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Two-Step Verification FAQ

How do I enable Two-Step Verification?

If you are an existing Seller Central user who has not enabled Two-Step Verification, you will be prompted to activate Two-Step Verification the next time you log in to Seller Central. Click “Enable Two-Step Verification” and follow the on-screen instructions.

You can also access the Advanced Security Settings page from the Retail site, which will take you through an identical experience.

Two-Step Verification is tied to the login you use to access your Amazon accounts. If you use the same login for both your Amazon buyer and seller accounts, this process will protect both of them. If you haven’t already done so, Amazon recommends that you create individual logins with different email addresses, via User Permissions, for everyone accessing your seller account. Not doing so could pose a security risk for you in the future and could cause loss of access to anyone else using that particular login. See the Help topic Set user permissions for more information. If you already have individual seller logins for each user accessing your seller account, each account will need to enable Two-Step Verification separately.

For a step-by-step guide on enabling Two-Step Verification – See How to enable Two-Step Verification

Is Two-Step Verification required?

Yes, all users accessing Seller Central must have Two-Step Verification enabled on their login to access their Seller Central account. Please note that Seller Support Associates do not have the ability to make exceptions for any Seller for this requirement.

Can I disable Two-Step Verification?

While it is possible to disable Two-Step Verification via your Advanced Security Settings page, you will be unable to login to Seller Central until you re-enable it.

All users accessing Seller Central must have Two-Step Verification enabled on their login.

What is an authenticator app and where do I get one?

An authenticator app is a standalone software application that can be downloaded to a smartphone, mobile device (tablet, iPad, etc.), or your desktop computer and generates a random code which can be used for Two-Step Verification. Authenticator apps do not have access to your Amazon login.

Authenticator apps are recommended over other methods for receiving codes because there is no Internet connection required to generate the code, making them a great solution if you’re on vacation or any other situation where you are unable to receive text messages or voice calls.

Authenticator apps are available on most smart phones, mobile devices, and personal computers – just search for “authenticator app” in the following app stores:

Additionally, you can find a number of different types of authenticator apps available for sale and/or download, including browser-based extension or add-ons, desktop applications, and USB-based authentication devices.

Do I always need to enter my Two-Step Verification code when I log into my account?

After you have successfully accessed your account through the Two-Step Verification process, you can simplify future logins on computers and devices that you routinely use.

The next time you enter your code on your computer or device, tell us not to ask for a code on that device in the future by clicking the check box next to Don’t ask for codes on this device.

Setting your browser to block the use of cookies Clearing your cache or deleting cookies (check your web browser settings) Updates to your PC, device, or apps on your device, including your web browsers Accessing Seller Central from a web browser than the one you used to add your trusted device Using a browser toolbar that affects browser settings Using anonymous browser mode or programs that obscure identity, including the use of proxy and VPN servers If you’ve used the seller mobile app, logging out of it might reset the trusted device status on your mobile device

Accessing Seller Central from different locations or networks (LAN, WAN, WLAN), or changes to your IP address. Having multiple users who use the same login credentials may increase these occurrences, so make sure that each person accessing your account has their own login credentials. See Set user permissions for more information.

Why can't I receive my Two-Step Verification code via email?

Authenticator apps, SMS text, and phone calls are typically more secure methods than email. Due to the increasing number of cases where email accounts are compromised, Amazon has chosen to provide a higher level of protection for Sellers and does not support the use of email for sending Two-Step Verification codes.

The Two-Step Verification process requires you to enter your password, as well as a random code obtained from a device you have physical access to. If the code is sent through email, it can be accessed remotely, which bypasses the security benefit of the second step of verification.

How does Two-Step Verification work if multiple users access my seller account?

Since Two-Step Verification is tied to the login of the individual accessing the account, there should be no impact to your account as long as everyone accessing it has their own user account/login. If you have multiple people who access your selling account using the same login credentials, Amazon recommends that you set up a unique user login for each person accessing your account. Sharing login credentials with multiple people:

Can create a security risk. If someone leaves your company/organization and has your login credentials, they would have access to your Selling account and the associated buying account, including any credit card or personal information available there. Requires all users to have equal access to all devices. If the person who set up Two-Step Verification on the login used to access your Seller account isn’t in the office or reachable, everyone who accesses the account would need to have access to both the primary and backup methods for receiving your code; otherwise, all work on the account would need to stop until that person returns.

