Tech buyer’s guide: Laptops that won’t break the bank

Are you in the market for a budget laptop? Arm yourself with a little information before you pull out your credit card so you can make the most of your money and find a quality device to suit your needs.

Acer Aspire 3 (A314-23P-R3QA). This basic windows laptop, available for about $435 on Amazon, is lightweight and compact enough to fit in smaller computer bags, with enough battery life to get through the day without charging. And unlike many other budget Windows laptops, the processor is powerful enough to run multiple apps and keep up with the vast majority of everyday computing tasks.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus. This Chromebook boasts a touchscreen and a surprisingly nimble processor that allows users to sail through regular tasks with ease. It can also last through a full day of work or class on a single charge. About $500 at Best Buy.

Acer Nitro V 15. Gamers on a tight budget should take a look at the Acer Nitro V 15, which starts at around $700 on Amazon. While it doesn't include many of the bells and whistles you might find on more expensive laptops, it still offers sufficient processing power for a smooth gaming experience, ample battery life, and plenty of USB ports.

MacBook Air M1. It isn't Apple's most advanced laptop, but users will still appreciate this stylish and versatile laptop that will provide years of use. It's also a great choice for students, with a durable build and compact design that slides easily into backpacks. Available at WalMart for about $699.