If you HAD to buy a PC laptop...

[bazookaman]

...and your budget was $500-$600 what's a good option?

[ztirffritz]

I'd go to the Dell refurb store.

https://www.dellrefurbished.com/

[datbeme]

I can't offer a useful answer, but the forum will probably need a little more info regarding your needs, use case, etc. Just as you would expect someone to do if coming in here asking about buying a Mac.

I too wonder on occasion about a PC laptop in that general price range. In my case, it's for a college student who prefers a MBP...but whose life would be easier at times with a PC laptop for the Microsoft suite—especially Access. Doesn't have to be anything fancy because it probably wouldn't do any super heavy lifting or be used full time. But best bang for the buck is always desirable.

[STL]

I'd buy a Mac and run Windows via Boot Camp like thousands of others do.

[bazookaman]

I thought about adding the purpose. One, I don't know. I'm asking for a friend. And two, in that price range, does it really matter? You're not going to be doing any hardcore gaming. I figured its just a general use, surf the web, type some emails, create some word docs type machine.

[bazookaman]

I thought about telling her to get a Mac. But she is not a Mac person and I don't want to be her tech support.

[Forrest]

slickdeals is a good source of info and reviews on PC laptops

Dell, HP and Acer are typically good brands.

[rz]

Have her get a Chromebook.

[anonymouse1]

Dell, Lenovo, HP.

I'd look on Slickdeals, and then do a quick search for any reviews.

My preference is for Lenovo, but they tend to be pricier. Dell refurbished from Dell is probably the best deal.

[bazookaman]

Doh. Forgot about Slickdeals!