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Cheap Laptops: Chromebooks and MacBooks on sale starting at just $199

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Coronavirus got you working from home? Make sure you’re armed with a laptop that can handle all your tasks. Chromebooks are the best options for those who will be doing a lot of web-based activities. MacBooks, on the other hand, are better suited to those who need to tackle more intensive tasks or need access to specialized software, like Final Cut Pro X. We’ve pooled together some Chromebooks and MacBooks that could be just what your home office needs. Best of all, they’re all on sale — so you can save some cash while kitting out your (presumably) newly-formed workstation.

14-Inch Asus Chromebook C423NA

 – $199, was $269

Anyone looking for an affordable computer for basic computing and web-based tasks will find love with this Asus Chromebook. At its core is the Intel Celeron N3350 processor backed by 4GB RAM, offering just the right amount of efficiency for day-to-day productivity. It also boasts 64GB eMMC flash memory which delivers improved storage capabilities and data management as well as faster boot times.

All Google applications that you may need – whether for entertainment or productivity – are easily within reach by downloading from the Google Play store. Device security is also assured, thanks to the Chrome OS’ automatic updates, built-in virus protection, and cloud backups. The laptop is estimated to last up to eight hours on a single charge, making it possible for you to work through a full day without having to plug it in.

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Normally selling at an affordable price of $269, the Asus Chromebook C423NA is made even cheaper after a $70 discount. Order now for only $199.

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14-Inch HP 2-in-1 Chromebook

 – $399, was $599

Something beefier than the Asus Chromebook C423NA is this HP convertible laptop. This Chromebook is powered by the eighth-generation Intel Core i3 chip for solid processing performance and HD-quality computing, complete with a substantial high-bandwidth 8GB RAM which makes multitasking a breeze as well as running games and editing applications lag-free. There’s also the 64GB eMMC flash memory, an ultra-compact memory system that provides streamlined data management, enhanced storage capabilities, quick boot-up times, and support for high-definition video playback.

For the screen, HP gave this Chromebook a 1,920 x 1,080-pixel resolution for impressive color and clarity. It also flaunts an energy-efficient WLED backlight for better visibility and color as well as IPS technology that supports wide viewing angles. The solid visuals are complemented by a backlit keyboard and stable wireless/wired connectivity that enable a more convenient experience both on productivity and web browsing.

As a Google Chrome OS laptop, this HP 2-in-1 brings in thousands of apps through the Google Play store. It also has multiple layers of protection against viruses and malware plus built-in cloud support for easy and secure file storage and access. Order yours now on Best Buy for a sale price of $399.

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13-Inch Apple MacBook Air (2017)

 – $750, was $999

If you want an entry-level MacBook that can sail you through your everyday productivity and multimedia consumption, we recommend the Apple MacBook Air (2017). It’s a great starter Mac and is compatible with the latest MacOS software, meaning you won’t be missing out on updated features. Its fifth-generation Intel Core i5 processor may be outdated, but the added power provided by the Turbo Boost makes it sufficient enough for running apps and tasks smoothly. Overall performance is further enhanced by the 8GB RAM which enables snappier multitasking and the 128GB solid-state drive (SSD) which promises faster read/write speeds, app loads, and boot times.

The 2017 MacBook Air flaunts a LED-backlit glossy widescreen display with a pixel resolution of 1,440 x 900 and support for millions of colors. It’s not the best, but it’s enough to make consuming media a delightful experience. The sides of the laptop are outfitted with multiple slots to accommodate SDXC, USB 3, and Thunderbolt 2 for expansive connectivity options.

Anyone on the hunt for an older but capable MacBook who wants to save some cash had better not miss out on this deal. Amazon has it on sale right now for $750, or a hefty $249 below the standard price tag.

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13-Inch Apple MacBook Pro (Latest)

 – $1,300, was $1,500
with Touch Bar

If you want a MacBook that can handle more intense tasks, check out this MacBook Pro instead. It’s not as thin or light as the MacBook Air, but it packs beefier hardware for more powerful performance. This specific model features a new quad-core eighth-generation Intel processor which claims to deliver up to 90% faster performance compared to the previous 13-inch MacBook Pro. This chip is backed by 8GB of RAM which lets you zip through tasks fluidly, as well as a 256GB SSD which improves operation with faster load and boot times.

The strongest feature of the MacBook Pro is its display. The resolution is astonishing at 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, the maximum brightness fares well even in extreme lighting conditions, the average color error value is very low, and the contrast is excellent. Whether it be movies, games, photos, or web content, everything looks rich and vibrant. Audio quality is equally impressive, and it’s all thanks to the room-filling speakers that can produce thumping bass along with undistorted high and mid-range sound.

While blazing-fast performance and outstanding visuals are enough reasons to get this MacBook Pro, another attractive feature is the well-performing touch bar. It can be used for several tasks including web browsing, note-taking, and photo-viewing. Now’s your chance to grab this sleek and solid laptop for a discounted price of $1,300.

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Looking for more ways to gear up your home office? Be sure to visit our curated deals page for wireless mouse deals, wireless keyboard deals, home office deals, and more.

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Erica Katherina
Erica Katherina
Former Digital Trends Contributor
I find deals and write about them to help Digital Trends’ readers save on quality tech products.
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