Best Laptop Under 400: Top Picks for 2023
Written by: Hrishikesh Pardeshi, Founder at Flexiple, buildd & Remote Tools.
Last updated: Sep 03, 2024
The best laptops under $400 in 2023 are:
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-347N Slim Laptop
- Jumper Laptop 12GB DDR4 256GB SSD
- HP 2022 Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop
- HP 2022 Premium 14-inch Laptop
- ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip
- HP ProBook 640 G4 14'' Laptop
- ANMESC Laptop LT1505
- Dell Latitude E5580 15.6in Laptop (Renewed)
- HP EliteBook 840 G6 14" FHD Business Laptop
As a tech enthusiast, I know that finding the best budget laptop can be a daunting task, especially when you're on a budget. With so many options available, it can be tough to determine which laptop offers the best value for your money. In this article, I will specifically focus on the best laptops under $400, a price point that offers a balance between affordability and performance.
Laptops have become essential tools for our daily life, be it for work, school, or entertainment. Choosing the right laptop means considering factors like processing power, storage, screen size, and battery life. In the under $400 category, you'll find a mix of versatile devices that cater to the needs of various users, from students to casual users and even budding professionals.
When looking for the best laptop under $400, it's essential to pay attention to the key features like processor speed, RAM, storage capacity, and battery life to ensure that it meets your requirements. Additionally, other factors like build quality, portability, and display quality should also be considered as they greatly influence your overall experience.
After spending considerable time researching and testing numerous laptops in this price range, I'm excited to share with you my findings and help you find the perfect laptop that balances both performance and affordability. So without further ado, let's dive into the world of the best budget laptops that provide the most bang for your buck.
Table of Contents
- Best Laptops Under $400
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-347N Slim Laptop
- Jumper Laptop 12GB DDR4 256GB SSD
- HP 2022 Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop
- HP 2022 Premium 14-inch Laptop
- ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip
- HP ProBook 640 G4 14'' Laptop
- ANMESC Laptop LT1505
- Dell Latitude E5580 15.6in Laptop (Renewed)
- HP EliteBook 840 G6 14" FHD Business Laptop
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Laptops Under $400
I've compiled a list of the best laptops under $400 for you. These affordable options offer great performance and value, making them perfect for everyday tasks and on-the-go computing.
Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-347N Slim Laptop
The Acer Aspire 5 combines powerful features and functionality into an affordable package, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, budget-friendly laptop.
Pros
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Powerful performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor
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Impressive 15.6" Full HD IPS display
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Comfortable typing experience with ergonomic hinge design
Cons
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Limited storage capacity with 128GB NVMe SSD
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No optical drive
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Windows 11 Home in S mode, which may not be suitable for all users
When I first unboxed my Acer Aspire 5, I was immediately impressed with its sleek, slim design. The build quality felt sturdy, and the narrow bezels provided a lot of screen real estate, making it perfect for multitasking or watching videos. Moreover, the typing experience was genuinely comfortable, thanks to the ergonomically designed hinge that lifted the keyboard for better cooling and sound.
I found the 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor to be quite powerful, handling everyday tasks and even some light gaming with ease. The Wi-Fi 6 connectivity was also a game-changer for me, as it provided faster and more reliable internet access. However, the limitations of Windows 11 Home in S mode might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer the full Windows experience.
One of the few drawbacks of the Acer Aspire 5 is its limited storage capacity. The 128GB NVMe SSD fills up rather quickly, especially if you have a lot of files or media to store. Fortunately, there is the option to upgrade storage, but it is an additional expense to keep in mind.
In summary, my experience with the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-347N Slim Laptop has been overwhelmingly positive. Its blend of power, versatility, and affordability makes it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable laptop under $400. While there are a few cons, notably the storage capacity and Windows 11 Home in S mode, I still believe the Acer Aspire 5 is an excellent choice for most users.
Jumper Laptop 12GB DDR4 256GB SSD
I highly recommend this affordable yet efficient laptop, ideal for work or study purposes.
Pros
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Remarkable performance with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD
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Lightweight and portable design
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Vibrant 14-inch Full HD display
Cons
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Off-center keyboard and touchpad
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Average battery life
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Initially adapting to the non-centered touchpad
The Jumper Laptop caught my attention due to its affordable price and impressive specifications. Right out of the box, I noticed it had a sleek design, and it only weighed 2.7 pounds, which made carrying it around a breeze. Booting it up was quick, and the pre-installed Windows 11 looked and felt smooth.
The 14-inch Full HD display is one of the main reasons I'm in love with this laptop. The colors are vibrant and true to life, which makes watching movies and working on presentations a satisfying experience. Moreover, the 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD handled multiple tasks simultaneously without any hiccups, making my workday more productive and efficient.
My only minor gripe was the off-center keyboard and touchpad. It took me a while to adapt to this layout, but once I got used to it, typing and navigating became more comfortable. The battery life is not extraordinary but decent enough for daily use. Just make sure to carry a charger if you plan to use it for extended periods.
