Laptop advice

[richardn]

Ok, guys I'm looking to buy a new (even if it is just new to me) laptop. I've been out of the loop for a while, I've been off the tech grid since 2009 yeah being homeless. So I need some tech advice.
Things I need:
*Enough RAM to be able to compile code and still be able to multitask.
*I want to be able to dual boot both Windows and Linux.
*I need the price to be under $500.

Now I don't need to get the laptop right away. In fact any thing I purchase I will have to have to save a couple of paychecks.

 

[Jmphotog]

I would by a used macbook pro and upgrade the hardware youself.. take out the optic drive and put a SSD, replace the hard drive with a SSD.. So now your running dual SSD, bump up max ram to 8G or 16G depending on the year.
You can def be faster, but for your budget; That's what I would do.
it may sound frightening but its real easy, especially with youtube help now.

 

[ZippoGeek]

+1 on the solid state drive! I had Digital Storm build my gaming rig a couple of years ago and I found them to be the best value, pound for pound and dollar for dollar. They're excellent...a full 500 bux cheaper than a comparable AlienWare box

 

[richardn]

Thanks for the recommendations on the SSD. I will look into getting a used Macbook. Apple is pretty damn good, just really fucking expensive. Do you know any good places to get a used one, at a good price?

 

[sofc]

https://www.tanga.com/products/search?q=macbook

but buy at your own risk obviously.

 

[Jmphotog]

I usually buy broken macbook pros and fix them myself for dirt cheap, or you can buy used ones on craigslist for a pretty good price.

 

[Ilkligas]

This site is a pretty good resource for finding laptops at specific price points. I always check here when researching laptops for friends.

https://laptopninja.io/finding-the-best-laptops-under-500-dollars/