Cheap Laptop/Windows Tablet with USB-C Charging and Display Output (Budget around $300)

addison666 on 04/06/2022 - 16:14
Last edited 04/06/2022 - 17:22 by 1 other user

Hi all.

I'm looking for a cheap laptop/windows tablet for work, I want something that is light/thin/i3-i5 CPU/output to projector and it must have USB-C charging. The reason for that is I need a device which will last a good 6 hours, and I know if I buy used and cheap it's not gonna happen.

I was thinking I could use a USB-C power bank? I could chuck that in my bag if need be. I could even use it top up the device in my breaks, I won't always be near a PowerPoint. Looking at a few years old, budget around 300 bucks, can go higher.

Cheers!

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  Switchblade88 on 04/06/2022 - 19:05

  +1

  Don't think you'll find anything that cheap even used. Possibly a newer Surface or similar (that actually has USB-C), but that's not really less than $800.

  Anything new enough to have USB-C charging is not going to fit that budget… although I would like to be proven wrong!

  What about a phone using USB-C for a display output? Likely to get more battery out of it, and likely slightly cheaper, but compatibility might be iffy depending on your source (e.g. videos versus slideshows, compatible resolutions etc).

  • 

    addison666 on 04/06/2022 - 19:53

    I'm starting to think the same, I was just hoping there was an avenue I hadn't thought of. I just found this https://www.scorptec.com.au/product/cables-&-adapters/usb/83… which seems to solve my problems, I have seen a few cheap Surface Pro 3s around, they should do the trick I think.

    • 

      FLICKIT on 04/06/2022 - 20:02

      +1

      That "USB-C to Surface-Connect" cable with one of these maybe, your power-bank will need to have PD Power-Delivery though:
      https://fusetechau.com.au/products/refurb-surface-pro-5-12-i…

      The store rep mentioned them here:
      https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/703207
      Apparently they're in good condition, and they're shipping with new "red" keyboards:
      https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/12221395/redir

      I cant offer any first hand feedback about that company yet… (waiting for my first order to arrive)

  • 

    BewareOfThe Dog on 06/06/2022 - 09:38

    My Surface Go was $399 @ 2/1/2 years ago, and that was normally $599. Definitely not powerful though.
    It'll be replaced under Product Care in a few months time.

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  AndyC1 on 04/06/2022 - 19:13

  +2

  Sounds more like you may need a Raspberry Pi or similar due to the 6 hours of "battery" life and only wanting to spend $300.