Configuring a cheap affordable laptop

We all want to save money, especially if were in need of a cheap laptop. What would be the minimum configuration though that would have saved you money on your new laptop but also makes you feel that you have purchased a quality second or back-up notebook?

Memory: Probably the most important, 1gb is the minimum. How many times have we blamed our slow computer on the Internet? Well when you add extra memory it gives your laptop that extra boost.

The rest all depends on your needs, wifi, graphics card, etc. etc.

Battery: Get the battery with the most juice. You'll be kicking yourself when all you get is less than 2 hours of work time on your labtop.

If you have DSL or High-speed Internet and you roam around the house with your computer go for the wireless-N wifi card. They are backwards compatible with b/g, so you can use your computer when n isn't available, but the distance you get with wireless n is amazing especially when you use your laptop with a compatible router.

So go ahead and get that cheap laptop, but an inexpensive notebook computer doesn't mean it won't deliver when you need it!

Most affordable computers with quality components? The winner?

DELL

Should You Buy a Used Laptop or a Refurbished Laptop

You may be thinking that you are not able to afford a laptop computer, but perhaps you have not considered a used laptop as an option. A used laptop will afford you the opportunity to own a notebook computer at a price that will not put a huge dent in your wallet. Often you can purchase a gently used name brand laptop at a fraction of the retail cost.

There are many avenues to consider if you are thinking about purchasing a used laptop. You may decide to check your local ads, purchase one off lease, or purchase a refurbished computer. There is no right or wrong answer when deciding which method is best for your purchase; it is really up to you.

However, you may be more comfortable purchasing your used laptop off lease or buying a refurbished one. While there is nothing wrong with finding your laptop through the local newspaper ads, buying one off lease or refurbished may offer you a little more protection.

Whereas you have to deal with an unknown individual if you purchase through a newspaper ad, buying a leased or refurbished used laptop offers a bit more security, as most times you are dealing directly with a company; and it is much easier, most times, to solve potential problems with your purchase when you are dealing with a company.

One company that has a great reputation of offering used laptops is Compaq. You can often purchase a virtually new, used laptop from Compaq for hundreds less than you would spend on a new laptop computer. These used laptops are sold as “refurbished”, which can mean something as minor as a scratch on the cover.

There is no need to be hesitant if you are considering purchasing a used laptop. In most cases, you will find that your laptop will perform just as well as a brand-new computer. And if your used laptop is refurbished, there is a strict set of guidelines that companies must follow when reselling these computers to the general public.

Almost all companies that sell used laptops work extra hard to ensure that their product will perform for the consumer for a long time to come. You should also be sure to check into warranty information for the used laptop that you are considering purchasing. If you take a little care, you should have no problem finding a used laptop that suits your needs.

Brenda has used many laptops, and has a nice list of used laptops and refurbished laptops and information on how to get free laptops.