8 Best 11-inch laptops

There are a lot of reviews out there for 11-inch laptops, but not many focus on the important features that make these models stand out. This article tries to clear up confusion and provide an overview of some of the best models you can find in this particular size range.

Have you ever desired an enviously portable small laptop to help you with your tight in-flight computer needs? You might have landed on a more relevant topic about the best 11-inch or ultra-portable computers if you answered yes.

College students who need to keep up with their assignments even while moving across the country rely on such small devices. In addition to teachers reviewing online submissions & papers, kids who attend remote online classes prefer purchasing 11-inch machines with a lower structural footprint.

While some may claim that smart tablets may do comparable tasks, the 11-inch laptops’ processing power, combined with an ergonomic keyboard, camera, and a more attractive, easy-to-carry structure, makes them superior gadget-centric choices.

It’s important to remember that, due to the sleekness and compactness of the form factor, these mini-laptops have more limited specifications, making them only suitable for particular personal and professional uses.

When it comes to the professional distribution and popularity of 11-inch notebooks, they are often acquired by homeschooling parents, journalists, book authors, company owners, stock traders, elders, YouTube vloggers, photographers, online instructors, and, of course, students, among others.

While the smaller displays’ impressive compactness, simple layout, and very crisp viewing angles make them the finest professional alternatives for worried clients, 11-inch laptops have their share of limitations, such as limited room to host various resources.

Although the Life of the battery of these ultraportable devices is often emphasized, inadequate processing capabilities may be a deal-breaker for accounting students and MS Excel enthusiasts. As a result, if you insist on using such tiny devices for simple screening, professional work, and basic academic pursuits, you should be prepared to examine the restricted options available.

These features include superior ergonomics, top-of-the-line mobility, and favored performance depending on the machine’s price and internals. On the other hand, 11-inch laptops provide a diverse range of options, including traditional clamshell models, Budget-friendly 2-in-1s with a detachable screen, and Chromebooks that prioritize online work profiles and cloud-based storage.

Whatever configuration you choose, these 11-inch laptops can handle basic reading, note-taking, low-end gaming, zoom meetings, video conferencing, online shopping, and other applications that do not need a lot of processing or graphics horsepower.

Minimum & System Requirements that are Recommended

Although laptop purchases are divided into minimum and recommended specifications, it’s crucial to remember that 11-inch devices are weak compared to the typical 13-inch, 15-inch, and 17-inch models. However, depending on the budget range, you may always hunt for the ideal collection of characteristics to suit.

	Requirements for a Minimum System	System Requirements that are Recommended
CPU	Celeron N4000 (Intel)	Intel Pentium N5000 processor
RAM	4GB	8GB
Storage	32GB eMMC	128GB or above eMMC
Display	11.6-inch HD IPS display (1366 x 768)	FHD IPS 11.6-inch (1920 x 1080)
GPU	500 Intel UHD Graphics	615 Intel UHD Graphics
Battery	Approximately 5 hours	10 hours or more

In 2021, the best 11-inch laptops will be

Finding the ideal 11-inch laptop isn’t as simple as it seems since you may not have a large variety. Furthermore, since small computers aren’t anticipated to be as powerful as their bigger counterparts, you should have realistic expectations.

Our specialists looked at over 41 ultraportable notebooks, taking into account user expectations, laptop resources, mobility, and affordability, and came up with a selection of eight stylish, resourceful, and useful devices. The following are the models that you should consider buying in 2021.

1. Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the best overall.

• Intel Core M3-8100Y, 1.1GHz
• RAM: 8GB
• 128GB SSD storage
• PixelSense IPS 10.5-inch display (1920 x 1280)
• Intel UHD 615 integrated GPU
• Life of the battery: 10 hours or more

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is one of the most dependable 11-inch devices on the market, with various productivity-focused features and a solid processing foundation.

