If you plan on getting some of your work done in-between subway, flight, and bus journeys, or if you are a student who depends on your laptop to attend multiple classes throughout the day, you know that a full-sized laptop is not the best fit for you. While they may be powerful, they lack the unmatched portability that laptops in the 11 inch footprint offer. 11 inch laptops come as an unmistakable choice for requirements that have a compact, lightweight, and portable body as the topmost priority.
Although 11-inch laptops are commonly perceived as non-powerful laptops, this isn’t entirely true. While doing intensive tasks such as rendering at maxed-out resolutions, and gaming at the highest frame rates is out of the question, many 11 inch laptops are powerful and reliable enough to help you get through lightweight tasks. And in terms of price, 11-inch laptops are one of the most affordable models in all of the laptops category.
In this list of 10 best 11-inch laptops, we start by introducing good-to-use models and then gradually move on to high-performing models.
Minimum requirements for best 11-inch laptops
Regardless of the 11-inch model, you choose, making sure that it meets these minimum requirements will help you make the most out of the budget that you put in.
- CPU: A mobile series processor is the bare minimum requirement. An i3 2 core or i5 2 core CPU is more preferable.
- RAM: 4 GB RAM is a must-have. DDR4 RAM is more preferable for higher multitasking speeds.
- GPU: An integrated graphics chipset suffices for most everyday tasks.
- Storage: 500 GB HDD storage is a must-have. eMMC flash storage or SSD storage are top-of-the-line options for faster read and write speeds.
- External connectivity: USB ports, HDMI port, ethernet port, and display ports help open up customization options. The availability of USB 3.0 Type C adds versatility.
Review of best 11-inch laptops
ASUS VivoBook - Best overall
Right from the 11-inch laptop heydays, ASUS has been reigning supreme in this territory with feature-packed models that consistently perform well. An unmistakable 11-inch addition to the brand’s long-popular VivoBook lineup is the ASUS VivoBook Flip 11.6 inch laptop. Apart from superior portability, which is obvious to all 11-inch laptops, this model brings with it a reliable performance that’s backed by versatility.
when portability meets power
This ASUS 11 inch laptop comes with an Intel Pentium N4200 core processor that has been calibrated to run at a speed of 1.1 GHz. This processing power is enough to get all your lightweight work done, such as working on spreadsheets, managing documents, browsing the internet, and multimedia tasks such as watching videos and listening to music.
RAM is one of the strong highlights of this laptop as it packs 4 GB DDR4 RAM. The RAM backs you up for lightweight to mid-level multitasking such as opening multiple programs, using multiple browser tabs and shuffling between documents. Apart from the 4GB DDR4 RAM, the availability of 128 GB SSD storage doesn’t fail to make this model one of the best 11-inch laptops available in the current market.
The 11.6 inch display of ASUS VivoBook Flip has a touch feature. The good quality responsiveness and accuracy of the touchscreen display works wonders in improving the accessibility factor of this model. Also, the display can be rotated all the way back which makes this model come under the category of 2-in-1 laptops. For external connectivity options, the ports included are one USB 3.0 port, one USB 2.0 port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- 4 core CPU architecture provides more computational bandwidth
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM for better multitasking performance
- Touchscreen and 2-in-1 form factor improves accessibility
- Good build quality
- Good battery backup
Cons:
- Not the most lightweight for an 11 inch footprint
- Screen can be glary at bright lighting conditions
- Not the most ergonomic keyboard placement
- Firmware needs to be updated
Dell Inspiron 11 3195 - best 11 inch 2-in-1 laptop
If getting your hands on one of the top and branded 11 inch laptops at an affordable price tag sounds wishful thinking to you, it isn’t. The Dell Inspiron 11 3195 comes as an unmistakable value offering with good performance and build quality. The 2-in-1 form factor of this laptop makes it more attractive in the considerably low price point that it is available at.
branded offering at an unbeatable affordability
This Dell 11 inch laptop sports an all-AMD core computing unit. A 7th generation AMD A9-9420e processor in this laptop has been calibrated to deliver up to 3 GHz of computing power. It is safe to say that this model gives even some of the best 11 inch 2-in-1 laptops a run for the money in the graphics processing department with its powerful AMD Radeon 5 graphics chipset. The graphics chipset helps you enjoy all your favorite content in uncompromised quality. 4 GB DDR4 RAM powers this laptop for delivering a consistently-reliable multitasking performance. For storage, this model includes 64 GB eMMC storage capacity which you can use to store everything you need to work on-the-go.
