Lenovo has slashed the price of its 2018 300e Chromebook to $79.99, turning it into one of the most affordable touchscreen 2-in-1 devices on the market. With a 360-degree hinge, the 11.6-inch HD touchscreen flips seamlessly between laptop and tablet modes, making it a flexible option for students, travelers, or anyone who needs a lightweight second device.
At this price, expectations are understandably low—but the specs still hold up for basic tasks. The device packs 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, enough to handle web browsing, Google Workspace apps, and light media streaming without stuttering. Chrome OS ensures quick boot times, built-in security, and tight integration with Google services, though performance won’t rival a modern laptop.
The catch? This isn’t a new model. Lenovo is selling refurbished units, tested for reliability but not necessarily in pristine condition. The original MSRP was $284.99, so the $79.99 price tag—a 72% discount—reflects its used status. For budget-conscious buyers, it’s a compelling trade-off: a functional, portable device for less than a tank of gas.
Whether it’s a stopgap device or a permanent upgrade depends on needs. For occasional email, cloud work, or Netflix binges, it’s a no-brainer. For anything more demanding, a new Chromebook or even a used Windows laptop might be worth the extra cost.
- Price: $79.99 (down from $284.99 MSRP)
- Display: 11.6-inch HD touchscreen, 360-degree hinge
- Performance: 4GB RAM, 32GB storage, Chrome OS
- Condition: Refurbished, tested for reliability
- Best for: Casual use, students, travelers, secondary devices
Why it matters: The tech market is flooded with $300–$500 Chromebooks, but this deal proves there’s still life in older hardware for the right buyer. It’s not a premium machine, but for $80, it’s hard to argue with the flexibility of a touchscreen that doubles as a tablet.
What’s next: If demand holds, Lenovo may continue offering refurbished units at deep discounts. For now, buyers should act quickly—stocks are limited, and prices could rise. Those needing more power might wait for a new entry-level Chromebook, but for now, this is the closest thing to a no-risk way to test the 2-in-1 lifestyle.