If you have multiple users who share the same user ID and password for Seller Central, we recommend setting up each user with secondary user permissions. For more information on how to do this, see Set user permissions. Once the secondary user permissions have been set up, these users will need to setup Two-Step Verification on their first login.

Will Two-Step Verification affect my Amazon buyer account?

Yes. Two-Step Verification is applied to the login of the user accessing your Seller Central account. If you use the same login to access your buyer account, you will be required to enter your Two-Step Verification code when you log into the Amazon retail site. If you don't want to have Two-Step Verification on your buyer account, you can open a separate Amazon account for buying. However, we recommend using Two-Step Verification on all of your accounts because it can help protect them from unauthorized access.

Will enabling Two-Step Verification affect my third-party connections? (For example, screen scrapers, integrators, or data aggregators.)

Two-step verification might affect some connections from third parties using screen-scraping technology to sign in to your account via a username and password. We encourage you to explore whether Marketplace Web Service (MWS) or Reports in Seller Central can provide the functionality for which you use a third party.

What if I am traveling and don't have cell coverage to receive an SMS text or voice call to receive my Two-Step Verification code?

In this scenario, the best solution is an authenticator app. Authenticator apps don't require cellular network coverage in order to generate a code.

What if my phone/device is lost or stolen and I’m unable to receive my Two-Step Verification code?

If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your carrier immediately and ask them to block or suspend your line, until you can figure out what happened.

To gain access to your Seller account, try logging into Seller Central and click Didn’t receive the code? on the bottom of the Two-Step Verification page. Select your backup method for receiving your code.

If you don’t have a backup device and can't change your settings, you'll need to go through the Two-Step Verification Account Recovery process. This process requires you to submit documentation verifying your identity. Once verified (usually within 12 hours), Two-Step Verification will be disabled so you can log in. On your next login, you will be required to setup Two-Step Verification again, this time using devices that you have access to.

There are several things that you can do to ensure you always have access to your account:

Provide a reliable backup method when you enable Two-Step Verification. This way if you change your phone number or lose your cell phone, and forget to update your account, you will still have access. Keep your advanced security settings up to date. To view your settings in Seller Central, click Settings >Login Settings >Advanced Security Settings >Edit . You’ll need to receive a code and validate it before you can make any changes.

What do I do if I don't receive my Two-Step Verification code?

Click the “Didn’t receive the code?” link on the webpage where it asks you to enter your code. This will list any back-up methods you designated when you set up your account. You can also choose to have a voice call to your cell phone in case the SMS text didn’t arrive.

If you don’t receive a code during registration, check that the phone number you provided is correct. Make sure the phone number includes a region code, and your cell phone can receive SMS text messages.

What do I do if I enter my Two-Step Verification code and I get an error code or nothing happens?

This is usually an issue with your browser settings and can be remedied by clearing your cache and cookies first.

If this doesn’t work, try requesting a code on your backup method by clicking the Didn’t receive the code? link on the Two-Step Verification page. This will list any back-up methods you designated when you set up your account. You can also choose to have a voice call to your cell phone in case the SMS text didn’t arrive.

If you are having an issue receiving a code during registration, make sure that the phone number you provided is correct. Make sure that the phone number includes a region code, and that your cell phone can receive SMS text messages.

How do I confirm if Two-Step Verification is enabled?

If you can login to Seller Central without seeing a message saying that Two-Step Verification is a requirement, then you have Two-Step Verification enabled.

How do I make changes to my Two-Step Verification settings?

In Seller Central, go to Settings > Login Settings > Advanced Security Settings > Edit to view your settings. Click the Change link next to the item you want to change and follow the on-screen instructions to change and save your Two-Step Verification Settings.

