how to buy a cheap laptop

you can go online and go to Ebay and check out their laptops. they usually have some very cheap, and that might work for your budget.
and than again, you can type in "Cheap laptops online" and google it and see what it gives you.
good luck with your search on your laptop. I know money is tight.
i've been there before friend!
Take care and may peace bring you joy and happiness!

Have you tried the classified section of the newspaper? Also, try ebay or computer shops as the copmter store owner might be able to refer you to another store which sells secondhand laptops.

Not sure how cheap you are talking about. I saw a decent Dell laptop in Wal-Mart for about 500 dollars. That's a reasonably good deal I think. I would look on major retailers websites for closeouts, or find a local store that refurbishes laptops and ask them if they have any for sale or have any recommendations.

Is it possible for you to get financing on it? If so, I would get one directly from the manufacturer, it makes it much easier when you have problems with it and the warranty information is already on file. If financing is not an option, do not just buy it from some random person. I would only buy it from a place where you have recourse if it does not work properly, ie a retailer like Best Buy, Circuit City, or a refurbishing business.

there are lots of stores offering second hand gadgets, you can check them out on your local malls and electronic shops. you can also check out ebay or other online bidding site and look for the specs and price.