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Will tech prices rise? This is the question on everyone’s mind, and at My Computer Works, we recognize that volatile markets create the need for seasoned buyers armed with computer shopping savvy. This is especially true with a volatile market, making it harder to find affordable laptops with solid performance at an affordable price point.
Unfortunately, predictions have been made that tariffs on technology and computers will increase prices in the near future. With scares like this on the horizon, it’s time to learn how to navigate price spikes on laptops. If you read on, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks we recommend at My Computer Works to still secure a deal on your tech.
Current Tariffs Impacting Your Purchase of a Laptop
Although some laptops avoid immediate levies, their CPUs, GPUs, and memory modules still incur higher import charges as part of the new tariffs on electronics in 2025.
By buying now, you can enjoy today’s rates and temporary exemptions and bypass the next wave of increases that might render your ideal device prohibitively expensive because its components are subject to US tariffs.
Budget Buyers’ Minimum laptop specs 2025
Cutting corners on equipment tends to boomerang, but you don’t have to splurge on the best equipment to enjoy a new work, school, or home laptop.
However, you do need to ensure you’re buying one that meets the new minimum laptop specs for 2025. These include at least 16GB of RAM for laptops, at least a 256 GB SSD, and a contemporary central processing unit. Anything less, and you’ll likely run into performance issues sooner rather than later.
In our opinion, these minimum standard specs – not universal but good to follow – provide seamless multitasking, quicker boot times, and longer lifespans, so you won’t be forced to upgrade too soon. Adhering to these requirements is the wisest computer buying advice you can follow when searching for a new laptop in 2025.
Pro tip: You might be able to get away with using entry-level Chromebook-style laptops with 8GB of RAM and 128GB SSDs for now, but it’s not future-proof, so keep this in mind.
Top Picks for Affordable Computers with SSD
When shopping for the most budget-friendly tech, look for models that balance price and performance. If they meet the specs we discussed above, RAM and SSD-wise, you can save money since the laptop will likely work well and won’t stop working after regular usage.
Some of the best laptops under $700 are the Acer Aspire 5 or the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim line. These laptops provide fast performance, decent build quality, and sufficient space for occasional gaming, streaming, or working remotely.
Here are a few other options:
- Acer Swift Go 14: This model retails for about $599.
- HP 15-dy5399nr (15.6″): This laptop retails for about $485 on Amazon.
- Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 (16″, AMD): These models retail for about $ 619, depending on which you choose to buy.
If you care about saving money on computers, you’ll want to grab yourself one of the budget laptops we recommended above. You can also speak with us at My Computer Works. We can help you determine the best affordable laptop to buy now to avoid rising prices and meet your needs.
Revealing the Concealed Expenditures of Ultra-Low-Cost Machines
Ultra-cheap laptops often sacrifice support, security, and battery life, costing you more in the long run. Between frequent repairs, battery replacements, and early upgrades, a “bargain” machine can quickly become more expensive than a well-built model.
That’s why choosing a reputable budget laptop with warranty coverage and upgrade options is smarter to protect your investment now and in the future. At My Computer Works, we can help you choose a budget-friendly laptop that more than meets your expectations and assist you with routine maintenance and repairs to keep it running longer.
Buying Tech on a Budget: Timing Strategies
As of May 2025, timing your tech purchase is just as important as choosing the right specs.
Memorial Day sales are currently in full swing, and Black Friday remains one of the biggest upcoming opportunities for budget tech buys.
These major shopping events often coincide with manufacturer markdowns and end-of-quarter clearance cycles. This year, they’re especially important: New U.S. electronics tariffs are expected to take full effect in late 2025, you now know, likely raising prices on components like CPUs, GPUs, and memory.
By using price tracking tools or deal alerts, you can take immediate advantage of current promotions and avoid the impact of future import fees. If you’re buying on a budget, shopping now, during Memorial Day, or planning ahead for Black Friday can help you lock in lower prices before tariffs drive costs higher.
Recognizing Scams in the Purchase of Laptops
Whether browsing online marketplaces or small local shops, you always need to stay alert because cybercriminals often target bargain hunters with fake listings, misleading ads, or unreliable items.
In the same line of thinking, if you’ve ever asked, “Should I buy a used laptop?” keep in mind that “used” typically means sold as-is, often with hidden wear and no warranty or return option. Yikes! As you can imagine, going this route can be incredibly risky and lead to ‘scamy’ purchases, especially if you don’t know the laptop’s history.
On the other hand, asking, “Should I buy a refurbished laptop?” is a much safer question. Refurbished laptops from reputable resellers are usually inspected, repaired if needed, and sold with a warranty or guarantee, offering better protection for your money. But refurbished can still be a scam, so use your best judgment.
To stay safe overall, always verify the seller, check customer reviews, and look for clear return policies.
Complete Tech Support through My Computer Works
So you have kept in mind all our computer buying tips and have found the perfect computer. That’s good; that’s step one. Finding the ideal laptop that meets all your criteria is only part of the task; you must also maintain it. That’s step two, and this is where My Computer Works comes in.
Our all-encompassing support package covers everything, from intensive troubleshooting and security inspections to regular updates and performance optimization. Whether you splurged on a 16 GB laptop RAM or grabbed one of the best budget tech laptops of 2025, our experts make sure your computer remains fast, secure, and dependable. Contact My Computer Works today for customized advice and professional assistance to protect your investment.
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