When choosing a laptop, bigger is not always better. Sure, laptops in the standard 14 inch and 15.6 inch chassis size category pack a powerful hardware configuration and help you get just about anything done, but they aren’t the most practical option when it comes to portability. For the best portability, mini laptops are an unmistakable choice. For people with lightweight computing requirements and on-the-go day-to-day schedules, mini laptops in the 10 and 11 inch size territory provide the right hardware configuration without the bulk.
Apart from the best-in-class portability, there are several other benefits to choosing a mini laptop, including inexpensive price, good durability, upgradability (in many models), and good battery backup. In this list of 10 best mini laptops in 2020, you can explore a wide range of 10 and 11 inch models that pack different hardware configurations and additional features. To further make it easy for you to choose the right model, we’ve listed down the minimum hardware configuration specs sheet.
Minimum Requirements for Best Mini Laptops
- CPU: Mobile series CPU in a mini laptop can suffice for delivering enough computing power to help you complete lightweight, everyday tasks such as document and datasheet management and spreadsheet editing.
- GPU: Integrated graphics chipset help mini-laptops meet lightweight graphics processing requirements.
- RAM: 4 GB RAM is a must-have. 8 GB RAM comes as an added advantage.
- Storage: Flash storage and/or SSD storage are more preferable over HDD storage as they improve the overall performance of the laptop with fast read and write speeds.
Review of 10 best small laptops
ASUS VivoBook L203MA – best affordable
When it comes to balancing affordability with reliable performance, ASUS knows best. The brand has made significant improvements in offering higher performance in the affordable pricing segment over the years. Although ASUS has a wide range of affordable laptops in the standard 14, 15, and 17-inch sizes, the brand also has several good models to offer in the 11-inch territory, one of the best being the VivoBook L203MA.
a reliable everyday use companion
ASUS VivoBook L203MA deserves a good spot among some of the best mini laptops in terms of affordability with its considerably powerful 2.6 GHz of computing performance that it’s Intel Celeron 2 core CPU delivers. Intel UHD Graphics 600 integrated graphics chipset works together with the CPU to help this model easily handle everyday task-related graphics processing requirements. A 4 GB DDR4 RAM backs you up for lightweight multitasking requirements such as opening multiple documents, using multiple browser tabs and running one or more programs. For storage, this model includes 64 GB eMMC flash storage which improves boot up and files loading speed.
In the display department, ASUS VivoBook L203MA packs an 11.6 inch HD panel that has optimized sharpness and contrast. With color-accurate display and Asus SonicMaster technology-integrated dual speakers, this model helps you enjoy entertainment content despite being a small screen laptop. The battery backs up for 9 to 10 hours for lightweight usage. For external connectivity options, this laptop includes one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one microSD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good overall performance for casual usage
- Inclusion of USB Type C port eases connectivity
- Broader touchpad size improves accessibility
- Good wireless connectivity performance
- Rugged and lightweight chassis
Cons:
- Windows 10S OS comes default
- No backlighting on the keyboard
- No ethernet port
Acer Chromebook R 11 – smallest touch screen laptop
If you are somebody who prefers fast performance along with uncompromised portability, you can’t go wrong with exploring your options in the Chromebook territory as Chrome OS is light on hardware resources, thereby maintaining fast performance. Acer Chromebook R 11 packs just the right amount of performance that’s backed by versatility. This model gives a tough competition to even some of the best mini laptops and Chromebooks in the design department with its convertible, 2-in-1 form factor.
do more with less
Despite being an affordable and cheap mini laptop, Acer Chromebook R 11 comes equipped with Intel Celeron N3150 4 processor. The CPU runs at a base frequency of 1.6 GHz and can max out to 2.08 GHz with Intel Burst Technology. An Intel HD graphics integrated graphics chip that packs up the laptop for handling lightweight graphics processing requirements associated with everyday tasks such as browsing the internet, using social media, streaming content, and basic photo editing. Acer has included 4GB DDR3 RAM in this model. The RAM can hold its ground when simultaneously using a couple of programs. Booting and file loading speed in this laptop is fast, thanks to its 32 GB eMMC storage capacity.