Dell Inspiron 11 3195 comes with an 11.6 inch HD display which can be rotated all the way back to use the laptop in the tablet mode. The touch feature of the display is pretty accurate and color accuracy is good enough to offer a pleasant viewing experience. This model also gives some of the best 11 inch laptops a tough competition in terms of external connectivity options. The good selection of ports in this laptop includes one USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU and GPU performance
- RAM upgradable to up to 8 GB on a single channel
- Good build quality
- 2-in1 form factor improves versatility
- Good keyboard placement in the 11 inch footprint
Cons:
- Not the most lightweight for a mini form factor
- Firmware updates are needed
- Lack of SSD storage
- Not suitable for intensive requirements
Dell XPS 11.6 inch - 11 inch gaming laptop
The XPS lineup from Dell has been in the market for quite some time now and there is no doubt that the series has gained immense popularity. Laptops in the XPS lineup are synonymous with range-topping performance, high-quality build, and uncompromised reliability. Proving true to this in the 11-inch territory is Dell XPS 2-in-1 11 inch. This laptop definitely challenges the status quo of the mini form factor by packing a powerful hardware configuration that’s more than enough to help you get through all your everyday tasks.
a full-sized laptop replacement
Dell XPS 2-in-1 11 inch gets 1.5 GHz of base processing speed with its 4th generation Intel i5 2 core CPU. This model fits the bill as a mid-level 11 inch gaming laptop with 1.9 GHz of peak computing power that its CPU is able to deliver using Intel Turbo Boost technology. Also, the 2 core architecture of the CPU works wonders in maintaining efficient power consumption even during the most intensive usages. In the memory department, this model sports a 4 GB DDR3 RAM. The availability of 128 GB SSD storage improves the overall performance speed of this laptop which, in turn, helps you make the most out of your efficient work schedules.
The 11.6 Quad HD touchscreen display of Dell XPS 2-in-1 11 inch offers a good viewing experience and uninterrupted accessibility with responsive touch. The 360° rotation of the display makes it easy for you to switch between tablet and laptop mode. Two USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack provide external connectivity options on this laptop.
Pros:
- Good core i5 CPU performance
- Inclusion of SSD storage
- High-quality build
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Scratch-resistant touchscreen display
Cons:
- Limited port options
- Short battery backup
- Not the most responsive keys
HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3 - Smallest 2-in-1 laptop
The greatest value that all electronic device manufacturers aim to offer is to make their products a true companion for people in order to help them make their everyday lives easier. HP seems to have achieved this with their ProBook x360 11 EE G3 in the category of the smallest laptops. From core performance to accessibility and usability, this HP 11 inch laptop feels like a true companion in every aspect.
a true portable companion
HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3 operates at a base computing power of 1.10 GHz which its Intel Celeron N4100 4 core processor delivers. And out of what you’d least expect from a mini laptop, this model can deliver up to 2.4 GHz of computing power, thanks to the overclocking calibration of its CPU. Intel UHD graphics 600 chipset embedded in this laptop delivers mid-level graphics processing power. This model also gains a leading position among some of the best 11.6 inch laptops with its combo of 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 128 GB SSD storage capacity. It goes without saying that the inclusion of SSD storage improves the overall performance speed of this laptop which, in turn, helps you get all of your work done in a jiffy.