When it comes to computing power, Microsoft uses the Intel Core M3-8100Y processor, which can achieve enhanced clock speeds of up to 3.4GHz. In addition, the Hyper-threading capabilities on the dual-core CPU enable you to be a little more expressive with moderately demanding activities like online picture editing, streaming movies, and more. The reduced TDP of 8W, on the other hand, allows passive cooling while keeping overheating to a minimum.

Basic graphics support is rendered by the 615 Intel UHD Graphics, integrated co-processor, with an extensive outlaying, supporting for graphics output, concerning DisplayPort, HDMI, and more. As far as the RAM allotment is concerned, you get access to 8GB of system memory. It is more than adequate for the more demanding multitasking indulgences, allowing you to keep more than 20 chrome tabs open without any noticeable lags.

You can depend on the 128GB solid-state drive for storage, which is quick and runs the power-saving Windows 10 Home S mode in the blink of an eye. Microsoft provides a 10.5-inch display with a total resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels to deal with when it comes to screen real estate. The Surface Go 2 has many bells and whistles, including a snappy touch screen with a great 1500:1 contrast ratio and a tough Gorilla Glass 3 protective cover.

The Surface Go 2 creates a place for the integrated Kickstand and the custom Keyboard cover, which must be bought separately in productivity and gadget variety. The device also works with a stylus and has dual camera capability and studio-grade mics for enhanced professional exposure.

However, the integrated stereo speakers for music listening at the helm make consuming media or viewing movies and streaming on Netflix at amazing speeds more productive. However, what sticks out is the guarded front-facing shooter, which may improve security. The Surface Go 2 is a lightweight device, weighing just 1.22 pounds when without including the Type-C cover.

In terms of connectivity, the Surface Connect and Type-Cover ports are included, and Type-C compatibility. In addition, the TPM security chip (necessary for law students), Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5, and Snapdragon’s powerful X16 LTE modem for voice calling capability are all additional and handy features.

The battery on offer is one of the major highlights, capable of lasting 10 hours or more on standard usage. Therefore, if you are seriously seeking a resourceful and innovative 11-inch notebook, the Surface Go 2 from Microsoft is certainly one of the better options to consider.

• Processor with a reasonable Turbo Clock speed.
• A layout that can be taken apart
• Colorful display
• Exceptional acoustics
• Windows Hello support on a dual-camera system
• The LTE connection is included.
• A battery that lasts a long time
• It’s not for power users.
• Storage space is limited.

2. HP Pavilion x360 is the runner-up for best runner-up.

• Intel Pentium N5000, 1.1GHz processor
• RAM: 4GB
• 128GB SSD storage
• Display: 11.6-inch HD IPS display (1366 x 768)
• Intel UHD 605 integrated GPU
• Up to 7 hours of the life of the battery

The HP Pavilion x360 is a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a convenient secondary laptop with multimode functionality and touch capabilities.

Under the hood, HP houses the Intel Pentium N5000 processor, which can reach burst clock speeds of up to 2.7GHz. While the Processor for beginners misses out on Hyper-threading support that comes with Intel i5 and i7 laptops, it can still handle a few basic multi-core tasks, courtesy of the quad-core architecture. Assisting the CPU is the integrated UHD 605 module.

HP also included 4GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB SSD module for multitasking. Laptops with solid-state drives are speedier than those with hard drives. Therefore this device offers faster boot-ups for the Windows 10 Home edition OS. However, you may configure the OS to run in the power-saving S-Mode if and when required.

You’ll have access to an 11.6-inch touch panel with a total resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels in the display. In addition, the IPS panel is color-accurate and has widescreen capabilities and backlighting capability. HP also boasts a 360-degree flip-and-fold configuration, which adds to the mobility factor.

In addition to the same, you also get access to an ergonomic keyboard, HD Webcam (highly suitable for Skype calls), B&O speakers with Audio Boost support, and a sleek chassis weighing a mere 3.77 lbs.