You can also access your Two-Step Verifications settings on the Advanced Security Settings page on the Amazon Retail site.

The 5 Best Conferences for Amazon Sellers

Last Updated on March 9, 2017

We’re continuing our “5 Best” series with a roundup of top conferences for Amazon FBA sellers at any level: from newbie through advanced.

The Amazon Seller Forum is certainly one of the best places for sellers to learn new techniques and stay-up-to date with changes to the platform. And there are plenty of free podcasts to choose from.

So why should sellers get out of their comfort zone and leave the kids with their spouse and fly to another state?

Steve Chou, host and creator of The Sellers Summit, was at one point very “anti-conference.” But then his business doubled in the year following his first conference experience, because he formed a mastermind group with people that he met there. Here’s how he describes the shift in his attitude towards conferences in an interview with Scott Voelker:

Way back in the day I was anti-conference. I’m like, “Why would I need to go to a conference when I can just figure out everything on my own or read whatever I need to read online.” It’s the collaboration factor. It’s the networking factor. I didn’t learn this until like a long time but you can’t really grow your business by yourself.

The need for external support is something every entrepreneur must learn. Here are five events with tons of content, resources, and networking opportunities for FBA sellers.

The Prosper Show

Las Vegas, Nevada

March 22-23, 2017

The Prosper Show tops our list because unlike other ecommerce conferences, it is ONLY for Amazon Sellers, and while the content is geared towards intermediate and advanced sellers, the base ticket price is affordable for new sellers as well. Experienced sellers looking for advanced content like “Generating Outside Traffic to Your Amazon Listings” can choose to pay an additional fee for workshops taking place a day before the start of the main event.

Visit Refunds Manager at The Prosper Show: Booth P1!

The biggest bonus is that tons of the speakers were or are employees at Amazon, and they’re bringing their inside knowledge into how to maximize revenue on the platform. One such example is Carina McLeod, an Amazon Vendor manager turned seller and consultant. Catch the full list of speakers here.

The Sellers Summit

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

May 18-20, 2017

While The Sellers Summit does not cater solely to Amazon FBA sellers, it also does not offer specialized content for platforms outside of Amazon like eBay, Sears and Etsy. It’s only for Amazon selling and private ecommerce, making it the perfect conference for Amazon sellers who are interested in growing their FBA business or potentially launching their own ecommerce store. The conference is aimed at helping sellers increase their sales on Amazon and create high converting ecommerce websites with optimized funnels.

Also, it’s organized a little differently than most conferences. There is a structured workshop format so that sellers are learning a set curriculum. The list of speakers includes many 7- and 8-figure store owners and sellers, and there is also a mastermind session reserved only for sellers doing 250,000 in yearly revenue.

The Sellers’ Conference

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

March 7-10, 2017

Formerly SCOE, The Sellers’ Conference will appeal to sellers who do want to learn about selling on eBay, Etsy, and Sears in addition to ramping up their FBA business strategies. It’s well known for being catered to beginners, so if you’ve been selling for a few years and are ready for the next level, best to stay away.

The conference site itself describes its target as “busy small business entrepreneurs and family businesses” so if that’s you—if you’re selling on Amazon to supplement or replace your income—then this is the perfect place to cut through the confusion and start implementing strategies that will put your revenue on autopilot.

This conference is happening now, so if you’ve missed it, mark your calendars for early March next year.

Retail Global

Las Vegas, Nevada

September 12-14, 2017

If Retail Global is good enough for Entrepreneur’s top ten ecommerce conferences in 2017, then it’s good enough for our list of events for FBA sellers, because this conference has a good portion of its’ agenda devoted to selling on Amazon.

Here’s a small sampling of Amazon programming:

Tip and Tricks to Accelerate Your Amazon Sales Amazon Global Selling Amazon Business: Reach More Sell More

Of course, content on landing page optimization and Facebook advertising applies to sellers as well. In case evening pool parties hosted by Shopify are your thing, then you have that to look forward to too.

