Currently sale prices of laptops with Windows 7 are a great deal. I look for Wireless N, Dual Core processor 2.1 or higher, web cam, and card reader. I don't concern myself with hard drive size as most are bigger than you will need.
When thinking that you need to replace your desktop computer, you really have a few options:
1. Additional RAM
Ram controls how much information your computer is able to work with at one time. This is by far the cheapest option (usually less that $120) but does just postpone the inevitable option 2 or option 3 by a year or two.
2. Upgrade Motherboard and CPU (with new RAM)
The Motherboard and CPU are the main components of your system. Technology continues to advance at an exciting rate, and the demands on your system increase along with this technology. The cost of upgrading these components is considerably less than purchasing a complete system. Typically your box that contains your system, optical drive, hard drive, power supply etc are all in good condition and do not need to be replaced. This is where the savings is found. Upgrades usually start from $300.
3. Purchase new tower or complete system
If you are happy with your monitor, speakers, keyboard, and mouse, you only need the tower replaced. The difference here is usually only about $200. The important thing to remember is that even the most powerful system will be outdated in less than 6 months.
