Top 10 best laptop under $200 based on our reviews.
When you venture out to purchase a laptop for personal or professional use, you prep yourself to live with a light wallet for months to come. Even after years of advancing technology, laptops don’t exactly come cheap.
Or do they? Well, here is some excellent news for anyone looking to bring home an inexpensive laptop that won’t break down under pressure: many top computer makers have introduced cheap laptops priced under—hold your breath—$200!
You may have previously come across laptops priced under $300, and assumed that was the cheapest deal anyone could give you in this market. However, today, you can find cheap laptops produced by reliable and established brands such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo and Samsung.
Other brands like CHUWI have also emerged to compete with these market leaders, offering products with features that seem impossible to attain in so low a price point. Suffice it to say that if it is a cheap laptop that you covet, you will be spoilt for choice.
One word of caution: laptops under $200 do come with some inherent limitations. They have limited processing muscle that will be adequate for day-to-day needs, but you cannot expect them to facilitate intensive endeavors like graphics designing, programming, animation or gaming.
Many of these laptops lean toward the tablet model, restricting the brilliance of the display that you can expect. So, while laptops in this league have several merits to boot—not the least of which is excellent portability—they may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Let us find out a few essential things about cheap laptops under $200 and how to go about acquiring one, if at all. We have also consolidated ten recommendations that are both trustworthy and wise buying choices for various requirements ranging from home use to traveling.
Our Picks: The 10 Best Laptops Under $200 for 2023
Finding good quality laptops for under $200 sounds like a dream. But, there are several brands who have come out with accessible and affordable devices and we are going to sort out the best ones for you.
1. ASUS Laptop L210 Ultra-Thin Laptop
It features a very compact and lightweight design, weighing less than 2.2 lbs. It enables you to make the most out of your productivity, enabling you to create content even when you are on the go.
It is also designed with an 180° lay-flat hinge for seamless collaboration.
Even with the cheaper price point, the device is backed with a stunning ASUS’s NumberPad for a simpler number tapping experience. It runs on the Intel Celeron N4020 Processor and is equipped with a compact 11.6” HD slim display for unmatched user experience.
As for the overall performance, the 64GB eMMC flash storage and 4GB RAM ensure the most out of your device, even when you are dealing with complicated tasks. It runs on the Windows 10 in S Mode.
Also read, Top 10 Best Laptops Under $300 in 2023
2. Acer Chromebook Spin 311 Laptop Under $200
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 2-in-1 laptop lets you experience better image clarity than you may have been used to, and this is beneficial for business-people, entrepreneurs, etc., who frequently need to connect with clients.
This Acer Chromebook is steered by a Celeron N4020 processor with 4GB RAM and 32GB of storage. That rather paltry storage space is expanded by the 100GB of extra space you get on Google Drive.
All your data gets backed up automatically too, reassuring you as you work. The Chrome OS, as always, is speedy and quick to respond, bringing you a collaborative but secure working environment.
You can choose to work on Google Docs, Sheets and Slides or access one of the many apps on Google Play Store for your requirements. The battery lasts for about ten hours on a single charge.
An HD screen with ComfyView (anti-glare panel) and an IPS panel makes for a pleasing viewing experience. While the supported screen resolution is 1366 x 768, you can use the HDMI port to plug into an external display when the situation so demands.
Besides the HDMI port, this laptop is also fitted with a USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, a USB 3.1 Type-C port. It supports 802.11ac WiFi for internet connectivity (dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz); the MIMO technology brings to you a stronger and more consistent signal.
Acer likes keeping things light, and this laptop weighs no more than 2.62lbs. It has a thickness of 0.79”. The construction is ideal for travel-intensive, hectic lifestyles as it is sturdy without being bulky. Bottom-line: It is a no-fuss, competent Chromebook to opt for at a sub-$200 price.
3. ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510 Thin & Light Laptop
For the users looking for a basic productivity laptop for simple browsing and Office work, the VivoBook Go 15 L510 is a pretty impressive model. Not only does it feature the Intel Celeron N4020 Processor, it is also backed with integrated graphics that elevates performance experience to a whole new level.
Also, if you are worried about the display, the model is equipped with a 15.6” FHD display with 1080p screen resolution that delivers responsive visuals, despite the price range. It is backed with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, which is not the best in the market but you have to consider the affordability factor too.
