The best way to shop for a discount laptop computer is be realistic about what you need. The life of a laptop is generally short no matter what you buy. Life span for a laptop is also shortened more with the newer the technology it contains. You will most likely get two years of good use out of a laptop. Performance typically hinders after that, but it will still function properly. You can extend the life of any computer by regulary reformating the hard drive about once a year.

Before you shop different brands, make a list of important features you will need in a laptop. Major things to consider are size, wireless capabilities and battery life. There are a lot of bells and whistles that sound enticing, but they will quickly inflate the price. Companies make their money on upgrades. Basic set ups are adequet and the best bang for your buck. A good mix of features is a 12" screen, WIFI and a Pentium M processor. These are a sold at a good value and it will make the laptop very versatile. Pentium M processors have lower clock speeds, but they do this to extend battery life while they are unplugged.

Basically, just look at a laptop like a tool. It may break, and they will make better ones that you will want. They are also very fragile. Breaking a $800 laptop hurts a lot less than a $2000 one.