Best Laptops Under $300 in 2024: Top Picks for Maximum Value
Are you on the hunt for the best laptops under $300? With a budget-friendly price point, finding a capable laptop that meets your daily needs can be a challenge. Fortunately, the market has several options that offer decent performance without breaking the bank. In this article, we review the top 10 laptops under $300 available on Amazon in 2024, ensuring you make an informed decision to fit your needs. Additionally, we’ve included a comprehensive buying guide for the best laptop under 300 to help you navigate your options more effectively.
# | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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1 | HP 14" Ultral Light Laptop for Students and Business, Intel Quad-Core, 8GB RAM, 192GB Storage(64GB... | $265.99 | Buy on Amazon | ||
2 | Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH Slim Laptop | 15.6" Full HD IPS Display | AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core... | $279.99 | Buy on Amazon | ||
3 | Acer Aspire Go 15 Slim Laptop | 15.6" Full HD IPS 1080P Display | Intel Core i3-N305| Intel UHD... | $263.00 | Buy on Amazon | ||
4 | HP 14 Laptop, Intel Celeron N4020, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB Storage, 14-inch Micro-edge HD Display, Windows... | $170.99 | Buy on Amazon | ||
5 | LENOVO IdeaPad 1 Laptop, 15.6” FHD Display, Intel Celeron N4500 Processor, 12GB RAM, 512GB SSD, SD... | $359.00 | Buy on Amazon | ||
6 | HP Portable Laptop (Include 1 Year Microsoft 365), 14’’ HD Display, 16GB RAM, 64GB eMMC, Intel... | $232.98 | Buy on Amazon | ||
7 | Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Laptop, 15.6” FHD Display, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11... | $379.00 | Buy on Amazon | ||
8 | Newest HP 14" HD Laptop, Windows 11, Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB... | $159.99 | Buy on Amazon | ||
9 | Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop, Intel Dual Core Processor, 12GB RAM, 512GB SSD + 128GB eMMC, 15.6"... | $339.00 | Buy on Amazon | ||
10 | HP Newest 14" HD Laptop, Windows 11, Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB... | $167.35 | Buy on Amazon |
Buying Guide for Best Laptops Under $300
When shopping for a laptop under $300, consider a few essential factors to ensure you get the best value for your money:
1. Performance
Look for laptops with decent processors, typically Intel Celeron or AMD A-series, which provide adequate performance for tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. Additionally, ensure that the laptop has at least 4GB of RAM to support multitasking.
2. Storage
Storage options may include HDDs or SSDs. SSDs provide faster boot times and better overall performance. Aim for a minimum of 64GB storage, but larger options are preferable if you plan to store files locally.
3. Display
The display quality impacts your user experience significantly. Look for a screen resolution of at least 1366 x 768 pixels. A larger screen size may improve usability, especially for media consumption and productivity tasks.
4. Battery Life
Consider the battery life, especially if you need a laptop for on-the-go usage. Ideally, a laptop should last at least 5-6 hours on a single charge.
5. Build Quality
In this price range, build quality may vary. Look for laptops with a sturdy design to ensure longevity. Lightweight and durable materials are a plus.
6. Operating System
Most laptops in this range come with Windows 10 S, Chrome OS, or simple Linux distributions. Choose an OS that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Top 10 Laptops Under $300 on Amazon
1. Acer Chromebook 14
The Acer Chromebook 14 offers a 14-inch full HD display, coupled with an Intel Celeron N3160 processor. With 4GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, it is perfect for lightweight tasks like browsing, streaming, and document editing. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. Additionally, its aluminum casing gives it a premium feel among budget laptops.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N3160 processor
- 14-inch full HD display
- 4GB RAM, 32GB storage
- Up to 12 hours battery life
- Lightweight, stylish design
- Runs ChromeOS: The fast, secure operating system from Google with built-in Google apps like Gmail, Gemini, Docs, Photos, YouTube, and more, so you can go from deadlines to downtime straight out of the box.