The 11.6 inch HD touch display of Acer Chromebook R 11 has a 360° rotation which allows you to use it as a tablet. The color correction and touch response of the display are good enough to keep accessibility issues at bay. For lightweight usage, the battery can deliver a power backup of up to 10 hours. Although being Acer’s smallest laptop, this model offers good external connectivity options, including one USB 2.0 Type A port, one USB 3.0 Type A port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Overclocking CPU performance adds extra power
- High-quality build
- 2-in-1 form factor adds versatility
- Fairly sleek and lightweight chassis
- Good wireless connectivity performance
Cons:
- Included Chrome OS version may require updates for best performance
- No backlighting on the keyboard
- No USB Type C and ethernet port
- Can heat up during intensive usage
2020 Dell Inspiron 11 3195 – best cheap mini laptop
It goes without saying that just like in the 14 and 15-inch footprint territory, there is no shortage of options of laptops in the 11-inch chassis size segment. With brands like Dell refreshing their 11-inch models on a regular basis, the compact laptop size category status on par with regular laptop size categories. 2020 Dell Inspiron 11 3195 2-in-1 laptops are positioned under the category of affordable and cheap small laptops. Despite being light on its price tag, this model offers more than what you might normally expect.
reliable performance in a lightweight price tag
2020 Dell Inspiron 11 3195 also deserves the moniker of one of the best small laptops in 2020 in terms of using an all-AMD core computing hardware configuration. The AMD A9-9420e 2 core CPU powers this laptop with a base performance speed of 1.8 GHz. With Turbo core technology, the CPU can crank up to 2.7 GHz of peak computing power. An AMD Radeon R5 joins the CPU in providing this laptop with just the right amount of graphics processing performance. 4 GB DDR4 RAM makes it possible for you to experience a lag-free performance for lightweight multitasking. This model comes with 128 GB SSD storage which is an impressive upgrade over its predecessor.
2020 Dell Inspiron 11 3195 has an 11.6 inch HD LED touchscreen display. The 360° rotation of the hinge helps you snap the display all the way back to the bottom of the laptop and use it as a tablet. This model is also equipped with MaxxAudio Pro which improves audio performance to a significant extent. External connectivity options in this laptop include one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A port, two USB 2.0 Type A ports, one microSD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance for the price
- SSD storage improves booting and loading speed
- Waves MaxxAudio Pro enhances audio performance
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Easy switching between laptop and tablet mode
Cons:
- No USB Type C and ethernet port
- Average Bluetooth connectivity performance
- Can run considerably hot during intensive usage
Lenovo Flex 11 – best portability
Maintaining good productivity when working not only helps you deliver better results but also helps you maintain a good balance between work and play. The Lenovo Flex 11 is one of the most reliably-performing compact laptops that you can easily count on for efficiently getting all your work done. This model combines reliable performance with versatility which helps it outperform its competitors in the productivity department.
the best of portability & convenience
An Intel Pentium Silver N5000 processor makes its way into the chassis of Lenovo Flex 11. The CPU, with its 1.1 GHz of average computing power, can handle most everyday tasks you throw at it. An Intel UHD Graphics 605 integrated graphics chipset which is paired with the CPU helps this laptop perform well in lightweight graphics processing. A 4 GB DDR4 RAM joins the ensemble to deliver lightweight multitasking bandwidth which makes it easy for you to switch between multiple programs and applications. Lenovo has also included 64 GB eMMC storage capacity that you can use to store all your important documents, spreadsheets, pictures, and videos.
