Tired of waiting ages for your laptop to boot up, or for applications to finally open? If you’re still stuck with a traditional hard drive (HDD), you know the pain. The good news? You don’t need to empty your wallet for a lightning-fast machine. Solid State Drives (SSDs) have revolutionized laptop performance, making sluggishness a thing of the past. And the even better news? There are plenty of fantastic best affordable SSD laptops on the market that deliver impressive speed without breaking your budget.
SSDs offer incredible advantages: faster boot times, quicker application loading, and overall snappier performance compared to their HDD counterparts. They’re also more durable, as they don’t have moving parts. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone looking for a reliable everyday computer, investing in an SSD laptop is a game-changer.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a handpicked selection of 10 top contenders, ranging from complete laptop packages to an essential component that can supercharge your current affordable machine. Let’s dive in and find your next speedy companion!
Our Top Picks for Affordable SSD Laptops & Upgrades
Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive
While not a laptop itself, the Samsung 870 EVO is a star player in the world of SSDs and can transform an existing compatible laptop into a high-performance machine. If you’ve got an older laptop with a traditional hard drive, upgrading it with this 1TB SSD is one of the most cost-effective ways to experience the magic of an affordable SSD laptop experience. It’s renowned for its incredible reliability and speed, making your old machine feel brand new again.
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Key Features:
- Indisputable performance with up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds
- Designed for heavy workloads, ideal for gamers and professionals
- Industry-defining reliability with up to 600 TBW under a 5-year limited warranty
- High compatibility with major host systems and applications
- Easy upgrade via standard 2.5-inch SATA form factor
- Samsung Magician 6 software for easy drive management and performance enhancement
- Built with Samsung’s world-renowned DRAM & NAND components
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Pros:
- Dramatically improves laptop speed and responsiveness
- Exceptional reliability and long lifespan
- Easy to install for compatible devices
- Generous 5-year warranty
- Excellent value for performance upgrade
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Cons:
- Requires self-installation or professional help
- Not a standalone laptop solution
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise this SSD for its ease of installation and the immediate, noticeable boost in performance it provides. Many report their older laptops feeling “like new” after the upgrade, highlighting its reliability and speed as major selling points. It’s often called the go-to choice for DIY upgrades.
HP 14 inch Laptop, HD Display, Intel Core i3-N305, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
The HP 14-inch laptop is a fantastic all-rounder for everyday tasks, offering a solid blend of performance and portability. With an Intel Core i3-N305 processor and a snappy 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD, you’ll experience much faster boot-ups and application loading than with traditional hard drives. Its thoughtful features like an anti-glare display and a physical camera shutter make it a reliable companion for students and casual users alike.
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Key Features:
- HD Anti-Glare Display for comfortable viewing outdoors
- 8-core Intel Core i3-N305 Processor for reliable performance
- Intel UHD Graphics for smooth streaming and light gaming
- 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (up to 15x faster than HDD) and 8GB DDR4 RAM
- Windows 11 Home in S Mode for enhanced security and fast boot times
- One-touch access to Microsoft Copilot for AI assistance
- Physical camera shutter and microphone mute button for privacy
- HP True Vision HD Camera with AI Noise Reduction
- HP Fast Charge (0 to 50% in approx. 45 minutes)
- Made with ocean-bound plastic and recycled materials
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Pros:
- Very fast SSD storage and decent RAM for the price
- Good battery life with fast charging
- Excellent privacy features
- Eco-friendly design
- Responsive performance for daily tasks
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Cons:
- HD display (not Full HD) might not be as sharp for some
- Windows 11 S Mode can restrict app installations (but can be switched out of)
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User Impressions: Customers love this HP laptop for its snappy performance for everyday use and its surprisingly long battery life. The privacy features are a big hit, and many appreciate the fast charging capabilities. It’s often recommended as a reliable, budget-friendly option for students and light productivity.