- The Power To Do More : A 2x faster AMD Ryzen 3 7320C processor and up to double the memory and storage, so you can edit files while watching your favorite shows in WUXGA* with up to 12 hours of battery life. (*When compared to top selling Chromebooks in 2023)
- Google AI built in, with Gemini: Supercharge your daily tasks with Gemini. Brainstorm fresh ideas, quickly understand any content(1), and insert AI-generated content into any field, wherever your cursor takes you.
- Advanced Apps for Work and Play: Stay productive with Microsoft 365(2), create with Adobe Photoshop(3), edit videos with LumaFusion, and get your game on with GeForce NOW. All your favorite apps and more are just a click away.
- Never Had A Virus: Chromebooks have never had a virus(4) so you can breathe easy knowing your security and privacy are covered with built-in protection and the Titan C2 security chip
2. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 features a flexible design with a 13.3-inch touchscreen display. Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and 4GB of RAM, it provides a smooth performance for everyday tasks. The 64GB eMMC storage is ample for most users, and the laptop can last up to 10 hours on a charge, making it an excellent choice for students.
Key Features:
- Intel Core i3 processor
- 13.3-inch touchscreen display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Up to 10 hours battery life
- 2-in-1 convertible design
- 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
3. HP Stream 14
The HP Stream 14 is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB eMMC storage option. Its 14-inch display offers adequate resolution for everyday tasks, while the laptop can last around 8 hours on a single charge. The laptop comes with a sleek design and is lightweight, making it portable.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N4000 processor
- 14-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Up to 8 hours battery life
- Stylish and portable
- 【Processor & Graphics】Intel Celeron N4120, 4 Cores & 4 Threads, 1.10 GHz Base Frequency, Up to 2.60 GHz Burst Frequency, 4 MB Cahce, Intel UHD Graphics 600, Handle multitasking reliably with the perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value
- 【14" HD Display】14.0-inch diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge, BrightView. With virtually no bezel encircling the display, an ultra-wide viewing experience provides for seamless multi-monitor set-ups
- 【RAM & Storage】Upgraded to 16GB high-bandwidth DDR4 Memory (2400 MHz), Adequate high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. 128GB high-speed eMMC Storage for your office and webinar needs. With 128GB Ghost Manta SD Card.
- 【Ports】1 x USB 3.1 Type-C ports, 2 x USB 3.1 Type-A ports, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, and there's a microSD slot
- 【Windows 11 Home in S mode】You may switch to regular windows 11: Press "Start button" bottom left of the screen; Select "Settings" icon above "power" icon;Select "Activation", then Go to Store; Select Get option under "Switch out of S mode"; Hit Install. (If you also see an "Upgrade your edition of Windows" section, be careful not to click the "Go to the Store" link that appears there.)
4. ASUS VivoBook L203MA
The ASUS VivoBook L203MA is another great entry in the budget category. It features an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of eMMC storage. The compact 11.6-inch display makes it ideal for mobility, and it includes a Windows 10 operating system. Battery life lasts around 10 hours, making it perfect for students and professionals alike.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N4020 processor
- 11.6-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Up to 10 hours battery life
- Compact and portable design
- Efficient Intel Celeron N4000 Processor (4M Cache, up to 2.6 GHz)
- 11.6” HD (1366 x 768) Display with HD webcam
- Compatible with Google Classroom; run Google Classroom on Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer 11
- 64GB emmC Flash Storage and 4GB LPDDR4 RAM
- Windows 10 in S mode (upgradeable to Windows 10 Home)
5. Dell Inspiron 11 3000
Dell’s Inspiron 11 3000 features an 11.6-inch touchscreen display and is powered by an Intel Celeron N3060 processor. It has 4GB of RAM and comes with 32GB of eMMC storage. This 2-in-1 convertible laptop has a battery life of approximately 8 hours, making it an excellent choice for home and educational use. The aesthetics are modern, providing a user-friendly experience.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N3060 processor
- 11.6-inch touchscreen
- 4GB RAM, 32GB storage
- Up to 8 hours battery life
- Convertible design
- 【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. Samsung Chromebook 4
The Samsung Chromebook 4 delivers a solid performance with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor and 4GB of RAM. The 11.6-inch display is more than adequate for online work or entertainment, and the 64GB storage complements it well. This Chromebook can provide up to 12 hours of battery life, making it a reliable option for those constantly on the move.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N4000 processor
- 11.6-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Up to 12 hours battery life
- Thin, sleek design
- Large and immersive 15. 6” display in a compact frame
- Military-grade durability
- Ultra-fast connectivity with Gigabit Wi-Fi
- Advanced security with multiple layers of built-in virus protection
- 10. 5 hours of battery life
7. Lenovo IdeaPad 1
The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 incorporates an AMD Athlon Silver processor along with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Its 14-inch HD display offers a satisfactory experience for various tasks, while the battery life lasts around 8-10 hours. The overall lightweight build enhances portability, which is ideal for students or on-the-go users.
