Laptops have become essential tools for work, school, and entertainment. Finding a good laptop under $700 can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible to get a machine that handles everyday tasks well without emptying your wallet.
We’ve found several options that offer solid performance, good build quality, and useful features at affordable prices.
When shopping for budget laptops, pay attention to key specifications like processor type, RAM, and storage.
Look for at least 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and an SSD rather than a traditional hard drive for faster performance. Battery life and display quality vary widely in this price range, so prioritize what matters most for your specific needs.
We tested dozens of budget laptops over several months to find the best options under $700. The Acer Aspire 5 consistently impressed us with its reliable performance and impressive battery life, making it our top pick for most people.
Key features to look for in laptops under $700:
- At least 8GB RAM
- SSD storage (256GB minimum)
- Intel Core i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better
- 1080p display
- 8+ hours battery life
Contents
Best Laptops Under $700
We’ve researched and tested dozens of laptops to bring you this curated list of the best options under $700. Our selections offer excellent value with solid performance for everyday tasks, good build quality, and features that would typically cost much more.
These budget-friendly laptops prove you don’t need to break the bank for a reliable machine that handles work, school, or entertainment needs.
HP 14 Laptop
This budget-friendly HP 14 laptop offers solid basic functionality for everyday tasks while staying comfortably under $700.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Impressive battery life (up to 11.5 hours)
- Includes one-year Microsoft 365 subscription
Cons
- Limited storage (only 64GB)
- Basic processor not ideal for demanding tasks
- Lower resolution display (1366 x 768)
We recently got our hands on the HP 14 laptop, and it’s a solid option for anyone needing an affordable computer without all the bells and whistles.
The snowflake white design looks clean and professional, while the slim profile makes it easy to slip into a backpack. At just over 3 pounds, we barely noticed it while carrying it around all day.
The 14-inch display with micro-edge bezels gives you more screen space than you might expect from a laptop this size. We found the HD resolution sufficient for everyday web browsing and document work, though it’s not going to wow anyone watching movies or working with photos.
The viewing angles are decent, but don’t expect the color accuracy of more expensive models.
Performance-wise, the Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4GB RAM handle basic tasks well. We could comfortably browse the web with multiple tabs open and work on Office documents without issues.
The laptop boots quickly thanks to Windows 11 in S mode, though we did notice some lag when multitasking with more demanding applications.
Storage is definitely on the slim side with only 64GB of eMMC. We filled it up pretty quickly after installing a few essential programs. You’ll want to take advantage of cloud storage or add an external drive if you need to store photos, videos, or larger files.
Battery life impressed us during testing. We got through an entire workday on a single charge, and the fast charging feature came in handy when we needed a quick power boost. The keyboard feels comfortable for typing, though the touchpad is a bit small compared to more premium laptops.
Connectivity options are basic but sufficient with USB ports, HDMI output, and reliable Wi-Fi. The included one-year Microsoft 365 subscription adds real value to the package, giving you access to the full Office suite right out of the box.
Jumper EZbook S7Hi Laptop
The Jumper EZbook S7Hi offers exceptional value with its generous 12GB RAM and massive 640GB storage, making it perfect for budget-conscious buyers who need reliable performance.
Pros
- Lightning-fast response with 12GB RAM and Intel Celeron processor
- Huge 640GB storage (128GB eMMC + 512GB SSD)
- Crisp 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with anti-glare coating
Cons
- Battery life could be better at only 38Wh
- Celeron processor isn’t ideal for heavy gaming
- Bluetooth 4.2 is slightly older technology
We’ve been testing the Jumper EZbook S7Hi for a few weeks now, and it’s honestly surprising how much laptop you get for under $700.
The 12GB RAM makes multitasking a breeze – we had multiple browser tabs, Word documents, and streaming music all running simultaneously without a hint of slowdown.
The display really stands out at this price point. The 15.6-inch FHD IPS screen delivers vibrant colors and sharp text, while the anti-glare coating makes it usable even in bright environments. We noticed the narrow bezels give it a more premium look than you’d expect.
Storage is another major win with this laptop. The combined 640GB (128GB eMMC + 512GB SSD) means you won’t run out of space anytime soon. We loaded it with documents, photos, and several large applications, barely making a dent in the available storage.
Connectivity is impressive with two USB 3.0 ports, a Type-C port, Mini HDMI, and a MicroSD slot. During our testing, the dual-band Wi-Fi maintained strong connections throughout our office. The speakers produce decent sound, though they lack bass as expected with laptop speakers.
The Intel Celeron 5305U processor handles everyday tasks smoothly. While it’s not built for intensive gaming or video editing, it easily manages web browsing, office work, and streaming. Windows 11 runs smoothly, and the laptop boots quickly thanks to the SSD.
HP 14″ Ultra Light Laptop
This budget-friendly HP laptop offers good value for basic tasks with impressive battery life, making it suitable for students and casual users who need reliability without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Impressive 11.5-hour battery life
- Includes 1-year Microsoft 365 subscription
Cons
- Limited 4GB RAM affects multitasking
- Low resolution display (1366 x 768)
- Windows 11 S Mode restricts software installation
We recently tested this HP 14″ laptop and found it surprisingly capable for its price point.
The snow white design gives it a clean, modern look that stands out from typical black laptops. At just 3.24 pounds, we could easily slip it into a backpack and barely notice the weight during our commute.
The Intel Celeron N4120 processor isn’t going to win any speed contests, but it handled basic tasks well enough. We browsed multiple websites, wrote documents, and streamed videos without major issues. The 11.5-hour battery life is genuinely impressive – we got through an entire workday without needing to hunt for an outlet.
