The Top Affordable Chromebooks of 2023

Attention! We've recently refreshed our suggested budget Chromebooks. Take a glance!

Despite their already pocket-friendly nature, Chromebooks can be further budget-friendly if you're aware of the right places to search. By being open to slight trade-offs, you can snag an amazing Chromebook for less than $400.

UPDATE: 10/26/2023

We've updated our recommendations with new versions of our favorite budget Chromebooks. Give it a look!

Acer Chromebook 314

Best Budget Chromebook Overall $192 at Amazon

Acer Chromebook Spin 311

Best Budget Chromebook for Kids See at Acer

HP Chromebook 14

Best Budget Chromebook for Students $200 at Amazon

Acer Chromebook 317

Best Budget Chromebook for Productivity Walmart

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3

Best Budget Touch Screen Chromebook See at Lenovo

What to Look For in a Budget Chromebook in 2023

A budget Chromebook doesn't have to be a low-quality option. There are ChromeOS laptops available for under $300 that offer impressive features such as IPS screens, four-core processors, and excellent keyboards. Although they may come with all-plastic bodies, many budget Chromebooks still boast durable and well-built designs.

A budget Chromebook should have 4GB memory, a two or four-core CPU, a 720p IPS or twisted nematic (TN) display, and 32GB or 64GB storage. If you're willing to spend over $300, you can get 1080p IPS screens, 8GB RAM, and additional features like Wi-Fi 6 or multiple high-speed USB ports. The only downsides of budget Chromebooks are the embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC) storage and basic webcams. However, eMMC serves as a decent storage option despite being slower than most SSDs. Similarly, the basic webcams found on budget Chromebooks are sufficient for video conferencing.

Budget Chromebooks typically have displays with a peak brightness of approximately 300 nits or lower, resulting in slightly washed-out colors. They also offer up to 8GB of memory and 64GB of storage. Fortunately, most Chromebooks are equipped with a MicroSD card slot, providing the option to conveniently expand the storage capacity. However, the advantage of these Chromebooks is that you have the freedom to prioritize and select the features that are essential to you, enabling you to find a Chromebook that fits within your budget.

The product recommendations provided by How-To Geek are sourced from our team of experts who have assisted individuals in fixing their gadgets over one billion times. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our own expertise. We do not receive any form of payment to endorse or review products. Learn More »

Best Budget Chromebook Overall: Acer Chromebook 314

Over the years, Chromebooks have evolved from being budget-friendly devices to becoming formidable competitors to lower to midrange Windows-powered laptops. In line with this evolution, the Acer Chromebook 314 carries on the essence of its predecessors, offering a reliable and affordable computing platform that excels in web apps, productivity tasks, and video streaming.

The specs may not appear impressive on paper, but they are not intended to be. The Intel Celeron N4000 processor and 4GB LPDDR4 RAM are not suitable for 4K video editing; however, that is not the purpose of this machine. If your primary use involves G Suite or other web apps, these specifications, along with the 64GB eMMC storage, will be more than sufficient for your needs.

Due to Chrome OS being a lightweight operating system, similar to installing Linux on an older laptop, it maximizes the hardware's capabilities beyond your expectations. Unless you have an excessive number of tabs open, you are unlikely to experience any limitations from the 4GB RAM.

The 314 offers support for web, Chrome OS, and Android apps, making it compatible with a wide range of applications. In addition to its onboard storage, this model comes with an extra 100GB of space through a complimentary Google Drive credit.

Featuring a 14-inch full-HD touchscreen display with a resolution of 1366 x 768, the screen provides convenient access to the numerous Android apps available. While the battery life lasts approximately five hours, the recharge time is relatively quick, ensuring that you won't spend hours waiting for it to charge.

The Acer Chromebook 314 is the ultimate budget-friendly Chromebook choice. It demonstrates that you can obtain a remarkable Chromebook without breaking the bank. While it may not be the most high-performance option out there, it offers all the necessary features for seamless web browsing and efficient use of office webapps.

$192 at Amazon

Best Budget Chromebook for Kids: Acer Chromebook Spin 311

Handing an expensive laptop over to a child can be a nerve-wracking experience. If you're in search of a suitable laptop for a young learner, a Chromebook is an excellent choice. Opting for a sturdier model or a more affordable one that can be easily replaced is advisable. The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 fits both of these criteria to some extent.

Although this Chromebook is not officially certified as waterproof or MIL-SPEC, it is a relatively durable option considering its price. Acer does specify on their website that the touchpad is resistant to moisture, allowing you to feel at ease when your child starts using the Spin 311 without having to worry about their hands being completely dry.

In addition to other important features, it's crucial that the Chromebook is compact and easy for kids to carry around. Despite its affordable price, this smaller model surprises with an 11.6-inch IPS display. The display's resolution of 1366 x 768 ensures sharp visuals, enhanced by its smaller overall size.

While the Spin 311 offers satisfactory connectivity options, it does rely on older protocols. For instance, it supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi instead of the newer Wi-Fi 6. Its Bluetooth capability is also limited to version 4.2, which falls behind the current standard. Nevertheless, these slightly outdated protocols still function effectively with modern routers and Bluetooth accessories.

Finally, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 comes equipped with a 2-cell Lithium Polymer battery. While this type of battery may not provide much life for a power-hungry Windows laptop, it has the ability to deliver up to 15 hours of use on a single charge, making it ideal for Chromebook users.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is the ideal budget-friendly choice for kids. It is not only affordable but also lightweight and compact, making it highly portable. Head over to Acer to check it out.

