<p>I would have to recommend this website I got to. They almost never list any computers $800+.</p>
<p>[laptop</a> - Reviews and Compare Prices](<a href=“http://www.techbargains.com/product/laptop]laptop”>http://www.techbargains.com/product/laptop)</p>
<p>There are plenty of decent laptops at $600. Laptop prices really plummeted during the recession. I would look for at least 4 GB RAM. This one is particularly appealing:
</p>
<p>Just be aware that offers come and go in a matter of days so don’t expect to be able to make good on an offer listed 3 days ago. On the web, really juicy deals can expire in a matter of hours. There are always lots of new deals, however.</p>
<p>EDIT: Since you’re from MIT, I bet you’re really good with computers. You should also consider buying a cheap 2 GB RAM computer with plenty of upgradable RAM space. You’ll save a lot of money buying RAM yourself and it will be cheaper in the future so your computer won’t have to obsolete. Look for computers that are expandable to 8 GB.</p>
<p>If you require a cutting edge graphics card for your major, however, you’ll probably have to spend more than $600.</p>