NIMO 15.6″ FHD IPS Student-Laptop-Computer – 16GB RAM 512GB SSD
The NIMO 15.6″ laptop is clearly designed with students and productivity in mind, offering a robust configuration that stands out in the affordable category. With a generous 16GB of RAM and a substantial 512GB PCIe SSD, it’s ready to handle multitasking and large files with ease. Its upgradable design and included fast charger make it a practical and future-proof choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable SSD laptop.
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Key Features:
- 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty and 90-Day Hassle-Free Returns
- Upgradable RAM and SSD slots
- 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB PCIe SSD for lightning-fast performance
- Type-C 65W GaN PD Fast Charger included (6.56ft cable)
- Fingerprint Reader on touchpad for secure, quick access
- Backlit keyboard with adjustable brightness
- 15.6″ FHD IPS (1920×1080) Anti-Glare Display with 85% screen-to-body ratio
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Pros:
- Excellent RAM and SSD capacity for its price point
- User-upgradable components for future expansion
- Convenient fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard
- Fast GaN USB-C charger is a huge bonus
- Solid warranty and return policy
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Cons:
- Processor type not specified in provided features, so performance might vary.
- NIMO is a lesser-known brand, which might concern some buyers.
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User Impressions: Users often highlight the NIMO laptop’s impressive amount of RAM and SSD storage for the price. The backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader are frequently praised for enhancing user experience. Its fast charging and upgradability are also big pluses for those looking for long-term value.
Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop, 15.6″ FHD Display, Intel Celeron N4500, 12GB RAM, 512GB SSD + 128GB eMMC
The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 is tailor-made for students and users who need reliable performance for daily computing. What sets this model apart is its intelligent dual-storage solution: a 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD for speed and an additional 128GB eMMC for extra capacity, giving you ample room for files and fast system responsiveness. Combined with 12GB RAM and a clear Full HD display, it’s a great value proposition for an affordable SSD laptop.
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Key Features:
- 12GB high-bandwidth RAM for smooth multitasking
- 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD + 128GB eMMC for fast bootup and ample storage
- Intel Celeron N4500 Processor (up to 2.8GHz)
- 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS-Level Anti-glare Display, 250 nits
- Multiple ports including USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b
- Windows 11 Home Operating System
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Pros:
- Excellent storage configuration (SSD + eMMC) for speed and space
- Generous 12GB RAM for multitasking
- Full HD IPS display offers good visuals
- Ideal for students and everyday productivity
- Modern Windows 11 interface
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Cons:
- Celeron N4500 processor is entry-level and not suited for demanding tasks
- USB-C port is for data transfer only, not power delivery or display output
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User Impressions: Buyers appreciate the IdeaPad 1’s combination of fast storage and sufficient RAM, which makes it feel very responsive for general use, browsing, and document work. The Full HD screen is a definite upgrade for its price category, making it a favorite among budget-conscious students.
Dell Inspiron Touchscreen Laptop, 15.6″ Business & Student Laptop, Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
For those who need a bit more power and convenience, the Dell Inspiron Touchscreen Laptop is a standout option. Featuring an Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7 processor, a generous 16GB RAM, and a spacious 512GB SSD, this machine is well-equipped for business, student work, and even some casual gaming. The touchscreen functionality adds a layer of versatility, making it a compelling choice among best affordable SSD laptops.
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Key Features:
- Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7 Processor (up to 4.5GHz)
- 15.6″ Full HD (1920×1080) IPS Anti-Glare Touch Display
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
- 16GB RAM for advanced multitasking
- 512GB SSD for rapid performance
- Windows 11 Professional 64-bit pre-installed
- Multiple ports: USB 3.2 Type-A, USB 2.0, HDMI 1.4, SD Card Reader
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth connectivity
- 720p HD Webcam and Numeric Keypad
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Pros:
- Powerful Intel i5 processor for a budget laptop
- Touchscreen display enhances usability
- 16GB RAM is excellent for multitasking and productivity
- Windows 11 Pro offers advanced features
- Great for business, students, and general use
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Cons:
- Wi-Fi 5 is good, but not the latest Wi-Fi 6
- 220 nits display brightness might be low for very bright environments
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the Dell Inspiron’s fast performance, thanks to the i5 processor and ample RAM. The touchscreen is a highly valued feature, adding convenience to daily tasks. It’s frequently praised as a robust and reliable laptop that offers great bang for your buck for both work and study.
