Can I take online classes on a $300 laptop?

Yes, laptops under $300 can easily handle online classes, Zoom meetings, Google Classroom, and everyday school tasks.

What specs are best for online class laptops?

Focus on a good webcam, microphone, at least 4–8GB of RAM, 64–128GB storage, and strong battery life for uninterrupted learning.

Which is better for online classes: Chromebook or Windows?

Chromebooks are perfect for Google-based coursework, while Windows laptops are better for Microsoft Office and broader app compatibility.

Cheap Laptops for Online Classes in 2025

Online learning has become an everyday part of school, college, and even professional training. The good news? You don’t need to spend over $1,000 on a laptop to attend classes, join Zoom calls, and complete assignments. In fact, there are plenty of reliable cheap laptops under $300 that can handle online classes with ease.

If you’re looking for a curated list of the top picks, visit our dedicated guide here: Cheap Laptops Under $300.

Top Cheap Laptops for Online Classes

Here are some models that regularly drop under $300 on Amazon and at major retailers:

Lenovo IdeaPad 1 – Affordable Windows laptop with strong battery life and reliable performance for Zoom.
HP Chromebook 14 – Runs smoothly with Google Classroom and online apps.
Acer Chromebook Spin 311 – Touchscreen 2-in-1, great for flexibility and note-taking.
ASUS Chromebook C424 – Wide screen, excellent for multitasking during classes.

Where to Shop for Online Class Laptops

Outside of Amazon, there are multiple retailers worth checking for online class laptop deals:

Walmart Laptops – Frequent rollback pricing on Chromebooks and Windows machines.
Best Buy Laptops – Student discounts and open-box deals often bring models below $300.
Target Laptops – Back-to-school and seasonal sales are a great time to buy.
Lenovo Student Deals – Direct discounts on Chromebooks and IdeaPads.
Dell Outlet – Certified refurbished deals perfect for online learning.

What Features Matter for Online Classes?

Not all cheap laptops are created equal. When shopping for a device primarily for online classes, focus on these features:

Webcam & Microphone: Essential for Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams calls.
Battery Life: Look for 8+ hours to last through a full school day of virtual sessions.
Display: A 14” screen with HD or Full HD resolution makes reading and multitasking easier.
RAM & Storage: 4GB RAM is fine for Chromebooks, but aim for 8GB on Windows machines. Storage typically ranges from 64GB to 128GB, supplemented by cloud storage.
Wi-Fi 5/6: A stable connection ensures smooth video calls and quick loading times.

Chromebook vs. Windows for Online Classes

Choosing between a Chromebook and a Windows laptop depends on your needs:

✅ Chromebooks

Best for Google Classroom, Docs, and Slides.
Fast, secure, and low-maintenance.
Affordable and lightweight.

✅ Windows Laptops

Better if you need Microsoft Office desktop apps.
Wider compatibility with accessories.
Handles multitasking slightly better with 8GB RAM.

Either option works well for online learning — it comes down to whether you prefer Google or Microsoft’s ecosystem.

Tips for Saving More on a Student Budget

Check student discount portals at Best Buy, Lenovo, and Dell.
Look for refurbished models with warranty — often like-new at a fraction of the price.
Time your purchase around back-to-school season or holiday sales for maximum savings.

For the latest roundup of laptops that fit a student budget, don’t forget to visit our updated guide: Cheap Laptops Under $300.

Final Thoughts

Attending online classes doesn’t mean you need an expensive laptop. With budget options from HP, Lenovo, Acer, and ASUS — plus frequent sales at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy — you can find a great laptop under $300 that handles everything from video calls to assignments with ease.