When it comes to connection and port layout, you’ll find HDMI, Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A ports, and the Wi-Fi AC standard. The battery backup isn’t groundbreaking at 7 hours, but it more than justifies the price tag. Overall, if you’re looking for an ultraportable laptop, the HP Pavilion x360 is one of the best price options.

• TDP-reduced quad-core processor
• Layout that converts
• Storage module with plenty of space
• Exceptional acoustics
• A good port configuration
• mediocre battery
• The HD display isn’t as brilliant as it should be.

3. ASUS VivoBook L203MA is the best laptop for students.

• CPU: 1.1GHz Celeron N4000 (Intel)
• RAM: 4GB
• 64GB eMMC storage
• 11.6-inch HD display (1366 x 768)
• Intel UHD 600 integrated GPU
• Life of the battery: 10 hours or more

The way things work has altered as a result of technological advancements. The enormous selection of devices available includes anything from massive powerhouses to simple, tiny, and Lightweight notebooks. Asus has pioneered the development of powerful gaming laptops and simple computing computers. In addition, Asus has put together a compact 11.6-inch laptop in the Vivobook L203MA.

Celeron N4000 (Intel) is a dual-core processor with the capacity to clock up to 2.6GHz. As a result, it can handle day-to-day activities like surfing, editing documents/excel sheets, etc. In addition, the Intel UHD 600 does enough to handle HD media, sharing the system’s memory.

Boot-ups and data access are quick because of operating and storage memory (4GB DDR4 RAM and 64GB eMMC). The Vivobook comes with Windows 10 S-mode pre-installed, with the option to upgrade to Windows 10 Home version later. However, the complete home version, which comes laden with applications, may tax the system’s resources.

The 11.6-inch HD display denotes mobility. It has a resolution of 1366 × 768 pixels and can provide images in that resolution. Asus remove the Numpad to make room for a full-sized keyboard. The keys are well spaced and have reasonable key travel, making the experience pleasant. The touchpad has a bigger size and extra-sensitive response to make multi-touch motions seamless.

The laptop is as Lightweight as portable as they get, weighing just 2.1 pounds. The matte black chassis is straightforward and does a good job of keeping dust and fingerprints at bay. The Vivobook has a wide range of connection options. All included are one USB 3.1 Type-C port, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, an HDMI connector, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Wireless communication is provided through Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth.

The Vivobook has a Life of the battery of up to 10 hours depending on use. In addition, the Intel Celeron dual-core CPU, eMMC flash memory’s faster boot-ups, and plenty of connection options in an 11-inch screen will keep you busy on the road. With its features, the Asus L203MA Vivobook punches beyond its weight, making it one of the finest 11-inch laptops on the market.

• The hinge rotates 180 degrees.
• Light-weight
• Budget-friendly
• Life of the battery
• Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based version of Microsoft Office
• Upgradability
• There is no ethernet port.

4. Best Life of the battery: Acer Spin 1

• CPU: 1.1GHz Celeron N4000 (Intel)
• RAM: 4GB
• Memory: 64 GB Flash Memory
• Display: 11.6-inch HD IPS display (1366 x 768)
• Intel UHD 600 integrated GPU
• Life of the battery: Up to 12 hours

The Spin 1 is Acer’s contribution to our list of 11-inch notebooks, best characterized by a Battery that lasts a long time backup and an ultraportable chassis.

You get access to the entry-level Celeron N4000 (Intel) processor, featuring quad-core architecture and a burst clocking frequency of 2.6GHz. In addition, the Intel UHD 600, an integrated GPU, supports casual games and minimally demanding graphics-centric tasks.

While the CPU configuration is fundamental, Acer adds 4GB of high-speed RAM to the mix, enabling you to remain ahead of the current multitasking demands. In terms of storage, you receive a 64GB flash memory, which is speedy but limited in terms of storage capacity. Additionally, Acer provides Windows 10, which is fresh ouforn in operating systems.

