed for those who are constantly on the go and impacting their lives, the IdeaPad Slim 3 is built for lightness and thinness – up to 10% slimmer than the last generation.
  • The 4-sided narrow bezels and Full HD IPS display with Buttonless Mylar surface multi-touch touchpad. Keep your eyes safe from strain with a TÜV-certified low blue light display and listen to immerse Dolby audio out of user-facing speakers.
  • Go farther and for longer with a larger battery and Rapid Charge Boost, with gives you two hours of use on a 15-minute charge.
  • Harness smart power and multitasking on the go with Intel Core N-series processors and 4GB RAM.
  • Enhance and accelerate your study and work experience with full-function Type-C ports for faster power delivery, display output, and data transfer, larger touchpad, and up-to-FHD camera with privacy shutter.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Laptop is a great budget option for students and professionals in 2025. It features a sleek 14-inch Full HD display and a powerful Intel N100 processor, making it perfect for your everyday tasks. You’ll love its lightweight design, weighing just 1.31 kg, which makes it easy to carry to classes or meetings. The rapid charging battery gives you up to 2 hours of use from just a quick 15-minute charge. With Dolby audio and a TÜV-certified low blue light display, your viewing and listening experience will be enhanced. Overall, it’s fantastic value for your money!

Best For: This laptop is ideal for students and professionals who need a reliable, budget-friendly device for daily tasks.

You’ll appreciate several pros of the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Laptop. Its lightweight design at just 1.31 kg makes it highly portable. The rapid charging capability allows you to get up to 2 hours of use from a quick 15-minute charge, so you don’t have to worry about running out of battery. The Full HD display and Dolby audio provide an excellent viewing and listening experience, perfect for streaming or studying.

However, there are a few cons to consider as well. The limited storage capacity of only 128GB SSD might not be enough for everyone. Some users have reported an average battery life of only up to 5 hours under light use, which may not meet your needs. Additionally, the integrated graphics may not be suitable for heavy gaming or graphic-intensive applications.

ASUS Vivobook 15 E1504FA Laptop

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ASUS Vivobook 15 E1504FA 15.6" Full HD Laptop (AMD Ryzen 3-7320U, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11 Home)
  • Powered by AMD's Ryzen 3-7302U
  • 8GB RAM, paired with 512GB PCIe G3 SSD
  • 15.6" Full HD Screen
  • UK layout keyboard
  • Microsoft Windows 11 Home

The ASUS Vivobook 15 E1504FA Laptop is an excellent choice for students and professionals seeking a reliable and lightweight device. With its Full HD display and AMD Ryzen 3 processor, you’ll enjoy sharp visuals and solid performance for day-to-day tasks. The 8GB DDR5 RAM and 512GB SSD make multitasking smooth and ensure quick loading times, so you won’t be kept waiting.

Weighing just 1.63 kg, this laptop is easy to carry, whether you’re heading to class or a meeting. Its battery life stands up well to moderate use, allowing you to work without constantly searching for a charger. Plus, with multiple USB ports and an HDMI output, connecting your devices is simple.

However, be aware that screen visibility can sometimes be limited from certain angles. Some users might also find minor setup issues with Windows a bit frustrating. If you use gaming peripherals, compatibility could be an issue as well. Despite these drawbacks, the ASUS Vivobook 15 E1504FA offers great value and performance, making it a top pick for budget-conscious buyers in 2025.

Best For: You’ll appreciate this laptop if you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable option that delivers solid performance for everyday tasks.

Pros:

  • It’s lightweight at just 1.63 kg, making it very portable.
  • The Full HD display (1920 x 1080 pixels) gives you vibrant visuals.
  • With a 512GB PCIe G3 SSD, you’ll experience quick boot times and plenty of storage for your files.

Cons:

  • Screen visibility can be limited from some angles.
  • Some users may face minor setup issues with Windows.
  • There might be compatibility problems with certain gaming peripherals.

