If you’re not particularly tech-savvy, you might tend to choose only the cheapest or most “reasonably priced” laptop out there. You have high regard for budget laptops because as long as they do their jobs, which is to let you surf the net, and create and save files, then they’re about the same as pricier models. But will this thinking truly let you save money?
Sales figures from 2019 show that average laptop buyers spend around $700 for new devices. This means while many consumers opt for high-end models, there remains to be a considerable number of them who favor budget laptops over expensive ones.
In truth, $700 isn’t a lot of money for a laptop. This price only affords low-end models that may be good enough, but that’s just it—okay, not excellent.
But if you really can’t afford to shell out thousands of dollars for a new laptop, how can you maximize the benefits of your budget machine?
1. Don’t Buy the Cheapest Model
“Cheap” comes in a range of prices, and while it’s tempting to pick the smallest amount in that range, it isn’t worth it. Buying the cheapest model is one of the top mistakes consumers make when buying a laptop, so don’t fall for the enticing price tag. Instead, focus on the specifications, determining if they will suit your needs and your budget.
2. Think of How Long You’ll Need It
If you’re a frugal buyer, you’re most probably aiming to have your new laptop for a couple of years, so don’t buy a unit that will only be useful for you in the present. Consider your future needs as well. An affordable model with a 4GB RAM and 128GB storage might seem enough. But give it a few years, and the speed and storage will most likely run out.
3. Consider Your Entertainment Needs
Since you’ll also use your laptop to stream videos or play games, the resolution is highly essential. Narrow down your options to those with at least 1080p resolutions. Find out if the affordable models you’re considering offer an increased resolution after an upgrade. Or better yet, spend a little bit more for a model that already comes with the ideal resolution.
4. Organize Your Hard Drive
It is a fact that budget laptops tend to slow down over time, and one of the reasons why this happens is a clogged internal hard drive. There is available software that lets you analyze your files and determine which of them eats up your storage. You can also download an application that detects file duplicates and removes them. But if you have enough time to do manual work, then open your file folders and weed out the unwanted items yourself.
5. Don’t Ignore Updates
Software updates indeed download large files, but ignoring them with the belief that you’ll save storage is a mistake. The upgrades install performance patches and new security measures to your laptop. Instead of immediately skipping it, wait for a few days to ensure that the enhancements are bug-free, then proceed to install them.
6. Regularly Clean Your Laptop
A laptop’s external components also contribute to its performance. Now and then, take your device to your area’s trusted laptop repair provider to have the parts examined and cleared of dust and other dirt. Dirty fans force your machine to work harder, causing an overheat and faster battery drainage.
Considering all these ways toboost a budget laptop’s performance, the question of whether it’s genuinely a value-for-money purchase still depends on varying factors. If you’re into gaming and graphic design, then you need top-of-the-line models. But if you’re mainly using your device for work or school, then a budget laptop should be workable for you.
