Best budget laptops to buy going into 2024

Looking for an affordable laptop that won’t empty your savings? Whether you need it for work, play, or creative pursuits, we’ve got you covered with a roundup of the best budget laptops under R13,000. We’ve sifted through the options to bring you a selection of top picks that will serve as solid companions going into 2024.

Before we dive into the details, a quick heads-up: if you’re looking for a laptop that can handle high-end gaming or video editing, you might want to check out our guides to the best higher-end laptops. Budget laptops are fantastic for everyday use but may not pack the punch needed for resource-intensive tasks.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff.

1. ASUS Vivobook Go E1504 OLED | R13,000

Our pick for the best budget laptop to take into the new year is the Asus VivoBook Go OLED. While it’s the priciest on our list, it offers excellent value for money with a 15.6in OLED screen, 8GB of RAM, a generous 512GB SSD, and a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 7520U mobile processor. Perfect for multitasking and possibly casual gaming, this laptop provides solid performance that’s well worth the investment.

Pros:

• Brilliant OLED display
• Great specs for the price

Cons:

• Battery life could be better
• Speakers aren’t top-notch

2. Dell Inspiron 3520 | R10,200

If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable performer, check out the Dell Inspiron 3520. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, it features a 15.6in Full HD screen and 8GB of RAM, making it convenient for everyday tasks and media consumption.

Pros:

• Windows 11
• Solid build quality

Cons:

• Speakers could be better
• No USB-C port

3. Asus Chromebook CX1102 | R4,500

For those who prefer the simplicity of Chrome OS, the Asus Chromebook CX1102 is a very budget-friendly option. While it may not have the hardware prowess of its Windows counterparts, it’s affordable and perfect for basic tasks like email, browsing, and media consumption.

Pros:

• Decent port selection
• Affordable price

Cons:

• Small display with big bezels
• Not the fastest performer

4. Huawei MateBook D 15 | R12,000

Huawei’s MateBook D 15 stands out with its admirable specs and sleek design. With an Intel Core i3 processor (there is a pricier i5 version available), 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it offers a decent package for the price. The built-in fingerprint sensor and rapid charging add extra points to its appeal.

Pros:

• 65W USB-C charger
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Awkward webcam placement
• No keyboard backlight

5. Asus Vivobook E510MA | R5,500

If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable Windows 10 laptop, the Asus Vivobook E510MA is a strong contender. While it doesn’t boast high-end specs, it comes with a 15.6in display, making it reasonable for everyday tasks.

Pros:

• Comes with Windows 10
• 6in display

Cons:

• Display isn’t Full HD
• You get what you pay for

6. Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 | R12,000

Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 4 combines premium design with budget-friendly pricing. At least, this specific edition of it does. With a 13.5in touchscreen, AMD Ryzen 5-4680U processor, and 8GB of RAM, it offers portability and solid performance for everyday tasks.

Pros:

• Confident, elegant design
• Top-spec model performs well

Cons:

• Battery Saver mode is recommended for light all-day use
• Non-backlit keyboard

7. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 | R11,500

For versatility, consider the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5. This nifty machine can transform into a tablet, featuring a 14-inch FHD touchscreen, an AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. With a sleek design and USB-C charging, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a slimline alternative.

Pros:

• Compact design
• USB-C charging

Cons:

• You get what you pay for

8. HP 15s Intel Core i5 | R12,000

Here, with HP’s little workhorse, you’re getting a solid 15in laptop with specs to boot. The Full HD display is an ideal choice for content and everyday use. While it may not be a powerhouse, it offers fast charging, decent battery life, and an environmentally conscious design in line with HP’s environmental initiative.

Pros:

• Large screen for content consumption
• Fast charging and decent battery life

Cons:

• Could be more powerful

How to choose the best budget laptop

Choosing the right budget laptop depends on your specific needs. These options are designed for everyday tasks, so consider what matters most to you – whether it’s long battery life, portability, or a larger screen. Keep in mind that budget laptops may sacrifice some features for their lower price, but they’re ideal for simple tasks like word processing and internet browsing.

We have selected these laptops based on specs, design, performance, and additional features. If you’re open to alternatives, also check out our guide to the best tablets, which can be viable when paired with a keyboard accessory for browsing and homework.