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Best budget laptops

(Nov 23, 2009)

Dan Ackerman Dan Ackerman
Senior Editor
Fortunately for price-conscious shoppers, it's possible to get a perfectly usable laptop for less than one might think. These budget choices run the gamut from sub-$400 Netbooks to more expensive systems that still represent an impressive value for their cost.

Dell Inspiron Mini 10v

Dell's Mini 10v keeps a lot of the features of the more expensive Mini 10, while dropping the price below $300. It's one of only a handful of $299 Netbooks that doesn't look and feel especially cheap.

Price: $279.00 (check prices)

Review date: Aug 17, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.9 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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HP Mini 311

HP's Mini 311 adds a larger, high-definition display and advanced graphics to a basic Netbook, while keeping the price very appealing. Once it starts shipping with Windows 7, this could become our favorite Netbook.

Price: $399.99 (check prices)

Review date: Oct 8, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.1 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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Toshiba Satellite T135-S1310

Toshiba's slick entry into the thin-and-light laptop world is timed for Windows 7, but if you're going to get one, make sure it's the dual-core T135-S1310, and not its single-core cousin.

Price: $689.95 - $749.99 (check prices)

Review date: Oct 22, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.8 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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Asus K50IJ-RX05

As long as you won't need more than what it already has, the budget-friendly Asus K50IJ-RX05 is money well spent.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jul 8, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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