In terms of the display, the 11.6-inch IPS screen is bright enough and has a normal display resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Admittedly, the touch display isn’t the most bright for a smaller screen, but it gets the job done in media consumption and academic pursuits.

Despite its low price, Acer offers a conventional but reliable keyboard, a smooth touchpad, front-firing speakers, a VGA webcam, and serviceable microphones. This is also one of the lightest laptops on the market, at just 2.65 pounds. Despite the slim appearance, Acer doesn’t skimp on connection, including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi AC, etc.

However, the year-long Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based version of Microsoft Office Suite compatibility that makes it one of the best 11.6-inch gadgets to purchase. In addition, Acer promises a 12-hour battery backup on standard usage in terms of autonomy. Overall, the Acer Spin 1 is a nifty little convertible that promises reliable, professional support for a pretty affordable price point.

• Slim and transportable
• A battery that lasts a long time
• Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based version of Microsoft Office Office support
• RAM that is lightning quick
• Use of several modes
• Storage space is at a premium.
• It’s not for power users.

5. The Asus Chromebook Flip is the best Chromebook.

• CPU: 1.1GHz Celeron N4000 (Intel)
• RAM: 4GB
• eMMC 32GB storage
• 11.6-inch HD LED display (1366 x 768)
• Intel UHD 600 integrated GPU
• Life of the battery: Up to 12 hours

As a professional resource, the Asus Chromebook Flip C214 is one of the best gadgets in the market, featuring an excellent Life of the battery and a durable chassis.

Processing support is rendered by the basic Celeron N4000 (Intel) processor, capable of reaching speeds of up to 2.6GHz. Despite being strictly entry-level, the CPU can still manage accounting tasks, content creation, and streaming tasks. The integrated UHD 600 is also a reliable resource, helping you experience better visual clarity.

The 4GB Low-power DDR4 RAM nicely complements the Intel Celeron CPU’s memory allocation. However, despite its ability to install the Chrome OS in a flash, we weren’t impressed with the limited 32GB eMMC storage. On the other hand, this convertible’s 11.6-inch display is well-suited, with 360-degree customizability.

ASUS sweetens the deal even further by including anti-glare characteristics, which reduce ocular stress even after long periods of use.

The Asus Chromebook Flip C214 includes numerous useful features for productivity, including a spill-resistant keyboard, textured and durable chassis, dual camera capability, and a safety hold at the back that allows single-handed use. Because it’s a Chromebook, you’ll also receive 100GB of cloud storage. Despite the structural changes, the Asus Chromebook Flip C214 weighs just 2.60 pounds, making it one of the lightest devices on the market.

USB 3.0, USB 3.1, Type-C, and WiFi 5 are among the ports and connection options available. Regardless of use, the current battery provides an extended backup of up to 12 hours. If you are more involved in online activities, the Asus Chromebook Flip C214 is one of the top ultraportable devices to consider.

• Tough design
• The hinge rotates 360 degrees
• The module of high-speed RAM
• Viewing sharp angles
• The battery that lasts a long time
• Storage capacity is average.
• It doesn’t provide any Windows-specific features.

6. Lenovo 300e is the best laptop for basic tasks.

• Intel Celeron N3450, 1.1GHz
• RAM: 4GB
• 64GB eMMC storage
• 11.6-inch HD LED display (1366 x 768)
• Intel HD 500 integrated graphics
• Life of the battery: Up to 8 hours

If you’re still seeking a cheap and relevant 11-inch device to accompany you on your travels, the Lenovo 300e could be the answer.

While an entry-level Intel Celeron N3450 CPU is required, the performance is more than acceptable for simple activities like streaming and MS Office use. The Intel HD 500 integrated graphics card properly supports the quad-core CPU, which can achieve burst clocking rates of up to 2.2GHz.

