In today’s digital age, owning a laptop is no longer a luxury but a necessity. A laptop is essential whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who enjoys browsing the web. However, not everyone has the budget to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on the latest tech. Fortunately, budget-friendly options are available, and in this guide, we’ll explore the best laptops under $200. These laptops are perfect for those who need a functional device without breaking the bank.
Why Consider a Laptop Under $200?
Before diving into the specific models, it’s essential to understand why a budget laptop might be the right choice for you. Laptops under $200 offer:
- Affordability: Perfect for those on a tight budget.
- Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry around.
- Basic Functionality: Ideal for tasks like browsing, word processing, and streaming.
- Good Battery Life: Many budget laptops offer decent battery life, making them perfect for on-the-go use.
What to Expect from a Laptop Under $200
While these laptops are affordable, they come with certain limitations. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations:
- Limited Processing Power: Suitable for basic tasks but not for gaming or heavy multitasking.
- Basic Build Quality: Durable but may not have premium materials.
- Minimal Storage: Usually equipped with 32GB to 64GB of eMMC storage.
- Smaller Screen Size: Typically 11 to 14 inches with HD resolution.
Let’s explore the top laptops under $200, including their key features, benefits, and drawbacks.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a laptop in this price range, it’s essential to prioritize certain features to get the best value for your money.
Processor
The processor is the heart of your laptop, determining how well it performs. In the under $200 category, you’ll typically find Intel Celeron or MediaTek processors. These processors are sufficient for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and using office applications.
RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for multitasking. Most laptops in this price range come with 4GB of RAM. While this is adequate for light multitasking, it’s not ideal for running multiple heavy applications simultaneously.
Storage
Budget laptops often come with 32GB to 64GB of eMMC storage. This is enough for basic use, but you’ll need to rely on cloud storage or external drives for additional space.
Battery Life
One of the advantages of budget laptops is their often impressive battery life. Many models offer 8 to 10 hours of usage on a single charge, making them perfect for work or study on the go.
Screen Size and Resolution
Most laptops under $200 come with 11 to 14-inch screens with HD resolution. While you won’t get ultra-sharp visuals, the display quality is sufficient for everyday tasks like watching videos and browsing the web.
Portability
Laptops in this price range are usually lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around. This portability is ideal for students and professionals who need a device they can take with them.
Operating System
Many budget laptops run on Chrome OS, which is a lightweight and user-friendly operating system. Some models may come with Windows 10 in S mode, offering a more traditional experience with limited functionality.
Top 5 Laptops Under $200
Now that we’ve covered what to expect, let’s dive into the top 5 laptops under $200. Each of these models offers a unique set of features, benefits, and drawbacks, making them suitable for different types of users.
1. HP Chromebook 11
The HP Chromebook 11 is a compact and affordable laptop that’s perfect for students and casual users. It runs on Chrome OS, which means it’s designed for efficiency and ease of use. Let’s take a closer look at what this laptop offers.
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Celeron N3350
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 32GB eMMC
- Screen Size: 11.6 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Operating System: Chrome OS
Benefits:
- Portability: Weighing just 2.5 pounds, the HP Chromebook 11 is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around. It’s perfect for students who need a device they can take to class or the library.
- Battery Life: With up to 10 hours of battery life, this laptop can last through a full day of classes or work without needing to be recharged.
- Durability: The HP Chromebook 11 is built to withstand everyday wear and tear. Its durable design makes it a reliable choice for students and anyone who needs a laptop that can handle a few bumps and drops.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Storage: With only 32GB of eMMC storage, you’ll quickly run out of space if you plan to store large files. However, you can use cloud storage or an external hard drive to supplement this.
- Basic Display: The 11.6-inch HD display is adequate for most tasks, but don’t expect vibrant colors or ultra-sharp images.
Ideal For:
Students and casual users need a portable, reliable laptop for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and writing papers.
