Top 7 Budget-Friendly Laptops for 2024: Affordable Performance Picks

We've all been there—looking for a laptop that can be relied on without making your wallet cry. Last year, I remember when my old laptop suddenly died in the middle of a deadline. Seriously, that blue screen is like making fun of me. 😩 From there, I learned that finding a cheap but quality laptop is like hunting for treasure. So, so that you don't get drama like me, I will share the 7 best budget-friendly laptops for 2024 that have good performance without burning a hole in your pocket.  

1. Acer Aspire 5 (2024 Edition) 

This laptop always seems to be on the recommendation list. I've used the 2022 version, and the newest one is even more solid. With the latest generation Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, the Acer Aspire 5 is suitable for college assignments, work or streaming Netflix marathons. Plus, the 15.6-inch full HD screen makes the eyes more comfortable—very important if you often work long hours. Price? Starting at around IDR 6 million, so you won't panic when you see your credit card bill.  

2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3  

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is like a loyal friend for those who need a tough laptop. With AMD Ryzen 5, the performance is quite agile for light multitasking. In the past, when I first tried this brand, I was skeptical. But it turns out the keyboard is really comfortable for typing long articles like this. Prices start from IDR 5.5 million, and there are often discounts on local e-commerce.

3. HP 14s  

If you are looking for a light and stylish laptop, the HP 14s could be an option. It only weighs around 1.4 kg, so it's easy to carry anywhere. The Intel Pentium Gold processor may not be as fast as the Ryzen or Core i-series, but it is enough for browsing, watching YouTube and working on documents. I really like the minimalist design. The downside? Don't expect to be able to play heavy games. But for the price of IDR 4 million, it's a steal!  

4. ASUS VivoBook 15 (F515EA) 

This is a laptop that my friends often recommend, and it's no wonder why. VivoBook 15 has a large screen and good performance thanks to the 12th generation Intel Core i3. Prices start at IDR 6 million, but there are often promos. There is an additional slot for upgrading RAM, which makes this laptop a long-term investment for users on a budget but visionary (aka don't want to change laptops every 2 years).  

5. Dell Inspiron 15 3000 

Dell is known for its durability, even though sometimes its designs are not as trendy as other brands. But the Inspiron 15 3000 is still on the radar because of its solid performance. With AMD Ryzen 3, 256GB SSD, and a sturdy build, this laptop is tough for daily needs. I once took my old Dell on an outdoor trip, and it still lives today. Prices start from IDR 5 million.  

6. Chuwi HeroBook Pro 

OK, Chuwi may not be as popular as the big brands, but the HeroBook Pro is really worth considering. The price is around IDR 4 million and you get a 256GB SSD and a full HD screen. Performance isn't amazingly fast, but it's enough for simple needs like typing or streaming. Honestly, this is a good option if you are a student who is on a budget.

7. Microsoft Surface Go 3  

The latter is more of a laptop-tablet hybrid. With prices starting at IDR 6 million, the Surface Go 3 is not only compact but also powerful for light work. I tried the previous generation Surface Go, and it was really suitable for those who often work mobile. But yes, the keyboard is sold separately, so that's a small minus to consider.  

Tips for Buying a Budget-Friendly Laptop in 2024  

- Don't be tempted by high specs with extreme low prices. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.  

- Check user reviews. YouTube and forums are often my saviors in making choices.  

- Look for seasonal discounts. I bought a laptop now because there are lots of year-end promotions—it's quite a savings of hundreds of thousands.  

So, which one is right for you? If you have any funny (or sad) experiences while looking for a cheap laptop, share them in the comments. Who knows, maybe we might laugh together—or learn from our mistakes. 😄