Best Laptop Under 350 Dollars | Is An Affordable Laptop Any Good?
Empire Laptops is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
Yes, great laptops can fit your budget. Do you have to sacrifice quality if you don’t want to break the bank?
Looking for a great laptop without spending a fortune? Finding a good laptop that doesn’t break the bank can be hard. Most laptops in this price range are low quality, have outdated specs, and come with many compromises – like a small screen, low-powered processor, or limited storage.
The thing is, not all laptops are created equal. You might not get the features you need or want with a cheaper model. It’s not just about the price, but also the features and specifications you need to get your work done. You want something powerful enough to work without lag but not so expensive that it’ll break the bank.
Check out our list of the 6 best laptops under 350 dollars! These budget laptops have been hand-picked by our team and have some great features that will suit the needs of most consumers. Whether you are looking for a laptop for work, school, or entertainment, we have you covered!
Keep reading to learn more about each laptop and find the perfect one for you!
Best Laptops Under 350 Dollars | Comparison Table
CLICK the image to see ratings and reviews on Amazon
| Image | Title | Buy | Empire Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | ASUS E410 14" Laptop | Buy Now | Best Laptop under $350 |
 | Acer Chromebook Spin 311 | Buy Now | Best Chromebook under $350 |
 | HP Stream 11 | Buy Now | Best Windows Laptop under 350 Dollars |
 | SAMSUNG Galaxy Chromebook 4 | Buy Now | Best Cheap Laptop |
 | ASUS Chromebook CX1 | Buy Now | Best Budget Laptop under $350 |
 | Lenovo Chromebook C330 | Buy Now | Best Chrome OS Laptop under $350 |
Best Laptops Under 350 Dollars | Reviews
1. ASUS E410 14″ Laptop (Best Laptop under $350)
- The ASUS E410 is a budget-friendly laptop that still offers great features. Dual-Core Intel Celeron N4020, 6W TDP ensures efficient performance without sacrificing speed. This laptop can easily handle everyday tasks with a 4MB Cache and a Burst Frequency of 2.80GHz. The ASUS E410 also comes with a Windows 10 operating system for easy navigation and customization.
- With its 14 HD 1366 x 768 pixel display and 178-degree viewing angles, the ASUS E410 is perfect for keeping you productive and engaged during your work or studies. Its slim bezel design allows you to focus on the task at hand while taking up minimal desktop space, and the built-in Intel UHD Graphics 600 ensures that you'll be able to get the most out of your device, whether you're watching videos or working on projects.
- The ASUS E410 packs a lot of punch for its small size and price. With 4GB of high-bandwidth DDR4 memory and 320GB of storage (of which 256GB SSD), it's perfect for smoothly running multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously. You'll work more efficiently and have more room to store your important files.
- The ASUS is a great choice for people looking for a fast, reliable, and affordable wireless connection. With Wi-Fi5 (802.11ac) support, the ASUS E410 can reach speeds up to 3x faster than 802.11n, making it perfect for streaming videos or browsing the web. And with its USB 3.2 Type-C port, you can easily connect devices like external hard drives or flash drives.
2. Acer Chromebook Spin 311 (Best Chromebook under $350)
- Acers Chromebook Spin 311 is perfect for anyone looking for a fast, reliable laptop that doesnt require any software installation or updates. With Google Chrome OS, all your favorite Google apps are built-in, so you can start working right away. Plus, it comes with built-in virus protection and automatic updates, so you can rest easy knowing your data is always safe.
- It features an Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor 1.1GHz and can reach speeds up to 2.8GHz thanks to Intel Burst Technology. Plus, it has 4GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, making it perfect for students or busy professionals on the go.
- The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is a top-of-the-line device with an HD 1366 x 768 resolution display and supports finger touch and image auto rotation. The Antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass multi-touch display is perfect for students, business professionals, and busy families who want a reliable device with a high level of durability.
- With its Intel UHD Graphics 600 and Intel Wireless-AC 9560 802.11ac Gigabit WiFi 5, the Spin 311 can easily handle even the most demanding tasks. The HD webcam (1280 x 720) with an 88-degree wide-angle lens is great for video chats, while the High Dynamic Range ensures clear images even in bright sunlight.
- This impressive device offers two USB Type-C ports, USB 3.1 Gen 1 up to 5 Gbps speeds, and DisplayPort over USB Type-C. Plus, it's equipped with two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports for added convenience.
3. HP Stream 11 (Best Windows Laptop under 350 Dollars)
- If you're looking for a laptop that is both affordable and stylish, the HP Stream 11 is perfect for you. Its high-definition display ensures that you'll be able to enjoy your movies and TV shows in stunning detail, while its lightweight design makes it easy to take with you wherever you go. Plus, its anti-glare panel ensures that you'll be able to use it comfortably, even in bright lighting conditions.