For storage, the combination of 64GB eMMC plus the included 64GB MicroSD card is a clever way to expand capacity. We liked having Microsoft 365 included for a year, which adds value and gives you access to 1TB of cloud storage. The keyboard feels decent for typing, though nothing special.
The display is honestly the weakest point. Colors look washed out, and the low resolution makes everything less crisp than we’d like. The 4GB RAM also means you’ll notice slowdowns when running multiple programs at once.
Windows 11 in S Mode provides good security but limits you to Microsoft Store apps. We found this frustrating when trying to install some common programs. You can switch out of S Mode easily, but remember it’s a one-way change.
For students needing a laptop for notes, essays, and research, this HP offers genuine value. The webcam quality is adequate for online classes, though nothing special. The port selection gave us flexibility with two USB-A ports, one USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card reader.
Acer Aspire 3
This budget-friendly Acer laptop delivers solid performance for everyday tasks without breaking the $700 barrier.
Pros
- Lightweight design perfect for on-the-go use
- Crisp Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels
- Strong Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for stable internet
Cons
- Limited 128GB storage fills up quickly
- No backlit keyboard for night work
- Speakers lack impressive sound quality
We spent a few days testing the Acer Aspire 3, and it’s clear this laptop offers impressive value.
The slim silver body feels sturdy despite its light 3.92-pound weight. When carrying it between rooms or tossing it in a backpack, we barely noticed it was there.
Boot-up times impressed us right away. The AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor handled everyday tasks smoothly. We could jump between multiple browser tabs, stream videos, and work on documents without any noticeable lag. For students or home office users, this provides plenty of muscle.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display really stands out at this price point. Colors look vibrant and text appears sharp from any angle thanks to the IPS technology. We particularly enjoyed how the narrow bezels make the screen feel larger than it actually is.
Battery life held up well during our testing. We got close to 10 hours of regular use before needing to plug in. The improved thermal system kept the laptop cool even during longer work sessions, with no uncomfortable heat on our laps.
Port selection covers all the basics. We connected external monitors through both HDMI and USB-C without issues. The three USB ports provided plenty of options for accessories, though you might want an external drive since the 128GB SSD fills up fast.
Windows 11 in S mode runs smoothly, though we found it limiting. Thankfully, switching out of S mode takes just a few clicks if you need more freedom to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store.
Who should buy this laptop?
This Acer Aspire 3 is ideal for students, casual users, and anyone who needs a reliable laptop for basic tasks without spending big money.
The webcam performed better than expected in our video calls. Acer’s noise reduction technology actually works well, filtering out background sounds when chatting with colleagues. We did notice some graininess in low light, but it’s perfectly adequate for everyday meetings.
For everyday computing needs under $700, the Acer Aspire 3 offers remarkable value. Just be prepared to invest in cloud storage or an external drive to supplement the modest 128GB SSD.
HP 14″ Pink Laptop
This budget-friendly HP laptop offers solid performance for basic tasks. With its 16GB RAM upgrade, it’s a good value option for students or casual users who need a portable computer.
Pros
- Generous 16GB RAM handles multitasking well
- Eye-catching pink design stands out from boring laptops
- Includes 1-year Microsoft 365 subscription
Cons
- Basic Intel Celeron processor limits performance
- Low-resolution screen (1366 x 768)
- Small 64GB storage requires cloud backup
We tried out this budget HP laptop and were pleasantly surprised by what it offers at this price point. The pink color is vibrant without being too flashy, and the build quality feels better than expected.
When opening multiple browser tabs and basic applications, the 16GB RAM upgrade really shows its value – we didn’t experience the lag typically found in budget laptops.
The keyboard has good travel and feels comfortable for typing. We used it for several hours of document work and didn’t have any fatigue issues.
The trackpad is responsive enough, though not as premium as what you’d find on more expensive models. Battery life lasted us about 6-7 hours of regular use, which is decent for this category.
Where this laptop shows its budget nature is in the display and processor. The screen’s 1366 x 768 resolution looks a bit pixelated by today’s standards, and colors appear somewhat washed out.
The Celeron N4120 processor handles basic tasks fine but struggles with anything demanding like photo editing or running multiple resource-heavy applications.
The included one-year Microsoft 365 subscription adds real value, giving you access to Word, Excel, and other Office apps right out of the box.
We found the 64GB storage fills up quickly after installing a few applications, so you’ll likely need cloud storage or an external drive.
Connection options are surprisingly good with multiple USB ports, HDMI, and even an Ethernet jack – something often missing from modern laptops.
For students, casual browsing, or basic work tasks, this HP offers good value under $700, especially with that RAM upgrade.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a laptop under $700, it’s important to know what features matter most. We’ve put together this guide to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.
Processor Power
The processor (CPU) is the brain of your laptop. For most users, an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 offers the best balance of price and performance in this price range. Newer generations will give you better speed and battery life.
Processor Tip: Look for 10th gen or newer Intel processors, or AMD Ryzen 4000 series or newer for the best performance at this price point.
Memory (RAM)
RAM determines how many programs your laptop can run at once. For most users, 8GB is the sweet spot for price and performance. If you can find a model with 16GB in this price range, that’s even better for multitasking.
Storage Options
Choose between a traditional hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD). We strongly recommend an SSD for faster performance. A 256GB SSD is a good starting point, though 512GB gives you more room for files and programs.
| Feature | Minimum Recommendation | Ideal Specification |
| Processor | Intel Core i3/AMD Ryzen 3 | Intel Core i5/AMD Ryzen 5 |
| RAM | 8GB | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
Display Quality
Look for a Full HD (1920×1080) display for clear text and images. Touchscreens are available in this price range but will often reduce battery life.
Battery Life
For good portability, look for laptops offering at least 6 hours of battery life. Some models in this price range can offer up to 10 hours, which is great for all-day use.