HP 15.6 Laptop with AMD Ryzen 3 Processor

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HP 15.6" Laptop | AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor | 8 GB RAM | 256 GB SSD | AMD Radeon Graphics | FHD Display | Up to 11hrs 15 mins battery | Win 11 | Dual Speakers | Jet Black | 15-fc0038sa
  • A POWERFUL, SLEEK LAPTOP FOR GETTING THINGS DONE EVERYDAY: The HP 15.6" Laptop PC comes feature-packed for productivity and making your wallet - and the planet - happy. Built with recycled materials, this powerful HP laptop features an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor, ample storage, and mesmerizing graphics - plus, its 85% screen-to-body ratio and 3-sided narrow bezel offer plenty of room to do and see more that matters.
  • STAY CONNECTED ON YOUR TERMS: Be seen and heard clearly and securely with a HP True Vision camera and background noise reducing microphones.
  • YOUR ALL-DAY, ANYWHERE PRODUCTIVITY POWERHOUSE: Face the day with an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor, long battery life, ample storage, and fast wireless connections.
  • SUSTAINABLE AND FORWARD-THINKING DESIGN: Thoughtfully designed, containing recycled plastics and is EPEAT Gold Registered and ENERGY STAR Certified.
  • AMD RYZEN 3 7320UPROCESSOR: A revolution in processor technology, this newly designed, ultraefficient architecture delivers 4 cores, 4 thread performance to power through even the most processor intensive tasks.

Looking for a budget-friendly laptop that offers a good mix of performance and portability? The HP 15.6 Laptop with an AMD Ryzen 3 Processor is an excellent option. Its sleek design makes it easy for you to carry around. The Ryzen 3 7320U processor combined with 8 GB of RAM ensures you can multitask smoothly. With a 256 GB SSD, you’ll enjoy quick boot-up times. Plus, the FHD display provides vibrant visuals, making it perfect for streaming your favourite shows. You’ll also appreciate the impressive battery life of over 11 hours, keeping you productive throughout the day. Overall, this laptop is a reliable companion for students, professionals, and casual users alike.

Best For: This laptop suits students, professionals, and casual users who need a dependable and budget-friendly device for everyday tasks.

The HP 15.6 Laptop excels in performance for multitasking thanks to the AMD Ryzen 3 processor and 8 GB of RAM. You can easily run multiple applications without a hitch. Its long battery life of up to 11 hours and 15 minutes is ideal for all-day use, whether you’re studying or working on projects. The bright and clear FHD display enhances your viewing experience, making it enjoyable for both streaming and working on tasks.

However, there are some drawbacks. This laptop isn’t ideal for heavy gaming due to its limited graphics capabilities. You might find the lack of a backlit keyboard inconvenient in low-light settings. Additionally, the audio quality from the speakers and webcam isn’t the best, which could affect video calls or watching movies.

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5 Best Budget Laptops of 2025: Affordable Picks That Don’t Skimp on Performance

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HP Stream 14 Laptop (14s-dq0000sa)

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HP Stream 14" Laptop, Intel N4120 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB eMMC, Intel UHD Graphics, HD Display, Dual Speakers, Microsoft 365 Personal 12 month included, Win 11, Jet Black, 14s-dq0000sa
  • THIN, DEPENDABLE LAPTOP WITH AN EXPANSIVE SCREEN: Stay connected to what matters most with long-lasting battery life and thin and portable, micro-edge bezel design. Built to keep you productive and entertained from anywhere, the HP 14" diagonal laptop features reliable performance and an expansive display letting you stream, surf and speed through tasks from sun up to sun down.
  • MICROSOFT 365 PERSONAL 12 MONTHS INCLUDED, get full access to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, Publisher and Access with the included 1-year Microsoft 365 subscription and easily store your files in the cloud with the 1 TB of OneDrive storage, contact HP Support for help in activation.
  • TAKE IT ANYWHERE. SEE MORE: With its thin and light design, 6.5 mm micro-edge bezel display with its 78% screen to body ratio – take this PC anywhere and see and do more.
  • RELIABLE PERFORMANCE FOR EVERY DAY: Powerful enough for your busiest days, this PC features an Intel Celeron N4120 processor and reliable flash based storage at a great value.
  • POWERED UP AND PRODUCTIVE. ALL DAY LONG: With a long battery life and fast-charge technology, this laptop lets you work, watch and stay connected all day. integrated precision touchpad with multitouch support speeds up both navigation and productivity.

