#Best affordable laptops 2021 software#
#Best affordable laptops 2021 windows#

The result is that we get a proper feel for the laptop beyond what the side of the box claims. We also test the reliability of the keyboard, trackpad and webcam.

#Best affordable laptops 2021 software#

That means we focus on key aspects of the machine, such as boot-up times, display, built-in speakers, how fast they download software and how long you get from the battery. While the specs of a laptop are important (read the buying guide under our recommendations for everything you need to know), we review budget devices based on how you’ll be using them day-to-day. Show more How the GH Tech Team tests laptops

#Best affordable laptops 2021 windows#

That's right, there are plenty of models for around £500 that are ideal for work projects, reading websites and streaming sessions.īudget-friendly laptops will usually run the Windows or ChromeOS operating systems and have lower configurations when it comes to battery life, storage capacity and the processor (the brain of the machine), but if you’re willing to buy refurbished it’s totally possible to get an older Apple MacBook for this price point, too. And if the basics are all you need, you don’t have to splash out for a high-end laptop.

While the convenience of a phone is great, we’ll take a physical keyboard and large screen over finger-taps every time. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.We updated this roundup in December 2023 to guarantee that our best budget laptop picks are in stock and reflect up-to-date prices.Įven though smartphones and tablets are usually our go-to way of checking social media and watching Netflix or YouTube while commuting these days, we still love having a laptop at home for shopping, typing documents and helping the kids with their homework. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping.