computers have gotten expensive this year

There are a few things to consider when buying a laptop or any computer; Memory; RAM; ROM; and processor - and what you'll be using it for. You want a newer processor or you will drive yourself crazy with slow response. A computer becomes obsolete in about five years, although you can keep using it. Sooner or later, upgrades won't work and you'll have to get a new one. You're lucky if it lasts seven year.

Our home laptop is coming up on seven years, and I never upgraded from Windows 8 to 10. I'll have to do that soon. It's still working fine.