Gaming Laptop, 15.6 inch Traditional Laptops N4000, Laptop Computer 8GB RAM 256GB SSD
Despite its ambitious “Gaming Laptop” title, this 15.6-inch traditional laptop is better suited for everyday productivity and light entertainment. Equipped with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it’s a solid, lightweight option for those needing fast boot times and responsive performance for web browsing, office tasks, and media consumption. It truly shines as an affordable SSD laptop for general use.
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Key Features:
- 1920×1080 FHD Anti-Glare Display with 180° flat hinge
- Intel Celeron N4000 processor (up to 2.60 GHz)
- Pre-installed Windows 11 PRO system
- 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD storage
- Lightweight at only 3.34 Pounds
- Multiple ports: Bluetooth 4.2, Dual-band WiFi, Mini HDMI, USB 3.2, TF slot
- Full size keypad with numeric keypad
- 5000 mAh lithium-ion battery
- 1-year warranty and 24/7 customer service
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Pros:
- Good speed for basic tasks thanks to the SSD and 8GB RAM
- Lightweight and portable
- Full HD anti-glare display for comfortable viewing
- Comes with Windows 11 Pro
- Includes a numeric keypad for data entry
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Cons:
- The Celeron N4000 is an entry-level processor, not suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
- “Gaming Laptop” title is misleading for its specifications
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User Impressions: Users find this laptop to be excellent for its price, praising its quick boot times and smooth performance for common applications like Microsoft Office and web browsing. Its lightweight design and comfortable keyboard are often highlighted, making it a practical choice for students and those on the go.
NIMO 15.6 IPS-FHD-Laptop, 16GB RAM 1TB SSD Intel Pentium (Product 7)
Another strong contender from NIMO, this 15.6-inch laptop is built for serious productivity with an impressive 16GB of RAM and a massive 1TB PCIe SSD. It’s an ideal choice for users who need ample storage and memory for demanding applications, without spending a fortune. The upgradable design, metal shell, and inclusion of modern connectivity like Wi-Fi 6 make it a highly competitive and affordable SSD laptop solution.
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Key Features:
- 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty & 90-Day Hassle-Free Returns
- Upgradable/expandable RAM and SSD slots
- 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD for lightning-fast startups and data transfers
- Intel Pentium processor
- Durable metal shell (A-shell)
- 15.6″ FHD Anti-Glare Display (1920×1080) with 85% screen-to-body ratio
- Backlit keyboard and fingerprint security
- Wi-Fi 6 & Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
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Pros:
- Outstanding RAM and SSD capacity for the price
- User-upgradable, enhancing longevity
- Robust metal shell for durability
- Latest Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for faster internet
- Excellent warranty and support
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Cons:
- Pentium processor, while good for general tasks, isn’t as powerful as an i3/i5
- Less recognized brand name for some consumers
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User Impressions: Customers are thrilled with the sheer amount of storage and RAM on offer, making the laptop incredibly snappy for various tasks. The sturdy build quality and the inclusion of modern features like Wi-Fi 6 are frequently highlighted as reasons for satisfaction. It’s often seen as a fantastic value-packed option for heavy users on a budget.
NIMO 15.6 IPS-FHD-Laptop, 16GB RAM 1TB SSD Intel Pentium (Product 8)
Mirroring the impressive specifications of its NIMO counterpart, this 15.6-inch laptop reiterates NIMO’s commitment to delivering high-value machines. With 16GB of RAM and a generous 1TB SSD, it provides abundant space and rapid performance for virtually any everyday task, from complex projects to extensive media libraries. It’s another excellent example of how you can get a powerful and affordable SSD laptop with great features.
