Affordable laptop options are available for under $1,000, despite rising RAM prices. The MacBook Neo stands out as an excellent choice for students, priced at $599, which is almost half the cost of the cheapest MacBook Air. Educators and students can access an additional discount, bringing the price down to $499.
With a powerful A18 Pro chip and a premium look, the Neo offers a seamless experience, especially for iPhone users. However, acquiring Touch ID requires an extra $100, and the baseline storage may quickly become insufficient.
Another noteworthy option is the Surface Laptop 7, with entry-level models available for under $1,000. The reviewed higher-end model retails for approximately $1,500 but boasts impressive battery life and performance. Nonetheless, potential buyers should be aware that upgrades can become expensive and may not include a dedicated GPU.