2. Lenovo Chromebook S330
The Lenovo Chromebook S330 is a step up from the HP Chromebook 11 in terms of screen size and display quality. It’s designed for users who want a bit more screen real estate without compromising on portability.
Key Features:
- Processor: MediaTek MT8173C
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 32GB eMMC
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Operating System: Chrome OS
Benefits:
- Full HD Display: One of the standout features of the Lenovo Chromebook S330 is its 14-inch Full HD display. This makes it a great choice for watching videos, browsing the web, and working on documents.
- Good Performance: The MediaTek processor provides decent performance for everyday tasks. It’s not the fastest laptop out there, but it gets the job done for most users.
- Port Selection: This Chromebook comes with a good selection of ports, including USB-C, USB 3.0, and an HDMI port, allowing you to connect it to an external monitor or other peripherals easily.
Drawbacks:
- Limited RAM: Like most laptops in this price range, the Lenovo Chromebook S330 comes with 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for light multitasking but not ideal for running multiple heavy applications at once.
- Build Quality: While the build quality is decent, it’s not as durable as some of the other models on this list.
Ideal For:
Users who want a slightly larger screen for watching videos or working on documents without sacrificing portability. It’s a good choice for casual users and students alike.
3. ASUS VivoBook L203MA
The ASUS VivoBook L203MA is one of the most portable laptops on this list. It’s designed for users who need a lightweight, compact device for on-the-go use. Despite its small size, it offers decent performance for everyday tasks.
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Celeron N4000
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB eMMC
- Screen Size: 11.6 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 in S mode
Benefits:
- Ultra-Portable: The ASUS VivoBook L203MA weighs just 2.2 pounds and is incredibly thin, making it easy to slip into a backpack or briefcase. It’s perfect for users who need a laptop they can carry around all day without feeling weighed down.
- Storage: Unlike most laptops in this price range, the ASUS VivoBook L203MA comes with 64GB of eMMC storage. While still not a lot, it’s double what most other budget laptops offer, giving you more space for files and applications.
- Full-Size Keyboard: Despite its small size, this laptop features a full-size keyboard, making it comfortable to type on for extended periods.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Performance: The Intel Celeron N4000 processor is adequate for basic tasks, but don’t expect it to handle more demanding applications or heavy multitasking.
- Basic Display: The 11.6-inch HD display is similar to what you’ll find on other budget laptops. It’s adequate but not exceptional.
Ideal For:
Travelers and professionals who need a compact, lightweight laptop for on-the-go use. It’s also a good option for students who want a portable device for taking notes and doing research.
4. Acer Aspire 1
The Acer Aspire 1 is a well-rounded budget laptop that offers a bit more storage than most of its competitors. It’s designed for users who need a reliable, affordable device for everyday tasks.
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Celeron N4020
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB eMMC
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 in S mode
Benefits:
- Larger Screen: The Acer Aspire 1 features a 14-inch HD display, giving you more screen real estate for watching videos, browsing the web, and working on documents.
- Storage: With 64GB of eMMC storage, you have more space for files and applications than most other laptops in this price range. You can also expand storage with an SD card or external drive.
- Solid Build Quality: The Acer Aspire 1 is well-built for a budget laptop, with a sturdy chassis that can withstand everyday use.
Drawbacks:
- Basic Performance: The Intel Celeron N4020 processor is suitable for basic tasks, but don’t expect it to handle more demanding applications or heavy multitasking.
- Limited Upgrade Options: Like most budget laptops, the Acer Aspire 1 has limited upgrade options, so you’ll need to make do with the included specs.
Ideal For:
Students, casual users, and anyone who needs a reliable, affordable laptop for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and working on documents.
5. Samsung Chromebook 4
The Samsung Chromebook 4 is another excellent option for users who prefer Chrome OS. It’s a sleek, compact laptop that offers good performance for its price and is perfect for those who need a basic, reliable device.
