The Best Budget Work Laptops For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, 15.6 inches Full HD IPS Display, AMD Ryzen 3 3200U, Vega 3 Graphics
Image credit: Amazon.com

What is the best laptop for graphic designers, writers and anyone who needs to create content all day long? The answer depends on what it is you need to get done. If you’re a digital draftsman, then a desktop or a more powerful laptop with lots of RAM is what you need. If you do most of your work online in office suites like Microsoft Office or Google Docs then a new laptop with a good screen resolution is best for that type of work.

If you need something to take notes on when brainstorming ideas or if you have to share your work from different applications, then the best budget laptops are the ones for you. In this post we’ll look at the best laptops for graphic designers, writers and anyone who needs to create and edit content all day long.

Our team spent about 16 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, 15.6 inches Full HD IPS Display, AMD Ryzen 3 3200U, Vega 3 Graphics is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

  • 802.11ac Wi-Fi; Backlit Keyboard; Up to 7.5 hours battery life
  • Windows 10 in S mode. Maximum power supply wattage: 65 Watts
  • AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual Core Processor (Up to 3.5GHz); 4GB DDR4 Memory; 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD
  • 15.6 inches full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED backlit IPS display; AMD Radeon Vega 3 Mobile Graphics
  • 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, 2 USB 2.0 ports & 1 HDMI port with HDCP support
  • Windows 10 in S Mode with One Year of Microsoft 365 Personal
  • Slim and Portable: 0.7” thin and weighs only 2.2 lbs (battery included)
  • 64GB eMMC Flash Storage and 4GB DDR4 RAM
  • 11.6” HD (1366 x 768) Slim Display
  • Efficient Intel Celeron N4020 Processor (4M Cache, up to 2.8 GHz)
  • Visibly Stunning: Experience sharp details and crisp colors on the 15.6" Full HD display with 82.58% screen-to-body, 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels
  • Secure Operating System: Windows 11 Home (S Mode) comes with advanced security features built right in, like protections against phishing and malicious software so you don't have to think twice when navigating to a new webpage or downloading an app
  • Ergonomic Typing: Ergonomically-designed hinge lifts the keyboard for comfortable typing, improved cooling, and a better sound experience
  • Internal Specifications: 4GB DDR4 on-board memory (1 slot available); 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage (1 hard drive bay available) to store your files and media
  • What's In the Box: Acer Aspire Laptop, AC Adapter, Power Cord
  • Powerful Productivity: 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor delivers unmatched speed and intelligence, enabling impressive creating, productivity, and gaming experiences. With Turbo Boost Technology, get up to 4.1GHz for your high-demand applications
  • Ports For All Your Accessories: USB 3.2 Type-C, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 (1 Power-off Charging), USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0 with HDCP support, headphone, speaker, line-out jack, Ethernet (RJ-45), DC-in for AC adapter
  • Using Alexa on your PC is as easy as asking a question. Just ask and Alexa can check your calendar, create lists, play music, answer questions, read the news and more.
  • Acer's Purified.Voice technology, features enhanced digital signal processing to cancel out background noise, improve speech accuracy and far-field pickup, which not only makes calls clearer, but makes talking to Alexa easier than before.
  • The IdeaPad 3 14-inch laptop has 4-side narrow bezels that let you see more of the FHD (1920 x 1080) screen for wider viewing angles and less clutter
  • Quieter and cooler with intelligent thermals, plus you can calibrate performance with Q-control, with 3 modes to match your performance needs
  • Powerhouse performance from AMD Ryzen 5 5500U mobile processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB SSD storage, and AMD Radeon 7 Graphics
  • Includes free 3-month trial of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate - Play over 100 high-quality PC games on Windows PC; includes iconic Bethesda games, new day one titles, and the EA Play on PC catalog
  • Protect your webcam lens and guarantee your privacy with the built-in privacy shutter
  • WiFi 6 (2x2 802.11 ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, plus USB, USB-C, and HDMI ports
  • 【AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Mobile Processor】Create. Play. Work. Educate. Entertain. The possibilities are infinite. Be anywhere, go anywhere. Powers ultrathin notebooks that offer supreme performance, astonishing battery life, and modern features you need on-the-go.
  • 【15.6" FHD Anti-glare micro-edge Display】The 1920 x 1080 resolution boasts impressive color and clarity. The thin and lightweight laptop packs a 6.5 mm micro-edge bezel display to showcase your media in high definition.
  • 【Upgraded to 16GB system memory for advanced multitasking】Substantial high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run your games and photo and video-editing applications, as well as multiple programs and browser tabs all at once.
  • 【AMD Radeon graphics】Get world-class performance with AMD Radeon graphics, designed to deliver breathtakingly lifelike visuals, new levels of immersion, and must-have features for the ultimate entertainment experience.
  • 【Upgraded to 512GB SSD Storage】Boot up in seconds, get to files faster, and have room for loads of files with the lightning-quick solid state drive.
  • Maximized Visuals: See even more on the stunning 15.6" Full HD display with 82.58% screen-to-body, 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels
