Buying a laptop for the first time can be intimidating. There are so many options that it's hard to know where to start, and no matter how much you spend there is always something better just around the corner.

However, with a bit of research, you can find the perfect laptop that is both useful and affordable.

Here are some tips to help you get started.

  1. What do You Really Need?

Before you buy anything, ask yourself exactly what you will use the laptop for. That will determine how much storage space and RAM (memory) your machine needs. If all you do is word processing and internet browsing, something cheap will be just fine but if you plan on storing photos, videos, or music on your hard drive, it might be worth spending more.

And if you plan on doing processor intensive activities like video editing or gaming, then having more than 4 GB of RAM may be critical depending on what programs you need to run.

  1. How Much Do I Have to Spend?

There are laptops under $100 that can get the job done, but they won't have the same features or speed that pricier models have - you get what you pay for. And if you want something that will last several years without being obsolete then spending around $400-$600 should be enough depending on your needs.

You could also check out refurbished computers which are basically pre-owned laptops usually guaranteed to have good quality hardware and good working screens, keyboards, touchpads, etc., although not all of them are identical so it's worth doing some research.

  1. What Type of Laptop Do You Need?

Decide what size screen is best for you. If you plan on carrying your laptop around a lot then a smaller 11" or 13" model might be ideal, but if you need to have a bigger screen so you can see what's going on, a 15" or 17" is also available - although they will usually take up more space and cost slightly higher.

Just remember that larger laptops usually have less battery life than smaller models do, so keep that in mind when setting your price range.

  1. Think About Extras

There are many features that may be worth spending extra for if they're just right for your lifestyle. For example, the best touchpads allow gestures instead of having to use an external mouse which makes navigating easier, especially if you just want something light to carry around with you, or if you want something small for watching videos, etc.

Some nicer models also come with a touch-screen so that even cheaper laptops can have some of the same functionality as high-end smartphones. And you might want to consider how much memory your machine needs because being able to store more makes it easier to work on large projects.

  1. When Can You Get It?

Even though there are many great deals online, sometimes it's just better to go into a store and look at what is available in person - this way you can hold it in your hands, test out the keyboard feel, and see if the screen is big enough for you to see everything clearly. Also try asking people who already own laptops in your price range for their opinion, and check out reviews online to see what other people think.

Many stores offer laptop financing so it might be worth considering if you plan on using it for more than one year. Just do the math before committing because sometimes the final price is much higher than you realize when you add in all of the interest charges.

And don't forget - if you stick with quality brands like Lenovo, HP, ASUS, Toshiba, or Dell then buying a laptop can be simple and affordable!

  1. Do I Need One with Windows?

There are many 'alternative' operating systems available and while some of them, like Ubuntu, offer good functionality and security, they might not have the complete range of software that you need. Newer versions of Mac OSX work well for everyday use but will cost more - so if you think there's a chance you'll want to upgrade in the future, it might be worth choosing a laptop that already has what you need to be installed.

  1. Should I Buy Online or in Person?

Although prices tend to be lower online, laptops bought in person can also be returned within two weeks if something is wrong with them. And sometimes buying from retailers who specialize in tech products means that you get better customer service.

  1. Check for Warranties

Most laptops come with some sort of warranty, although you should always check the details before making a purchase because not all warranties are created equal. For example, many include only 90-days of free phone support or one year of coverage for accidental damage, so have a think about what would be most important to you before buying.

  1. Compare Prices and Brands

Price can vary a little depending on where you shop but it's best to do some research before committing - there are many online retailers like Newegg and NCIX that offer laptops at competitive prices and guarantee satisfaction. And don't forget to check out what other people think about different brands of laptops by checking reviews online.

  1. Think About Battery Life

The way your laptop handles power management will determine how long it lasts between charges, so consider buying one with a more efficient battery if you plan on using it for more than an hour or two every day! Some newer models include new 'fast-charge' batteries which will allow you to get several hours of use in just 15 minutes. This is extremely helpful when traveling because you can carry a separate charger and be able to switch it out in just a few minutes.