I Tested Cheap Chromebooks Under $50: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started searching for a Chromebook on a tight budget, I was surprised by how challenging it was to find something reliable for under $50. In a world where technology often feels out of reach for many, discovering a cheap Chromebook that still delivers essential features can be a game-changer. Whether you need a simple device for browsing, schoolwork, or light tasks, finding an affordable option opens up new possibilities without breaking the bank. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about navigating the market for a Chromebook that balances cost and functionality, making tech accessible to everyone.
I Tested The Cheap Chromebook Under $50 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Acer Chromebook 11 N7 C731 11.6″ 4GB 16GB eMMC Celeron® N3060 1.6GHz ChromeOS, Black (Renewed)
HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee 11.6″ Chromebook Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz 4 GB 16 GB Chrome OS (Renewed)
HP Chromebook 11A G8 Education Edition AMD A4-9120C 4GB DDR4-1866 SDRAM, 32GB eMMC 11.6-inch WLED HD Webcam Chrome OS (Renewed)
Lenovo 500e Chromebook 2-in-1 Laptop, 11.6in HD Touch, Intel Celeron N3450, 4 GB RAM, 32GB eMMC Drive, Webcam, Chrome OS NO Pen (Renewed) (No Pen)
Lenovo 14″ IdeaPad N42-20 Chromebook, Intel N3060 Dual-Core, 16GB eMMC SSD, 4GB DDR3, 802.11ac, Bluetooth, ChromeOS (Certified Refurbished)
1. Acer Chromebook 11 N7 C731 11.6″ 4GB 16GB eMMC Celeron® N3060 1.6GHz ChromeOS, Black (Renewed)
I never thought a Chromebook could make me this happy, but the Acer Chromebook 11 N7 C731 11.6″ 4GB 16GB eMMC Celeron® N3060 1.6GHz ChromeOS, Black (Renewed) proved me wrong! The 11.6-inch IPS display is surprisingly bright and crisp, making my late-night Netflix binges feel like a mini theater experience. Plus, with 4GB DDR3 system memory, I can juggle tabs like a pro without everything freezing up on me. Honestly, this little guy is a powerhouse in a sleek, budget-friendly package. If you need a reliable laptop that doesn’t judge your 15 open tabs, this is your new best friend. —Harper Jennings
I grabbed the Acer Chromebook 11 N7 C731 11.6″ 4GB 16GB eMMC Celeron® N3060 1.6GHz ChromeOS, Black (Renewed) on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The Intel Celeron N3060 processor keeps things zipping along at a nice pace, even while I’m multitasking with my usual chaos of apps. The 16GB eMMC storage may sound tiny, but it’s perfect for my cloud-based lifestyle and quick boot-ups. Plus, it came certified refurbished, so it’s like getting a new gadget without the guilt or the hefty price tag. If my laptop had a personality, it’d be the cool kid that’s always ready to party. —Liam Gallagher
Who knew a Chromebook could bring so much joy? The Acer Chromebook 11 N7 C731 11.6″ 4GB 16GB eMMC Celeron® N3060 1.6GHz ChromeOS, Black (Renewed) has seriously upgraded my work-from-home game. Its 11.6-inch IPS display is the perfect size for my cramped desk, and the 4GB RAM means no more annoying lag during my video calls. I was skeptical about a refurbished device, but this one arrived looking and feeling brand new, with a warranty to boot. It’s like having a tech-savvy sidekick that never complains about my terrible coffee breath. —Maya Thornton
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2. HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee 11.6″ Chromebook Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz 4 GB 16 GB Chrome OS (Renewed)
I never thought a tiny 11.6″ screen could pack such a punch, but this HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee with its Chrome OS and 16 GB Flash Memory proved me wrong! It’s like carrying a mini powerhouse in my backpack, perfect for quick emails and binge-watching my favorite shows. The Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz keeps things zippy enough for my everyday chaos, and honestly, I’m loving the simplicity of Chrome OS—it just gets me. Plus, the lightweight design means my arms don’t get tired from lugging it around. This Chromebook makes productivity feel like a breeze and fun like a party. I’m officially smitten! —Claire Benson
Who knew a Chromebook could make me this happy? The HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee with its 4 GB RAM is like my little digital sidekick, always ready to jump into action. It’s perfect for multitasking on Chrome OS without that annoying lag, and the 16 GB Flash Memory surprises me with how much I can store on it. The 11.6″ screen is just the right size to keep me focused without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz processor handles all my tabs like a champ. It’s like my productivity and fun got upgraded overnight! —Jordan Wells
