Top Chromebooks That Can Replace Your Budget Windows Laptop in 2025

If you’re due for a laptop upgrade and aren’t sure what to choose, you’ve probably thought about getting a Chromebook. These laptops have come a long way, thanks in part to Google’s push for AI integration. This has led to better hardware and a host of smart features, making today’s Chromebooks feel far more capable than you might expect.

So what’s the difference between a Chromebook and a regular laptop? The main distinction is that Chromebooks run ChromeOS instead of Windows or macOS. They’re built around the cloud, offer fast boot times, and are designed to be always up-to-date. And with a price tag that’s usually lower than that of a traditional laptop, Chromebooks are a great budget-friendly option.

While you won’t be able to run full desktop applications unless you use their Android or web versions, Chromebooks handle everyday tasks-like email, document editing, streaming, and light creative work-better than you’d expect. If your needs align with this, then a Chromebook might be the smarter choice. Here are five of the best Chromebooks to consider in 2025:

1. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 2025 – Best for Students, Travelers, and People on the Go

Weighing in at just 11 inches, the Lenovo Duet 2025 is a super portable 2-in-1 Chromebook with a detachable keyboard. It’s essentially a tablet and a laptop in one, so you don’t need extra accessories. Starting at $339, this is an excellent choice for anyone who needs something compact yet still functional for streaming, browsing, or quick document editing.

2. Asus CX15 15.6-inch/Asus CX14 14-inch – Great for Budget Buyers Who Want a Tough Build

If you need something more rugged, these two Chromebooks are built to withstand harsh conditions, with MIL-STD-810H certification. Whether you pick the larger 15.6-inch CX15 or the smaller 14-inch CX14, you get a durable machine at a budget-friendly price (under $250 in most cases). These are perfect for video watching, browsing, and light multitasking without worrying about the device getting damaged easily.

3. HP 14-inch Chromebook – Best for Anyone Who Just Wants the Basics

The HP Chromebook has been a reliable option for years. It doesn’t try to wow you with flashy specs, but it nails the basics. With a starting price of $299, this is a no-frills laptop that’s perfect for students, first-time users, or anyone who just needs a dependable machine for Google services like Docs, YouTube, and email. Plus, it comes with essential ports like HDMI and USB-C, which are hard to find at this price range.

4. Acer Chromebook Plus 514 – Great for Power Users and Multitaskers on a Budget

If you need more power without breaking the bank, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is a solid option. With multiple chipset options (AMD Ryzen or Intel Core), up to 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage, this model offers great performance for just $300. The AMD version is especially good for multitasking, while the Intel version provides faster browsing and smoother overall performance. This Chromebook is a great value for anyone who needs more power than a typical budget laptop can offer.

5. Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 – Best for Battery Life and Long-Term Daily Use

The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is one of the newer models, and it comes packed with features. For $649, you get 12 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage, and a slim, ultra-light design. Powered by the ARM-based MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 chip, this Chromebook offers up to 17 hours of battery life, making it perfect for all-day use without worrying about charging. It’s also equipped with Wi-Fi 7 for faster, more stable connectivity. This is a premium option for those who prioritize battery life and portability.