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Celeron N4000
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 32GB eMMC
- Screen Size: 11.6 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 12.5 hours
- Operating System: Chrome OS
Benefits:
- Long Battery Life: One of the standout features of the Samsung Chromebook 4 is its impressive battery life. With up to 12.5 hours of usage on a single charge, you can use this laptop all day without worrying about finding a power outlet.
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing just 2.6 pounds, this laptop is easy to carry around, making it perfect for students and professionals who need a portable device.
- Good Performance: The Intel Celeron N4000 processor offers decent performance for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and using office applications.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Storage: With only 32GB of eMMC storage, you’ll need to rely on cloud storage or an external drive for additional space.
- Basic Display: The 11.6-inch HD display is adequate for most tasks, but don’t expect vibrant colors or ultra-sharp images.
Ideal For:
Students, professionals, and casual users who need a portable, reliable laptop with long battery life for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and working on documents.
How to Get the Most Out of a Laptop Under $200
Optimizing Performance
While these laptops aren’t designed for heavy-duty tasks, you can still optimize their performance by:
- Closing Unnecessary Tabs and Applications: Keeping too many tabs or applications open can slow down your laptop. Close anything you’re not using to free up resources.
- Using Lightweight Applications: Stick to lightweight applications that don’t require a lot of processing power. For example, use Google Docs instead of Microsoft Word.
- Regularly Updating Your System: Keep your operating system and applications up to date to ensure you’re getting the best performance and security.
Extending Battery Life
To extend your laptop’s battery life, try the following:
- Lowering Screen Brightness: Reducing screen brightness is one of the easiest ways to extend battery life.
- Turning Off Unnecessary Features: Turn off features like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you’re not using them to conserve power.
- Using Power-Saving Modes: Many laptops come with power-saving modes that can help extend battery life by reducing performance.
Upgrading Storage and RAM
While most budget laptops don’t allow for extensive upgrades, you can sometimes add more storage via an SD card or external hard drive. For RAM, check if the model supports upgrades before purchasing.
Using Cloud Storage
Given the limited internal storage, utilizing cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox can be a game-changer. This allows you to save space on your device while keeping your files accessible from anywhere.
Regular Maintenance
Keeping your laptop in good condition can help extend its lifespan. Regularly clean the keyboard and screen, avoid overloading the storage, and keep the system free of unnecessary files.
Potential Drawbacks of Laptops Under $200
Limited Processing Power
Laptops in this price range are not designed for heavy-duty tasks like video editing or gaming. They’re best suited for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, and using office applications.
Lower Build Quality
Budget laptops often use cheaper materials, which might not be as durable as higher-end models. Handle them with care to extend their lifespan.
Restricted Software Compatibility
You might find that certain software applications require more power than these laptops can provide. For example, high-end games or professional software might not run smoothly, if at all.
Conclusion
In conclusion, laptops under $200 can be a fantastic option for the right user. They’re ideal for basic tasks, offer decent performance, and are incredibly portable. While they come with some limitations, the value they offer at this price point is hard to beat. Whether you’re a student, a casual user, or someone who needs a secondary laptop for light use, the options listed here provide a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Play Games on a Laptop Under $200?
While these laptops aren’t built for gaming, you can still enjoy casual games like Solitaire or browser-based games. For more intense gaming, you’ll need a more powerful machine.
Is a $200 Laptop Good for Students?
Absolutely! These laptops are perfect for students who need a device for note-taking, research, and writing papers. They’re lightweight, making them easy to carry around campus.
How Long Will a Laptop Under $200 Last?
With proper care, these laptops can last for several years. However, they might not keep up with software updates as long as more expensive models.
What Are the Best Brands for Budget Laptops?
Brands like Lenovo, HP, and ASUS offer some of the best options in this price range. They have a track record of producing reliable and affordable laptops.
Can I Upgrade Components in a Budget Laptop?
Upgrading components like RAM and storage is often limited in budget laptops. Always check the specifications to see if upgrades are possible before purchasing.
