CNET staff not advertisers, partners or business interests determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. The current sweet spot for a reliable laptop to handle average work, home office or school tasks is between $700 and $800. For a model suitable for creative work or gaming, plan to spend $1,000 and up. Every brand of laptop can be found discounted online at one time or another, however, so it pays to track deals to find the lowest pr