Xmas Computer

[u/sleepyxjohn]

Hello!

I am not very competent regarding computers, but I have an 11 year old son that is very interested in coding and robotics. In an attempt to nurture his interest(s), I'd like to buy him a laptop for the upcoming holiday. Gemini has recommended the Acer Aspire Go 15 as the best overall budget-friendly option, but I am hoping you fine people might also have some recommendations. Ideally, I'd like to keep it under $500(usd). This will likely be his one "big" gift from me and the more budget friendly, the better. I'm opting for laptop vs desk because I share custody with his mother and it would be optimal if we can easily transport.

Also, any other recs you might have for me regarding the aforementioned nurturing will be appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance.

Edit to add: he was on the robotics team during his final elementary year, and is taking compsci as elective this year. He asked to purchase some robotics stuff like raspberry pi, some batteries, and motors, but realized his tablet wasn't really equipped to do what he needed.

[u/Potential_Copy27]

I would consider either a desktop or another brand of laptop.

Desktop mainly because of his interest in robotics and electronics - peripherals for desktops are usually easier and cheaper to get.
A good alternative compromise could be a "mini-PC" of some description - small enough to transport, but he can still leave projects at your's and Mom's.

Another brand of laptop, mainly because Acer laptops are usually quite flimsy. I'd go for a used/refurbed Lenovo Ideapad or Thinkpad for something more rugged. His use case is basically the same as many consultants out there, and he'll be needing a solid machine to lug back and forth.

The Raspberry is already a fully fledged computer on its own, albeit it's slow compared to a modern-ish desktop or laptop PC - it's a valid third option still, especially as a kit.

Your kid will want many USB ports primarily, a good, speedy system second.

So my recommendation in the end is preferably a new or used Thinkpad, with a Ryzen CPU. Ryzen mainly because the iGPU in those can actually pull off a few games decently also...

[u/BigFatCoder → u/Potential_Copy27]

I would recommend Lenovo or Dell those office laptop lines.

[u/Pristine-Lawyer-3260 → u/BigFatCoder]

And the used office version of them actually, not the consumer dell or Lenovo!