  • Acer's Purified.Voice technology, features enhanced digital signal processing to cancel out background noise, improve speech accuracy and far-field pickup, which not only makes calls clearer, but makes talking to Alexa easier than before.
  • Ports For All Your Accessories: USB 3.2 Type-C, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 (1 Power-off Charging), USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0 with HDCP support, headphone speaker line-out jack, Ethernet (RJ-45), DC-in for AC adapter
  • Using Alexa on your PC is as easy as asking a question. Just ask and Alexa can check your calendar, create lists, play music, answer questions, read the news and more.
  • Backlit Keyboard and Fingerprint Reader: Biometric fingerprint reader and Windows Hello sign-in options help keep your Acer PC secure
  • Connections: 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 Dual-Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz featuring MU-MIMO technology; 10 100 1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN; Bluetooth 5.1
  • Secure Operating System: Windows 10 Home (S mode) comes with advanced security features built right in, like protections against phishing and malicious software so you don't have to think twice when navigating to a new webpage or downloading an app
  • Internal Specifications: 4GB DDR4 on-board memory (1 slot available); 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage (1 hard drive bay available) to store your files and media
  • Powerful Productivity: AMD Ryzen 3 3350U delivers desktop-class performance and amazing battery life in a slim notebook. With Precision Boost, get up to 3.5GHz for your high-demand applications
  • 8 GB DDR4 RAM and 128 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
  • Comprehensive connections including USB 3.2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-A, USB 2.0, and HDMI; Gigabit Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) (USB Transfer speed may vary. Learn more at ASUS website)
  • Windows 10 in S mode exclusively runs apps from the Microsoft Store. To install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, simply switch out of S mode in three easy steps. There's no charge to switch out of S mode
  • Compatible with Google Classroom; run Google Classroom on Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer 11
  • Exclusive Ergolift design for an improved typing position
  • Ergonomic backlit keyboard with fingerprint sensor activated via Windows Hello
  • Latest 10th Gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 CPU (4M Cache, up to 3.4 GHz)
  • 15.6 inch Full HD (1920x1080) 4-way NanoEdge bezel display with a stunning 88% screen-to-body ratio
  • Up to 10 Hours of battery life means you can transition from morning meetings to evening entertainment without plugging in.
  • 14-inch diagonal HD, SVA, anti-glare, micro-edge, WLED-backlit, (1366 x 768) Display. Gives you the space and clarity you need to get your work done. Weighs 3.24 lbs. and measures 0.8" thin Ultrathin and ultralight for maximum portability, featuring a smaller screen size.
  • RAM is upgraded to 16GB DDR4 SDRAM for multitasking Adequate high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. 512GB solid state drive (SSD) While offering less storage space than a hard drive, a flash-based SSD has no moving parts, resulting in faster start-up times and data access, no noise, and reduced heat production and power draw on the battery.
  • AMD Athlon Mobile Processor with Radeon Graphics. AMD Athlon Silver 3050U (2.3 GHz, up to 3.2 GHz). Get more done faster on a reliable laptop that can keep up with your everyday tasks.
  • Windows 10 Home in S mode, You may switch to regular windows 10: Press "Start button" bottom left of the screen; Select "Settings" icon above "power" icon;Select Update & Security and 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.)
  • UNSTOPPABLE PERFORMANCE – Get things done fast with the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, which delivers instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity (4).
  • TAKE IT ANYWHERE – With its thin and light design, 6.5 millimeter micro-edge bezel display, and 82% screen to body ratio, you can take this PC anywhere and see more of what you love (1).
  • OS AND WARRANTY – Do more with greater peace of mind thanks to the familiar feel of the Windows 10 Home operating system and the HP 1-year limited hardware warranty (8).
  • WORK ON THE GO – Get work done on the go with a long battery life of up to 7 hours and 15 minutes (6), while HP Fast Charge lets you go from 0 to 50% charge in approximately 45 minutes (7).
  • ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY – Stay energy-efficient and sustainable with a laptop that is Energy Star certified (14), EPEAT Silver registered (15), and built with a low halogen display (16).
  • REMOTE WORK READY – Enjoy unparalleled work from home efficiency with a fully integrated keyboard, plus MU-MIMO support for multi-device homes. Plus, video chat with vibrant clarity thanks to the HP True Vision 720p HD camera with integrated dual array digital microphones (13).
  • IMPRESSIVE GRAPHICS – The Intel Iris Xe Graphics gives you a new level of performance with crisp, stunning visuals, plus the convenience of a thin and light laptop (3).
  • EFFORTLESSLY CONNECTED – Enjoy a smoother wireless experience with Wi-Fi 6 (2x2) (9) and Bluetooth 5.0 combo (10). All your connections are solid and up to 3x faster file transfer speeds than Wi-Fi 5, now supporting gigabit file transfer speeds (11) (12).
  • REVOLUTIONARY ENTERTAINMENT – Enjoy ultra-wide viewing angles and seamlessly perform multi-monitor set-ups with a 15.6-inch, Full HD, IPS, micro-edge, and anti-glare display (2).
  • MEMORY AND STORAGE – Get up to 15x faster performance than a traditional hard drive with 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage and experience improved multitasking with higher bandwidth thanks to 8 GB of RAM (5).
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best budget work laptops?