The HP Stream 14 Laptop (14s-dq0000sa) is a great choice for students and professionals. With its lightweight design and impressive portability, it’s perfect for those who need a reliable device to take on the go. You’ll find the Intel N4120 processor and 4 GB of RAM sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and streaming. The 64 GB eMMC storage, along with a Microsoft 365 Personal subscription that includes 1 TB of OneDrive storage, really adds to its value. Plus, the long battery life means you can stay productive throughout your day.

This laptop is best for anyone looking for a budget-friendly device that doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s particularly suited for students and professionals who need a portable option for daily use. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to carry around, weighing in at just 1.46 kg. The included 12-month Microsoft 365 Personal subscription allows you to access popular applications like Word and Excel while benefiting from ample cloud storage.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The 64 GB eMMC storage might not be enough if you have larger files or need to store many applications. The webcam quality may not be ideal for video calls, so keep that in mind. Additionally, the performance may lag a bit during heavy usage due to the Intel Celeron processor and limited RAM.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Budget Laptop

When you’re choosing a budget laptop, you need to consider several important factors. Performance specifications are crucial. Look for a laptop that has a decent processor and enough RAM to handle your tasks smoothly. Display quality is also key; a good screen makes everything from watching videos to reading documents more enjoyable. Battery longevity is vital too, as you want a laptop that lasts long enough for your daily use without needing frequent recharges.

Portability features can significantly impact your everyday experience. If you’ll be carrying your laptop around, aim for a lightweight design. Also, check the connectivity options available. You’ll want enough ports for USB devices, HDMI connections, and perhaps even an SD card slot. All these factors combined will help you find a budget laptop that suits your needs well.

Performance Specifications

When you’re choosing a budget laptop, focus on performance specifications that suit your needs. Start with the latest processor, like the 12th Gen Intel. This can enhance your laptop’s performance by up to 30%. For multitasking, you’ll want at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB is ideal if you plan to handle demanding tasks like video editing.

It’s also important to choose Solid State Drives (SSDs) over Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). SSDs offer faster data access and quicker boot times, starting at 128GB. Integrated graphics from AMD or Intel will meet your basic gaming and multimedia needs. Lastly, think about battery life. A laptop with up to 11 hours of battery can greatly enhance your portability, whether you’re using it for school or leisure.

Display Quality

When it comes to display quality for budget laptops, you should look for specific features that enhance your viewing experience. A Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) display is a must. This resolution gives you clearer and more detailed images, making everything from video streaming to online classes more enjoyable.

The size of the screen also plays a key role. A 15.6-inch display is perfect for multitasking, as it offers ample space for multiple windows. If you need something more portable, a 14-inch screen is a good choice. Additionally, consider an anti-glare feature to reduce reflections. This makes long hours of use more comfortable, especially in bright environments.

For added eye comfort, opt for a TÜV-certified low blue light display. This certification helps minimise eye strain, making it easier to work or watch your favourite shows for extended periods. Lastly, pay attention to the screen-to-body ratio. A higher ratio means a larger display area in a compact design. This gives you a more immersive experience without the bulk of a larger laptop.

Battery Longevity

Battery longevity is crucial for anyone using budget laptops. When you’re on the move, you want a laptop that can keep up with your lifestyle. Many budget models now offer impressive battery life, often exceeding 11 hours. This is thanks to efficient processors like AMD Ryzen and the latest Intel generations, which use less power.

A larger battery capacity, measured in milliamp hours (mAh) or watt hours (Wh), usually means longer usage times. It’s also worth noting that rapid charging technology has made significant strides. Some laptops can provide several hours of use after just a quick 15-minute charge. Additionally, energy-efficient screens and low blue light displays can further enhance battery performance, ensuring your laptop is reliable for your daily tasks.

Portability Features

Laptops with portable features are essential for enhancing your overall experience, especially when travelling. The weight of your laptop is a key factor. For example, the HP Stream 14 weighs only 1.46 kg, making it a great choice for those on the go. Additionally, a slim profile is important; models like the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3, which is about 1.79 cm thick, easily fit into your bag without taking up much space.

