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Buying a laptop can be complicated. Factors like your budget, whether or not you’ll be carrying the computer on your daily commute, and whether you’re shopping for school or work are all crucial points to consider before pulling the trigger. And with the rise of cheap-yet-functional Chromebooks, it’s not so simple as Windows vs. Mac anymore. (If you’re not familiar with Chromebooks, read more about them here.)

Our guide, ranked from least expensive to most, highlights a few of the top picks aimed at a range of use cases and price points. All prices below refer to the manufacturer’s stated starting price unless otherwise noted.

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