Looking for the best budget work laptops requires consideration of many criteria. Product learning varies in type, feature, and customer ranking. Overall, it comes with several difficulties in buying. So, we are available to support you occasionally.

It is beneficial for you to have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose which one is suitable:

RAM

More is better! Your laptop's random-access memory (or RAM) is used to store data, while your processor processes it. Consider RAM your desk. Your desk should have enough space for all the items you are working on. Things will fall from your desk and it won't be possible to work on them. The same goes for RAM. If you don't have enough, you will not be able open more tabs in your browser or complete compiling your video. Your laptop may freeze and require a restart.
For the most part, 8 gigabytes should suffice for Windows users. However upgrading to 16GB will increase your computer's performance and be a requirement for gamers. Before you purchase RAM, make sure it is properly soldered to your motherboard. It is impossible to replace the RAM if it has been soldered.

Understanding Processor Names (CPUs)

After you have an idea of what operating system you prefer and the software that you will be using, it is possible to determine the hardware requirements you need. We recommend starting with the processor. Also known as the chip, or simply the CPU.
Two companies make laptop processors, Intel and AMD.

Processing Power

We recommend a laptop that has an Intel Core i5 8th-generation processor or higher if you are a common user and use a web browser, Microsoft Office Suite, or photo editing software. This would look something like "Intel Core i5-8350U".
An Intel i7 chips is a great upgrade that will improve the performance of your computer. You'll have to consider your requirements and balance the extra power with a shorter battery life. For example, a gaming laptop would require an i7 or i9 chip. However, an i3 and i5 are fine for more demanding tasks.

Webcams And Hinges

A webcam should be included on every laptop. There are some laptops that do not have a webcam in 2021. Most webcams still have 720p resolution, particularly oner laptops. This is fine for those who don't use it often, however, Zoom has become a common way of life and you may be more comfortable with a 1080p webcam.

Operating System

You must first determine which OS (operating system) is best for your needs before you start looking at laptops. You can determine what hardware you require by thinking about the software that you use and which operating system it runs.

Battery Life

People buy a laptop because they want to be mobile. The battery is an essential component of a laptop. It is not a good idea to have your laptop plugged into a wall or to worry about the battery dying and preventing you from being able to continue working. It doesn't matter what battery quality you have, there are many factors that can cause your battery to drain quicker, such as the size of the RAM and how frequently the processor is used.

