CHEAP LAPTOP FOR SIMS
@islahj28 These are all in the same performance category: their hardware is capable of running Sims 4, all current packs included, on medium-high to high graphics settings:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/5464020316
https://www.newegg.com/p/N82E16834841923
I'd probably go with the last one all else being equal because its processor is a bit newer and a bit more powerful than the CPUs in the others. The first and third laptops can take a RAM upgrade, now or later; I believe the second one can too, but the documentation isn't as precise. While 8 GB memory is enough to run Sims 4 now, you might find you want to double that in the future, either for the game or for general use. Normally I'd suggest a 16 GB laptop to start with, but those are more like $450 and up. And since RAM upgrades are relatively simple and very cheap, it's reasonable to start with 8 GB and add more when you decide it's worth the effort.
Having said that, the M1 chip runs Sims 4 better than any Windows machine you'd find for under $600 or so, sometimes higher, depending on availability. A mix of high and ultra graphics settings should be fine. (If you'd like a firsthand report, Bluebellflora has an M1 MacBook Air with Sims 4 installed and answers posts in the Mac Tech forum.) I understand wanting to keep things separate, but it's worth at least considering installing the game on the Mac. It won't do any damage to the system as long as you allow it to cool itself properly while playing.
If space is a concern, a high-quality external SSD is a lot cheaper than a new laptop. There are a lot of bad options out there, so don't just buy the first model you see (or Amazon's alleged bestseller). If you don't want to do the research, the Samsung T7 is one good choice.