Amazon Professional Sellers’ Summit

Los Angeles, California & New York, New York

Ongoing

Any seller who’s been lucky enough to attend one of Feedvisor’s private, invitation-only conferences can attest that the 250 or so attendees are heavy hitters. The Professional Sellers’ Summit is available to the rest of us only in quick little summary articles and YouTube highlights. If you have a 7- or 8-figure Amazon business, now is the time to figure out who you need to rub elbows with to get invited.

Don’t worry, we won’t leave you completely hanging with a recommendation that’s out of reach. Anyone can join Feedvisor’s yearly Amazon Virtual Summit. It just took place last week, but you can sign up and request a replay.

Stepping away from the computer and getting in the presence of other successful sellers and ecommerce businesses is a must. There’s no substitute for flesh-and-blood networking. Which conferences will you attend this year? Let us know in the comments below.

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Best cheap laptops: We rate the best-sellers on Amazon and Best Buy

We found good deals for $500 or less.

Today's Best Tech Deals

Picked by PCWorld's Editors

Top Deals On Great Products

Picked by Techconnect's Editors

When you’re looking for a good, cheap laptop, knowledge is power. Every budget machine (which we’re defining as Windows laptops costing $500 or less) is the product of compromise—corners carefully cut here and there to hit a price point.

Your job is to find the one that checks off the most boxes for your needs. We’ll show you what to look for by highlighting which budget laptops among the best-sellers currently listed at Amazon and Best Buy are worth buying. We haven’t necessarily tested these specific machines (we’ll let you know if we have), but we’ve seen enough similar ones to have a good idea of the pros and cons. We’re also focusing on 14-inch and larger laptops, because part of the great deal should be getting a decent-sized display.

Both retailers’ lists change constantly, so we’ll recheck the top sellers frequently to update you on the trends. Keep reading to learn about the features that matter for any budget laptop you’re eyeballing. (This article was updated October 10, 2019.)

The best cheap laptops on Amazon

Acer Aspire 5 A515-43-R19L

One of the best laptop deals from Amazon Prime Day is still a tempting buy at $315. This surprisingly thin Acer Aspire 5 comes with a 15.6-inch 1080p IPS display, a good-enough AMD Ryzen 3 3200U CPU, and an integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics core capable of light gaming (“light” being the key word). You’ll have to settle for a meager 128GB of SSD storage and just 4GB of RAM, though, and in our review of this particular A515-43-R19L system, we found that similar laptops in the Acer Aspire 5 line (such as the Core i5-packing A515-54-51DJ) had significantly better battery life.

CPU: AMD dual-core Ryzen 3 3200U

Memory: 4GB DDR4 SDRAM

Storage: 128GB SSD

Display: 15.6-inch, 1920x1080 IPS LCD

Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3

Connectivity: One USB 3.0 Type-A port, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, HDMI, Gigabit ethernet, 802.11ac Wi-Fi

Dimensions: 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches

Weight: 3.97 pounds

Acer Aspire 5 A515-54-51DJ

A step-up model of the AMD-powered Aspire 5 that's currently topping our list of best bargain-priced laptops, this particular configuration (which we've recently reviewed) is decidedly pricier at around $500, but it's an impressive value if you're looking for a little extra productivity power.

A highlight feature in this model is its quad-core Core i5 processor. We found it to be a tad sluggish compared to some of its similar competitors during CPU-intensive tasks (blame thermal throttling), but hey, we're still talking a quad-core CPU in a $500 laptop. We also liked its roomier 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking performance, and a decidedly spacious 256GB SSD, versus the skimpier 128GB drive in the cheaper model.

As with other newer Aspire 5 laptops, this Core i5 model feels pleasingly slim and trim, and its nearly all-day battery life is right on the money.