Form Factor

The term "form factor" refers to the physical size and configuration of a computer in computing. A laptop's form factor is obviously different from a desktop computer. What form factor suits your requirements best? The clamshell design factor is the most common for laptops. They are rectangular in shape and open to 90 degrees.

Hard Drive

Your data will be stored on your hard drive. This is the file cabinet that you keep next to your desk. Although solid-state drives (SSD) are the most popular choice, some laptops with lower budgets use spinning drives.
If you have the funds, consider an SSD drive. It should be at least 256 gigabytes. SSDs perform faster than older standards like SATA, particularly if you use NVMe. This allows data to be transferred from the drive quickly.

Graphics Card

Although all laptops have graphics cards, some are integrated into the motherboard along with the processor. This is called "integrated graphics", and it's fine for most people. It will be possible to view HD movies, as well as play casual games with no problem.

Ports

The CPU, RAM and hard drives will all have the greatest impact on the performance of your computer. However, it is important to consider the number and type of ports available on your machine. The various methods of connecting things to your laptop's computer, such as USB devices and charging them, are called ports.
At least one USB-C and at most one USB-A are required, as well as a microphone/headset connector. You should also consider USB-C charging and an SD reader.

FAQs

What's The Best Laptop For Home, Travel, Or Both?

Many people's work habits were affected by the pandemic. People who used laptops to travel frequently may find that these ultra-portable devices are no longer suitable for home work. You might prefer a larger display and more power to play games than a long-lasting battery.
Consider a 15.6 inch laptop or bigger if you plan to use your laptop for work and do not need to move it around much.
Travel with a 13- or 14 inch laptop or two in one is the best option. These laptops are the most lightweight and compact, but they still provide excellent battery life.

Which Laptops Last The Longest?

A good laptop should last between three and five years depending on the type of notebook you purchase. An ultrabook or business notebook, as well as a MacBook, will last longer and feel better than an inexpensive laptop under $500 with only a plastic body and basic processing. A laptop you use primarily around your home will last longer than one you take with you on trips. It is easier to add more storage and memory to business laptops and photo editing laptops to prolong their life expectancy. Gaming laptops will be more worn than any other types of laptops, as new 3D gaming apps are becoming increasingly demanding.

Are Chromebooks Worth It?

They are indeed, but not suitable for all users. Google Chrome OS, which Google launched 10 years ago, has made a lot of progress. Chromebooks are laptops running on Chrome OS that can be used for web browsing or mobile applications. These laptops are simple to use, secure and affordable. They can only run Windows and Mac software natively.

Which Is Better, MacOS Or Windows?

Personal preference and financial budget will determine which laptop is best for you.
There are many software options between them, so you shouldn't have to choose one. A Windows laptop has the advantage of gaming.
MacOS can also be used more easily and safely than Windows. This is especially true for those who need their computer to do the work.

How Much RAM Do I Need?

For most users, we recommend at least 8GB. This should suffice for most web browsing tasks, spreadsheet editing, occasional photo and video editing, as well as basic web browsing. If you use Adobe Photoshop and Premiere regularly, play 3D drafting or work in app or web development, you might consider upgrading to 16GB. You can not add more memory to laptops after they are purchased. This usually costs $100 to $200.

Which Laptop Is Best For Gaming Or Creating?

Any laptop can be used to create and play games. However, the component of the laptop will determine the content and speed with which it is played and created.
You don't require a gaming laptop to play casual web-based games.
You will need more money to buy discrete graphics such as Nvidia's RTX 30 series GPUs.
Gaming screens should have a 120Hz refresh rate or higher to make games run smoothly. Displays that can display 100% of the sRGB colour space are ideal for content creation.

Do I Need A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)?

To create images on your computer's screen, graphics cards are used in conjunction with the CPU. Many desktops have integrated graphics units (IGU) These units are very simple and will handle basic tasks. They are not sufficient to handle games and other complex computing. Many gamers opt for IGUs with dedicated gaming hardware. It improves performance as well as portability.

The list of best budget work laptops is updated frequently to approach the latest information. Please check our website to get any changes and additions usually.

Would you like to be given practical support about best budget work laptops of 2024? Our customer service department is always here to assist you. Please contact us as soon as possible whenever you need.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.