What to Expect With a Budget Laptop

Slower processor, less RAM

Don't expect a lot of power in this price range. Sure, it likely will be fine for basic tasks, such as browsing the web, reading email or writing in a word processor, but forget about doing graphic design, editing videos or playing high-end games.

Multitasking, such as having several windows open at the same time, may prove to be a challenge, too.

Much of this limitation comes from the processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU). Many of these laptops use an Intel Celeron, AMD E2 or A6 or Mediatek chip instead of a beefier Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor. Also, these laptops will have an “integrated” graphics chip to render visuals, instead of a preferred separate, “dedicated” graphics card that can do all the heavy lifting independent of the processor.

More random access memory (RAM) gives programs that you have open a way to use to more short-term memory. A computer with more RAM generally can juggle more tasks better.

Smaller screen size

Most laptops with a small price have a small screen, too. Many have 11-inch screens, measured on the diagonal; one that calls itself a combination Chromebook and tablet is 10.1 inches.

Count yourself lucky to find a 14-inch screen, which is more akin to the average laptop display.

Also bear in mind that a smaller screen usually means a smaller keyboard. You might find it a bit cramped to type on keyboard that may be less than 9 inches wide if you buy a laptop with an 11-inch diagonal screen. But you probably can add a larger, external keyboard via USB or Bluetooth for extra money.

If you find yourself squinting at the small screen, you also might be able to connect to a larger monitor or TV if your laptop has an HDMI port, which is something to look for before you buy. Of course, a second screen also adds to the total cost of your new setup.

Limited storage

An entry-level Chromebook or Windows PC has less space inside to stow your files and additional apps you might want. A $500 laptop may have 512 gigabytes (GB) of storage or twice that at 1 terabyte (TB), but a $250 laptop may have only 32GB or 64GB of storage.

You have two ways to get around that for file storage:

• Pick up a memory card and snap it into the side of the laptop. Most will take a microSD card, a full-size SD card or a USB thumb drive, also referred to as a jump drive.

• Leverage free cloud services, such as Microsoft's OneDrive or Google Drive, which typically give you at least 5 gigabytes of storage for free. As long as you have an internet connection, you can access documents, photos and videos as if they were stored locally.

Should you buy refurbished or open box?

Finally, make sure you clearly read what you're buying. It might not be brand new.

An open-box item means it was returned to the store for some reason. Refurbished machines were repaired to return them to like-new condition.

A quick rule of thumb: New and sealed is always better than open box, which is better than refurbished.

If you're comfortable buying a used or repaired computer, do so only from a retailer that offers a good warranty in case anything goes wrong. The problem with buying from a stranger at an online classified site is that you likely won't hear back from the seller if you have difficulties.

Marc Saltzman has been a freelance technology journalist for 25 years. His podcast, Tech It Out, aims to break down geek speak into street speak.