The 11.6 inch HD touchscreen display of Lenovo Flex 11 packs the right amount of color accuracy and brightness to help you effortlessly get all your work done as well as best enjoy entertainment content. Despite being one of the smallest touchscreen laptops, the accessibility that this model offers is on par with that of regular-sized laptops. The ergonomic layout of the keyboard ensures the most comfortable typing experience while the touchpad offers precise control with multi-finger gesture support. One USB 3.0 Type C port, one USB 3.0 Type A port, one USB 2.0 Type A port, one SD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack provide external connectivity options in this mini laptop.
Pros:
- Good performance for the price
- Good wireless connectivity performance
- Dolby Audio Premium improves audio performance
- Good battery backup
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
Cons:
- Average quality build
- Non-upgradable RAM
- Windows S mode may not be favorable for some
HP Stream 11 inch – best value
It’s not uncommon to see HP laptops in the compact form factor segment as the brand focuses on almost all laptop categories. HP Stream 11 is undoubtedly one of the best values that the brand has added in the mini laptop segment. This model packs a punch with modern aesthetics while packing an uncompromised performance that meets all your everyday requirements.
uncompromised productivity & entertainment
HP Stream 11 uses the Intel X5-e8000 4 core processor that effortlessly crashes spreadsheet management, document editing, video playback, and other everyday requirements with its 1.1 GHz of base computing power. If needed, the CPU can overclock to up to 2.7 GHz. An Intel HD Graphics integrated graphics chipset powers this laptop with just the right amount of graphics performance to help this laptop excel at everyday requirements. In the memory department, HP has included 4 GB DDR3 RAM. Together with 32 GB eMMC storage, the RAM works wonders in complementing the overall performance of the laptop.
A significant part of what makes HP Stream 11 look modern is its 11 inch HD display that has a considerably thin bezel design at each side. Despite being one of the smallest laptops, this model offers a comfortable typing experience, thanks to the wide spacing and ergonomic layout of its keyboard. The ease of typing, in turn, helps you get your work done in a jiffy. The myriad external connectivity options that this laptop offers include one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one SD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Solid overall performance
- 1 year of Office 365 Personal and 1 TB Onedrive storage included
- Good battery backup
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Good build quality
Cons:
- No ethernet port
- No RAM upgradability
- USB Type C port doesn’t support charging
HP ProBook x360 – best performance
Another compact model from HP that comes on par with some of the best mini laptops is HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3. Compared to other laptops in the 11-inch territory, this model offers good value in terms of overall computing performance, uncompromised accessibility, and top-of-the-line customization option with a good selection of ports.
a treat for a limited budget
An Intel Celeron N4100 4 core CPU powers HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3 with 1.10 GHz of base computing power. With Turbo Boost, the CPU can crank up to 2.4 GHz of overclocking performance which helps this laptop effortlessly take on varied requirements such as data crunching, content streaming, basic photo editing, and document editing. The CPU is paired with Intel UHD Graphics 600 integrated graphics chipset which suffices for everyday graphics processing requirements associated with lightweight tasks. The combo of 4 GB DDR3 RAM and 128 GB SSD storage capacity improves the overall performance speed of the laptop.
Viewing experience of HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3 is on par with other high-performing laptops, thanks to its 11.6 inch HD touchscreen display that allows a 360° rotation. By rotating the display all the way back to the bottom panel of the laptop, you can use the device as a high-performance tablet to get hands-on with your work. The chassis of this laptop has just the right amount of thickness to sport a good selection of ports while packing just the right amount of sleekness to ensure optimum portability. The availability of one USB 3 Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one HDMI port, one ethernet port, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack eases customization on this mini laptop.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance
- SSD storage improves boot-up and file loading speed
- Good battery backup
- Water-resistant keyboard
- Good selection of ports
Cons:
- Average display
- Average webcam
- Can heat up a bit during intensive usage
Dell XPS 11 inch 2-in-1 – best aesthetics
Dell XPS laptops have gained good popularity over the years as the brand makes the right improvements on every refresh cycle. Although Dell XPS 13.3 inch and 15-inch models are highly popular, the brand has also offered a powerful model in the mini laptop size territory, the Dell XPS 2-in-1 11.6 inch ultrabook. Although there are a ton of good small laptops available in the market, Dell XPS 2-in-1 separates itself from the rest with its seamless fusion of aesthetics and performance.