Lenovo also includes a 4GB LPDDR4 RAM module, one of the quickest available in an 11-inch laptop. However, because of the tiny 64GB eMMC memory module, you’re limited in terms of storage. In terms of the operating system, you receive Windows 10 Home version, which may be utilized in S mode as and when needed.

The 11.6-inch IPS widescreen display has an overall resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and is very vivid. On the other hand, the touch screen stands out, adding to the tiny convertible’s believability. An important feature is a conventional but sturdy, spill-resistant keyboard, stereo speakers, a bright webcam, and a thinner chassis that weighs close to 3.20 pounds.

Lenovo has included a full array of ports, including HDMI, USB 3.0, USB 2.0, and more, which is impressive. With Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.1, this device is no slouch for connection. Despite the 8-hour battery backup, we had hoped for a little more. Nonetheless, there aren’t many devices like the Lenovo 300e in this price range.

• Anti-glare IPS panel with vibrant colors
• A good port configuration
• Rugged chassis with a sleek design
• A small amount of system memory is quick to access.
• Stereo speakers that have been amplified
• Chipset for entry-level computers
• Storage space is at a premium.

7. Acer Chromebook R11 is the best budget option.

• Intel Celeron N3060, 1.6GHz
• RAM: 4GB
• eMMC 32GB storage
• Display: 11.6-inch HD IPS display (1366 x 768)
• Intel HD 400 integrated graphics
• Life of the battery: 10 hours or more

The Acer Chromebook R11 is a battery-intensive device that comes at a low price and gets the job done for basic internet operations and needs.

The dual-core Intel Celeron N3060 chipset is at the heart of the Asus, with burst clock rates of 2.48GHz. While the CPU lacks the necessary horsepower for on-premise software and procedures, it is enough for various online activities, which is what a Chromebook is most known for. In addition, the SoC is paired with the HD graphics 400 GPU, which is the most basic integrated module available.

This convertible comes with a 4GB DDR3L RAM module that can easily handle online multitasking needs. In terms of storage, you’ll receive a 32GB eMMC hardware device and 100GB of cloud storage space. The Chrome OS may have drawbacks, but it gets the job done if you want web-based entertainment.

Here’s a 2-in-1 with a display resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. Unfortunately, while the touch-enabled, wide-angle panel simplifies operations for the average user, Asus insists on using In-plane Switching display technology, which is an elusive feature at this price point. Nevertheless, Asus has an ergonomic keyboard, an HD webcam, serviceable microphones, and enhanced speakers despite being a convertible.

In terms of structural innovation, this device can operate in tent, tablet, display, and clamshell modes. Despite this, the Chromebook R11 is still reasonable in weight, coming in at about 2.8 pounds. In addition, Asus has included USB 3.0, USB 2.0, HDMI, Bluetooth 4.0, and Wi-Fi 5 capability with 22 MU-MIMO compatibilities in the connectivity specifications.

Despite being a budget notebook, you can still get a more than decent battery backup of 10 hours or more, making this one of the more reliable gadgets to invest in, regardless of a slightly restrictive OS.

• Use in several modes.
• A battery that lasts a long time life
• IPS (in-plane switching) display
• Wi-Fi connections that are lightning quick
• Apps for Android are supported
• Support for a small amount of storage
• Processor fundamentals

8. Dell Inspiron 11 3195 is the cheapest 11-inch laptop.

• CPU: AMD A9-9420e (1.8GHz)
• RAM: 4GB
• 64GB eMMC storage
• 11.6-inch HD LED display (1366 x 768)
• AMD Radeon R5 graphics processor
• Life of the battery: Up to 14 hours

The Dell Inspiron 11 3195 is more self-contained, ensuring that you are never without electricity when traveling.

You may choose between the AMD A9-9420e APU and the AMD A9-9420e APU when it comes to processing power. The featured chipset has a maximum clock speed of 2.5GHz, sufficient for all but the most demanding online and offline operations. Furthermore, the APU has passive cooling and works with the Radeon R5 integrated GPU, which has just 192 shaders.