CPU: Intel Core i5-8265U

Memory: 8GB DDR4 SDRAM

Storage: 256GB SSD

Display: 15.6-inch diagonal width, 1920x1080 resolution

Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD 620

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Type-C, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, one USB 2.0 Type-A, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Gigabit ethernet, HDMI

Dimensions: 14.3 x 9.9 x 0.7 inches

Weight: 3.97 pounds

Lenovo Flex 14 81SS000DUS

The Lenovo Flex 14 81SS000DUS is priced a little above our maximum, but we wanted to mention it anyway because of what’s inside: a Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U processor. This AMD CPU is a little hard to find—Lenovo is one of the few companies using Ryzen mobile CPUs so far. AMD claims the Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U is faster than Intel’s Core i5-8250U, a stalwart CPU that can easily handle mainstream productivity.

What the Ryzen chip has that the comparable Intel chip doesn’t is an integrated Vega GPU, which should be a lot more powerful than the Intel UHD 620 graphics that comes with the Core i5-8250U. We won’t know until we test it, but AMD claims its Vega graphics core gives you more power for your money.

The configuration is generally good, with generous RAM (12GB is a rare treat) and storage, plus an included pen for the touchscreen. This is a 360-degree convertible, so you can use it as a clamshell laptop, tablet, or portable movie screen. The weight is reasonable, and while the display resolution is a tad shy of 1080p, we’ve seen worse. We noticed there’s no ethernet, but if all you use is Wi-Fi it’s a small loss.

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 3500U

Memory: 12GB of DDR4 RAM

Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD

Display: 14-inch diagonal width, 1440 x 900 touchscreen

Graphics: Radeon Vega 8 Graphics

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Type-C, two USB 3.1 Type-A, HDMI, SD Card reader, audio jack

Dimensions: 12.9 x 9 x 0.7 inches

Weight: 3.52 pounds

HP Pavilion 15

It’s a sliver above $500, but this HP Pavilion 15 is a solid investment given its price tag. Its quad-core Intel Core i5-8250U is a proven workhorse for web browsing and producticity, and it’ll even hold its own when it comes to more CPU-intensive tasks such as video encoding. You also get 8GB of RAM, which should let you run multiple programs simultaneously without hitting any speed bumps. The USB-C port is ideal for connecting the latest external hard drives and peripherals, and there’s even an ethernet port for wired networking. Let’s not forget the roomy Full-HD (1920x1080) display, which just happens to be a touchscreen.

Now, the downsides. Slim though it is at just 0.78 inches, this version of the HP Pavilion 15 tips the scales at nearly four and a quarter pounds, so you’ll definitely feel it in your backpack. Also, the integrated graphics core means you’ll be restricted to the most basic of games, such as Minesweeper and Sudoku. (To be fair, you shouldn't expect to find a quad-core laptop with a discrete graphics card in this price range.) Finally, the spinning hard drive isn't nearly as peppy as a solid-state model, but at least its 1TB of storage is big enough for a good-sized photo or music collection.

CPU: Quad-core Intel Core i5-8250U

Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM

Storage: 1TB HDD

Display: 15.6-inch full-HD (1920x1080) IPS touchscreen

Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, SD media card reader, ethernet, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Dimensions: 14.9 x 9.9 x 0.78 inches

Weight: 4.21 pounds

Yes, this 15-inch Lenovo gaming laptop is a couple hundred bucks over our typical $500 ceiling, but look at what’s under the hood: a quad-core, 9th-gen Intel processor, no slouch when it comes to CPU-intensive tasks; a positively roomy 512GB solid-state drive, enough to store a small collection of games; and best of all, a discrete Nvidia graphics card that can crank out buttery 1080p visuals once you fiddle with your graphics settings. The 8GB of memory gives you room for multitasking, and you can connect external storage for additional games using the speedy USB-C port. Yes, this Lenovo is nearly an inch thick and it tips the scales at a hair below five pounds, but that’s actually pretty good as far as gaming laptops go.

CPU: Quad-core Intel Core i5-9300H

Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM

Storage: 512GB SSD

Display: 15.6-inch 1920x1080 IPS display

Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, HDMI, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2, ethernet, combo audio jack

Dimensions: 14.3 x 10 x 0.9 inches

Weight: 4.84 pounds

The best cheap laptops on Best Buy

Lenovo L340-15API

This 15-inch Lenovo packs in some solid mainstream horsepower given its bargain price tag, but we have a few reservations. Let’s focus on the good first, starting with a dual-core AMD processor that’s more than up to such day-to-day computing tasks as web browsing and Office. You’ll also get some multitasking chops thanks to the installed 8GB of RAM, while the USB-C port will let you connect a speedy external storage drive. And let’s not forget the roomy 15.6-inch full-HD display. So far, so good.