The laptop comes with Windows 11 in S model out of the box, which is quite a good addition for the price range.
Reasons to buy
- Very affordable
- Responsive display
- Comes with Windows 11 OS
Reasons to avoid
- Performance is subpar
- Battery life is disappointing
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook
Laptops are an integral requirement that should be accessible to every user who needs it.
This is one of the main objectives why Lenovo has such a diverse portfolio of devices.
Amidst them all, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook is one of the best laptop under $200 that you can consider buying for work, entertainment and connectivity.
The device is powered by the Intel Celeron N4020 Processor with Intel UHD graphics 600 for smoother performance.
The entire device is ready to use out of the box using your Google account.
The slim and lightweight design makes it perfect for everyday use or for using while working on the go.
The IdeadPad 3 11 is equipped with a compact 11.6” HD display with 768p screen resolution.
Besides that, it integrates 64GB eMMC for storage with 4GB RAM for superior and unstoppable performance. Pair that with over 10 hours of battery life and Chrome OS and you are winning.
5. HP Stream 11 Laptop Around $200
Even with the cheaper price point, the brand has managed to redefine productivity with the latest technologies and functionalities in the device.
The Stream 11 is equipped with a 11.6-inch HD display with 768p screen resolution. It runs on the Intel Celeron processor and is backed with Intel UHD graphics for crisp and clear visuals unlike anything else in the market.
It is integrated with 64GB eMMC and 4GB RAM for seamless and smoother multitasking experience.
The device runs on the Windows 11 Home in S mode operating system and is backed with the latest wireless connectivity options and I/O ports for uninterrupted performance throughout the day.
6. HP Chromebook 11a-na0040nr
Besides being a bestselling device among students and light users, this device features a light and durable construction that makes it ideal for on the go work.
The device is powered by the MediaTek – MT8183 processor that enables users to seamlessly switch between gaming, work and creative work within a blink of an eye. The Chrome OS ensures seamless Google experience with hands on responsiveness like never before.
As for the display, the Chromebook is equipped with an 11.6” HD display with 178-degrees wide-viewing angles to enjoy every last bit of entertainment.
It is also integrated with 32GB eMMC of storage and 4GB RAM for superior usage. Also, the combination of the CPU and GPU is done in a way to save battery over the course of your usage.
7. Samsung Chromebook 4 Laptop Under $200
The device features a compact and lightweight design with a 13.3” display that makes it easier for you to carry the device around without any heavy-lifting.
The exterior of the device is backed with military-grade durability as well.
The device is integrated with multiple layers of built-in anti-virus protection for advanced security from the get-go. The best thing about this device is the longer battery life of up to 12.5 hours.
Even for such an affordable price range, it sure doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the performance and productivity. The device is also Google Assistant enabled and runs on the Chrome OS for seamless user experience.
It is equipped with the 801.11ac type wireless connectivity with 4GB RAM for memory options. As for the processor, the device runs on the Intel Celeron N4000 processor.
8. HP 14a-na0020nr Chromebook
The HP 14a-na0020nr Chromebook is a pretty affordable device that has a compact design that lets you carry it around when you are on the go
It is equipped with a multi-touch touchpad along with a backlit keyboard that keeps your productivity in check.
As for the performance, the device is powered by the latest Intel processor and a 14” display that lets you enjoy the visuals without any hindrance. The device is also manufactured with environmentally conscious material, especially with the low halogen and mercury-free display panel.
The device is also equipped with 32GB eMMC and 4GB RAM for memory, making it a suitable option for students. The stunning and lightweight design of the device makes it a worthy purchase if you are on a budget.
9. Lenovo Chromebook Duet
It is a multi-purpose Chromebook that can be used as a laptop and as a tablet, whenever you need it.
The device is backed with a stunning plug and play keyboard that makes it easier for you to work around it whenever the need be.
The device features a compact 10.1” FHD IPS display with 1080p screen resolution for crisp and clear visuals. It is powered by the MediaTek Helio P60T processor for a fast and secure performance and productivity throughout the day.
The display is integrated with smooth 10-point multi-touch touchscreen, enabling you to use it in the tablet mode too.
The Chromebook is backed with 64GB eMMC SSD for storage and 4GB RAM for memory options. It runs on the Chrome OS.
