Best laptop deal for Christmas

[palpluto]

I have been researching, and getting more confused on what to get my incoming college student for a laptop. Hoping to stay under $500? Anyone in the know? Some things say they all will have touchscreens soon so get that. Some say only get AMD. Just dont know. Needs a basic laptop with decent memory and performance to to papers, research, etc.

 

[palpluto]

Help a technology challenged mom in need with specific recommendations .....pleeeaase.

 

[S. C.]

bump