No Windows 10 laptop that costs $380 comes without compromises, however, and this Lenovo has its fair share. Take the 1TB hard drive, a traditional spinning model that lacks the pep you’ll see in solid-stage storage—and adding insult to injury, the drive spins at a pokey 5,400 rotations a minute, which means you can expect Windows to take its sweet time starting up in the morning. This laptop is also nearly an inch thick and close to five pounds, making it more of a desktop replacement than something you’d want to toss in a knapsack. We’re also disappointed by the lack of a memory card reader.

One final point: This particular Lenovo comes with Windows 10 in S-mode, a pared-down, performance-optimized version of Windows that only runs apps from the Windows Store. You can switch to the full version of Windows 10 Pro for free (but remember you can’t change your mind and go back to S-mode afterward).

CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U

Memory: 8GB of RAM

Storage: 1TB hard drive (5,400 rpm)

Display: 1920 x 1080 full-HD LCD

Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, HDMI, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), gigabit ethernet, Bluetooth

Dimensions: 14.3 x 10 x 0.9 inches

Weight: 4.85 pounds

Lenovo 330S-15IKB 81F5018EUS

Best Buy is labeling this budget Lenovo laptop as a budget pick for students, and that sounds about right. Its 8th-generation, dual-core Intel CPU isn’t a hot rod, but it’s more than enough for taking notes, performing research on the web, and writing term papers. The integrated graphics core is good for some casual gaming (we’re talking Chess here, not Fornite), while the USB-C port will let you connect the latest storage devices and peripherals. With a width of just 0.76 inches, the laptop should fit easily in a backpack.

As far as the downsides go, the Lenovo is a tad heavy at 4.12 pounds, and with just 4GB of RAM, it may start to chug if you have too many applications running at once. You'll also have to make do with a cramped 128GB SSD, which will fill up fast unless you stick to cloud storage and a bare minimum of programs. The 15.6-inch display sounds roomy, but its 720p resolution means you’ll see some daylight between pixels. All that said, there’s still that enticing $280 price tag to consider.

CPU: Dual-core Intel Core i3-8130U

Memory: 4GB

Storage: 128GB SSD

Display: 15.6-inch diagonal width, 1366 x 768 resolution

Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, microSD memory card reader, HDMI, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.6 x 0.76 inches

Weight: 4.12 pounds

HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 14M-CD0003DX

We’re pretty impressed with this particular HP convertible given its $450 price tag. Besides its 2-in-1 form factor (which means you can tent it on a tabletop or even bend its display all the way around for tablet use), the Pavilion features a full-HD touchscreen, a quad-core processor (dual-core is usually all you get in this price range), and a multitasking-friendly 8GB of RAM. True, its 128GB solid-state drive is a bit cramped, but you could always connect an external hard drive using the HP’s speedy USB-C port. The laptop is also relatively thin, and it weighs in at a reasonable three-and-a-half pounds. Heck, you even get a fingerprint reader, a rarity in a budget laptop like this one.

CPU: Quad-core Intel Core i5-8250U

Memory: 8GB of RAM

Storage: 128GB SSD

Display: 14-inch, 1920x1080 IPS touchscreen

Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620

Connectivity: One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port, two USB 3.0 type-A ports, HDMI, SD memory card reader, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, combo 3.5mm audio jack

Dimensions: 12.7 x 8.8 x 0.8 inches

Weight: 3.53 pounds

Microsoft Surface Go (4GB/64GB)

You could argue the Surface Go is a tablet rather than a laptop, but once you add the optional keyboard it's a nifty little productivity machine for an affordable price. It runs Windows 10 S, which gives you Windows productivity with a lighter touch so it doesn't weigh down performance (but you are limited to Windows Store apps).

