By Nick Gelling
Product Test Journalist | Kaipūrongo Whakamātautau Hautaonga
We all know the frustration of being hobbled by a sluggish computer that takes minutes to start up and freezes when you give it more than two jobs. That’s the reality with many cheap laptops. It’s hard to find a decent one at a low price.
Unfortunately, laptop prices have got even higher this year and are set to continue rising until 2028. AI companies are buying up the world’s supply of key computer components, throwing the tech industry into a shortage that drives up costs for consumers.
While $2,000 would almost guarantee you a good laptop in the past, even basic laptops with mediocre specs are now starting to hit that mark.
On top of that, universal support for Windows 10 has ended, and even those who have opted into the free 1-year extension will lose support in October.
Luckily, we have tested a few affordable laptops that can do a satisfactory job.
But first, here are a few dud models that aren’t worth any money you’d save.
