The best laptop for any person will be dependent on what the computer will be used for. First, making a list of all the normal activities will be helpful. Gaming, word processing, web browsing, digital downloads are all possibilities. Will it be used for business, personal reasons, or both? Is there a preference for a Mac or PC? What type of software would be needed? What about screen size? Is there a preference for a small and light weight model that would be highly transportable? This type of laptop would then also have less power and a smaller keyboard and screen. Heavier laptops, with larger screens will have more power, yet they can be harder to travel with. There are many variables one should take into account before starting an online search or walking into their local computer dealer.

Toshiba Satellite L655-S5156 15.6-Inch LED Laptop (Grey) $579.99 $529.99

For an affordable laptop, this Toshiba Satellite is a great choice.  It has a decent processor, 4 GB of RAM, and a 320 GB hard drive.  Overall its a great laptop for someone looking for a laptop to use at home or for school.  It can play videos, surf the internet, and do basic tasks like word processing and spreadsheets.

Acer Aspire TimelineX AS3820T-6480 13.3-Inch HD Laptop (Black Brushed Aluminum) $649.99 0

For a portable, affordable laptop, this Acer TimelineX laptop is designed for people on-the-go and can function for 8 hours without having to be plugged-in.  This laptop is ideal for students or business-people.

Where to Find Affordable Laptop Computers

After one has a good idea of what they want and expect in a computer, they can then begin searching and exploring different brands and also start comparing prices to see what would fit into their budget. This can become overwhelming as almost any place, from Wal-mart to Ebay will have affordable laptops. Wal-mart electronic staff or Ebay sellers may not be able to answer all of your questions and this is when major frustration can occur.

A good place to start, then, could be a local computer store that deals in servicing and selling refurbished computers. While a computer at a place like this would not be new, the staff and personnel usually are extremely knowledgeable and will be able to answer questions that range from simple to complex. Computer Renaissance (1-888-Compren) is a national chain dealing in refurbished PC computers, while authorized Apple service providers, such as the Mac Shack, service, buy and sell refurbished Macs.

Once one has many of their questions asked and has narrowed down to the make and model of laptop computer they want and need, they can begin their actual search. These places could be a great way to find affordable laptop computers:

1. Ebay: There are many authorized sellers with good feedback that give really good deals on laptops. The most important thing is to check out not just the item specifics, but the seller’s history, feedback, warranties and return policy.

2. Craigslist: Although starting to get a bad rep, local Craigslists can be a great way to find an affordable laptop. Often people are selling because they need the money and will often negotiate down to a lower price. The buyer just needs to keep in mind that unless there is already a warranty on the model, then it will be something they cannot return if the computer malfunctions.

3. Best Buy and Circuit City: These can be good places to find cheaper laptops because they will always beat the competition by 10 percent off the advertised price. Watching ads and comparing prices may take time, but can be worth it to get a good deal.

4. Wal-mart, Sam’s Club, Target: Again, these places may carry cheap laptops, but may not have the best quality. If the laptop is just going to be used for Web browsing and word processing, then these places may provide an affordable option, and they should also beat the competitor’s advertised price as well.

5. Online Search: When the buyer knows exactly what they want, just a simple online search of the make, model, and specs can provide many options for buying. The buyer should be ready to ask questions and expect professional customer service and answers to such questions on price, shipping, warranty, and returns.

Finding and buying the best affordable laptops is a process that can take some time, but is worth it in the end. After the actual purchase, a buyer should have a computer that meets all their needs at a price they can afford.