What to expect with a budget laptop


SLOWER PROCESSOR, LESS RAM Don't expect a lot of power in this price range. Sure, it likely will be fine for basic tasks, such as browsing the web, reading email or writing in a word

processor, but forget about doing graphic design, editing videos or playing high-end games. Multitasking, such as having several windows open at the same time, may prove to be a challenge,

too. Much of this limitation comes from the processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU). Many of these laptops use an Intel Celeron, AMD E2 or A6 or Mediatek chip instead of a

beefier Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor. Also, these laptops will have an “integrated” graphics chip to render visuals, instead of a preferred separate, “dedicated” graphics card

that can do all the heavy lifting independent of the processor. More random access memory (RAM) gives programs that you have open a way to use to more short-term memory. A computer with more

RAM generally can juggle more tasks better. SMALLER SCREEN SIZE Most laptops with a small price have a small screen, too. Many have 11-inch screens, measured on the diagonal; one that calls

itself a combination Chromebook and tablet is 10.1 inches. A TABLET CAN MIMIC A LAPTOP Newer tablets, either Apple iPads or Android tablets, can become more like their laptop cousins with

the addition of a Bluetooth keyboard. If you want to type email and do more than a little internet searching, a separate keyboard will be more comfortable and accurate than the tablet

touchscreen. Add a wireless mouse, too, for more ease of use. Count yourself lucky to find a 14-inch screen, which is more akin to the average laptop display. Also bear in mind that a

smaller screen usually means a smaller keyboard. You might find it a bit cramped to type on keyboard that may be less than 9 inches wide if you buy a laptop with an 11-inch diagonal screen.

But you probably can add a larger, external keyboard via USB or Bluetooth for extra money. If you find yourself squinting at the small screen, you also might be able to connect to a larger

monitor or TV if your laptop has an HDMI port, which is something to look for before you buy. Of course, a second screen also adds to the total cost of your new setup. LIMITED STORAGE An

entry-level Chromebook or Windows PC has less space inside to stow your files and additional apps you might want. A $500 laptop may have 512 gigabytes (GB) of storage or twice that at 1

terabyte (TB), but a $250 laptop may have only 32GB or 64GB of storage.