Avenir Telecom, a French tech company, has unveiled plans to launch Energizer-branded laptops with an eye-catching starting price of just $199. The new EnergyBook Classic line aims to enter the budget laptop market with 15-inch and 17-inch models expected to launch in Q1 2025.
The laptops feature a standard ultrabook design adorned with the recognizable Energizer branding on multiple surfaces including the keyboard, screen bezel, and lid. The port selection includes two USB Type-A ports, one USB Type-C port, HDMI output, dual 3.5mm audio jacks, and an SD card reader.
Storage options will be available in 128GB and 256GB configurations. The company claims the devices will be built using eco-friendly materials and come with long-term support promises.
However, industry experts have raised questions about the feasibility of the $199 price point. This cost undercuts even basic Chromebooks and Linux laptops currently on the market. The presence of a Windows key on the keyboard suggests these may run Windows, which could be particularly challenging to implement at such a low price point.
Many technical specifications remain unknown, with Avenir Telecom being notably quiet about processor choices, RAM configurations, and display specifications. The company has not responded to requests for additional details since early January.
While the Energizer branding brings name recognition to these budget laptops, the extremely low price point combined with promises of quality materials and extended support has left many industry observers skeptical about the project's viability.