Laptops Under 20000 or Refurbished Laptops: Which One is Better?

When selecting a laptop within budget, you might struggle between a budget-friendly laptop and refurbished laptops that are generally lower in price, which can be a good option. Here, we will decode the mystery to help you choose one that really suits your requirements. Let’s explore!
Laptops Under 20000 or Refurbished Laptops: Which One is Better?

In the competitive market for budget-friendly laptops, buyers are often faced with a key decision: should they opt for a brand-new model priced under 20,000 or a refurbished one? This choice involves weighing the benefits of a pristine, factory-sealed device against the potential value of a pre-owned machine that has been professionally restored. New laptops in this price range typically come with entry-level specifications suitable for basic tasks, offering the security of a full manufacturer's warranty and the latest software. On the other hand, refurbished laptops can provide a more powerful processor, better build quality, and enhanced features that were originally part of a higher price tier. 

Here we will explore the pros and cons of each option, helping you make an informed decision for your gadget zone based on your specific needs, budget, and risk tolerance.

 

Pros and Cons of Budget Laptop and Refurbished Laptop

Feature

Laptop Under 20,000

Refurbished Laptop

Price vs. Performance

Offers the lowest upfront cost, but performance is limited to basic tasks like browsing and word processing due to entry-level components.

Can offer significantly better performance and features (e.g., faster processors, more RAM) for the same price point as a new budget laptop.

Warranty & Reliability

Comes with a full manufacturer's warranty, providing peace of mind and support for a brand-new device.

Refurbished laptops’ warranty and support vary widely. Reputable sellers offer a limited warranty (e.g., 6 months to 1 year), but private sales may have no warranty.

Condition & Longevity

A brand-new device with a fresh battery and no previous usage, ensuring maximum longevity and no wear and tear.

Has undergone professional testing and repair, but is pre-owned. The lifespan can vary based on the original model's age and the quality of refurbishment.

Technology & Features

Equipped with the latest entry-level technology and software, but often lacks premium features like backlit keyboards, SSD storage, or high-resolution displays.

Can feature older, but higher-end technology from a few years ago. May include features like dedicated graphics, better displays, and more robust construction.

Availability & Selection

Easy to find in most retail stores and online, with a wide range of new models from various brands.

Selection is dependent on what is currently available on the market. Specific models or configurations might be hard to find, and inventory can fluctuate.

Here we are going to explore some of the top choices from both laptop types after taking care of these pointers. Let’s have a look at it! 

  • Acer Chromebook

    When looking for the best laptops under 20000 for students, consider this Acer Chromebook CB315-4H, a sleek and lightweight companion designed for modern life under Rs 20000 only. Powered by an Intel Celeron N4500 processor and 8GB of RAM, this Chromebook delivers swift performance for all your everyday tasks, especially for students, from browsing and streaming to handling documents. The generous 15.6-inch Full HD display provides crisp, vibrant visuals, perfect for work or binge-watching your favorite shows.

    With 128GB of eMMC storage, you have ample space for your files, and the Chrome OS offers a secure, user-friendly experience. It also includes a complimentary 3-month Google One AI Premium Plan, featuring 2TB of cloud storage, enhancing your digital life.

    Specifications: 

    • Brand: acer
    • Model Name: CB315-4H
    • Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
    • Colour: Silver
    • Hard Disk Size: 128 GB
    • RAM Memory Installed Size: 8 GB
    • Operating System: Chrome OS
    • Graphics Card Description: Integrated

    Pros: 

    • Large full HD display 
    • Enhanced connectivity and portability 
    • Generous RAM and Cloud storage 

    Cons: 

    • It has a basic processor for demanding tasks, which means not suitable for high-end tasks 
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  • Primebook 4G, 2025(New, WiFi+4G)

    The Primebook 4G is a thin and light laptop designed for students and users on the go. Also, it can be a decent gaming laptop under 20000 with good battery life, running on PrimeOS, an Android-based operating system, which provides a familiar mobile experience with a full desktop interface, giving you access to a vast ecosystem of Android apps for productivity and entertainment. 

    Powered by the MediaTek MT8788 processor and 4GB of RAM, it handles everyday tasks like browsing, online classes, and document editing with ease. Its standout feature is the integrated 4G SIM slot, ensuring you're always connected without needing a Wi-Fi hotspot. With an 11.6-inch HD display, this reliable laptop brand is the perfect portable companion.

