Buying a business laptop on a tight budget used to feel like a compromise you simply had to live with. Weak processors, poor displays, plastic builds, and webcams that made every video call feel like a punishment. Somewhere along the way, the narrative became normalised. If you were spending under ₹40,000, you were expected to settle. But that thinking no longer holds up. In 2026, the entry-level laptop space looks very different. Chipmakers have improved efficiency, manufacturers have streamlined designs, and everyday work has become less demanding on raw power and more reliant on stability.
SurveyFor students, freelancers, small business owners, and new working professionals, the question is no longer whether a sub-Rs 40,000 laptop can handle work. The question is which ones are actually worth your money. If you find asking that question to yourself quite often, read on. Here are the best business laptops under Rs 40,000 that deserve your attention right now.
Also read: HP launches HyperX Omen 15 gaming laptop in India, price starts from Rs 1,49,999
1. Lenovo V15
The Lenovo V15 offers dependable performance powered by an AMD processor, a Full HD display that is easy on the eyes, and a lightweight build that works well for both desk and travel use. Integrated AMD graphics also mean it can handle light casual gaming or creative tasks without complaint.
The laptop received a lot of love from tech enthusiasts and reviewers when it launched and nothing here feels like a trade-off. The keyboard is comfortable, the display is sharp enough for long work sessions, and the overall system feels stable and predictable, which is exactly what you want from a business laptop.
It does not try to impress with flashy features. Instead, it focuses on being a reliable daily companion. For under Rs 40,000, that approach makes it the smartest choice on this list.
2. ASUS Vivobook Go 15 (2025)
The ASUS Vivobook Go 15 comes very close to the top spot, and for good reason. This is one of the most polished laptops you can buy in this segment, both in terms of design and everyday usability.
The modern look immediately sets it apart. It feels current, not budget. The keyboard is comfortable, the trackpad is responsive, and the overall experience feels thoughtfully put together. Performance is smooth for daily tasks, and it rarely struggles with the kind of workloads most business users throw at it.
Where it slightly misses out is pricing. While it technically fits within the Rs 40,000 bracket, it often sits at the upper edge, sometimes creeping above it depending on availability. That makes it harder to recommend universally, especially when value is the core focus. Still, if you find it at the right price, the Vivobook Go 15 delivers a refined experience that feels closer to mid-range laptops than entry-level ones.
3. HP 15
At number three sits the HP 15, a laptop that quietly understands modern work habits better than most in this price range. Running on an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and offering 512GB of storage, it brings a good balance of performance and practicality.
The laptop comes with a 15-inch display paired with a 1080p webcam. So, if a laptop’s camera matters to you, the HP 15 delivers clear quality that immediately puts it ahead of many rivals that still rely on lower-resolution cameras.
Performance-wise, it can handle your day to day tasks easily. This means that multitasking will be smooth, and file transfers will be quick. Talking about the design, it is functional rather than stylish. And that’s exactly what most business laptops are about. The laptop feels like a work machine, built to be used daily rather than admired occasionally. If your routine involves frequent video calls and long hours in front of the screen, the HP 15 makes a strong case for itself.
4. Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 punches above its weight on paper. With an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and a Full HD display, it promises a performance that is just what an average professional needs. You can expect snappy day-to-day tasks and light multitasking without the machine slowing down. The slim and lightweight design makes the laptop easy to carry around, which is a big plus for students and professionals who are constantly on the move. Lenovo’s keyboards also continue to be among the most comfortable in this segment, making long typing sessions less tiring.
Where the Slim 1 loses points is age. Compared to others on this list, it is the oldest model here, and that shows in smaller ways. Battery optimisation is not as refined, and the overall design feels a generation behind newer launches. Still, for users who prioritise performance and want a no-frills Full HD experience, the IdeaPad Slim 1 remains a solid and dependable option.
5. ASUS Vivobook 15
The ASUS Vivobook 15 earns its place on this list by doing exactly what it promises. Nothing more, nothing less. Launched in 2025, this is a straightforward machine aimed at users who want a dependable laptop for daily tasks without worrying about surprises, good or bad.
Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and paired with 8GB of RAM, the Vivobook 15 handles everyday workloads comfortably. Web browsing with multiple tabs, Microsoft Office, Google Docs, and video streaming all run smoothly. It is not designed for heavy multitasking or creative workloads, but it does not pretend to be either.
The 15.6-inch display gives you enough room to work comfortably, especially if you are dealing with documents or spreadsheets for long hours. The keyboard is well-spaced and easy to adjust to, which matters more than people realise when your laptop is your primary work tool. Battery life is respectable, getting most users through a standard workday with moderate usage.
Thus, budget laptops no longer have to feel like short-term compromises. With the right choices, you can get a machine that supports your work, adapts to your routine, and stays reliable for years. Each laptop on this list serves a slightly different kind of user. And that’s the real win. You no longer have to overpay to get a laptop that works. You just have to pick wisely.
Also read: Five times Apple surprised us with unexpected laptop launches
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Divyanshi Sharma
Divyanshi Sharma is a media and communications professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With a strong background in tech journalism, she has covered everything from the latest gadgets to gaming trends and brings a sharp editorial lens to every story. She holds a master’s diploma in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Her love for writing and gaming began early—often skipping classes to try out the latest titles—which naturally evolved into a career at the intersection of technology and storytelling. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring virtual worlds on her console or PC, or testing out a new laptop she managed to get her hands on. View Full Profile
