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Tips for Buying Cheap Laptops Under $200

Bhakti Satalkar
If you are looking for cheap laptops, then you might be surprised to know that you can get one for as little as USD 200. Sure, the configuration might not be the best or the latest, but these laptops are good enough for normal use.
There have been efforts to manufacture laptops in the lower-end budget bracket. However, with increasing costs, it is becoming increasingly difficult to make this dream come true. Along with the cost factor, manufacturers also need to ensure that they are good-quality systems.They do this by making a trade-off between certain hardware and software features.
When research was conducted among people who wanted to buy cheap laptop computers, it was noted that each one of them had a different idea about what exactly they expected from the device. For example, some wanted a CD-ROM drive, whereas others did not find it necessary, and instead wanted a bigger hard drive or more RAM.

Tips to Buy Laptops under $200

When you are in the market for a cheap laptop, there are some things which you should consider before you go ahead and buy one. If you come across used laptops for sale under USD 200, then the best bet is to track down the brand and model number of the laptop and inquire about it.
There are a number of portals from which you will be able to get reviews that might be helpful. At the same time, be a little conscious, so that you are not cheated in the deal. In case you come across a deal which seems too good to be true, it is better to seek explanations from the seller, rather than being sorry later.
However, if you get new ones for sale under USD 200 from a store, then you may indeed be in for a good deal. In most cases, when the models become old or outdated, the stores hold clearance sales to do away with the old models, usually selling them at throw-away prices. Here are some things you should consider while buying a cheap laptop.

» Decide on the Configuration

The first step is to decide the configuration that you want for your laptop. If you are not going to run memory-consuming software on the device, then you may not require a high configuration.
If you are not really bothered about the latest operating system, you will be able to land a much cheaper deal. If you are not really tech-savvy and want a laptop which only takes care of your daily requirements, you will be able to get an affordable piece.

» Look for Refurbished Laptops

The other trick is to buy refurbished laptops, as they offer some of the best deals. In refurbished laptops, the defective parts are replaced and the machine becomes as good as new. The dealers are not able to sell these at the price of new ones, due to which the buyer is in for a profit. Other than refurbished ones, there are also used laptops.
There are a number of people you will come across who want to sell their laptops, as they either want to upgrade to a newer model, or do not want it anymore. This is often the case with freelancers who have found permanent jobs and do not really need their laptop anymore.
In some cases, people buy new machines, but are not able to make full payments for the same. There are chances that you come across cheap laptops with companies that are selling their inventory.

» Opt for a Free Operating System

When you are buying cheap laptops, you may want to go in for an operating system that comes for free. This will help you to save some money. If you are looking for a laptop for kids, you may also be able to land a deal under USD 100. Also, check for free versions of other necessary software and avoid spending on unnecessary premium software.

» Check for Bundled Software with the System

Usually, refurbished and used laptops are formatted and cleaned before they are sold. This means that they might come without any pre-installed software.
Check with the dealer or the store from which you are buying the device, about the bundled software available with the machine. Bundled software save us the trouble of downloading extra software on the machine and also the money required to purchase them.

» Buy from a Source Providing Warranty

Refurbished pieces are available with warranty from some sources. This can be very useful and it acts as a safeguard. Some retailers also provide the facility to purchase extended warranty. Look for a laptop that has at least a 30-day warranty period. This is especially helpful when the product is not up to the standards mentioned and has some grave issues.
Once you have decided to buy a cheap laptop, you should visit websites of different manufacturers, as these are the best places to find the best deals on refurbished pieces. If you intend to buy the laptop from the manufacturer, you will be able to get after sales service as well. In case you know a dealer, chances are that you will get a good deal.