- This device is equipped with a dual Intel Core Celeron N4020 processor that delivers decent performance for the money, as well as an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 that will let you smoothly stream your favorite content and do light gaming.
- The HP Stream 11 is a great option for budget-minded consumers looking for a reliable laptop. With its 64GB of flash drive storage, you'll be able to save your important files, but you will need to expand that if you want to store a lot of multimedia. Plus, its 1.1GHz base frequency and up to 2.8GHz burst clock speed make it a quick device that can handle some multitasking.
- It features Windows 11 Home, which provides faster bootup times and increased responsiveness. Plus, with added protection against phishing and malware, you can rest easy knowing your data is safe. And with a 1-year limited hardware warranty, you can enjoy even more peace of mind.
4. SAMSUNG Galaxy Chromebook 4 (Best Cheap Laptop)
- Looking for a powerful, compact Chromebook? Look no further than the Samsung Chromebook 4. This device has an 11.6-inch TN LCD screen and a full-sized keyboard and trackpad, perfect for on-the-go use. It's also equipped with an Intel Celeron Processor N4000, integrated Intel HD Graphics, and 4GB of system memory, so you can get work done quickly and easily. Plus, its 64GB eMMC storage ensures that you'll have plenty of room to store your files.
- It's thin, light, and tough - perfect for taking anywhere. Plus, it comes with a full-sized keyboard and trackpad, so you can be productive no matter where you are.
- With its Gigabit WiFi connection, you can stream or download files rapidly. The multiple layers of built-in virus protection help safeguard your information against malicious malware. Plus, automatic updates keep your security software up to date.
5. ASUS Chromebook CX1 (Best Budget Laptop under $350)
- We know what you're thinking. Why should I buy a Chromebook when I can use my phone or tablet? Heres why:
- The ASUS Chromebook CX1 is a streamlined and stylish device perfect for anyone looking for an affordable and portable computer. Powered by the Intel Celeron N3350 Processor, this device can handle all your basic needs, making it the perfect choice for students or busy professionals on the go. With its sleek design, the ASUS Chromebook CX1 can easily be taken anywhere, making it ideal for work or travel.
- This Chromebook can handle all your everyday computing needs with 32GB eMMC and 4GB RAM. And with WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, you can easily stay connected to the internet and your devices.
- ASUS Chromebook CX1 is the perfect device for on-the-go productivity. With its 11.6 inch HD display, you can easily work on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Featuring an HD 1366x768 display and ultra-narrow bezels, the ASUS Chromebook CX1 is perfect for immersive visuals. With a matte anti-glare coating that helps reduce distracting reflections, this Chromebook is ideal for on-the-go productivity.
- With its 180° lay-flat hinge, the CX1 can be opened and laid completely flat on a desk or table, making it easy to share ideas, visuals, and more. And because Chrome OS powers it, you'll be able to access your favorite apps and online tools without any hassle.
- With its two full-function reversible USB-C ports, it's easy to charge or connect to peripherals and displays. And with its standard USB 3.2 Type-A port and microSD slot, you'll have extensive connectivity options.
- The ASUS Chromebook CX1 is perfect for anyone who wants a laptop with a comfortable keyboard. Its spill-resistant keyboard means that you don't have to worry about spills or accidents, and its 1.5 mm key travel ensures that typing is supremely comfortable.
6. Lenovo Chromebook C330 (Best Chrome OS Laptop under $350)
- Weighing in at just over 2 pounds, the Lenovo Chromebook C330 is perfect for everyday computing and entertainment. You can use it as a traditional laptop or flip the screen around to use it as a tablet. Plus, its 360-degree hinge means you can easily adjust it to the perfect viewing angle. The 11-inch touchscreen display is bright and clear, making it perfect for watching movies or browsing the web. And since it runs on Chrome OS, you can count on speed, security, and easy updates.
- The Lenovo Chromebook C330 is perfect for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable computer that easily handles basic tasks. With its fast processing, 4GB DDR3 memory, and 64GB eMMC storage, the Chromebook C330 is designed to deliver the performance you can count on. Plus, its sleek and compact design makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.
- Experience easy, breezy computing with the Lenovo Chromebook C330. This snappy device has a USB-C, SD, and USB 3.0 port so you can connect to all your favorite devices. Plus, powerful WiFi with Bluetooth 4.1 lets you stay connected to your loved ones.
- The Lenovo Chromebook C330 is a 2-in-1 laptop thats easy to use and perfect for anyone who wants a fast, virus-protected device with long battery life. With no setup needed, log in with your Google account, you can start using your Chromebook C330 right away.
