LAP TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

would it be worth it to get the Microsoft 365 for the extra $70 or is there something else to use
Not in my opinion, because office 365 is a yearly subscription that you pay.
You can get a standalone lifetime key for $35 through a 3rd party https://www.groupon.com/deals/office-2024-standard-lifetime-windows

Also, it appears that the laptop above from Best Buy went up in price, but I found another one with the same type of display as the model from B&H
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-v...y-1tb-ssd-indie-black/6542092.p?skuId=6542092