Best Cheap Laptops Under 100

Alright, so you won't be running Crysis, nor will you will assembling a feature length film with what you have to work with. There is every chance, however, that you can get all the important stuff done in a jiff.

But good luck getting one legitimately for that price. I've done my best to scour the web, and in doing so have accumulated a list of new, second-hand and non-commercial laptops (with an explanation of how to get one anyway) that may entice you. We're talking dirt-cheap here, it does not get lower than this. Realistically, expect to shell out between $120-$180 for a functional computer.

If you can do one better (that isn't a scam), please let me know so I can include it in the list! Now, on with the show!

The XO laptop is the fruit of technological charity work. So how do you fit in? Weeeeell , there are ways to acquire this non-commercial laptop. For more info please check the text-box to the right, also be advised that while it is known as the $100 laptop (that was the goal) it generally clocks in at a little more.

Assuming you're able or willing to take the steps needed to get one, here's what you're in for:

• An 433 MHz AMD Geode LX-700 CPU (integrated graphics of course).
• 256 MB DDR266 RAM (the XO 1.5 variant offers 512 to 1024 MB DRAM instead).
• An 1200×900 7.5 inch reflective LCD screen.
• Wireless networking.
• 80+ key keyboard.
• AC97-compatible audio audio subsystem.
• And much more...

Despite the underwhelming system specifications, realize that the main strengths of this laptop are geared around their prospective target audiences; the third world. Because of this, the OS it is running and fabrication are meant to last. This small laptop can withstand temperatures of 45 degrees centigrade (113 Fahrenheit) and altitudes of over 3000 meters. In short, this small marvel will not break down easily. If you're looking for something that you can throw around and use to network on the fly, just about anywhere, this might be your ticket.

If you're looking for something that packs a little more power, try a second hang Latitude D600. By clicking on the link to the right, you can then see what second-hand options are available. As of writing this article there is one going for $130, which is a steal (make sure to triple read the laptop's state and conditions before hand -- and pay attention to reviews).

• Intel Pentium M1.6 GHz processor featuring 512 MB RAM (expandable up to 2 gigs!).
• A little hard drive with 30 gigs free, you won't be hoarding your DVD collection on this, but if you're handling data, you're in the clear.
• ATI Mobility RADEON 9000 (32mb onboard).
• 14.1 LCD monitor, not bad!
• Wireless and WiFi, internal modem and LAN capability.
• 2 hours battery life.

Obviously, for the price, this laptop seems like a dream come true -- decent specs, aesthetically pleasing and dirt-cheap. But bear in mind we're looking at second hand models here, and ultimately there will always be a reason why it is no longer needed or wanted, find out what it is.

A couple of years ago, a rumor spread that a Chinese company called HiVision was planning to tweak one of their existing 7 inch notebooks in order to retail them for $98. The HiVision mininote became something of a personal witch-hunt for me, leading me down all kinds of trails in order to find out just what happened to this project over the years.

I have some good news, and some bad news. As always, we'll start with the bad.

I have since found this notebook re-marketed and sold by different sources under different names, such as the aforementioned Alpha 400, which makes it all very confusing. The bad news itself is that I have not been able to find that $98 deal -- anywhere. Currently, Geeks.com seems to be selling it at over $150, with limited stock.

The good news is that it is, in fact, real and that it is quite capable:

• Linux 2.4 OS.
• Ultralite!
• MIPS XBurst 400 MHz 32-bit CPU.
• 128mb RAM.
• 1 GB Flash Storage.
• Wireless, ethernet and lots of peripheral support.
• 7-inch digital panel 800 x 480.
• A cute exterior!
• A multitude of light-weight open-source software (such as Abiword).

I have to be honest with you here, given the options I've previously discussed, I find this offer to be something of a let-down. Perhaps gadget geeks would love to own one for the sake of owning one. But I'd personally go with a second-hand D600 (above).

I'm constantly on the look-out for more offers, if you find one, please fill me in on the comment section! Thanks!