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Key Features:
- 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty & 90-Day Hassle-Free Returns
- Upgradable/expandable RAM and SSD slots
- 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD for lightning-fast startups and data transfers
- Intel Pentium processor
- Durable metal shell (A-shell)
- 15.6″ FHD Anti-Glare Display (1920×1080) with 85% screen-to-body ratio
- Backlit keyboard and fingerprint security
- Wi-Fi 6 & Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
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Pros:
- Massive 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD are exceptional at this price point
- Future-proof with upgradable components
- Premium feel with a durable metal shell
- Modern Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for superior connectivity
- Comprehensive warranty offers peace of mind
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Cons:
- Pentium processor limits heavy-duty computing or advanced gaming
- Brand recognition might be a factor for some buyers
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User Impressions: Consistent with other NIMO reviews, users laud the large storage and RAM, noting a significant boost in productivity and multitasking. The robust build and clear display are also highly appreciated. It’s considered a reliable and high-performance choice for students, remote workers, and anyone needing serious storage without a high price tag.
ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6” FHD Slim Laptop, AMD Ryzen 3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
The ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6” offers a fantastic blend of portability, performance, and durability, making it a top contender in the best affordable SSD laptops category. Powered by an efficient AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor and boasting up to 11 hours of battery life, it’s designed to keep you productive and entertained on the go. Its slim profile, vivid FHD display, and robust build (MIL-STD 810H certified) make it a reliable everyday companion.
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Key Features:
- Striking 15.6-inch FHD Display (250-nit brightness, 45% NTSC)
- Reliable AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Processor (4 cores, 8 threads)
- Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics for smooth visuals
- 8GB of Memory and 256GB of Essential Storage (SSD)
- Up to 11 Hours of Battery Life (42Wh battery)
- Chiclet Keyboard with Numeric Keypad for comfortable typing
- 720p HD Camera with Privacy Shutter
- WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1
- Sound by Sonic Master
- US MIL-STD 810H durability standards passed (shock, vibration, temp tests)
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Pros:
- Efficient AMD Ryzen 3 processor offers good performance for the price
- Excellent battery life for all-day use
- Durable build quality (military-grade tested)
- Slim and portable design
- Privacy shutter for the webcam
- Full HD display for clear visuals
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Cons:
- 256GB SSD might be limiting for users with many large files
- Wi-Fi 5 is good, but Wi-Fi 6 would be faster
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User Impressions: Buyers are highly satisfied with the Vivobook Go’s long battery life and solid performance for daily tasks. The slim design and surprisingly durable build are frequently praised. It’s seen as a reliable and stylish choice for students and professionals who prioritize portability and efficiency.
jumper 16 Inch Laptop Computer, 16GB RAM 1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC
If screen real estate and massive storage are high on your priority list, the Jumper 16-inch laptop is an intriguing option. It goes big with a spacious 16-inch Full HD IPS display and an impressive 16GB of RAM. What truly sets it apart is its dual-storage solution: a 1TB SSD combined with a 128GB eMMC, providing a massive 1152GB of total space! Plus, the inclusion of a one-year Office 365 subscription makes it ready to hit the ground running for productivity right out of the box, making it a truly feature-packed affordable SSD laptop.
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Key Features:
- 16GB RAM for faster command response
- 1152GB ROM (1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC) for enormous storage
- High Performance Processor N150 (up to 3.6GHz) with Integrated UHD Graphics
- 16 Inch Full HD IPS screen (1920 x 1200 pixels, 16:10 aspect ratio)
- Eye-friendly protection and anti-glare coating
- One-year subscription to Office 365 included
- Multifunctional connection design: Type-C, Mini-HDMI, USB 3.0, Micro TF slot, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Stereo speakers and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4G/5G), Bluetooth 4.0
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Pros:
- Exceptionally large 16-inch screen with eye-friendly features
- Massive storage capacity (1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC)
- Generous 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- Office 365 subscription is a fantastic value add
- Decent performance for a budget processor
- Modern 16:10 aspect ratio for more vertical screen space
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Cons:
- Brand “Jumper” might be less familiar to some consumers
- Bluetooth 4.0 is older compared to newer standards
- Specific N150 processor benchmarks might be harder to find
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User Impressions: Customers who bought this laptop are generally impressed by the sheer amount of storage and RAM for the price, alongside the large, clear display. The inclusion of Office 365 is a frequently mentioned bonus. It’s often recommended for users who need a lot of space and screen real estate for work or media consumption without spending a fortune.