Screen size also matters for portability. A compact display, ideally between 14 to 15.6 inches, offers a perfect balance between usability and convenience. This size is particularly suited for tight spaces like cafes, where you want to work comfortably. Furthermore, features such as fast-charge capabilities can make a big difference. For instance, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 allows you to quickly recharge during short breaks, ensuring you stay productive while you’re out and about.

When considering portability features, remember to factor in weight, size, and charging options. These elements can significantly improve how you use your laptop in everyday situations. Keep these points in mind to ensure you choose a laptop that fits your mobile lifestyle perfectly!

Connectivity Options

When choosing a budget laptop, connectivity options are crucial for your everyday use. You want to make sure your laptop has plenty of USB ports, including USB 3.0 for quicker data transfers and Type-C for flexible connections. Wi-Fi is also essential; ideally, look for laptops that support Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) to ensure a reliable internet connection.

Bluetooth support is important too. Aim for at least Bluetooth 5.0, as it allows for easy pairing with wireless devices like mice and headphones. An HDMI port can make your life easier, letting you connect to external displays for presentations or simply for a larger viewing experience. Finally, having an SD card reader is a great bonus for transferring data from cameras or expanding your storage effortlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Budget Laptop?

The average lifespan of a budget laptop is usually between three to five years. With the right care and maintenance, you might find that your laptop lasts even longer. This means you can get good value from your investment.

To extend your laptop’s life, keep it clean and avoid overheating. Regularly update your software and take care of the battery. Simple actions like closing unused programs can also help your laptop run smoothly for years.

Can Budget Laptops Handle Gaming?

Yes, budget laptops can handle gaming, especially casual games. In fact, around 60% of budget laptops are capable of running lighter titles without costing you a fortune. This means you can enjoy fun games like “Stardew Valley” or “Among Us” without needing the latest and greatest hardware.

However, if you’re interested in playing high-performance games like “Cyberpunk 2077” or “Call of Duty,” you’ll need to look for more powerful options. These demanding games require better graphics and processing power that budget laptops typically lack. Investing in a laptop with a dedicated graphics card and a stronger CPU will provide a much better gaming experience.

How Much RAM Is Ideal for Budget Laptops?

For budget laptops, 8GB of RAM is ideal. It offers a great balance for tasks like multitasking and casual gaming without costing too much. If you can afford it, consider upgrading to 16GB. This upgrade will improve your laptop’s overall performance and help future-proof your device.

Having 8GB of RAM means you can run multiple applications smoothly. You’ll notice fewer slowdowns when switching between tasks. For light gaming, this amount of memory is usually sufficient to provide a decent experience. However, if you plan to do more intensive tasks, like video editing or gaming, 16GB is the way to go.

Ultimately, your choice of RAM will depend on how you use your laptop. If you often find yourself juggling several applications or want to play more demanding games, investing in 16GB is a smart move. In the end, 8GB is a solid starting point for budget laptops, but 16GB will deliver better performance and longevity.

Are Refurbished Laptops a Good Option?

Refurbished laptops can be a great option for you. Many people worry about their reliability, but refurbished laptops often perform just as well as new ones. They usually come with warranties, so you can feel confident in your purchase. Plus, you’ll save money while still getting solid performance for your everyday tasks.

When you choose a refurbished laptop, you’re opting for a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. These laptops are often tested and repaired to meet high standards, meaning they can handle your needs just like a new device. You’ll find models from reputable brands, such as Dell and HP, that offer good performance at a fraction of the price.

What Operating System Do Budget Laptops Typically Use?

Budget laptops typically use Windows, Chrome OS, or Linux as their operating systems. Each of these offers different features, allowing you to pick one that suits your needs.

Windows is the most common choice for budget laptops. It provides a familiar interface with a wide range of software options. Chrome OS is another popular choice, especially for those who primarily work online. It’s lightweight and perfect for web browsing and using cloud-based applications. Linux is less common but offers a free, open-source alternative for tech-savvy users who want more control over their system.

When choosing a budget laptop, consider what you’ll use it for. If you need something for basic tasks, Chrome OS might be ideal. If you want to run specific Windows software, go for a device with Windows. Linux suits those interested in customisation and programming. By understanding your needs, you can select the right operating system for your budget laptop.

Last update on 2025-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API