Cheap Laptop Brands and Links

Resources and buyer's guides for cheap laptops

CNET has detailed and timely information on laptops in its laptop buying guide, including the best choices for different users such as students, business travelers or gamers.

Community College Week takes a look at the laptop vs. netbook debate and discusses which type of computer is best for college students.

PC World compares laptops, netbooks and smartphones to see which is the best option for different uses.

Intel has a good amount of information on second-generation processors, including the Core i3, which is available in lots of cheap laptops. You can also find information on the Core i5, available on higher-end cheap laptops, at that site.

Another way to save money while shopping for a laptop is to look for refurbished models. About.com details the pros and cons of taking this route. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)

A preview of Windows 8 is available at the Microsoft web site.

Cheap laptop brands

You can research and customize notebook computers on manufacturers' websites:

Acer

Asus

Dell

Gateway

HP/Compaq

Lenovo

Samsung

Sony

Toshiba

MSI