Low-cost laptops and second hand computers

The rise of the low-cost laptop might mean there is little point in splashing out on a more expensive device, it has been claimed.

Writing for the Guardian, Andrew Brown states that if people are just using their laptop for reading and writing, extra bells and whistles seem unimportant.

Mr Brown said: "Surely all you need is a keyboard, a screen, wireless and a couple of USB ports? Not that the expensive models from Apple and IBM/Lenovo offer much more than that."

However, second hand laptops might be an even better choice as the cost of these have fallen and they tend to be sturdier than things such as the Eee PC, he added.

These devices also offer a bigger screen and a longer battery life, he added.

Meanwhile, his colleague Jack Schofield has suggested that low-cost laptops might be an acceptable device for business people looking for a portable computer to use for work.