Conclusion: Your Fast Laptop Awaits!
Choosing one of the best affordable SSD laptops means saying goodbye to frustrating load times and hello to snappy, responsive computing. Whether you’re upgrading an old machine with a reliable SSD like the Samsung 870 EVO, or picking up a brand-new system from HP, NIMO, Lenovo, Dell, ASUS, or Jumper, you’re making a smart investment in your productivity and everyday enjoyment.
Remember to consider your specific needs: how much storage do you really need? What kind of tasks will you be doing most often? By focusing on these factors and leveraging the power of an SSD, you can find a fantastic laptop that perfectly balances performance and your budget. Happy computing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I choose an SSD laptop over one with a traditional HDD?
A1: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are significantly faster than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). They don’t have moving parts, meaning quicker boot times, faster application loading, and overall snappier system responsiveness. They’re also more durable and consume less power, leading to better battery life in laptops.
Q2: What does “affordable” mean when it comes to SSD laptops?
A2: “Affordable” generally means laptops priced in the entry-to-mid range, typically between $300 and $700. These laptops prioritize essential performance and features, making SSD technology accessible without the premium price tag of high-end models.
Q3: Can I upgrade my current laptop to an SSD if it has an HDD?
A3: Yes, in many cases, you can! If your laptop has a standard 2.5-inch drive bay or an M.2 slot, you can purchase an internal SSD (like the Samsung 870 EVO mentioned above) and replace your old HDD. This is often the most cost-effective way to get SSD performance from an existing laptop. Always check your laptop’s compatibility before purchasing an SSD for an upgrade.
Q4: What’s a good amount of SSD storage for an affordable laptop?
A4: For most everyday users, students, and light productivity, 256GB or 512GB of SSD storage is a good starting point. If you plan to store many large files, photos, videos, or games, opting for 1TB or combining an SSD with an additional eMMC or HDD for bulk storage would be more suitable.
Q5: Are affordable SSD laptops good for gaming?
A5: While an SSD significantly improves game loading times, the overall gaming performance depends more on the laptop’s processor (CPU) and graphics card (GPU). Affordable SSD laptops with integrated graphics and lower-end processors are generally suitable for light gaming or older titles, but won’t handle demanding modern games at high settings. Look for models with dedicated graphics cards and stronger CPUs if serious gaming is your priority, though these often fall outside the “affordable” category.
Q6: What’s the difference between an SSD and eMMC storage?
A6: Both SSD and eMMC (embedded Multi-Media Controller) are types of flash storage, meaning they have no moving parts and are faster than HDDs. However, eMMC is generally slower and less powerful than a dedicated SSD (especially NVMe SSDs). eMMC is often found in very budget-friendly laptops and tablets, offering a step up from HDDs but not the full speed of a true SSD. Some laptops, as seen in our list, offer both for a balance of speed and storage.
Q7: What specifications should I prioritize in an affordable SSD laptop?
A7: Beyond the SSD, prioritize these specs:
1. RAM: 8GB is a good minimum for smooth multitasking; 12GB or 16GB is even better if your budget allows.
2. Processor (CPU): Intel Core i3/i5 (11th gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 3/5 processors offer a good balance of performance and efficiency. Celeron or Pentium are typically for very light tasks.
3. Display: A Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display will offer much better viewing angles and clarity than a standard HD screen.
4. Battery Life: Aim for 6+ hours for portability, more if you’re frequently on the go.