When shopping for a new laptop computer, the average consumer has two choices: spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line laptop that performs outstandingly now but will be obsolete in three years, or spend significantly less on a computer that may not outperform its pricier competitors, but can easily be replaced when technology moves forward for a fraction of the cost. For most consumers, buying a less expensive computer is dollar-for-dollar a much better value, since even cheap new laptops have as much memory and processor speed as the best laptops of five years ago. New technologies have also increased the range of choices available to consumers, so there are now inexpensive and hardworking laptop computers to fit everybody’s needs.
The first question a laptop shopper should ask is, what will this computer be used for? A laptop that will be used mostly for word processing and business work should have different specifications than one that will be used to play computer games. For ultra-portable word processing, netbooks are a good choice. These small cheap laptops are smaller and cheaper than their bigger cousins, and usually fit into a standard bag for easy transport. They make great cheap laptops for students. Asus, Lenovo, and MSI are established netbook makers whose computers average in the low $200s. A laptop that will be used for graphics-intensive computer games or design, however, should have a larger screen and more memory. Toshiba, Compaq, and Acer all make good computers for less money: a basic Compaq Presario with 2GB memory costs around $299, and similar offerings from Toshiba and Acer are under $400.
The next question to ask is, what specific model should this laptop be? There are only so many ways to build a computer, and many companies offer copies of what is essentially the same computer. To decide between similarly-priced versions of the same thing, consider each company’s reputation for the durability of its products. How long does each company’s laptops typically last? What kind of guarantees do they offer on their products? Can a customer send in their broken laptop for repairs, or are there repair shops conveniently located? Since even expensive computers inevitably have hardware trouble, the laptop you buy may be less important than the service you buy with it.
The third thing to consider is, can a laptop be tested before it is purchased? Even if a laptop is bought online, often the same or similar model can be tested in stores to make sure it will meet the customer’s expectations. Before you order any laptop online, write down the maker and model and then check with local electronics stores to see whether they carry it in stock. Even if you plan to buy it elsewhere, it is worth the time to go and examine a computer in person to see whether you like the design and its performance.
Finally, the last thing to consider when buying a cheap new laptop is how to make it yours! Personalization is important and can make a computer something special, not just a tool. Cheap laptops are often more standardized than more expensive ones, with fewer custom options, so taking advantage of what customization is available can make a huge difference. Don’t like the boring back of your laptop? Consider buying a “skin” or wrap for your computer. Skins come in many colors and designs, from many different companies–some will even allow you to create your own design and have it custom-made. Accessories like skins or wireless mice can make your laptop experience more fun, more productive, and an even better value for your money.
Update: The following review was posted by reader Brandon A.
Recently, I purchased a HP G60-610CA Notebook for around $550 (although, it was on sale for a limited time), and thus far, I have been nothing but 100% pleased with it. It has a sleek and stylish design, great specs (250gb HD, 4gb RAM, 15.6? monitor, built-in webcam, microphone, and other features), and it runs better than I could have ever imagine. The 4 GB of RAM allows me to work on multiple tasks or run several programs all at once without sacrificing any speed or performance. The screen is just the right size (not too big and not too small), the mouse and keyboard both feel natural and are very easy to use, and it’s lightweight enough to have it with you on the go.
You really can’t go wrong with this model. No matter what you plan to do with your notebook, as far as I’m concerned, there’s no better choice than the HP G60-610CA Notebook. I needed a laptop that’s good for basic gaming, browsing the internet, communicating with friends, doing homework, and running high-intensity software, and to date, this one has delivered on all fronts with flying colors. There are other great laptops on the market, but I see no real reason to look any further than this one. Don’t miss out on this fantastic product!
Reader Question: What laptop would you recommend for someone who wanted to buy a cheap laptop?
If I had to recommend a cheap laptop, it would probably be an asus netbook. I used one for a few months before I purchased my new macbook pro and I was very happy with it for day to day internet browsing, emailing, et cetera. I *did* happen to buy skins and all that for it after I bought it, which for me, is really fun. What I liked about it besides the price, was that it was super portable and fit into most of my medium sized handbags that I carried. I loved the small size and it doubled as an e-book reader for me. I have since given it to one of my children and am now using a 13 inch macbook pro, which somehow doesn’t feel as small and portable as my asus netbook did. I kind of miss my cheap little netbook!
If I had to recommend a good and cheap laptop to someone, it would surely be the Lenovo R61 laptop. The looks have mat finish and it is very low-priced. It has all essential features such as a good RAM and a relatively high Hard Disk space. The latest version of Microsoft Office should be installed in the laptop. The best part of this laptop is that it comes with a global warranty of three years. It is ideal for students as well as office-goers.
I will recommend Dell laptops and it works greatly.Because they are with 4GB system memory,media card reader and windows 7.Games like starcraft, Dawn of war 2 are working amazingly
If some one is going to buy a laptop looking towards his/her requirement, no doubt he can go for a Lenovo or Acer. Both are available in good configuration with lower prices. Still he is not able to spend between $300 to $400, he can opt of a netbook comparatively cheaper but lacking some hardware. Netbooks are ideal for students or frequent traveler.
If you are looking to buy a cheap laptop I’d recommend a Dell laptop. You can have one custom built directly from their site. My favorite thing about purchasing a custom built laptop from Dell is that you can decide which features you are willing to pay for based on what your specific needs are. If you ever need a new laptop you can always contact Dell for an upgrade on certain parts or purchase a new one to fit your budget. I have bought two laptops from Dell for less than $800 (one for graphic design and one for just internet) and they were very easy to sell when I upgraded to my IBM. (I love my ThinkPad, but it wasn’t cheap!)
Something else is that when you are evaluating a good online electronics store, look for web stores that are consistently updated, keeping up-to-date with the most current products, the very best deals, and also helpful information on services and products. This will make sure that you are getting through a shop that stays atop the competition and give you things to make educated, well-informed electronics purchases. Thanks for the vital tips I have learned from the blog.