Top Affordable Laptops to Consider in 2023

A Guide to Choosing the Best Affordable Laptop: Features, Considerations, and Refurbished Options

Not everyone needs to spend a fortune on a new laptop. Affordable laptops offer a viable alternative, providing adequate performance and features without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in a budget laptop, ranging from specifications to design aspects. Additionally, we’ll discuss the option of refurbished laptops, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next purchase.

What to Look for in an Affordable Laptop:

When considering budget laptops, it’s important to set a threshold of affordability. For the purpose of this guide, laptops priced under $1,000 will be classified as “budget.” While flagship models usually start at $1,000 or more, the $500 to $1,000 range offers a good balance between power and price.

One key aspect to consider is the laptop’s spec sheet. Aim for a model with the latest generation CPU chipset if possible, but don’t worry too much if you end up with a slightly older processor. Performance is unlikely to be significantly affected by choosing a laptop with a CPU from the previous generation.

Memory and storage are also crucial factors to consider. Opt for laptops with at least 8GB of RAM to ensure smooth multitasking. As for storage, a minimum of 256GB SSD is recommended for macOS and Windows machines, allowing space for programs, files, and future OS updates.

Design Considerations:

In addition to performance, several design aspects contribute to a satisfying user experience. Look for laptops with a predominantly metal body, a screen resolution of at least 1080p, and a comfortable keyboard and trackpad area. While most laptops come with built-in webcams, note that the majority only offer 720p resolution. If you frequently engage in video meetings, consider a separate peripheral with a higher resolution.

Furthermore, it’s essential to assess the port situation. Surprisingly, laptops in the higher price range may have fewer ports compared to their more affordable counterparts. Newer models typically feature one or two USB-C ports, which may require a separate dongle if you frequently use SD cards.

Exploring Refurbished Affordable Laptops:

If you’re seeking a new machine while maintaining a tight budget, refurbished laptops are worth considering. However, purchasing refurbished tech requires attention to the brand’s or merchant’s refurbishment policies. To ensure reliability, it is recommended to buy refurbished laptops directly from the manufacturer. Renowned brands like Apple, Dell, and Microsoft have official refurbishment processes that guarantee proper functionality and good condition. Third-party retailers such as Amazon and Walmart also offer their own refurbishment programs for laptops and other gadgets.

Finding the best budget laptop involves considering specifications, and design elements, and exploring the option of refurbished devices. By setting a reasonable budget and evaluating the spec sheet, memory, storage, design features, and port availability, you can make an informed choice that meets your needs without emptying your wallet. Additionally, reputable manufacturers and authorized retailers provide trustworthy refurbished options, allowing you to save money while still obtaining a reliable and capable laptop.

MacBook Air M1

Apple’s decision to retain the MacBook Air M1 in its lineup alongside the newer Air M2 laptops is justified by the remarkable performance of the first machine featuring Apple’s custom system-on-a-chip. Released in late 2020, the Air M1 demonstrated Apple’s ability to power its notebooks without relying on Intel. The M1 processor delivered lightning-fast speed and responsiveness comparable to that of an iPad Pro. Even with the introduction of the M2 chipset and the latest Air model, the MacBook Air M1 continues to offer impressive performance, making it an ideal daily driver for most users.

Staying true to its lineage, the Air M1 boasts the familiar and appreciated classic wedge design seen in this family of notebooks over the years. While it may lack the refined profile of the M2, it remains thin, lightweight, and fanless, ensuring a remarkably quiet experience. The 13.3-inch Retina display offers a delightful visual experience.

It is also complemented by a comfortable keyboard (without the TouchBar) and a generously sized trackpad. In our tests, the battery lasted nearly 16.5 hours, providing ample power for a full day’s work. Although the starting price of $999 may seem high, it is undeniably a worthwhile investment. Additionally, frequent sales on platforms like Amazon and other retailers often offer the MacBook Air M1 at a reduced price of $800 or $900, making it even more enticing to prospective buyers.

HP Pavilion Aero 13

For those who admire the aesthetics of premium machines like Dell’s XPS 13 but prefer a more budget-friendly option, the HP Pavilion Aero emerges as the top contender. In our review, we awarded it an impressive score of 87, pitting it against Dell’s flagship laptop. While it may not match the sleekness of its competitor, the Aero comes remarkably close with its angled profile, feather-light 2.2-pound weight, and an anti-glare 13.3-inch display.

Although its keyboard can feel slightly cramped, the Aero proves to be a reliable typing companion. What sets it apart is the abundance of connectivity options it offers: a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, an HDMI connector, and a headphone jack. Priced as low as $800 at present, the Aero 13 delivers exceptional value for the money, and it has been known to go on sale for even less.

When purchasing directly from HP, all prebuilt models of the Aero feature Ryzen 5 processors. However, you have the freedom to customize the laptop with up to a Ryzen 7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, catering to your specific needs and preferences.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i

Lenovo’s IdeaPad Flex 5i continues to reign as our top choice for Chromebooks, even after a couple of years. Its winning combination of specifications and features caters perfectly to Chrome OS enthusiasts. Powered by an 11th-generation Core i3 processor, equipped with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, this device offers optimal performance.

The Flex 5i features a vibrant 13.3-inch 1080p display, ideal for productivity tasks on Google Docs and enjoying Netflix streaming sessions. While its design may not be groundbreaking, this convertible laptop stands out with its relatively lightweight build and the inclusion of a backlit keyboard, a rare find in this price range. Moreover, it boasts a battery life of around eight hours, ensuring it lasts through a typical workday.

In terms of connectivity, the Flex 5i delivers two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. This comprehensive selection of ports sets it apart from other Chromebooks. Combining these features with its affordable price tag solidifies the Flex 5i’s position at the forefront of the Chromebook market.

Acer Aspire 5

If you’re working within a budget of less than $500 for a new Windows laptop, Acer’s Aspire 5 series presents a reliable option. The latest models strike a balance that caters to the needs of most users. Equipped with Intel 11th-gen CPUs, they can support up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage.

It’s important to note that the pricing varies depending on the specifications you choose. While not all Aspire 5 laptops fall under the $500 mark, you can currently acquire a model featuring a 15.6-inch 1080p display, a Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage for approximately $380, or possibly less during a sale.

The design of the Aspire 5 may appear basic, but it does offer a convenient number pad and a variety of ports, including one USB-C connector, three USB-A ports, and an Ethernet port. Another notable feature is the support for WiFi 6 in the latest Aspire 5s, enhancing wireless connectivity. Acer has also improved the estimated battery life, now lasting up to 10 hours.

For those seeking a budget-friendly Windows laptop, Acer’s Aspire 5 series strikes a good balance between affordability and performance, making it a suitable choice for many users.