A basic, inexpensive laptop is perfect for most

When it comes to laptops, additional features–and the price you pay for them–are virtually limit-less. You’ve probably seen inexpensive models as low as $300 at places like Walmart and Staples. And you’ve probably seen models that cost thousands of dollars. So are the pricier models worth it?

LOZO’s opinion: for most casual users, a basic, inexpensive laptop should suffice–so don’t pay for the upgrades! That means, if you’re surfing the web, doing some office work, networking, playing music, videos and some games–a basic laptop should be fine. If your needs are more extensive, then certain upgrades might be necessary.

To get the best bang for your buck, buy a laptop that has the features you truly need (and not everything under the sun). Here are a few of the most important criteria to consider. Each of them will affect the cost of your laptop, so know what you need and choose accordingly!

• Memory: The price of add-on memory is dropping all of the time. Translation: it’s not always necessary to soup-up a machine with the biggest hard drive and most RAM because you’ll have the option to pick up more RAM later (usually at a lower price).
• Video: If you’re planning for intense gaming or watching Blu-ray movies, you’ll want to get want to get the best video capabilities out there. For an average user, though, a basic video card should suffice.
• Screen size: Larger screens cost more money, so it’s good to ask yourself if you really need one. For most users, a small screen is just fine. Plus, smaller screen models are more portable and use less battery life (another cost saver!). If, however, you’re a designer or an avid photographer who does lots of photo-editing, you’ll probably need a larger screen. Likewise, if you’re using your laptop as an alternative to a desktop computer (or even your TV), you may require a large screen. Of course, they can also be a pain to lug around when you’re on the move.
• Processor: Even the basic processor speeds offered today can do the job for most. Think twice before spending a lot to upgrade, since in a year or so they’ll all be “outdated” anyway. 
• Software, Printers, Batteries & Other “Extras”: Unless you’re getting a great package deal, don’t feel any pressure to buy extras like software, printers or even an extra battery at the time you buy your laptop. You’ll always have a chance to add something on later, most likely at a lower price, and you’ll then have a better idea of what you actually need. 

Finally, if your needs are really basic and you want to spend the minimum, then a netbook or mini-computer might be right for you. If this is the case, stick with the really cheap ones. There’s not much benefit to paying as much on a netbook as you would on a basic laptop, since you’ll be giving up performance and upgradability without saving much dough.

A LOZO expert posted this tip.