Just like in other 11 inch 2-in1 laptops, the 11.6 inch HD display of HP ProBook x360 11 EE G3 has a 360° rotation and a responsive touch feature. The laptop’s water-resistant keyboard design may seem trivial at first, but it comes useful in going about your everyday life. Also, this model includes a robust suite of ports which is usually reserved for some of the best ultrabooks. Port options include one USB Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one ethernet port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU base and overclocking performance
- Inclusion of SSD storage improves overall performance
- Inclusion of Type C port improves connectivity options
- Water-resistant keyboard
- Lightweight chassis
Cons:
- Not the brightest screen
- Not the fastest wireless connectivity speed
- Average build quality
Acer Spin 1 - Best mini laptop
11 inch laptops separate themselves from full-sized models with unmatched portability. Acer seems to have capitalized in this core factor in Spin 1 which makes it one of the best mini laptops in its class. However, the sleek 2-in-1 form factor of this laptop is not to be looked down upon as a lightweight performance offering as the brand has packed a relatively powerful hardware configuration.
more to offer and little to spend
Acer Spin 1 gets its 1.1 GHz of computing power from an Intel Celeron N400 2 core CPU. With the integration of turbo boost technology, the CPU can crank up to 2.6 GHz of top computing power. Like some of the best 11 inch laptops, this model is equipped with 4 GB DDR4 RAM that backs you up for various types of multitasking such as opening a dozen tabs on the browser, running multiple programs simultaneously, and working on multiple documents. 64 GB flash SSD storage comes included in this laptop which opens up good storage capacity. An Intel UHD Graphics 600 chipset augments the performance of the CPU and improves the overall performance of the laptop.
This is Acer 11 inch laptop comes with an 11.6 inch touchscreen display which has a 360° hinge rotation function. Just like other Acer laptops, this model features an ergonomic keyboard layout which helps ease your typing experience. Ports for external connectivity options are limited in this laptop, they include one USB 3.0 Type A port, one USB 2.0 port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance range
- DDR4 RAM opens up a good multitasking bandwidth
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Responsive touchscreen display
- Easy switch between S mode and Windows 10
Cons:
- No Type C port and ethernet port
- Integrated Intel graphics chipset can’t handle graphics-intensive requirements
- Average battery backup
Lenovo Flex 11 - Best Lenovo 11 inch
11 inch laptops and ultrabooks, being one of the smallest laptops available in the market today, are undeniably one of the most portable options. But apart from portability, models like the Lenovo Flex 11 helps you have access to fast and reliable computing power as well. This laptop packs a punch in every aspect, including reliable performance, versatile functions, good battery backup, and uncompromising accessibility. In short, it offers more than what you pay for.
powers your requirements on-the-go
Lenovo Flex 11 uses an Intel Pentium Silver N5000 processor to help you have access to 1.1 GHz of computing power. The CPU is paired with an Intel UHD 605 graphics chipset which helps this laptop perform pretty good on lightweight to mid-level graphics requirements. 4 GB DDR4 RAM comes standard in some of the best 11 inch laptops, with this model being no exception. For storage, this laptop includes 64 GB eMMC SSD storage capacity which has considerably good read and write speeds. Unlike many portable laptops in the 11 instead of today, this model excels in the audio department with The integration of Dolby Audio Premium technology which helps deliver crystal clear and immersive audio experience.
The 11.6 inch HD touchscreen display of Lenovo Flex 11 has an easy 360° rotation which helps you convert the laptop into a powerful tablet with just a snap. This model’s highlight also lies in the external connectivity department. The ports that its chassis houses include one USB 3.0 Type C port, one USB 3.0 Type A port, one USB 2.0 port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Built with premium materials
- Good overall performance
- Availability of an m2 SATA SSD port
- Wireless card upgradability
- Lightweight chassis
Cons:
- Not the most responsive touchscreen feature
- Average viewing angles of the display
- Not the best battery backup for an 11 inch model
2020 Lenovo 11.6 Chromebook - Best Chromebook
Lenovo is one of the few brands that focus on offering uncompromised performance even on Chrome OS 11 inch laptop territory apart from Windows OS models. Chromebooks are often perceived as non-powerful offerings, but the 2020 Lenovo Chromebook changes this convention by offering just the right amount of performance that’s in a league of its own. Lenovo has used the lightweight nature of Chrome OS to its full potential which makes way for balanced performance management.
