<p>Steve-- The first thing you could do is optimize your current laptop. run disc defragmenter, use a program like ccleaner to get rid of cookies, etc. You could also check whether your software is compatible with Windows 10 (a lot of software is) and install Windows 10. To optimize Windows 10 disable Cortana and make a choice which privacy settings you want to be enabled or not (see settings menu).<br>
To improve your laptop you could also opt for additional RAM memory, however, for a 350$ laptop the costs are relatively high so also consider a new Laptop.<br>
The speed of your internet usually is limited by the internet provider (check your subscription and what is on offer; no need for extremely fast, but if its really limited this might be an issue) and how far you are from your router/modem in your home (check signal strength). In addition, if you download large files the RAM memory could also be a limiting factor.<br>
With respect to laptops and photo editing: laptops are usually made for office applications and watching videos. Hence, the average laptops does have a display with a limited color space; which could limit your ability to edit photo's.<br>
A Macbook pro with retina display (as previously suggested) gets you about 99% sRGB color space, which is a lot better than most displays and I think a good suggestion. Windows laptops with similar color space are available (google Windows+sRGB or even adobe RGB) but are also more expensive than your current laptop.<br>
Good luck finding the laptop that suits your needs!</p>
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