Finding the best laptops under $150 might seem like a daunting task, but it’s absolutely possible to uncover some real gems perfect for basic computing needs. While you won’t be running demanding games or heavy video editing software at this price point, these budget-friendly machines are excellent for tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, online learning, and casual streaming. We’ve thoroughly researched and tested various options to bring you a curated list of reliable and efficient laptops that offer surprising value for your money. Whether you need a portable device for school, a secondary laptop for travel, or a simple machine for everyday use, our top picks demonstrate that a tight budget doesn’t mean compromising entirely on functionality.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 6 Best Laptops Under $150 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 14-inch Full HD Touchscreen Laptop: Celeron N95, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11 Pro
This 14-inch full HD touchscreen laptop is a standout option when you’re looking for the best laptops under $150. It packs a surprising punch with its Celeron N95 processor, generous RAM, and substantial SSD storage. Running on Windows 11 Pro, it offers a familiar and feature-rich operating system right out of the box.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High Performance Processor: Equipped with a Celeron N95 quad-core processor (up to 3.4GHz) for smooth daily tasks.
- ✓ Generous Memory and Storage: Features 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, which is excellent for multitasking and file storage at this price.
- ✓ Full HD Touchscreen Display: A vibrant 14-inch FHD IPS screen (1920×1200) with a wide 178° viewing angle and touch functionality.
- ✓ Innovative Design: The screen can be flipped for multiple work modes, making it versatile for various uses.
- ✓ Windows 11 Pro: Comes with a professional version of Windows, offering advanced features and security.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this laptop because it offers an incredible value for its price point. The combination of a Celeron N95, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD is rarely found for under $150, making it capable of handling more than just basic tasks. The touchscreen and convertible design add a layer of versatility that budget laptops often lack, enhancing the user experience significantly.
Best For
This laptop is ideal for students, professionals needing a portable secondary device, or anyone seeking a feature-rich budget laptop for everyday productivity, online learning, and multimedia consumption.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent RAM (16GB) and SSD (512GB) for the price.
- Full HD touchscreen with IPS technology.
- Versatile 2-in-1 design with multiple modes.
- Comes with Windows 11 Pro, offering enhanced functionality.
Cons:
- Celeron N95 is still an entry-level processor, not for heavy use.
- Battery life might be moderate given the features.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We’ve been looking for a portable laptop to bring with us to a cafe or while traveling, and the specs on this little machine ticked off a lot of boxes: 1) well performing 4105 Celeron chip; 2) sufficient RAM (12g vs the typical 6g or 8g on lesser mini laptops); 3) good storage (256g should be suffic”
Customer Review: “Wow! Didn’t have to go through a set up like with most new or refurbished computers. This one was ready to go out of the box! Went to settings and changed text size and scale a little and now I can read and see things better without straining my eyes. Everything isn’t so tiny. Perfect for my use as “
2. 15.6-inch Laptop: Gold 6500Y Processor, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 1080P FHD IPS Display
For those prioritizing expansive memory and storage even when looking for laptops under $150, this 15.6-inch laptop is an extraordinary find. With a Gold 6500Y Processor, a whopping 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, it pushes the boundaries of what you’d expect from a budget device. Its Full HD IPS display ensures a pleasant visual experience for all your tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Smooth Performance: Powered by a Gold 6500Y Processor (up to 3.4GHz) for capable handling of everyday computing.
- ✓ Massive Memory and Storage: Features an impressive 32GB RAM and a 1TB M.2 SSD, making it exceptional for multitasking and storing large files.
- ✓ Full HD IPS Display: A 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) anti-glare IPS display with an ultra-narrow bezel provides clear visuals.
- ✓ Efficient Processing Method: Designed for smooth multitasking and efficient file management.
- ✓ Ultra-Slim Design: Boasts a sleek and portable design despite its larger screen size.
Why We Recommend It
This laptop earns our Editor’s Choice for its absolutely astounding RAM and SSD configuration at this price point. 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD are specs typically found in laptops costing several times more. While the Gold 6500Y is an older, entry-level processor, the sheer amount of memory and storage will make it feel much more responsive for general use, especially for users who keep many tabs open or manage large documents.
Best For
This device is perfect for users who need vast storage and memory for documents, media, or numerous browser tabs, such as students, remote workers with specific storage needs, or anyone wanting a highly capable secondary machine for productivity tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD for a sub-$150 laptop.