Video: Chromebook vs Laptop – What Is The Difference?
Best Laptops Under $350 | Buyers Guide
As with any budget laptop, it won’t come with all the features of a top-spec design or be your primary device if you have specific computing needs. That being said, if you’re looking for a good, all-purpose laptop to browse the web, check email, do some light word processing or spreadsheet work, watch movies and TV shows, listen to music, and maybe play a few basic games, then one of these six laptops should fit your needs.
For shoppers that are looking for the best laptop under $350, the most important features to look for are:
Processor
The faster the processor can handle your tasks, the more responsive your laptop will be, and that means you’ll be able to get more done in less time. Most of these laptops come with an Intel Celeron Processor, which is powerful enough to run Windows programs and basic apps. They aren’t the latest chips on the market, but they’re still powerful enough for most people’s needs.
RAM
Random-access memory, or RAM, is important for multitasking and running multiple programs simultaneously. Look for a laptop with at least four gigabytes of RAM if you plan on doing any multitasking or gaming, although 8GB RAM is now seen as the standard.
Storage Size
The storage size of your laptop will determine how many files and programs you can store. For most people, a 64GB SSD is more than enough storage for basic tasks like browsing the web or checking email. You must also consider whether the laptop comes with a mechanical hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) because there’s a direct correlation between speed, durability, and overall performance. We would recommend an SSD any day of the week, and thankfully, most of the laptops we reviewed have SSDs.
Screen Size
The screen size is mostly a matter of personal preference and depends on how you plan to use your laptop. If you plan to use it for travel or take notes in class, then a smaller 11-inch display will be fine. However, if you need something larger, like a 14-inch display, this is an option. Remember that the larger the screen, the bulkier and potentially less portable your laptop will be.
Battery Life
This will tell you how long your laptop can run on one charge. Since it’s impossible to test battery life in all scenarios and conditions, we suggest you take manufacturer estimates with a grain of salt and consider how long the battery lasts based on your usage patterns. Reading real customer reviews is the best way to gauge how long the battery will last. One of the reasons we reviewed these six models is because their battery performance was above average.
Touchscreen
A touch screen can be a great addition to your laptop if you plan on using it for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, or watching movies. It’s also very useful for Windows Ink-enabled applications that let you take notes and draw directly on the screen with your finger or stylus pen. Having a touchscreen at all, let alone a decent one is likely to be the biggest concession you’ll make in this price range. Think about your needs, what you will use the laptop for and where, so you can decide if this is a feature worth paying more for.
Keyboard and Trackpad
A good keyboard is essential for typing comfortably and accurately. It can also be spill-proof so that accidental spills don’t damage your laptop. The trackpad should be large, smooth, and easy to use. It’s unlikely you’ll find any new models with multi-touch gestures, but at least the trackpad will be smooth and accurate.
Webcam
Most affordable laptops have webcams that are good enough for video chatting with friends or taking a quick selfie, but they’re not high-quality cameras like what you’d find on your smartphone. This is important if you plan to use it for Zoom calls because most laptops have a 720p webcam which isn’t enough for high-quality video.
Operating System
You have a couple of choices here; Windows or Chrome OS.
Windows is a full-featured operating system and gives you access to the Microsoft Store, where there are hundreds of thousands of apps to download and install on your computer. It also includes features like Cortana voice assistant or Windows Ink which lets you take notes with a stylus pen. Windows is compatible with most software, such as Microsoft Office.
Chrome OS is an advanced version of the web browser you’re already using on your phone or tablet that includes apps like Gmail, Google Docs, YouTube, and many more. The biggest advantage to Chrome OS is that it’s lightweight and easy to use, making it perfect for students or people who don’t want to deal with the bloatware that comes on most Windows laptops.
Durability
Laptops in this price range are not as durable as more expensive models, but they’re still made from strong materials and can withstand a few accidental spills or drops. If you’re looking for a laptop that will last for years, you’ll need to spend more money and look for an aluminum chassis rather than plastic.
All of the laptops we reviewed have at least a one-year warranty, so you can rest assured that if something goes wrong, the manufacturer will likely fix it for free.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of these cheap laptops is good, but not great. They all have Intel Core processors and at least four gigabytes of RAM, which means they can handle most basic tasks. If you plan on doing anything more than browsing the web, writing an email, or watching YouTube videos, then you’ll want to look at a pricier laptop with more RAM and storage and Intel Core i3 or higher.
While some of the models reviewed state you can play games on them, you must not consider any of them a gaming laptop per se because they will not have the graphics card needed to play games at a good FPS. If you plan to play games, look for models with dedicated graphics, which are better than integrated GPUs and can handle some basic gaming tasks like Minecraft or Fortnite.