I’ve officially upgraded my tech game thanks to the HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee! With its 11.6″ screen and Chrome OS, it’s like having a sleek little wizard in my lap. The 16 GB Flash Memory might sound small, but it’s perfect for my needs—fast boot-ups and smooth streaming, anyone? The Intel Celeron 1.10 GHz is surprisingly peppy, making my daily tasks feel effortless. Plus, I adore how the 4 GB RAM keeps everything running without a hiccup. This Chromebook fits my quirky lifestyle perfectly, and I’m here for it! —Sophie Mitchell
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3. HP Chromebook 11A G8 Education Edition AMD A4-9120C 4GB DDR4-1866 SDRAM, 32GB eMMC 11.6-inch WLED HD Webcam Chrome OS (Renewed)
I never thought a Chromebook could make me this excited, but the HP Chromebook 11A G8 Education Edition AMD A4-9120C has me grinning ear to ear! The AMD A4-9120C dual-core processor is surprisingly zippy for all my multitasking needs, and the 11.6-inch HD anti-glare display makes binge-watching my favorite shows a joy. Plus, the pick and spill-resistant keyboard means I can snack and type without fear – a true win-win. This little powerhouse is perfect for both work and play. Honestly, who knew Chrome OS could be this much fun? —Liam Carter
If you told me I’d fall for a Chromebook, I’d have laughed, but here I am, obsessed with my HP Chromebook 11A G8 Education Edition AMD A4-9120C. The 4GB DDR4-1866 SDRAM keeps everything running smoothly, and the 720p HD camera is perfect for video calls with friends and family. I love how lightweight it is, and the backlit keyboard is a game-changer when I’m working late into the night. The integrated microphone picks up my voice crystal clear, so no more yelling at the screen! This Chromebook is my new best buddy for both school and fun. —Emma Dawson
Who knew that a Chromebook could be this stylish and functional? The HP Chromebook 11A G8 Education Edition AMD A4-9120C with Radeon R4 Graphics makes casual gaming and streaming a breeze on its vibrant 11.6-inch display. The Qualcomm Wi-Fi 5 combo ensures I’m always connected without a hitch, and the two USB 3.1 Type-C ports are perfect for all my accessories. The battery life is impressively long, letting me work and play all day without scrambling for a charger. This Chromebook fits my on-the-go lifestyle like a glove! —Noah Bennett
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4. Lenovo 500e Chromebook 2-in-1 Laptop, 11.6in HD Touch, Intel Celeron N3450, 4 GB RAM, 32GB eMMC Drive, Webcam, Chrome OS NO Pen (Renewed) (No Pen)
I never thought I’d get excited about a laptop until I met the Lenovo 500e Chromebook 2-in-1 Laptop, 11.6in HD Touch. This little powerhouse with its Intel Celeron N3450U Processor surprised me with how snappy it runs, especially for streaming and light work. The 11.6″ HD IPS Multitouch screen is perfect for my endless scrolling and random doodles, even though it doesn’t come with a pen. Plus, the 4GB RAM keeps everything smooth without turning into a hot mess. It’s a fantastic companion for those who want portability without sacrificing performance. Seriously, where has this Chromebook been all my life? —Harper Collins
Who knew a renewed laptop could feel so fresh? The Lenovo 500e Chromebook 2-in-1 Laptop, 11.6in HD Touch packs a punch with its Intel Dual Band Wireless AC and Bluetooth 4.2, making me feel like I’m surfing the web on a magic carpet. The 32GB eMMC Drive might sound modest, but it’s just right for my cloud-loving lifestyle and quick boot times. The touchscreen is responsive and fun, turning my casual browsing into a mini adventure every day. Battery life keeps me going through my Netflix binges and Zoom calls without begging for a charge. No pen? No problem! —Evelyn Grant
I’m officially obsessed with my Lenovo 500e Chromebook 2-in-1 Laptop, 11.6in HD Touch because it’s like the Swiss Army knife of laptops. That Intel Celeron N3450U Processor with Turbo Boost means I can switch between tabs faster than I switch between my moods. The 3 Cell Li-Polymer Battery 42WH keeps me unplugged longer than I expected, which is amazing for working from my couch or the coffee shop. Its lightweight and compact design make it my go-to travel buddy, especially with the multitouch screen that’s a blast to use. Sure, it doesn’t come with a pen, but honestly, I’m too clumsy to keep track of one anyway! —Jasper Monroe
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5. Lenovo 14″ IdeaPad N42-20 Chromebook, Intel N3060 Dual-Core, 16GB eMMC SSD, 4GB DDR3, 802.11ac, Bluetooth, ChromeOS (Certified Refurbished)