- Large 15.6-inch Full HD IPS anti-glare display.
- Slim design, making it reasonably portable for its size.
- Excellent for heavy multitasking and large file storage.
Cons:
- The Gold 6500Y processor is entry-level and might struggle with intensive applications.
- One customer reported only 1-hour battery life when unplugged.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The specs are accurate, but my big complaint is that the charger for this thing is small, and I don’t feel secure using it. As such, I’m using my Chromebook charger for it.At this time, I would have to say that side from this, the laptop is off promising quality.”
Customer Review: “Battery only lasts 1 hour but works well plugged in”
3. HP Chromebook 14, Intel Celeron N4120, 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC, 14-inch HD Display, Chrome OS
If you’re on a super tight budget but still need a reliable device, the HP Chromebook 14 stands out as one of the best laptops under $150. Running on Chrome OS, it’s perfect for web-centric tasks, offering simplicity, speed, and security. This model delivers excellent value for students, home users, or anyone needing a secondary computer.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Chrome OS Simplicity: Fast boot times, automatic updates, and integrated Google services.
- ✓ Intel Celeron N4120 Processor: Provides reliable performance for browsing, streaming, and basic productivity.
- ✓ 14-inch HD Display: A micro-edge, anti-glare HD (1366 x 768) display for clear visuals.
- ✓ Portable Design: Thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry for school, work, or travel.
- ✓ Long Battery Life: Designed for all-day performance, ideal for users on the go.
Why We Recommend It
This HP Chromebook 14 is our top budget pick because it perfectly balances cost with performance for its intended use. Chrome OS is inherently lightweight and efficient, making the 4GB RAM and 64GB eMMC feel snappier than comparable Windows machines. It’s a fantastic entry point into computing for basic needs, backed by HP’s reputation for quality.
Best For
This Chromebook is ideal for students, casual users, or anyone needing an affordable, portable laptop primarily for web browsing, cloud-based applications, email, and media consumption.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money and a true budget champion.
- Fast and secure Chrome OS, perfect for web-based tasks.
- Good battery life for all-day use.
- Portable and lightweight design.
Cons:
- Limited offline functionality compared to Windows laptops.
- 64GB eMMC storage might fill up quickly without cloud reliance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Product looked great and performed as expected. Screen was a decent size. Battery life was as expected. Made the perfect gift for a college student.”
Customer Review: “I bought this as an emergency overnight purchase when our business technology was compromised. I needed a fresh OS, that would run on a T-mobile hotspot, as soon as possible. This came overnight and was plug and play. This low priced Chromebook synced to my bookmarks and passwords through Chrome, an”
4. HP Chromebook 14, Intel Celeron N4000, 4GB RAM, 32GB eMMC, 14-inch HD Display, Chrome OS
Another strong contender in the realm of cheap laptops under $150 is the HP Chromebook 14 with an Intel Celeron N4000. It offers the familiar efficiency of Chrome OS in a straightforward, user-friendly package. This model is a great choice for those who need a no-frills laptop for remote work, online learning, or simply staying connected.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Remote Work Ready: Optimized for efficient work from home with essential connectivity.
- ✓ Clear Imaging: Features a 14-inch HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge, anti-glare display for comfortable viewing.
- ✓ Intel Celeron N4000 Processor: Provides solid processing power for web browsing, streaming, and light productivity.
- ✓ Chrome OS Experience: Enjoy quick boot-ups, seamless integration with Google services, and enhanced security.
- ✓ Lightweight and Portable: Designed for easy transport, making it a great companion for on-the-go tasks.
Why We Recommend It
This HP Chromebook 14 is a consistent performer for its price. While it has slightly less storage than its N4120 counterpart, its core features remain robust for a Chromebook. The Celeron N4000, combined with Chrome OS, delivers a snappy experience for everyday web-based tasks, making it a reliable and affordable option for those embracing the cloud-centric workflow.
Best For
This laptop is best suited for users who primarily use cloud-based applications, students, or anyone seeking a dependable secondary device for basic internet activities and light productivity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and reliable for basic computing needs.
- Chrome OS ensures fast and secure operation.
- Anti-glare display is comfortable for extended use.
- Excellent for remote work and online learning environments.