The superfast 4GB DDR4 RAM module is a game-changing upgrade for the price, enabling you to handle data and files at rates up to 2666MHz. The 64GB of MMC storage space, which may be extended if and when needed, complements the ultra-fast piece of system memory. In addition, you receive the Windows 10 Home version as far as the operating system is concerned.

The Dell Inspiron 11 3195’s 11.6-inch display, with an overall resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and 10-point multi-touch capability, is also a game-changer. Not only that, but the LED backlighting makes this a very power-efficient, ultraportable laptop.

In addition to the boosted acoustic conglomerate and a useful webcam, Dell has a conventional, ergonomic keyboard. However, at 2.57 pounds, this is one of the lightest 11-inch devices.

Dell has included USB 2.0, HDMI 1.4, USB 3.1 Gen 1, and an SD card reader in the port layout, which is rather modern for the current price point. In addition, Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.0 standards assist build quick and robust connections when it comes to connectivity.

Because of the 14-hour backup, the battery on this convertible requires particular attention. As a result, if portability, productivity, and quicker multitasking are important to you, the Dell Inspiron 11 3195 is definitely the finest laptop to buy.

• RAM that is lightning quick
• Display with LED backlighting
• A good selection of ports
• The footprint is small and portable.
• Colorful display
• Processor for beginners
• Insufficient storage capacity

Most Commonly Asked Questions

Why are CPUs in 11.6-inch laptops so weak?

The Pentium N5000, Intel Core m3, and even the Celeron-family of quad and dual-core SoCs are among the CPUs found in the 11.6-inch laptops. However, what has to be recognized is that the smaller footprint of these devices necessitates the inclusion of low-power CPUs in the system specs, particularly those that take up less space and have lower TDP levels.

What are the ideal display specs for ultraportable notebooks?

If you’re looking for an 11-inch laptop, an IPS panel is a must-have since it frequently compensates for the lesser resolution. While FHD+ is a good resolution, you can get by with an HD screen as long as it supports touch and has anti-glare.

Why is it that the majority of 11.6-inch laptops use passive cooling?

Active cooling components such as heatsinks and fans, limiting heat production to a minimum, are not available in smaller laptops. This is where ultraportable devices use a distinct approach to device cooling, with processor components purposely slowed down to maintain heat levels under acceptable limits.

Are eMMC storage devices in Chromebooks and smaller computers sufficiently reliable?

With data transmission rates of up to 400MB/S, eMMC or Embedded Multimedia Card modules are more like inexpensive and moderately paced flash storage devices. If you’re looking for a Chromebook or a low-cost 11.6-inch tablet, eMMC storage units may come in handy since they’re specifically intended to handle smaller file retrieval and storage-related chores.

When should you choose a Chromebook over a Windows-powered convertible for the same price?

Smaller Chromebooks often have a lot of processing power since Windows functionality is traded in exchange for a big increase in specifications. An 11-inch Chromebook is a far better pick if you’re into web platforms, online storage management, and other web-centric duties.

Conclusion

Each of the 11-inch notebooks on our list comes with a detailed specification sheet. However, you must make informed decisions based on your personal and professional choices. Not only that, but the operating system you choose impacts the laptops you can buy, so you should be certain of your needs before making a purchase.

• Because of the quicker RAM module and the complimentary Office 365 subscription plan, the Acer Spin 1 is one of the top 11-inch notebooks to purchase if you rely on MS Office and the Windows 10 operating system.
• If you are more inclined toward Chrome OS, the Asus Chromebook Flip, with a tough Design, is better.
• Storage aficionados should stick with the Microsoft Surface Go 2, the most budget-friendly detachable on the market, with 8GB RAM and a 128GB SSD drive.
• Finally, if you’re looking for a cheap laptop with plenty of processing power and fast RAM, the AMD-powered Dell Inspiron 11 3195 is one of the best options.

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