lightweight ChromeOS backed by heavyweight CPU performance
2020 Lenovo Chromebook definitely deserves a good spot among some of the best 11 inch laptops using Chrome OS with its Intel Celeron N4000 2 core processor. The CPU operates at a base power of 1.1 GHz and can deliver up to 2.6 GHz of burst power. The Intel UHD graphics 600 chipset that is paired with the CPU is suitable for lightweight graphics requirements such as basic photo editing, everyday internet use, and multimedia tasks. The addition of 4 GB DDR4 RAM gives this laptop and adequate bandwidth for taking on various types of multitasking requirements. Also, 64 GB eMMC storage opens up adequate storage capacity on this laptop.
Although a mini model, 2020 Lenovo Chromebook offers viewing angles that are comparatively impressive, thanks to the wide viewing angle of its 11.6 inch HD display. The responsive touch feature of the display helps you improve your productivity with intuitive interactions. This model comes with not just one but two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C ports. Other ports included are two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance
- Availability of two USB Type C ports
- Good viewing angles of the display
- Spacious and ergonomic keyboard layout
- Lightweight chassis
Cons:
- No HDMI and ethernet port
- Needs timely updates
- SD card sticks out like a USB stick
ASUS X202E-DH31T - cheap 11 inch laptop
Exploring your options in the 11 inch laptop/ultrabook territory doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to settle on low-end processors. Powerful 11 inch models like the ASUS X202E-DH31T lets you access the power of the Core i3 processor even on an 11 inch footprint. But there’s more than just the processing power that makes this model one among some of the leading 11.6 inch laptops with i3 processor. This model covers all grounds and therefore comes as a complete 11 inch offering.
an affordable Intel core i3 offering
The Intel i3 2 core processor used in ASUS X202E-DH31T runs at a base frequency of 1.8 GHz. The CPU works in conjunction with Intel GMA HD graphics integrated chipset to help you get through your everyday tasks such as browsing the internet, basic photo editing, working on different types of documents, creating PowerPoint presentations, and working on spreadsheets. 4GB DDR3 RAM joins the CPU to help this laptop perform adequately for different types of multitasking requirements. 500 GB HDD storage provides sufficient storage capacity to help you store all your work and entertainment essentials.
The viewing experience and accessibility of ASUS X202E-DH31T’s 11.6 inch HD touchscreen display are up to the mark. For external connectivity options, this laptop includes one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port, one ethernet port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Power-efficient CPU
- Good build quality
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- One of the cheapest 11 inch models
Cons:
- CPU does not overclock
- No RAM upgradability option
- Short battery life
- Screen attracts fingerprints and smudges
2018 HP EliteBook Revolve 810 G3 - i5 processor
HP’s EliteBook series is one of the few laptop lineups that have held their own in terms of uniqueness and reliable performance. Although HP offers a good number of EliteBook laptops in the 14 and 15 inch territory, it hasn’t abandoned the 11 inch footprint. The 2018 HP EliteBook Revolve 810 G3 is undoubtedly one of the most powerful 11.6 inch laptops with i5 processor. Apart from a powerful performance, this model also stands out from the pack with its uniqueness factor.
the do-it-all 11 inch performer
Powering 2018 HP EliteBook Revolve 810 G3 is an Intel i5 2 core processor that has a base 2.20 GHz operating speed which can top out to up to 2.70 GHz. The CPU is paired with Intel HD graphics 5500 integrated graphics chipset which suffices for everyday tasks. This model gives a tough competition to even some of the best 11 inch laptops in the memory department with its combo of 8 GB DDR3 RAM and 128GB SSD storage. Just like in some of the range-topping HP 11 inches laptop, the RAM can be upgraded to up to 12 GB for adding more bandwidth to multitasking requirements.