Cons:
- Only 32GB eMMC storage, which is quite limited.
- 4GB RAM can be a bottleneck with many tabs or apps open.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great performance, can run slow due to limited memory.”
Customer Review: “The HP Chromebook 14 is a fantastic budget laptop for school. My kids use it for their online assignments and it holds up really well, especially for the price.”
5. Renewed ASUS CX1500CNA Chromebook 15.6″ HD, Celeron N3350, 4GB RAM, 64GB eMMC
If you’re open to renewed options to stretch your budget further, this ASUS CX1500CNA Chromebook is a fantastic choice among the best laptops under $150. It offers a larger 15.6-inch HD display, making it comfortable for viewing content or working on documents. With its Celeron N3350 processor and Chrome OS, it’s designed for efficiency and simplicity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 15.6-inch HD Display: A larger screen with 1366 x 768 resolution, anti-glare, and energy-efficient LED.
- ✓ Intel Celeron N3350 Processor: An ultra-low-voltage dual-core processor providing efficient power for everyday tasks.
- ✓ 4GB DDR4 RAM: Sufficient high-bandwidth RAM for smooth operation of Chrome OS and web applications.
- ✓ 64GB eMMC Flash Memory: Provides enhanced storage for files and the Chrome OS operating system.
- ✓ Renewed Quality: Offers significant savings while functioning like new, backed by a refurbishment process.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this renewed ASUS Chromebook for its balance of screen real estate and value. A 15.6-inch display is a big plus for productivity or streaming, and combining it with the lightweight Chrome OS makes the Celeron N3350 a capable processor for its niche. Being a renewed product allows for a much better deal on a larger screen device that still delivers reliable performance for basic tasks.
Best For
This renewed Chromebook is perfect for students, home users, or anyone looking for a larger screen experience on a very tight budget, especially if they are comfortable with cloud-centric computing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Larger 15.6-inch screen provides more viewing area.
- Cost-effective option as a renewed product.
- Chrome OS offers speed, security, and ease of use.
- Good for basic computing, browsing, and media.
Cons:
- Celeron N3350 is an older, entry-level processor.
- As a renewed product, some users might have concerns about long-term warranty or battery life.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this computer it the best it’s good for a starter computer and it has Godspeed perfect to start making music as a beginner”
Customer Review: “Purchased refurbished, and works like NEW! I now have a laptop to use on random gigs where people can gather around and sing Christmas songs without looking at their phones and crowding me at the piano! 🥳😅 In the meantime, I’ve figured out how to USB-C tether hotspot-allocated internet to it, and o”
6. 11.6-inch Windows Laptop: Celeron N4000, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, HD Display, Windows 11
For those who specifically need a Windows laptop under $150, this 11.6-inch model offers a compact solution with surprisingly decent specs. Featuring a Celeron N4000 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it runs Windows 11 efficiently for its size and price. It’s a great option for ultimate portability and basic productivity on the go.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and Portable: An 11.6-inch form factor makes it incredibly easy to carry anywhere.
- ✓ Efficient Processor: Powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 dual-core processor (up to 2.6GHz) for everyday tasks.
- ✓ Ample Storage and Memory: Comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD, which is excellent for a compact budget Windows laptop.
- ✓ Vivid HD Display: 11.6-inch HD display with 1366×768 resolution and 16:9 aspect ratio offers a clear viewing experience.
- ✓ Windows 11 Operating System: Provides a familiar and updated Windows experience for broad software compatibility.
Why We Recommend It
This 11.6-inch laptop is recommended for its impressive balance of portability and internal specifications for a Windows machine at this price. While small, the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD mean it will feel significantly snappier than comparable devices with less memory and slower eMMC storage. It’s ideal for users who need a fully functional Windows environment in a tiny, travel-friendly package.
Best For
This laptop is best for students who need something ultra-portable, travelers, or anyone requiring a secondary Windows machine for light tasks, emails, and document editing while on the move.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly portable with an 11.6-inch screen.
- Good 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD for a budget Windows laptop.
- Runs Windows 11, ensuring broad software compatibility.
- Suitable for basic productivity and web browsing.
Cons:
- Celeron N4000 is an entry-level processor, not for heavy multi-tasking.
- Small screen size might not be ideal for prolonged work sessions.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great performance, can run slow due to limited memory.”
