Primebook S WiFi review: Can an Android laptop at₹14,490 replace the Windows?

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase "Android laptop"? Perhaps a large smartphone or a tablet equipped with a keyboard? Recently, I spent a month testing out the Primebook S WiFi, an Android-based laptop priced under ₹15,000, and it certainly piqued my curiosity. Powered by PrimeOS, this laptop offers a unique blend of familiar Android functionality with the traditional features of a laptop. The Primebook S WiFi (2025) marks a significant shift toward Android-powered laptops, merging the user-friendly nature of Android apps with the usability of a standard laptop. It boasts an 11.6-inch HD display, a MediaTek MT8183 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of eMMC storage. With a price tag of ₹14,490, it aims to make computing more accessible to a wider audience. One of the first things I noticed was its lightweight design, weighing in at just 1.06 kg. This makes it easy to carry around in a backpack or a larger handbag—ideal for those always on the move. The matte black exterior looks decent, although I found myself being cautious while handling it due to the plastic build, which may not exude a premium feel but is expected at this price point. The HD IPS display serves its purpose for casual use. While it may not be ideal for color-sensitive tasks like video editing, it performs adequately for streaming videos, browsing, and viewing documents. The audio quality is basic, sufficient for video calls and casual content consumption, but it lacks the depth for immersive experiences. Navigating PrimeOS is surprisingly intuitive for anyone familiar with Android, offering a desktop-style interface complete with a start menu and taskbar. I was able to browse the internet, use Google Docs and Sheets, check emails, and stream content without significant issues. However, the MediaTek MT8183 paired with 4GB of RAM is designed for light multitasking, and I noticed minor performance hiccups when switching between multiple applications. The keyboard, while functional, felt compact for my typing style. If you're accustomed to a full-sized keyboard, you may find it a bit cramped. Nonetheless, for students or first-time users, it remains usable after some adjustment. The touchpad is basic and functional, though I occasionally reached for a mouse for smoother navigation. Battery performance was a notable drawback, as I often found myself needing to recharge after just two hours of standard usage. This is disappointing, especially for a device marketed as portable. If you're planning to use it on the go, a power bank or access to a power outlet is advisable. The Primebook S WiFi isn't intended for gamers or professional creators, as it lacks the capability for high-end gaming or resource-intensive tasks like video editing. However, it serves a particular target market: budget-conscious students and light users. If you need a secondary device for checking emails, browsing the web, or completing basic assignments, it could be a fitting option. For what it offers at ₹14,490, it shows potential within its designated limits.