mighty performance in a compact footprint
Dell XPS 2-in-1 is one of the few Dell mini laptops to use an Intel i5 2 core processor. The 4th generation CPU has been calibrated to run at a base speed of 1.5 GHz and crank up to 1.9 GHz with Turbo Boost. This model performs average on the graphics processing department as it uses an Intel integrated graphics chipset. The 4 GB DDR3 RAM that’s included in this laptop is well-suited for lightweight multitasking requirements. This model packs a punch in the storage department with its 128 GB SSD storage that consistently maintains a fast boot-up and loading speed.
One of the biggest highlights of Dell XPS 2-in-1 is it 11.6 inch display that has a Quad HD resolution which improves the viewing experience. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the 360° rotation and responsive touchscreen feature of the display help improve accessibility. The rubber keyboard helps keep dust at bay and resist small water spills. External connectivity options in this laptop include one headphone/mic jack, one SD card reader, one HDMI port, and two USB 3.0 ports.
Pros:
- Solid CPU performance
- Good display resolution and touch
- SSD storage improves overall performance speed
- Sleek and high-quality chassis
- Good audio performance
Cons:
- Not the most responsive keyboard
- No USB Type C and ethernet port
- No RAM upgradability
2019 Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e – best protection
If getting your hands on a ThinkPad in the compact and tiny laptop segment seems wishful thinking to you, it’s not. The 2019 Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e brings the unmatched reliability of ThinkPad models in the 11 inch territory. It’s a perfect choice if you want a compact laptop that can power you throughout your everyday commutes for helping you work on-the-go.
carries the legacy of long-renowned ThinkPads
Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e comes equipped with Intel Celeron 4 core processor that is based on a 4 thread architecture. The CPU powers this laptop with 1.1 GHz of base computing power. The burst computing power of the CPU maxes out at 2.40 GHz. With the help of Intel UHD Graphics 600 integrated graphics chipset, this laptop offers reliability in lightweight graphics processing performance that’s needed for basic photo editing, video playback, streaming online content, and managing spreadsheets. This model performs average in the multitasking department with its 4 GB DDR4 RAM. The addition of 128 GB SSD storage makes this laptop a reliable repository where you can store all your entertainment and work-related essentials.
Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 11e has an 11.6 inch HD display that offers a pleasant viewing experience. The display uses an anti-glare panel which keeps the risk of eye strain and fatigue at bay. Just like regular-sized ThinkPads, this model has an ergonomic keyboard that has a good key travel which offers a comfortable typing experience. Lenovo has offered a good port selection in this laptop, including one USB 3.1 Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one HDMI port, one ethernet port, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Better CPU performance than its competitors
- Graphics chipset supports up to 2 external displays
- Good port selection
- Corning Gorilla Glass offers display protection
- USB Type C port supports charging
Cons:
- Non-upgradable RAM
- Not the best ethernet port speed
- Can run slightly hot under heavy loads
ASUS Chromebook 11.6 inch – best mini laptop for students
When it comes to optimized performance, Chromebooks are on a league of their own in the compact size segment. Chrome OS, being a lightweight operating system, works wonders in complementing the overall hardware performance. ASUS Chromebook 11.6 inch is ASUS’s take on its Chromebook offering. If you want to get your hands on one of the best tiny laptops for your children, you cannot go wrong with this model.
well-suited for educational learning
ASUS Chromebook 11.6 inch is powered by Intel Celeron N3060 2 core CPU which offers a snappy 2.48 GHz of computing performance. The Intel integrated graphics chipset that this laptop uses can easily take on most everyday tasks you throw at it. 4 GB DDR3 RAM is a nice addition as it suffices for providing adequate multitasking bandwidth for Chrome OS-based apps. For storage, ASUS Chromebook 11.6 inch includes 32 GB eMMC storage capacity. The fast read and write speed of the storage helps you use all Chrome OS-based apps at blazing speeds.