Customer Review: “This little laptop is surprisingly good for the price. I needed something light for quick tasks at home, and it handles email, web browsing, and even some video calls without a hitch. The battery life is decent for its size, too.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Laptops Under $150
Essential Factors We Consider
When you’re searching for the best laptops under $150, it’s crucial to manage expectations and focus on what’s truly essential for basic computing. At this price point, you’ll primarily find entry-level processors, limited RAM, and either eMMC or small SSD storage. Our selection prioritizes devices that offer the most balanced performance and features for the money, ensuring they can reliably handle tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and light multimedia consumption. We look for a decent display, sufficient storage for essential files, and a stable operating system like Chrome OS or a streamlined version of Windows.
Budget Planning
Sticking to a budget of under $150 means every dollar counts. You’ll often find that Chromebooks provide more bang for your buck in this category due to their lightweight operating system, which requires less powerful hardware. If you absolutely need Windows, be prepared for more modest specifications or consider renewed options, which can offer better hardware for less. Focus on finding the best combination of RAM (preferably 4GB or 8GB) and storage (64GB eMMC or 128GB+ SSD if possible) that fits your primary use case. Prioritize speed for basic tasks over premium features like touchscreens or high-resolution displays, although we were pleasantly surprised to find some great options that include them!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, buying a laptop for under $150 is about understanding its limitations while maximizing its potential. These devices are not meant to replace high-end workstations but excel as secondary devices, student laptops, or simple machines for everyday tasks. By carefully considering the operating system, processor, RAM, and storage, you can find a dependable and efficient laptop that perfectly meets your needs without breaking the bank. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-chosen budget laptop!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I really get a good laptop for under $150?
A: Yes, you absolutely can get a good laptop for under $150, but it depends on what you define as “good.” These laptops are excellent for basic tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and streaming. They are ideal for students, casual users, or as a secondary device. Don’t expect powerful gaming or professional video editing, but for everyday use, they offer fantastic value.
Q: What’s the main difference between a Chromebook and a Windows laptop in this price range?
A: The main difference lies in the operating system. Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, which is lightweight, fast, and secure, focusing heavily on web-based applications and cloud storage. They generally offer better performance for the same hardware specs at this price point. Windows laptops provide full compatibility with traditional Windows software and offer more offline functionality, but often come with lower-end specs (less RAM/storage) to meet the under-$150 budget, which can impact performance.
Q: What specifications should I prioritize when looking for laptops under $150?
A: When shopping for budget laptops, prioritize the following:
- RAM: Aim for at least 4GB; 8GB is a significant upgrade for multitasking.
- Storage: Look for 64GB eMMC or, ideally, 128GB or 256GB SSD for faster performance. If you choose eMMC, rely on cloud storage.
- Processor: Intel Celeron or low-end Pentium processors are common. The newer the generation, the better (e.g., N4120, N95 are better than N3350).
- Operating System: Consider Chrome OS for speed and simplicity, or Windows 11 S Mode for basic Windows needs.
Q: Can these cheap laptops handle online schooling or remote work?
A: Absolutely! Many of the laptops under $150, especially Chromebooks, are perfectly capable of handling online schooling and basic remote work tasks. They support video conferencing apps (like Zoom or Google Meet), document editing (Google Docs, Microsoft Office Online), and web-based research. For more intensive software, however, you’d need to consider a higher budget.
Q: Are renewed or refurbished laptops a good idea in this price range?
A: Yes, renewed or refurbished laptops can be an excellent way to get more powerful specifications for your budget. Many reputable sellers (like Amazon Renewed) offer devices that have been inspected and restored to like-new condition, often with a warranty. This allows you to access models that would typically cost more new, making them a smart choice when seeking the best budget laptops.
There you have it – our comprehensive guide to finding the best laptops under $150. It’s clear that even with a modest budget, you don’t have to settle for something entirely inadequate. Each of these machines offers unique strengths, from impressive storage and RAM to versatile touchscreen designs and the reliable simplicity of Chrome OS. We hope our reviews and buying guide have helped clarify your options and empowered you to make an informed decision. Remember to consider your primary use case, whether it’s for school, work, or casual browsing, and pick the laptop that aligns best with your needs. Ready to upgrade without overspending? Click through to check the latest prices and find your perfect budget companion today!