The biggest highlight of 2018 HP EliteBook Revolve 810 G3 is its display which has a multi-axis hinge. The 11.6 inch HD displays touch feature is responsive which makes it easy for you to access all your important documents and entertainment essentials through simple gestures. Also, the keyboard in this model is simply one of the best. Apart from having a widely-spaced ergonomic layout, the keyboard is spill-resistant and has a backlighting feature. This model is also strong in the external connectivity game, with the inclusion of two USB 3.0 ports, one display port, one ethernet port, one microSD card reader, one docking port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance
- Multi-axis display rotation
- RAM upgradability
- SSD storage improves overall performance speed
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Weight is a bit in the heavier side
- Small trackpad size when compared to other models
- No HDMI port
Lenovo Yoga 710 - 11.6 inch laptop with i5 processor
It’s quite tricky for laptop brands to pack a solid performance in 11-inch models in order to make them an unmistakable replacement for larger-size laptops. But Lenovo seems to have achieved this feat with its Yoga 710 2-in-1 11 inch laptop. Lenovo Yoga 710 deserves the moniker of a true 11-inch ultrabook as it looks like a new-generation computer and certainly performs like one.
make no compromises
Although being a compact model, Lenovo Yoga 710 uses the 7th generation Intel i5 4 core CPU. The processing performance of the CPU which can go up to 3.2 GHz makes this model one of the best 11 inch Windows laptops in terms of core computing performance. An Intel HD graphics 615 integrated graphics chipset works together with the CPU to help you enjoy a lag-free graphics performance. An 8 GB DDR3 RAM opens up plenty of multitasking and with which, in turn, helps you maintain your productivity at its best. Also, the addition of 128 GB SSD storage helps you have quick access to all your important programs, files, and documents.
It goes without saying that Lenovo Yoga 710 has one of the best-looking displays in the 11 inch territory. The 11.6 inch HD display of the model has thin bezel design on each side which complements its overall contemporary look. The display also has a responsive 10 point multi- touch feature which further improves accessibility. This model comes with limited port options, including one USB 3.0 port, one micro HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Intel core i5 processor delivers high performance
- Inclusion of SSD storage
- Sleek and high-quality build
- Fast wireless connectivity
- Responsive multi-touch feature
Cons:
- Limited ports
- Pricier than many 11 inch laptops
FAQs
1) What is the best 11 inch laptop?
The answer to this can be very subjective. From a general point of view, the 11 inch laptop that’s best for you is the one that meets your requirements. If you are buying an 11 inch laptop as the first computer for your child, a model with lightweight hardware configuration will do the job. However, if you want to rely on an 11 inch model to get your everyday tasks done such as preparing spreadsheets, working on presentations, and editing documents, go for a model that uses an i3 processor, a minimum of 4GB RAM, and eMMC or SSD storage.
2) Can 11 inch laptops replace desktops?
11 inch laptops do not replace desktops in terms of performance. However, they sure do beat even some of the most powerful full-sized laptops in terms of portability. Powerful 11 inch models in our list, including the Dell XPS 11 inch, Lenovo Yoga 710, and 2018 HP EliteBook Revolve 810 G3 can replace full-sized laptops for lightweight requirements.
3) Are mini laptop worth it?
Yes, 11 inch laptops that use a powerful processor, DDR4 RAM, and SSD storage are totally worth the choice for working on lightweight, everyday tasks.
Conclusion
Buying an 11 inch laptop is starkly similar to buying any full-sized laptop or a desktop rig. When exploring different models, make sure to check all the specification details as most laptops include the option of upgradability and customization. You can then make the essential upgrades such as increasing SSD/HDD storage capacity, upgrading RAM, upgrading wireless card, and updating all the firmware and drivers. By putting in a decent amount of extra budget in upgrading the 11 inch laptop you choose, you can make the most out of its performance capabilities.