getting a job rn sucks, but if having a computer able to run TF2 somewhat smoothly is really important, it might be worth it. you dont even need a whole lot of PC to get some stable frame rates. having a "desktop" (non T or U) intel processor, dedicated GPU, and an SSD will make a huge difference over most low-med range laptops in my experience. sites like eBay and Craigslist can have some crazy deals, if youre knowledgeable and patient. Ive made a secondary PC with very similar specs as below for less than $200 by finding deals on my local Craigslist.
heres what a 10 mins of googling got me:
HP EliteDesk 800 : i5-4590, 1x4GB RAM, no HDD - $90
A-Tech 4GB DDR3 1600 MHz - $19 (new)
PNY CS900 240GB 3D NAND 2.5" SSD - $30 (new)
MSI Graphic Cards GT 1030 2G LP OC -$115 (new)
Totaling $254 for just the PC
144hz monitors can be got new for around 150-180 on the cheaper end. i dont feel like looking into that rn.
if you are seriously interested in getting something like this setup, i can run a few benchmarks on my secondary PC that has similar specs as above to get you a better idea into what youll get.
i know its not as easy as saying "just save up and buy a PC", but its probably not as hard as you think.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/HP-EliteDesk-800-G1-SFF-Desktop-PC-3-30GHz-Core-i5-4590-4GB-RAM-No-HDD/294030998897
https://www.ebay.com/itm/A-Tech-4GB-PC3-12800-Desktop-DDR3-1600-MHz-240-Pin-DIMM-Non-ECC-Memory-RAM-1x-4G/321872623322
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0719D9YL7
https://www.amazon.com/MSI-GT-1030-2G-LP/dp/B071L4VKF6