How to buy a laptop when everything’s expensive
Summary
David Pierce and Antonio Di Benedetto discuss the laptop buying crisis driven by RAM shortages and rising prices. They recommend prioritizing 16GB RAM, considering refurbished models from trusted retailers, and avoiding low-end Windows-on-ARM devices for gaming. Specific picks include the MacBook Air, HP OmniBook, and Lenovo Legion, while warning that high costs may persist.
Topics discussed
Intro: Laptop buying struggles and 90 Seconds on the Verge news
Sponsors: Amazon Prime and Kara Swisher's Pivot podcast
The 'Despair Meter': Current state of laptop prices and shortages
RAM requirements: Why 16GB is now the standard for Windows laptops
Buying strategies: Refurbished, used, and trusted retailers
Scams and market reality: Navigating third-party sellers
Performance longevity: How far back can you go with used chips?
Sponsors: Framer website builder and The Dog Stars movie
Buying criteria: Quality of life features for sub-$1000 laptops
Top picks: MacBook Air, Neo, and budget Windows options
Gaming laptops: ASUS, Lenovo Legion, and MSI recommendations
Future outlook: Will prices drop? Black Friday expectations
Listen ad-free on Castria