Acer Bay Trail quad-core 15.6" laptop $230 in-store @ Microcenter

[VirtualLarry]

http://www.microcenter.com/product/429702/Aspire_E1-510-2602_156_Laptop_Computer_-_Clarinet_Black#

Aspire E1-510-2602 15.6" Laptop Computer - Clarinet Black

Intel Celeron N2920 Quad Core Processor 1.86GHz
Microsoft Windows 8.1
4GB DDR3L SDRAM
500GB 5,400RPM Hard Drive
Intel HD
Digital Media Card Reader
10/100/1000 Network
802.11b/g/n Wireless
Bluetooth 4.0
15.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display

Get the power and useful features you value with the Aspire E1-510-2602 laptop computer. This practical yet stylish PC has solid performance, handy multimedia tools and convenient connectivity that make everyday activities like web browsing, communicating, and digital enjoyment an easy-going pleasure.

 

[AViking]

That CPU is pretty slow if I'm reading this right. Aren't there relatively regular i3 sales for $300 that would be much better bargains?

 

[notposting]

I (very very very briefly) looked at some quick reviews/benchs a few days ago. I was looking at this exact laptop.

My mom (budget from hell here) wants something better than her Nook tablet for typing on, reading recipes in the kitchen, etc, etc. She realized a laptop would be better...I told her either a cheap new one, or maybe a recent model used Thinkpad would be good.

I started getting links to T60's, netbooks with Via processors running Android (didn't even know they made those anymore), laptops with P4's...so, yeah, the jump from $150 to $230 to $300 is significant enough for some people. This thing would run rings around those, so you know, in comparison, I think it would be plenty good enough.

She might get something for Christmas, we'll see.

 

[CuriousMike]

Your Mom might be happy with a Chromebook.
If you think she might be, then look at the current Best Buy promotion where you can trade in an old XP Laptop and get $100 towards a new laptop (which would make the $200 Acer C720 ... $99.)

 

[daniellydiad]

Can't find the CPU technical parameters. If it is i3, that will be the drawback. For i5, this will be a great bargain.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Can't find the CPU technical parameters. If it is i3, that will be the drawback. For i5, this will be a great bargain.

Bay Trail is an improved Atom, like in the new 8" Windows 8.1 tablets. Look at reviews of those for benchmarks.

http://www.anandtech.com/show/7314/intel-baytrail-preview-intel-atom-z3770-tested

http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2014...indows-tablet-you-might-actually-want-to-buy/