ASUS Chromebook 11.6 inch has an 11.6 inch HD display which uses an anti-glare panel to make the visuals go easy on the eyes. Despite being one of the smallest screen laptops, this model offers plenty of viewing room as the hinge of its display has 180° rotation. The keyboard has a widely-spaced layout which eases typing experience. Also, the keyboard has a spill-resistant design. Two USB 3.0 Type A ports, one SD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack offer external connectivity options in this model.
Pros:
- Overall performance well-suited for learning and lightweight usage
- Good booting speed
- Spill-resistant keyboard
- Rugged yet lightweight chassis
- Responsive keyboard and touch
Cons:
- No USB Type C and ethernet port
- Can run a bit hot during intensive usage
- Some updates may be required when setting up the device
Samsung Chromebook 11.6 inch – best lightweight
When it comes to choosing a mini laptop, Samsung may seem an uncommon brand. However, the brand has had quite a reputation in the Chromebook segment. Like the way the brand always does, it hasn’t held back in offering reliable performance in its 11.6 inch Chromebook. This model costs way less than its competitors but offers a reliable performance that’s definitely one of the best values.
lightweight performance at an unbeatable price
Samsung 11.6 inch Chromebook comes with an Intel Celeron M3060 2 core processor. The 1.6 GHz processing performance of the CPU helps this Chromebook crush all Chrome OS-based apps such as Google Sheets, Google Docs, Google Keep, etc. Just like the CPU, the Intel HD Graphics 400 integrated graphics chipset of this model suffices for smoothly running all Chrome OS-based Google apps. Further elevating the overall performance of the CPU and graphics chipset is the duo of 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 16 GB eMMC storage.
The viewing experience of Samsung 11.6 inch Chromebook is on par with that of higher-priced Chromebooks, courtesy of its 11.6 inch HD display. Also, this model is one of the few Chromebooks in the 11 inch territory to include an ergonomically-laid out keyboard which offers a comfortable typing experience. Ports that offer external connectivity options in this Chromebook include two USB 2.0 Type A ports, one HDMI port, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good overall Chromebook-standard performance
- Good wireless connectivity performance
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Comfortable keyboard
Cons:
- No USB Type C and ethernet port
- Comparatively low storage capacity
- Not the brightest display
FAQs
1) Are mini laptops worth it?
Yes, totally. Mini laptops are worth the choice if you want a lightweight hardware configuration packed in a compact chassis that’s capable of handling most everyday tasks such as watching videos and movies, streaming online content, basic photo editing, and managing personal files and folders. Some of the best mini laptops also suffice for lightweight work-related requirements such as working on spreadsheets, writing on documents, uploading and downloading content, and browsing the internet.
2) What are the main differences between regular-sized laptops and mini laptops?
The most significant difference between regular-size laptops and many laptops is the overall size. Regular-sized laptops are usually available in 14, 15, and 17 inch chassis size while many laptops range from 10 inch, 11 inch, and 13 inch body sizes. Hardware configuration and computing performance are the other two important differences between regular-sized laptops and mini laptops. Regular-sized laptops are more powerful. However, when it comes to portability, nothing beats mini laptops.
3) Which is better Chromebook or laptop?
Both devices are useful in their own right. Chromebooks are suitable for lightweight requirements while mini laptops offer more computing power. For learning and entertainment, both Chromebook and laptop are well-suited. However, for work, a mini laptop offers more performance advantage over a Chromebook.
Conclusion
Choosing a mini laptop doesn’t necessarily have to be a trade-off between portability and performance. You can get the best of both worlds by upgrading the model you choose. Upgrading RAM capacity, storage capacity, and wireless cards can help you beef up the overall performance of the mini laptop. Even if the mini laptop you choose doesn’t include storage upgradability option, you can use a 128 GB SD card to open up more storage capacity. Removing certain bloatware also goes a long way in helping you max out your mini laptop’s performance.