What Good Fairly Used Budget HP Laptops Can I Get for $150?

When it comes to budget laptops, especially within a $150 budget, there are limited options that suit long-term service needs. However, there are a few avenues to explore for finding good deals on fair-quality, used HP laptops.

Checking the HP Business Outlet

If you're looking for used laptops under $150, the HP Business Outlet is a great place to start. This section of the HP website regularly updates with units that may come from trade-ins, refurbished models, or returns. All items sold through this channel typically come with a one-year warranty plus any additional care packs available.

Click here to check the latest offerings.

Why a $150 Budget Isn't Sufficient

Once you get past $150, you can find quite a few decent budget laptops that perform well enough for everyday tasks other than demanding applications. However, at this price point, a range of compromises come into play:

RAM: No more than 4GB Storage: No more than 60GB Processor: Over 10-year-old Screen Size: Small at 13 inches Windows Installation: More than 40GB reserved for system

For serious tasks like gaming, video editing, or even more intensive software, these specs leave much to be desired. It would be wise to look at a basic Chromebook if your budget really is $150, as it will still be able to perform basic web browsing and email checking.

Looking Beyond $150 for a Fair Deal

If you're really interested in finding a very affordable HP computer, take a look at the HP Stream series. These budget laptops are often heavily discounted and can be found for around $300 or less. However, while they can be a good value, it's important to note that the HP Stream is not always the best choice.

When I worked at Best Buy, the HP Stream was one of the highest-return items on the floor. Users often found that despite the low price, the performance and battery life were not satisfactory for their needs. While they may meet basic requirements for web browsing and email, they struggle with more demanding tasks.

Alternative Options

For getting a decent laptop under $150, you might want to consider looking for a pre-owned professional model like a ProBook or EliteBook. These models, which are 8-10 years old, can still offer useful features and functionality. They typically have better processor performance and battery life compared to consumer-grade laptops.

Another option is to explore the used market on platforms like eBay or Gumtree. Here, you might find laptops that are 8-10 years old but still functional, making them a better fit for daily use within your budget.

Conclusion

While a $150 budget for a laptop is quite restrictive, there are still options available that can meet your needs to some extent. Exploring the HP Business Outlet, considering alternative models, and taking a look at pre-owned professional laptops can help you find a good compromise between price and functionality.