Key Features:
- AMD Athlon Silver processor
- 14-inch HD display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Up to 10 hours battery life
- Lightweight design
- MULTITASKING MASTER - The IdeaPad 1 is a thin and compact laptop that offers responsive performance and anticipates your every need for effortless on-the-go multitasking
- MORE EXPANSIVE DISPLAY - Indulge in a better binging experience by immersing yourself in your favorite shows with a borderless display for more screen while listening to clear, rich audio from two Dolby Audio speakers
- PERFORMANCE ON THE GO - Zip along while multitasking across several tabs, the new AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor built on UMA architecture delivers punchy mobile performance with a 20W thermal design point
- LIGHTEST PART OF YOUR DAY - Weighing just 3.5 lbs, the effortlessly cool cloud grey laptop is lighter than your water bottle and just as essential
- SOLID SECURITY - Keep your home life private and be seen only when you want to be with the 720p camera that comes with a physical privacy shutter
8. HP Chromebook 14
The HP Chromebook 14 offers a larger display for media consumption and productivity. It features an Intel Celeron N3350 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. With a battery life of up to 12 hours, it’s suited for those who need a dependable laptop for daily tasks and entertainment.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N3350 processor
- 14-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 32GB storage
- Up to 12 hours battery life
- Stylish with great performance
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
9. Microsoft Surface Go 2
While typically priced higher, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 can occasionally be found around the $300 mark on sale. It features an Intel Pentium Gold processor and 4GB of RAM, delivering a smooth user experience. The 10.5-inch display is vibrant, and the device is known for its premium build quality. It runs Windows 10 in S mode, which enhances security but limits app installations.
Key Features:
- Intel Pentium Gold processor
- 10.5-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
- Premium build quality
- Ideal for students and professionals
- Light, portable Surface touchscreen Laptop with Windows 11 [2] and 12.4” PixelSense Display. [1] Starting at just 2.48 pounds.Control method:touch
- Work, play, stream, and run day-to-day apps with 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor.
- Look and sound your best on video calls with improved HD camera and built-in Studio Mics, plus rich sound for music and shows.
- Long battery life 13.5.[3] Plus, recharge quickly with Fast Charging – up to 80% in just over an hour.[7]
- Convenient security. Fingerprint Power Button with Windows Hello and One Touch sign-in on select models.
10. ASUS Chromebook C202SA
Designed for education, the ASUS Chromebook C202SA features a rugged design for durability against drops and spills. It’s powered by an Intel Celeron N3060 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 16GB of internal storage. The 11.6-inch display offers decent performance for basic tasks while the battery life holds up to 10 hours, making it a robust choice for students.
Key Features:
- Intel Celeron N3060 processor
- 11.6-inch display
- 4GB RAM, 16GB storage
- Up to 10 hours battery life
- Rugged, spill-resistant design
Final Thoughts
As we explore the best laptops under $300, our curated list showcases valuable options for a variety of needs, from basic tasks to educational purposes. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, these laptops provide excellent performance and durability within a limited budget. Keep in mind the buying guide to select the best laptop under 300 that aligns with your requirements and lifestyle. Remember, each option in our article emphasizes core functionalities making them stand out in the crowded market of budget laptops!
Last update on 2024-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.