    Specifications: 

    • Brand: Primebook
    • Model Name: Primebook 4G
    • Screen Size: 11.6 Inches
    • Colour: Black
    • Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
    • CPU Model: MediaTek MT8183
    • RAM Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
    • Operating System: PrimeOS

    Pros

    • Integrated 4G SIM slot 
    • Highly portable and lightweight 
    • Affordable Android-based OS

    Cons: 

    • While sufficient for basic use, the 64GB eMMC storage can fill up quickly
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  • (Refurbished) JioBook 11 with Lifetime Office

    The (Refurbished) JioBook 11 is an ultra-light laptop, your reliable refurbished laptop for business at an affordable price. Powered by a MediaTek 8788 Octa-core processor and 4GB RAM, it runs on the user-friendly JioOS, delivering smooth performance for everyday tasks. The 11.6-inch display is ideal for browsing, streaming, and small business needs, while the 64GB eMMC storage provides ample space for essential files. 

    A standout feature is its built-in 4G connectivity via SIM, ensuring you’re always connected, even without Wi-Fi. This laptop under 20000 also comes with Lifetime Office, making it a great value for students and professionals needing basic productivity tools. Get the best of both worlds, portability and connectivity, at an unbeatable price.

    Specifications: 

    • Brand: JIO
    • Model Name: JioBook
    • Screen Size: 11.6 Inches
    • Colour: Blue
    • Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
    • RAM Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
    • Operating System: JioOS
    • Graphics Card Description: Integrated

    Pros: 

    • Exceptional portability 
    • Built-in 4G connectivity 
    • Lifetime Office Suite 

    Cons: 

    • JioOS has a limited app ecosystem compared to Windows or ChromeOS
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  • (Refurbished) FUTOPIA Ultimus PRO Intel Dual Core ~2.4GHz

    With reliable performance, this refurbished FUTOPIA Ultimus PRO, a thin and light laptop designed for everyday productivity, is a great pick at this price tag. This Cloud Silver device features a vibrant 14-inch display, making it perfect for both work and entertainment. Powered by an Intel Dual Core processor (Celeron N4020) and 4 GB of RAM, it handles web browsing, word processing, and streaming with ease. 

    The 128 GB EMMC storage provides quick boot times and snappy performance for your essential files and applications. The Ultimus PRO is highly portable, and with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, you get a modern, secure, and user-friendly experience right out of the box of this reliable laptop brand.

    Specifications: 

    • Brand: FUTOPIA
    • Model Name: NU14U6INC43BN-CS
    • Screen Size: 14.1 Inches
    • Colour: Silver
    • Hard Disk Size: 128 GB
    • CPU Model: Celeron N4020
    • RAM Memory Installed Size: 4 GB
    • Operating System: Windows 11 Home
    • Graphics Card Description: Integrated
    • CPU Speed: 1.1 GHz

    Pros: 

    • Ultra-portable design 
    • Affordable for every buyer 
    • Modern OS 

    Cons

    • The 128 GB EMMC storage is limited
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Read More: Laptop Buying Guide 2025: CPU, RAM, Storage, and Display Explained

Disclaimer: At Jagran, we prioritize providing the up-to-date information on the latest trending commodities and goods. This Article is written and vetted by our in-house category authors in sync with the Google guidelines on product reviews and shoppable content. Jagran is in an associate partnership, so we may earn a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Faq's

  • What does 'refurbished' actually mean when buying a laptop?
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    'Refurbished' means a pre-owned laptop has been professionally inspected, repaired if necessary, and restored to a like-new, working condition. It's not the same as a used laptop, and the advantages of buying a refurbished laptop are that you are going to avail of the same features at a discounted price.
  • Is it safe to buy a refurbished laptop online?
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    Yes, it is safe, but it requires due diligence. Buy from reputable sellers like manufacturers or Amazon who offer warranties and clear return policies to ensure the product has been properly tested and restored.
  • What are the key things to check when buying a budget laptop?
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    When buying a budget laptop, focus on core specs: a decent processor (Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3), at least 8GB of RAM, and an SSD for faster performance. Also, check for a full HD screen and good battery life.