Best Budget Chromebook for Students: HP Chromebook 14

HP

The HP Chromebook 14 includes a large, 14-inch display, an excellent keyboard for the price, a four-core Intel Celeron N4120 CPU, 4GB of memory, and 64GB of eMMC storage.

The hardware of this budget Chromebook is generally solid, although the only drawback is the 720p TN panel with limited viewing angles. Despite the potentially grainy screen, the keyboard and large, responsive touchpad are highly enjoyable.

In terms of design, the HP Chromebook 14 adheres to the thin and light approach. It is portable, compact, and lacks thick bezels around the display.

In terms of ports, there is one USB-A 3.2 5Gbps port and two USB-C 3.2 5Gbps ports available. Among the USB-C ports, one supports DisplayPort video output, and both can be used for device charging. Additionally, there is a MicroSD card slot included.

For those on a budget, the Acer Chromebook 315 basic version is a suitable alternative to the HP Chromebook 14, offering similar features except for the CPU.

The HP Chromebook 14 is the ultimate budget Chromebook for students. With a sleek design and a 14-inch screen, it's both thin and light, making it perfect for carrying to class. The keyboard and touchpad combo adds to the overall convenience and ease of use. Don't miss out on this amazing deal! Save $90 and get the HP Chromebook 14 now for just $200.

$200 at Amazon

Best Budget Chromebook for Productivity: Acer Chromebook 317

Acer

If you are in search of an affordable Chromebook for work, the Acer Chromebook 317 is the ultimate option. The standout feature is undeniably its expansive 17-inch 1080p IPS display.

Though the brightness may not be exceptional and the color accuracy lacking, no other Chromebook offers such a large screen size. This makes it ideal for multitasking, allowing you to efficiently work in a text editor on one side while simultaneously editing extensive spreadsheets with numerous Chrome tabs on the other.

The Intel Celeron N4500 CPU may not be the most high-speed option in a budget Chromebook, but it boasts four cores and is sufficient for basic multitasking.

While its design may be simple, this Chromebook is built to last and has a pleasant feel. Furthermore, a flashy design is not ideal for professional environments. Additionally, the full-sized keyboard and large touchpad, although made of plastic, are comfortable, highly accurate, responsive, and exceptionally smooth.

The port selection on this budget Chromebook device offers dual USB-A 3.2 5Gbps ports and a couple of USB-C 3.2 10Gbps ports, one of which supports video output. This is a generous package. Additionally, there is a MicroSD card slot available for expanding storage.

In terms of connectivity, this budget device features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1, which is impressive. Surprisingly, the battery life on this 17-inch device is strong, lasting around eight and a half hours during light work or video watching.

Discover the Acer Chromebook 317, the ultimate choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking enhanced productivity. This extraordinary Chromebook stands out from the rest with its remarkable 17-inch display. Coupled with an exceptional keyboard, impressive hardware capabilities, and an extensive range of ports, the Acer Chromebook 317 emerges as the top contender to meet all your productivity needs while keeping your budget intact.

Walmart

Best Budget Touch Screen Chromebook: Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 (11-inch)

While touch-enabled screens on laptops may seem like an advantage, they can be difficult to use in certain configurations. The inconvenience of reaching over the keyboard to touch the screen makes traditional laptop-style Chromebooks less appealing. Instead, if touch functionality is important to you, it is recommended to consider a 2-in-1 model or, even better, a convertible like the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 (11-inch).

The Duet 3 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 chipset, with a clock speed of up to 2.5 GHz. Additionally, it features 4GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of onboard eMMC storage. However, the true appeal of the Duet 3 lies in its form factor rather than its specifications.

This device is a 2-in-1 convertible equipped with a kickstand and a detachable keyboard. Think of it as a Chromebook version of Microsoft's Surface Go models. The screen section incorporates the kickstand and operates as a standalone tablet. Add on the provided keyboard and it transforms into a laptop.

This functionality is ideal for various scenarios, particularly if you're unsure whether to invest in a laptop or a tablet. Additionally, if you enjoy drawing or jotting down notes by hand, you also have the option to use a pen-style stylus with this model. It's important to note that the stylus is sold separately.

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3, featuring an 11-inch screen, offers a remarkable resolution of 2000 x 1200. This ensures a particularly sharp display when compared to other Chromebooks in the same price range. Additionally, this Chromebook comes equipped with a front 5MP lens and a rear 8MP lens, making it convenient for any photo-related tasks you may have.

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3

Check out the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 - the ultimate budget-friendly touch screen Chromebook. This convertible device seamlessly transitions from tablet to laptop, making it perfect for both work and play. Additionally, the optional stylus enhances its versatility, allowing you to unleash your creativity wherever you are. Explore it now at Lenovo!

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the latest affordable Chromebooks of 2023. These budget-friendly devices offer impressive features and capabilities that make them ideal for students, professionals, and anyone looking for a reliable computing device.

The Acer Chromebook 314, Acer Chromebook Spin 311 for kids, HP Chromebook 14 for students, Acer Chromebook 317 for productivity, and Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 (11-inch) for a touch screen experience are all excellent options that cater to different needs and preferences. These Chromebooks offer great value for money, with features such as IPS screens, four-core processors, and excellent keyboards.

Additionally, the option to expand storage capacity via a MicroSD card slot and the lightweight nature of Chrome OS make these devices even more appealing. Overall, I believe that these affordable Chromebooks are a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly computing device.