Laptop computers are more expensive than desktop computers, but despite what you might think, you can still buy a cheap laptop computer that has all of the specs you are looking for.  Don’t think of it as a cheap laptop, think instead that you will be getting a good deal on a laptop!  Here’s how to search for discount prices and find a cheap laptop or notebook computer that meets your needs.

The first way to save on a laptop is to skip brand names.  Trying to find a Sony or Dell that is new and inexpensive isn’t impossible, but you can buy more firepower in a laptop if you don’t get hung up on labels.  You can buy other names or even “no name” laptops which contain the same component parts by manufacturers such as Intel, Athlon, Sony, Seagate, and other major companies.  The internal quality can be just the same.  Buying a lesser known or unknown brand will take a little more investigation on your part to find out what is included inside.  Make sure you get a generous return policy too, in case the system just doesn’t measure up.

Speaking of no name laptops, how about building your own?  Some resellers specialize in helping you purchase all the components you want, and do the assembly for you.  This is a good way to buy a cheap laptop but get the right parts for your needs.

Another way to find a cheap laptop is to go for not-quite-new systems.  Look for dealers that sell open box, refurbished or reconditioned laptops.  You might even find that brand name you want!  These computers have been cleaned up, possibly upgraded, and made to look like new.  Warranties may even be available.  Don’t confuse these with used laptops, since used laptops are generally being sold by their user in an “as-is” condition, not by a computer dealer who has checked the system and repaired or upgraded where needed. 

Last of course is buying a used computer system.  These can be tricky if don’t really know your way around a laptop system.  Buying a used system is like buying a used car: Let the buy beware.  You have to ask all the right questions about how the system has been sued, what components are included, what condition they are in, and whether anything is malfunctioning.  Find out if there is a transferable warranty in place.  You can definitely find a used cheap laptop, but you may be buying someone else’s problem too. Make sure you know what you’re doing.  As a last resort, be sure you purchase using PayPal or some other service that offers buyer protection.

With a little leg work, it’s possible to find a cheap laptop with good components, warranty in place, and maybe even find a brand name computer, that can meet your needs and still not drain your wallet too much.

 

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