Budget Laptop Review • Practical expectations, not hype
This is a “works because it’s cheap” Windows laptop: light, functional ports, and fine for docs + streaming. The trade-off is simple: 4GB RAM, 128GB storage, and a 1366×768 screen limit how “modern” it feels once you multitask.
What you’re buying (only the parts that matter)
Core configuration (as listed)
- CPU: Intel Processor N150 (up to 3.6GHz, low-power class)
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 128GB UFS
- Display: 14" 1366×768 (HD)
- OS: Windows 11 Home in S Mode
- Weight: ~3.24 lb
- Ports: USB-C + 2× USB-A + HDMI (plus audio)
The 3 constraints you’ll feel first
- 4GB RAM → more tab reloads and slower switching when multitasking.
- 128GB storage → you must manage space early (updates + apps add up).
- 768p display → less workspace; text looks less crisp vs Full HD.
What to expect in real use
Scenario A: Docs + email + light browsing
Google Docs/Sheets, email, LMS, 5–8 tabs, music or YouTube.
Scenario B: “Normal multitasking” (tabs + call + apps)
10–15 tabs + Meet/Zoom + a doc + messaging app, maybe screen sharing.
Scenario C: Heavy tasks
Editing, large Canva projects, serious coding workloads, modern gaming.
Daily comfort: screen, keyboard/trackpad, speakers, webcam, battery
Display (why 768p matters)
1366×768 on 14" is usable, but you’ll notice the lack of space when writing, reading, or working in spreadsheets. Expect more scrolling and less crisp text compared with 1920×1080.
Keyboard/trackpad + speakers/webcam (what’s typical at this price)
- Keyboard/trackpad: usually “functional,” not premium—fine for schoolwork, not a luxury typing feel.
- Speakers: typically thin/quiet; good enough for calls in a quiet room, weak for music.
- Webcam: 720p class—okay in good lighting; grainy in low light.
- Battery: “Up to” ratings are best-case; real use varies with brightness, tabs, and video calls.
Storage reality: 128GB UFS (what it means and how to avoid pain)
UFS storage is commonly better than eMMC, but often not as fast as a typical NVMe SSD. More importantly, 128GB fills up quickly once Windows updates, browsers, and apps accumulate.
Windows 11 in S Mode: a buyer-friendly decision guide
S Mode restricts installs to Microsoft Store apps. It can be fine for simple, controlled use—but it can also block what you actually need. Switching out is generally free, but it’s typically one-way.
Stay in S Mode if…
- You only use Store apps + web apps.
- You want fewer install headaches and a more locked-down setup.
Switch out if you need…
- Installer-based apps (many utilities, niche tools).
- Printer drivers/tools that aren’t Store-based.
- Specific school/work software not available in the Store.
Reference: Microsoft: switching out of S Mode
Who should buy this — and who should skip
Buy it if you are…
- Buying the lowest-cost new Windows laptop for basic work (docs/email/browsing/streaming)
- Okay with “one main task at a time” use
- Willing to rely on cloud storage to manage 128GB
- Getting it at a price that is clearly below better configs
Skip it if you…
- Multitask heavily (many tabs + meetings + apps)
- Need long-term smoothness without maintenance
- Do creative/heavy work
- Can afford 8GB/256GB—that’s the smarter purchase
Better alternatives: the upgrades that actually matter
If you can spend a bit more, focus on these priorities (in this order):
Buyer checklist (quick self-test)
FAQ
Tip: you can collapse/expand this sectionIs Intel N150 “good”?
It’s good for entry-level productivity and media. In this configuration, the bigger day-to-day limit is usually 4GB RAM and 128GB storage.
Is it okay for online classes / Zoom / Google Meet?
Basic calls are fine. For best results, keep the workflow light during calls: fewer tabs, avoid heavy background apps, and don’t expect smooth screen-sharing with lots of multitasking.
What should I do first after buying?
Update Windows, uninstall bloat, set up cloud storage, and decide about S Mode. Keep free storage headroom (20–25GB) to avoid “slow over time” behavior.