10. Lenovo IdeaPad 1 (11”, AMD) Laptop Under $200
Aside from the compact 11” display, the device also comes with a compact and lightweight design that makes it easier for you to carry around.
Paired with the AMD processor, the device is backed with up to 7 hours of battery life, which is pretty amazing, especially when it comes to longer hours of performance and productivity. As for the storage and memory, it is integrated with 64 GB eMMC and 4GB RAM for memory options.
As for the operating system, it is equipped with the Windows 10 Home in S mode for all-day productivity. The display panel is designed with 768p screen resolution with an anti-glare feature to keep your vision protected.
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Is a Sub-$200 Laptop a Good Fit to Your Lifestyle?
Thanks to low-cost components (that still manage to be high-quality) and manufacturers who prioritize cost-effectiveness, the marketplace now offers several laptops that cost under $200 or thereabouts. But how far will such products benefit you? Well, they are likely to adapt to your lifestyle if you come under one of these user groups:
- Students: Do you use your laptop primarily for note-taking and homework assignments? These laptops can be excellent choices, saving you precious dollars that can go toward numerous other college expenses. (Note: This won’t work if you are majoring in arts, software development, or any other course that demands you to perform CPU-intensive operations on your computer.)
- Professionals: Unless you are a creative professional, a techie, or someone who must run complicated software regularly, these basic laptops are good enough for regular needs like checking e-mail, browsing the internet, and taking voice or video calls.
- Travelers: Since these laptops focus the most on portability and ease of use, they will be perfect travel companions. You can carry them on vacations, using them to stay connected, entertained, and backed up.
- Budget-watchers: This category undoubtedly covers a lot of people, making cheap laptops good options for first computing devices, gifting, home-based use, etc. You don’t have to pay a bomb, but your basic functions are sorted. After all, not everyone wants to use their computer as a one-stop device to replace cameras, hard disks, projection screens, and the kitchen sink.
Must-Have Features in Cheap Laptops Under $200
What features can cheap, ho-hum laptops really bring to you? First off: do not give in to this line of thought. Do not let a brand convince you that $200 is hardly enough money to cover the basics. Today, a sum of $200 can make you the proud owner of a laptop that caters to everyday processing needs without requiring you to break the bank. You only have to look out for these essentials:
- Processor and OS: Look for a speedy processor (e.g., Intel dual-core or quad-core) and a smart operating system like Chrome OS or Windows 10. This will facilitate daily computing tasks like opening documents and presentations or navigating through multiple browser tabs.
- RAM and Storage: As far as possible, don’t settle for anything under 4GB RAM and 32GB of storage. You need this kind of memory to keep the booting and loading times manageable. Of course, storage can usually be supplemented by external drives and the cloud.
- Display: Most laptops in this price point offer HD screens. Some also provide anti-glare panels and features such as night mode or color adjustment. If your computer has inbuilt USB ports and HDMI (as it should), you will be able to connect to external displays and expand your viewing horizons.
- Battery Life: Scout for laptops that offer at least 6–8 hours of unplugged juice. Since you will be carrying these laptops around, you need not be shackled to power stations all the time.
- Build and Portability: This will depend on the form factor you choose, with 11” laptops being among the lightest. Ask for notebooks that are sturdy yet lightweight. Just because you are purchasing an inexpensive laptop does not mean you must settle for unwieldy, drab machines.
Closing Note
With changing times and rising expenses, the demand for cheap laptops has escalated. They are coveted especially by audiences that want to own reliable computing companions that satisfactorily perform everyday tasks.
These devices may not offer the fancy, flashy features of their pricier counterparts, but then not everyone demands those features or is willing to pay a premium for them. In light of this market dynamic, computing brands are now competing in budget laptops.
You will find devices aspiring to outdo each other: a more powerful CPU in a more compact chassis, a shinier display with longer hours on a single charge, and so on.
If you have been eying a cheap laptop for a while, the time is now ripe to take the plunge. The market abounds in products with varied focus areas.
For instance, while the ASUS Laptop L210 is ideal for seekers of good battery backup, you can consider the Acer Chromebook Spin if your requirement is design flexibility. Laptops such as #3 and #4 are also good, all-rounder choices that can slip into different shoes on different occasions.
Make a careful bucket-list of your priorities and choose accordingly; you are almost certain to find something that gets your needs.
