WIRED updates 2026 budget laptop guide, warns against sub-$300 Windows models
The updated guide highlights the HP OmniBook 5 and MacBook Neo as top affordable picks, while introducing the Dell XPS 13 and MSI Cyborg A15 to its list of seven recommended machines.
WIRED has published an updated buying guide for 2026, recommending seven affordable laptops for consumers seeking value without significant performance trade-offs. The publication advises against purchasing Windows laptops priced under $300, citing extreme compromises in speed and usability, and instead suggests Chromebooks for that specific price bracket. For viable Windows options, the guide recommends a minimum budget of $500.
The updated list, which includes additions made in August 2026, features the HP OmniBook 5, MacBook Neo, Dell XPS 13, HP OmniBook 3, MSI Cyborg A15, Acer Chromebook CX15, and Framework Laptop 12. WIRED notes that the Dell XPS 13, HP OmniBook 3, and MSI Cyborg A15 were added to the guide to reflect current market conditions and pricing accuracy.
The HP OmniBook 5 is highlighted as the best affordable Windows laptop utilising Snapdragon X chips. It features a 14-inch OLED screen, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage. While the retail price is $1,300, WIRED notes it is frequently discounted to under $700, offering a significant step up in display quality compared to standard IPS panels found on cheaper devices.
For users preferring Apple hardware, the MacBook Neo is recommended at $699. Despite having only 8 GB of RAM and lacking keyboard backlighting, WIRED praises its refined build quality and display, describing it as a suitable option for students or casual office work. The Dell XPS 13 is noted for offering a 120-Hz refresh rate, touchscreen, and backlit keyboard, with the 16 GB model at $900 considered the best value in its category.
WIRED explicitly warns against buying Windows laptops under $300, advising that such devices suffer from severe performance limitations. For budgets under $300, the Acer Chromebook CX15 is recommended as the best ultra-cheap option, featuring 8 GB of RAM and a 15-inch 1080p screen. The guide also identifies the MSI Cyborg A15 as the cheapest worthwhile gaming laptop, featuring an RTX 5050 GPU, and the Framework Laptop 12 for its upgradability and DIY edition starting at $549.
