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A RAMageddon guide to back-to-school laptop shopping
The Verge • • technology
Key Points:
- Laptop prices have risen due to a RAM and storage shortage, but affordable and capable options remain available for students, with recommendations focusing on long-term value and performance.
- The Apple MacBook Neo ($599) is highlighted as the best budget laptop for middle and high school students, offering solid performance and build quality despite some limitations like 8GB RAM and slower storage.
- For college students, the MacBook Air ($1,299) is recommended for its superior processor, 16GB RAM, faster storage, and durability, making it a worthwhile investment for multi-year use.
- Windows alternatives such as the Asus Zenbook A14 ($700 on sale) and Acer Aspire 14 AI ($520 on sale) provide good performance and features at lower prices, though with some compromises in build quality and display.
- Chromebooks remain a strong choice for budget-conscious users, with the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 ($300) and Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 ($599 on sale) offering solid performance and battery life for basic computing needs.
