We’ve all been there. Your student just got into college and you know it’s time to get them their own laptop, but the sheer thought of all the possible choices gives you a migraine. Fear not, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The fact that there are so many options means that the right choice is out there somewhere, you just have to look for it. Here to assist you with that task are some recommendations on how to get the best deal on a laptop for your college-bound student.
Consider When They Need the Laptop and What They Need It For
Knowing the deadline concerning when your student will need a laptop could potentially give you the opportunity to barter more effectively or wait for a better deal. Knowing what they need it for will help you decide which features are most important. The best way to evaluate this is to consider both their major and general interests. If they’re majoring in Music Production or attending Hofstra University, investing in a laptop with a lot of RAM (random access memory) will be highly beneficial. Even more, knowing when they will need the laptop and what they will need it for will help you establish a timeline concerning when to purchase the laptop and how to best utilize the rest of the following tips.
Figure Out What OS They are Most Comfortable Using
Is your student fond of the Mac look? Or do they appreciate the Windows workflow? Maybe they’re into the open environment of Linux? Figuring out what their preferences are will help you narrow your search and find the best possible bang for your buck. The best way to figure this out is to ask them directly and have a conversation about the benefits and drawbacks of each operating system. This will give you better insight into their personal preferences and proclivities, and will undoubtedly help you select the best laptop for their specific needs.
Consider Purchasing an Older Model
There is no shame in purchasing older computers for college students, especially if they are not the ones paying for it. Besides, they can always upgrade when they grow out of whatever laptop you decide to purchase them. And hey, if you do your research, avoid all that click here mentality, and select the right laptop from the get-go, it should serve your student well for a long time.
Check the Clearance Section
One of the best ways to get a good deal on a laptop is to check the clearance section of both your local store and online retailer. With the plethora of options available, including refurbished laptops, you never know what deals you could potentially uncover.