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Skip it, if you plan to run Windows 11 for anything beyond light use. TechRadar’s Matt Hanson warned on 5 October 2026 against the HP 14-em0018na at Argos, reported at £279 in the UK, because it has just 4GB of RAM. The verdict is his opinion, not a lab result, but the specs give it weight.
What the deal is
| Detail | HP 14-em0018na (Argos, UK) |
|---|---|
| Reported price | £279 (as reported on 5 October 2026; check Argos for the current price) |
| Processor | Dual-core AMD Athlon 7120U |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 128GB |
TechRadar describes the deal as selling fast. That is the outlet’s characterisation; no sales figures were given. It also mentions positive but vague user reviews, with no review count, so there is no solid measure of owner satisfaction.
Why 4GB of RAM is the problem
Hanson wrote: “The biggest red flag is that this laptop comes with just 4GB of RAM.” His concern is that this is too little for Windows 11, especially once you multitask, for example with a browser holding several tabs alongside other apps.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →This is the author’s assessment, not a benchmark or formal standard, and we have no independent test of this exact machine. The dual-core processor and small 128GB drive add to the picture of a very basic machine. For a low-demand job, such as occasional web browsing, it may still cope. The warning is aimed at anyone expecting a general-purpose Windows laptop that stays smooth.
#1 Best Overall
- MICRO-EDGE HD DISPLAY - With virtually no bezel encircling the display, an ultra-wide viewing experience provides for seamless multi-monitor set-ups
- INTEL N150 PROCESSOR - Improved graphics and performance for your everyday; Connect, learn, and play anywhere
- INTEL GRAPHICS - Enjoy vivid and immersive visuals in creative applications and gaming
- STORAGE AND MEMORY - 128 GB Universal Flash Storage lets you experience high-performance storage with faster speeds and lower power consumption while on-the-go; 4 GB RAM memory boosts performance with higher bandwidth
- WINDOWS 11 HOME - Experience the most secure Windows ever built with fast boot times, increased responsiveness, and added protection against phishing and malware
Should you buy it?
TechRadar’s answer is no. A cheap price does not help if the laptop slows down in everyday use. If you want Windows, spending a little more for more memory is the safer route.
Alternatives TechRadar suggests
Configurations and prices below are as reported on 5 October 2026. Prices and stock change quickly, so confirm them with the retailer. TechRadar provides no benchmark results for these models.
Rank #2
- 【Powerful Performance】Equipped with an Intel N150 CPU, featuring up to 4.4 GHz, ensuring efficient and powerful multitasking capabilities.
- 【Versatile Connectivity】Stay connected with multiple ports including USB 3.0 Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, and a headphone/mic combo jack, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless wireless networking.
| Model | Reported price | OS | RAM | Storage | Processor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP 14a-nf0003na Chromebook | £259 | ChromeOS | 8GB | 128GB | Not stated |
| HP 15-fd1007nax | £299 | Windows (not stated in the report; confirm before buying) | 8GB | 256GB | Intel Core i3 |
| Asus CX14 Chromebook Plus | £299 | ChromeOS | 8GB | Not stated | Intel Core 3 |
Each option doubles the RAM of the Argos laptop for £20 less to £20 more.
The Chromebook trade-off
Two of the three alternatives run ChromeOS, which may not support every Windows application. If you rely on specific Windows software, check that it, or a suitable web or Android alternative, works before choosing a Chromebook. If you mainly use a browser, email and web apps, a Chromebook is a reasonable fit. If you need Windows programs, the HP 15-fd1007nax is the closest match among the three.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【4GB RAM + 628GB Storage (128GB SSD + 500GB External)】Equipped with 4GB of high-bandwidth RAM for smooth multitasking across everyday applications and browser tabs. The built-in 128GB SSD delivers faster performance and improved power efficiency on the go. Expand your storage with a 500GB portable external drive.
- 【Quad-Core Intel Processor N150】Up to 3.6 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, 6 MB L3 Cache, 4 cores, 4 threads. Save time and increase productivity with powerful performance and smooth multitasking. Access fast web applications, edit photos and videos, and get the responsiveness you're looking for.
- 【14" HD Display】Enjoy an ultra-wide viewing experience with a virtually bezel-free 14" HD display, ideal for seamless multi-monitor setups. Featuring an HP True Vision 720p HD camera and integrated dual-array digital microphones, it’s ready for online classes, Google Classroom, remote learning, and Zoom meetings.
- 【Windows 11 Pro Operating System】Windows 11 Pro delivers a powerful, streamlined user experience that helps you stay focused and get more done – wherever your office might be. Safeguard data and access anywhere with hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware protection built in. For Home, Student, Professionals, Small Business, School Education, and Commercial Enterprise.
- 【Authorized MarxsolAccessory with Office 2024】Bundle includes 6-in-1 USB-C Docking Station Hub (with USB 3.0, 4K-HDMI, USB-C Connection, SD/TF Card Reader), 500GB external drive, USB extension cord, HDMI cable, mouse pad, and wireless mouse. Free Lifetime Microsoft Office 2024 installed. For Home, Student, Professionals, Small Business, School Education, and Commercial Enterprise.
Rank #4
- Designed for mobility with a slim 0.71-inch profile and lightweight 3.24 lb, making it easy to carry between home, office, school
- 【Versatile Connectivity】Stay connected with multiple ports including USB 3.0 Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, and a headphone/mic combo jack, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless wireless networking.
Rank #3
- Power to work and play all day: all the power you need to stay productive and entertained on a seamless Chrome experience
- Daily dose of entertainment: immerse yourself in Dual speakers and audio by B&O play, and easily share your screen with a flexible hinge that allows up to 180-degree rotation
- Processor: AMD Dual-Core a4-9120, 2.2GHz up to 2.5GHz
- Display: 14.0-Inch diagonal Full HD antiglare IPS WLED-backlit Display (1920x1080)
- Memory: 4 GB DDR4-1866 SDRAM (not upgradable)
Checklist before buying any budget laptop
- Look for 8GB of RAM if the laptop will run Windows 11.
- Confirm the operating system, and whether your key apps run on it.
- Check the exact model number, since similar HP names differ widely in specs.
- Re-check the price and stock on the day you buy.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