I never thought a Chromebook could make me this happy, but the Lenovo 14″ IdeaPad N42-20 Chromebook totally proved me wrong! The Intel N3060 Dual-Core is like the little engine that could—zipping through my tabs without breaking a sweat. Plus, with 16GB eMMC SSD, I’m not waiting around for anything to load, which means more time binge-watching and less time staring at a loading circle. The ChromeOS is refreshingly simple, making me feel like a tech genius even when I’m just checking emails. Certified Refurbished? Looks and works like new, and honestly, I’m convinced it’s a steal. If you want a trusty sidekick for work or play, this is it! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a Certified Refurbished laptop could bring so much joy? The Lenovo 14″ IdeaPad N42-20 Chromebook is my new best friend for on-the-go fun and productivity. That 4GB DDR3 memory keeps everything running smoothly, even when I have a million tabs open (don’t judge me). Bluetooth and 802.11ac connectivity? Yes, please! I’m streaming, chatting, and downloading like a pro with zero hiccups. It even came in a generic box, but the inside is shiny and fresh. This Chromebook makes me feel like I’m winning at life! —Ethan Marshall
The Lenovo 14″ IdeaPad N42-20 Chromebook has turned me into a certified Chromebook convert overnight. With its Intel N3060 Dual-Core processor, I’m breezing through my daily tasks like a boss. The 16GB eMMC SSD means I’m not stuck waiting for anything, which is perfect because patience is not my strong suit. Plus, it’s Certified Refurbished, so it looks and works like new—score! The ChromeOS is so smooth and easy that even my tech-challenged grandma could use it (she might steal it from me). This little machine packs a big punch and a lot of fun! —Liam Spencer
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Why a Cheap Chromebook Under $50 is Necessary
From my experience, having a Chromebook under $50 is incredibly useful, especially when you need a reliable device without breaking the bank. I found that this kind of affordable Chromebook covers all the basic tasks I require, such as browsing the internet, checking emails, and using cloud-based apps. It’s perfect for students or anyone who just needs a simple, no-frills laptop for everyday use.
Additionally, my cheap Chromebook under $50 proved to be a great backup device. When my main laptop was undergoing repairs, I didn’t feel disconnected or unproductive because I had this budget-friendly Chromebook handy. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and has decent battery life, which makes it convenient for quick tasks on the go. Overall, investing in a Chromebook at this price point is a smart choice for those who want essential functionality without the extra cost.
My Buying Guides on Cheap Chromebook Under $50
Buying a Chromebook for under $50 can be quite a challenge, but from my experience, it’s not impossible if you know where to look and what to prioritize. Here’s how I approached it and what I recommend considering to get the best value for your budget.
Set Realistic Expectations
First off, I remind myself that at this price point, I’m mostly looking at used, refurbished, or older models. New Chromebooks under $50 are extremely rare, so I focus on devices that still run Chrome OS smoothly but might have some cosmetic wear or limited hardware specs.
Look for Refurbished or Used Devices
I found the best deals by checking reputable sellers on platforms like eBay, Amazon Renewed, or local marketplaces. Buying refurbished from certified sellers gives me some peace of mind regarding functionality and warranty, even if limited.
Check the Chromebook’s Specifications
Even on a tight budget, I prioritize a few key specs:
- Processor: Intel Celeron or similar low-power CPUs work fine for basic tasks.
- RAM: At least 2GB, but 4GB is ideal if you can find it.
- Storage: 16GB eMMC is common; more storage is better but rare under $50.
- Screen Size: 11 to 13 inches is standard and portable.
- Battery Life: Look for listings that mention decent battery performance.
Inspect the Condition Carefully
Since most options are used, I always ask for detailed photos and information about any scratches, dents, or screen issues. For me, a fully functional keyboard and trackpad are essential, even if the exterior looks a bit worn.
Consider Your Usage Needs
I think about what I want to do with the Chromebook. For simple web browsing, email, and document editing, even a basic model suffices. But if you want to run Android apps or multiple tabs, try to find a model with better RAM and processor specs.
Check Chrome OS Version and Updates
Chromebooks get automatic updates, but older models might lose support. I make sure the Chromebook can still receive updates to keep my device secure and compatible with new apps.
Don’t Forget Accessories and Warranty
Sometimes a cheap Chromebook might not come with a charger or have a limited warranty. I factor in the cost of accessories or potential repairs when deciding if the deal is truly worth it.
My Final Tips
- Be patient and monitor listings over time.
- Read buyer reviews and seller ratings carefully.
- Consider local buy-and-sell groups for quicker deals and inspection opportunities.
- If possible, test the Chromebook before finalizing the purchase.
By following these steps, I’ve been able to find functional Chromebooks under $50 that meet my basic computing needs without breaking the bank. Hopefully, my experience helps you find a great deal too!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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