Cheap Laptop for beginner?

I'd definitely go for a Toshiba such as this one:

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/134717

The reason that I choose it is because it has got Windows XP Pro rather than Vista. Processor speed is fine, adequate memory and storage space. I know it's not a Duo Core processor but there's no great advantage (I have both), Watch the price because I think it's likely to go down in the coming few weeks.

I'd avoid second hand because you don't know what's been done to the machine and, being a beginner, you might find it difficult to support a warranty claim.

Impossible to answer without more information. What are you going to be doing with it? Just want to learn how to use a computer? Play the latest 3D games? What features? Again, what do you want to use it for?

Apple Macintosh laptops are reliable, solid and easy to use, but tend to keep their value even when second hand. Also, because they're used by Apple freaks most of the time, they tend to be very well looked after and a second hand one will be almost like new. The ones before the Intel processors were wonderful. So they won't exactly be cheap. On the other hand you can get an "old" Mac laptop from eBay cheaply if you buy one that is a "clam" laptop or an iBook. (Don't worry, both types are powerful enough for most people who just want to learn how to use a computer for the first time). Powerbooks and the like won't be very cheap. You'll probably be starting at around the US$500 mark.

I would recommend an older model Apple Macintosh laptop if you can afford it, by browsing eBay. Don't buy unless there are pictures of the actual laptop for sale, and preferably buy from someone with a history of selling and good customer feedback.

Alternatively you can do some research with Google.

If all you want is something to start with and you won't be playing the latest 3D games or using resource hog software like video editing software, etc., 256MB RAM, 20GB disk, whatever video, whatever processor - with those RAM and disk specs the processor will be fine in terms of power and you will be able to do pretty much whatever you like on it. The more the better obviously, but that is what you should ideally be getting as a low spec machine to start with.

Cheap laptops tend to have very little software on them (you could always download open office etc. instead) and are missing features such as firewire (for downloading from video cameras etc.) - make a list of all your needs and wants and make sure it's all there - you could always buy second hand - loads cheaper and more likely to get all the extras

Best bang for your buck is a Toshiba.

HP is good, but usually a little more money.

Stay away from Acer as they are having some real problems lately.

I would recommend you go to www.overstock.com. This where I got my first laptop. It was around $300.00.

watch for add inserts in the Sunday paper for budget laptops

or

check your local computer stores for good 2nd hand computer

OR

http://www.shopzilla.com/7S--Laptop_Computers_-_at...

http://www.dealtime.com/xCH-computers

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.newegg.com/

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