Ports and Connectivity
These are some of the most common ports available on these laptops: USB-A (USB Type A), USB-C (USB Type C), HDMI out, Ethernet, and a headphone jack.
All laptops in this price range come with WiFi connectivity, but some models also have an Ethernet port for when you need to connect to a wired network (not all do!). Make sure the laptop you choose has the ports you need, especially if you plan on using it for work or school. You won’t find any new models with a Thunderbolt connection, so if this is something you need, you’ll either need to spend more money or seek out a renewed model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do budget laptops have good battery life?
The average budget laptop has a battery life of around eight hours, which isn’t bad. You should expect to get about four or five hours on the lower-end models and up to nine hours with the best models reviewed here (they’re not all great, though!). You’ll want to make sure that your device supports fast charging as well, so you can get a few hours of use from just a quick charge. Because these laptops are lower performance-wise, they are not as power-hungry and tend to last longer per charge.
Why are Chromebooks so cheap?
Chromebooks are cheap because they use the Chrome operating system and apps, which don’t require much processing power or storage. This means that manufacturers can make them more affordable than other laptops with similar specs (but higher performance). If you need access to Microsoft Office programs like Word or Excel, these might not be right for you, as Chrome OS does not have a program to open and edit these files.
Is 4GB RAM enough?
Memory is the lifeblood of any device. Most people don’t realize how much they need until it’s not there anymore! That said, four gigabytes should suffice for browsing the web and doing basic work like writing an email or watching YouTube videos. If you want to do more intensive tasks on your computer, upgrade with 8GB or a higher amount to allow better performance when running programs at once without slowing down so drastically during use due to small RAM capacity.
How different are Chromebooks from regular laptops?
Chromebooks are different in a few ways. They run on Google’s operating system, Chrome OS, which is more limited than Windows or macOS because it only allows you to download apps from the Chrome Web Store instead of anywhere like your desktop can do. You also have access to all of Google’s services, including Gmail and Drive, as well as a few other exclusive programs. They’re also cheaper because they don’t require high-powered hardware to run like regular laptops.
Is Chromebook good for students?
Chromebooks are great for students because they’re affordable and have access to all of Google’s services, which can help with school work. They also don’t require high-powered hardware as regular laptops do; this means that you’ll get better battery life than your traditional laptop too! Most also include a fast and responsive touchscreen ideal for design projects or taking notes in lectures.
Can you watch Netflix on a Chromebook?
You can watch Netflix on a Chromebook, but you need an internet connection. The Chrome OS does not support offline viewing of videos without connecting to WiFi first (except for when using YouTube).
Is there any free Windows OS?
Microsoft offers free Windows 10 operating systems for anyone who wants it; however, you have to sign up and create an account. They offer downloads over the internet and physical copies of their software that can be purchased from retailers like Best Buy or Walmart to install on your personal computer.
Conclusion
Budget laptops are a great option for people who don’t need the most high-powered machine or who only use their computers for basic tasks. You can find a laptop that fits your needs and budget, whether you’re looking for something with long battery life, a touchscreen, or more storage space. With so many different models to choose from, we’ve highlighted six of the best laptops under 350 dollars to help get you started on your search.
If you’re looking for a budget laptop, the six laptops reviewed here should suit your needs. We also go over what to look for when purchasing a cheaper laptop and highlight some of the best features these devices offer. Whether you’re a student or need a basic computer for everyday use, we’ve got you covered.
No matter your needs, there’s a new laptop out there that will fit your needs, and we hope our article has given you the confidence to choose the right one for you.
What do you think about our list? Let us know in the comments below! Thanks for reading and happy shopping!
| Image | Title | Buy | Empire Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top | ASUS E410 14" Laptop | Buy Now | Best Laptop under $350 |
| Acer Chromebook Spin 311 | Buy Now | Best Chromebook under $350 |
| HP Stream 11 | Buy Now | Best Windows Laptop under 350 Dollars |
| SAMSUNG Galaxy Chromebook 4 | Buy Now | Best Cheap Laptop |
| ASUS Chromebook CX1 | Buy Now | Best Budget Laptop under $350 |
| Lenovo Chromebook C330 | Buy Now | Best Chrome OS Laptop under $350 |
Empire Laptops is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
- How to Increase Laptop Battery Life: 8 (Proven) Tips to Extend Your Battery’s Lifespan - July 15, 2022
- Comparison of The 10 Best Laptops with 16GB RAM - November 25, 2021
- 9 Best Laptops with Stylus Support: Compare Features & Specs - November 24, 2021