We reviewed the higher-end Surface Go with more memory and better storage, but that's not budget. The entry-level model is just $400, and a $99 black Type Cover will have you squeaking in right at $500 total.

Display: 10-inch (1800x1200) IPS technology, 217 ppi, 3:2 ratio, 10-point touch

Processor: Intel 1.6GHz Pentium 4415Y (Kaby Lake)

Graphics: Intel HD 615 (integrated)

Memory: 4GB

Storage: 64GB eMMC

Ports: 1 USB-C, 1 Surface Connector, microSD, headphone jack

Wireless: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, LTE later in 2018

Cameras: 5MP front (Windows Hello-capable), 8MP rear (with autofocus)

Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches

Weights: 1.14 pounds (tablet), 1.68 pounds (tablet plus keyboard), 1.98 pounds (tablet, keyboard and charger), as measured

Budget laptops: The features that matter

Based on the current top-selling budget laptops on Amazon and Best Buy, here’s what you should expect to see in the major components:

CPU: Huzzah! Now that Intel's 9th-gen mobile CPUs are here, we're starting to see discounted laptops with perfectly good 8th-gen parts in them. Look in particular for the Core i5-8250U, a quad-core processor that can ably juggle mainstream tasks. At the bargain-basement price points, however, you're still going to see more 7th-gen, dual-core Intel Core processors, and a sprinkling of AMD’s older mobile CPUs. Those older AMD parts tend to perform badly compared to their Intel rivals, so manage your expectations (and stick to basic computing needs).

Memory: You’ll see 4GB or 6GB of RAM, but our top picks focus on 8GB, which will give you better capacity for running multiple applications or browser tabs simultaneously.

Storage: You’ll see a lot of hard drives and some lower-capacity (128GB) SSDs. If you’re on a budget, a slow hard drive with greater capacity could be a better deal than a fast SSD that’s barely got room for the operating system and a few applications.

Display: Display quality is one area where vendors often skimp to hit a price point. Do your best to balance size with resolution. We advocate for a 14-inch or 15.6-inch display size, but a 13.3-inch display results in a more portable unit. An 11-inch display size is a compromise--skimpy real estate for viewing whatever you're using. An HD resolution of 1366x768 suffices for an 11-inch or 13-inch display, but starts to look grainier (albeit still usable) on 14-inch displays and upward. Get Full HD (1920x1080) resolution if you can. You won’t always see a maximum brightness spec, but we consider 250 nits to be a reasonable level. Anything less will limit your ability to work in brighter environments (let alone outdoors). Viewing angles could be limited, which is tolerable unless you routinely need to share your screen.

Graphics: Expect integrated graphics that will manage everyday imagery well, but not gaming or other graphics-intensive tasks.

Connectivity: Good news: The bulkier laptops you often see in this price range have plenty of room for ports. You should see USB-A ports, but note that those using the USB 2.0 spec are more limited in capability than those using the USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 specs. You might not see USB-C, full HDMI, or ethernet, but we look for models that have those ports.

Dimensions and weight: Many cheaper laptops are larger, heavier models. Anything over 3.5 pounds may not be something you’ll want to carry past the living room.

Condition: Some cheap laptops are affordable because they’re “refurbished”—in other words, they’re used. You actually stand to save a tidy sum by going the refurbished route, and you needn’t worry that it’ll arrive on your doorstep with greasy fingerprints and a crack in the screen. They’re generally cleaned, tested, and restored by the manufacturer or reseller to “like-new” condition, which means you’ll probably have a tough time telling a refurbished item from a brand-new model. Indeed, Amazon has its own “Renewed” program, with stringent standards for selling refurbished products on the site. Keep in mind, however, that refurbished laptops usually have a much shorter warranty than new ones; think 90 days or so rather than a year or two.

Know what you want and shop smart

After seeing what’s popular among cheap laptops, you should have enough knowledge to shop for yourself. Keep in mind your priorities, whether it’s display size, storage capacity, weight or more, and you should be able to find a good deal.

This article was originally published November 14, 2017, by Gordon Mah Ung.