Should I buy a used Chromebook or a cheap new laptop?

Buy a Chromebook if your budget is very tight and your work is mostly web-based. A cheap new Windows laptop is only the better buy if you specifically need Windows apps, offline desktop software, certain school/work programs, or more local storage.

My practical rule:

1. Under about $300: prefer a Chromebook — cheap Windows laptops in this range are often slow or compromised.
2. Around $300–$500: compare carefully; a Chromebook may still feel faster for browsing, schoolwork, email, docs, and video.
3. Around $500+: a Windows laptop starts making more sense if you want broader software support and longer flexibility.

For a used Chromebook, check the Auto Update Expiration date before buying. If updates end soon, skip it. Also check battery health, screen/keyboard condition, charger included, and whether it’s been enterprise/school locked.

Bottom line: if you mainly use Chrome, Google Docs, Gmail, YouTube, Zoom/Meet, and streaming, a good used or discounted Chromebook is usually the smarter budget buy. If you need Microsoft Office desktop apps, Windows-only software, gaming, coding tools, printers/scanners with old drivers, or heavy multitasking, save for the best Windows laptop you can afford rather than buying the absolute cheapest one.