All posts in: Cheap Laptops

Should you upgrade your computer to Windows 8?

Computers & Internet
By Brad Chacos on October 24, 2012 in

Windows 8

The Windows you know now is not the Windows of the future. Microsoft's taking a bold step in a new direction this Friday with the launch of Windows 8, an update that brings tablet-style apps in a newfangled Windows Store and replaces the traditional desktop with a grid-like "Modern" interface composed of Live Tiles for each installed program. There's no two ways around it: Windows 8 is a complete reimagining of the tried-and-true operating system. But should you upgrade to Windows 8? It depends. Read more

Intel building new Bridges

Computers & Internet
By Carl Laron on April 26, 2012 in

Intel's third-generation i7 Core processor

If you are in the market for a new laptop or desktop computer and can afford to put off your purchase for a little while longer, it might not be the worst idea in the world. Intel has finally released its third-generation Core processors, dubbed Ivy Bridge. The first wave of these chips is targeting high-end systems, though processors for mainstream and budget desktop and laptop computers will soon follow. Eventually, all but the cheapest cheap computers will sport the new technology. And Apple users aren't being left out; if rumors are accurate, a new generation of Ivy Bridge powered Apple laptops and desktops could begin appearing as soon as this coming May or June. Let's see some of the major improvements these new chips bring to the table. Read more

The best back-to-school laptops on a student's budget

Computers & Internet
By Tanya Menoni on August 23, 2011 in

Back to school laptops

The season for back-to-school shopping is upon us. Like many parents or students, you may have a laptop on your shopping list. While you can certainly spend upwards of $1,000 on one of the latest laptops, there are many good deals to be had this season. We evaluated dozens of professional reviews and hundreds of user evaluations to find the best cheap laptops for our just updated report. Here are just a few of the best choices for students.

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Can you get away with a cheap laptop?

Computers & Internet
By Tanya Menoni on May 22, 2011 in

Cheap laptop

Let's face it -- not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on a top-of-the-line MacBook Pro or the latest high-tech gaming rig from Alienware. But, truth be told, most computer users probably don't need that kind of raw power. Instead, many users will be well served by a less expensive laptop, most of which cost $800 or less -- and sometimes much less. Some of the top choices among cheap laptops are detailed in our just updated report. Read more

Value and performance add up for back-to-school laptops

Computers & Internet
By Carl Laron on August 14, 2010 in

Laptop

Whether it's reading, writing and arithmetic, or 16th century English literature, thermodynamics and organic chemistry, a laptop computer has become an essential part of almost every student's education. For younger students getting their first computer, or those looking for a very portable laptop for in-class note-taking and not much more, a netbook might suffice. Those needing lots of computational horsepower for engineering, graphics design or science courses might want to aim for a high-end laptop, like the just refreshed Alienware M11x (and the fact that it's a better than decent gaming rig as well doesn't hurt, right?). For everyone else, mainstream laptops costing between $300 and $800 hit the sweet spot between performance and value, making them great back-to-school choices. We profile the very best ones in our report on cheap laptops. Read more

Tricked out dorm: TVs, speakers and headphones

Electronics
By Carl Laron on August 5, 2010 in

Back to school technology gear

One of the challenges every student faces as he or she heads back to school is drawing the line between what they want and what they need when it comes the latest technology. That's particularly important for students heading off to college. Outfitting your dorm room so that it's an effective space for work can help you zero in on your studies. Throwing in a few goodies to help you unwind when the need arises -- and the time allows -- can help you keep your sanity intact. And, of course, having the most tricked-out dorm room on your floor never hurts.

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Cheap laptops pinch pennies, not performance

Computers & Internet
By Carl Laron on November 18, 2009 in

Penny pinching laptops
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Netbooks for kids

Computers & Internet
By Sage McHugh on September 2, 2009 in

Super-restrictive netbooks boast more parental control

Dell has launched a new netbook designed especially for children - the Latitude 2100. There are many features that will certainly appeal to kids: it has a 10.1-inch touchscreen, weighs just 2.91 lbs, and comes in a choice of five colors. A built-in shoulder strap and quick-connect handles make it easier to carry around. A special slot on the hinge allows children to personalize their computer by entering their name, school, etc.

Other kid-friendly features include a tough rubber exterior, and an anti-microbial keyboard helps prevent the spread of germs. Kids might despise it, but parents and teachers will appreciate the network activity light on the lid, which begins flashing when a browser or chat application is opened. This feature can't be disabled, so covert web surfing is impossible.

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