Overall, the Jumper Laptop is a fantastic choice for anyone searching for an affordable laptop that delivers impressive performance. Whether it's for work, study, or light entertainment, this device has got you covered.
HP 2022 Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop
I recommend this laptop for those who need an affordable and reliable option for everyday use and light multitasking.
Pros
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14-inch HD BrightView Display
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Intel Celeron N4120 Processor
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4GB DDR4 RAM
Cons
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Limited storage with 64GB SSD
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Integrated Intel HD Graphics 600
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Windows 11 S operating system
The HP 2022 Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop caught my attention recently due to its impressive performance at a budget-friendly price. I was searching for a decent laptop, that can handle my everyday tasks without breaking the bank, and this one seemed to have all the features I need.
Upon unboxing and setting up, the vibrant 14-inch HD BrightView display instantly impressed me. It offers a wide viewing experience, which is perfect for seamlessly transitioning between multiple monitor setups. The Intel Celeron N4120 Processor ensures smooth multitasking with a fine balance between power consumption and performance.
Although the 4GB DDR4 RAM easily runs multiple programs and light gaming, I noticed that the laptop's storage capacity is a bit limited. The 64GB SSD, while enhancing storage capabilities and streamlining data management, could quickly fill up with files and applications. It might be necessary to upgrade the storage or utilize cloud services for extra space.
The Integrated Intel HD Graphics 600 are decent for basic graphic needs but not suitable for heavy graphic-intensive tasks or gaming. Windows 11 S operating system comes pre-installed, providing good performance for basic tasks but might limit the installation of non-Microsoft Store apps. If gaming is a priority for you, check out this list of the best gaming laptops under $500.
In conclusion, the HP 2022 Stream 14" HD BrightView Laptop is an affordable and reliable option for everyday use and light multitasking. Its sleek design, decent performance, and portability make it ideal for users who need a budget laptop. However, limited storage and integrated graphics might not appeal to users with heavier computing needs.
HP 2022 Premium 14-inch Laptop
I highly recommend this laptop for its excellent performance, sleek design, and exceptional value for the price.
Pros
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Thin and lightweight design
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Long battery life with fast charging
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1-year Microsoft 365 subscription included
Cons
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Limited storage space
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Non-backlit keyboard
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Average display quality
I recently had the chance to use the HP 2022 Premium 14-inch laptop, and it genuinely impressed me. With its thin and light design, it was effortless to carry around, making it perfect for people who are always on the go. The laptop's Intel Quad-Core Processor and 16GB RAM provided smooth performance for multitasking, web browsing, and casual gaming.
The battery life of this laptop is another compelling feature, lasting up to 11 hours on a single charge. With the additional benefit of HP Fast Charge technology, I could quickly charge it from 0 to 50% in about 45 minutes, ensuring I never missed a beat during my busy days. The included 1-year Microsoft 365 subscription was also a pleasant bonus, providing me with all the necessary tools for productivity and creativity.
However, the laptop does come with a few drawbacks. The 64GB storage space might not be enough for users who need ample storage for their files or apps. I also found the non-backlit keyboard a bit inconvenient, particularly in dimly lit situations. Lastly, the display quality is quite average, with a 1366 x 768 resolution and only 45% NTSC color gamut coverage; it might not be ideal for users looking for a superior visual experience.
In conclusion, the HP 2022 Premium 14-inch laptop is a fantastic choice for those seeking a portable and reliable laptop with excellent performance and long battery life under $400. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, overall, it offers exceptional value for the price, making it a smart purchase for students and professionals alike.
The SGIN 15.6 inch laptop is an affordable choice for those seeking solid performance and plenty of features wrapped in a slim and lightweight design.
Pros
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Efficient Intel Celeron N5095 processor
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Generous 24GB RAM and 512GB storage
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Sharp and vivid 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display
Cons
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Sound quality may not be the best
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May not be suitable for high-end gaming
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Limited upgrade options
I recently had the opportunity to try out the SGIN 15.6 inch laptop and was genuinely impressed by what it offered at such an affordable price. The Intel Celeron N5095 processor ensures smooth multitasking and quick response times, while the 24GB RAM and 512GB storage is more than sufficient for everyday computing needs.
The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display is a standout feature of this laptop, offering sharp text and vivid colors for a pleasant viewing experience. I found it great for browsing the web, watching videos, and even working with productivity applications.
One potential downside of the SGIN laptop is the sound quality. It wasn't the loudest or the clearest I've heard, but it was passable for most casual use. If you plan to use the laptop for movies or music, you might want to invest in a good pair of external speakers or headphones.
Additionally, this laptop may not be the best choice for high-end gaming as it has an integrated graphics card. However, casual gamers should be satisfied with the performance for less demanding games. Lastly, it's worth noting that there might be limited options for upgrading the hardware, so keep that in mind if you anticipate needing more power in the future.
Overall, the SGIN 15.6 inch laptop is a versatile and budget-friendly option for those in need of a reliable device for everyday computing tasks. With its efficient performance, generous storage, and beautiful display, you won't be disappointed with this choice.
ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip
The ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip is an affordable and versatile 2-in-1 laptop that offers a great balance of performance, portability, and user experience.
Pros
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Lightweight and portable design
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Responsive touchscreen with 360° hinge
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ASUS Antibacterial Guard for increased hygiene
Cons
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Limited storage with 64GB eMMC
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Entry-level Intel Celeron N4500 processor
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Windows 11 Home in S mode can be restrictive for some users
I recently had the chance to use the ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip and immediately noticed how light and portable it was. With a thickness of just 16.9mm and a weight of merely 3.3 pounds, this laptop was effortless to carry around and fit into my backpack without any hassle.
The touchscreen was quite impressive too, detecting even the subtlest fingertip movements. Combined with the 360° hinge, the laptop easily transformed into a tablet, tent, or stand, depending on my needs at the time. This diverse functionality made it a great device for both work and entertainment.
One feature I particularly loved was the ASUS Antibacterial Guard that coats the laptop surface. Knowing that it has been scientifically proven to inhibit the growth of bacteria by over 99% in 24 hours gave me peace of mind regarding hygiene, especially during these times.
However, the VivoBook Go 14 Flip comes with an entry-level Intel Celeron N4500 processor, making it more suitable for lighter workloads and everyday tasks. Moreover, the 64GB eMMC storage may not be enough if you like to store a lot of files, photos, or videos locally.
Another point to consider is that this laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode. Although it offers enhanced security and performance, some users may find it restrictive as it only allows apps to be installed from the Microsoft Store.
In conclusion, if you're looking for an affordable, portable, and versatile laptop under $400, the ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip is a solid choice. Its lightweight design, responsive touchscreen, and hygienic features make it a great value, especially for everyday tasks and on-the-go use.
HP ProBook 640 G4 14'' Laptop
This refurbished HP ProBook 640 G4 offers excellent performance and storage at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
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Fast performance with Intel i5 8350U processor
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Generous storage with 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD
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Thin, lightweight design with USB Type-C and HDMI inputs
Cons
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Refurbished, not brand new
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Some reviewers experienced sticky keys
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Recovery media not included
I recently got the chance to use this HP ProBook 640 G4 laptop, and I was quite impressed with the performance it has for a device under $400. The Intel i5 8350U processor kept things running smoothly, even when multitasking with multiple programs and browser tabs open.
Although it's a refurbished unit, the laptop looks and feels like new with its sleek silver design. It's fairly lightweight and includes modern features like USB Type-C and HDMI ports, making it easy to connect to various devices. As someone who always needs plenty of storage, I found the 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD more than enough to meet my requirements.
For those considering this laptop, it's important to note that it's a refurbished product, so it may have some minor cosmetic issues. One consistent complaint in the reviews was sticky keys, although my unit didn't suffer from this problem. Additionally, the laptop doesn't come with recovery media, so users will need to create their own using the Windows Media Creation Tool.
Overall, I believe the HP ProBook 640 G4 is a fantastic purchase for those looking for a reliable and powerful laptop under $400. With strong performance, abundant storage, and a sleek design, it could be the perfect choice for both professionals and students.
ANMESC Laptop LT1505
The ANMESC LT1505 laptop is an affordable option for those in need of a reliable laptop for work, study, or even light entertainment purposes.
Pros
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12GB DDR4 and 512GB SSD for efficient performance
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15.6" Full HD display with vibrant colors
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Lightweight and portable design
Cons
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Plastic feel on keyboard keys
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Small right shift key
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Volume on videos might be insufficient for some users
Yesterday, I wrapped up a long day of working on my ANMESC LT1505 laptop and I'd like to share my experience. The Intel Celeron N5095 processor, combined with 12GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, made multitasking smooth and seamless throughout my day. Programs opened quickly and I didn't experience any lag that would slow me down.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display was quite impressive for a laptop at this price range. I was able to see crisp and clear visuals, making images and text easy on the eyes. Videos and presentations were vibrant and enjoyable to watch, though I did find the volume to be a bit lower than I'd prefer.
One of the aspects I appreciated most about the ANMESC LT1505 was its portability. Its slim, lightweight design made it easy for me to carry around the house and switch between workspaces. The long-lasting battery also made it convenient for me to work without having to constantly worry about recharging.
However, the laptop isn't without its drawbacks. The keys on the keyboard have a slightly plasticky feel to them, and the right shift key is small, which took some getting used to. But overall, these minor issues did not detract from my positive experience with the ANMESC LT1505.
In conclusion, the ANMESC Laptop LT1505 is a worthwhile purchase for those looking for an affordable, efficiently performing laptop. With its high-quality display and portable design, it's a great choice for work or study, despite a few minor drawbacks in the keyboard department.
Dell Latitude E5580 15.6in Laptop (Renewed)
If you're on a budget and need a reliable laptop, the Dell Latitude E5580 Renewed is a smart choice.
Pros
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Solid performance with Intel Core i5-6300U processor and 16GB RAM
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Good storage capacity with 256GB SSD
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Windows 10 Pro 64-bit with multi-language support
Cons
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No backlit keyboard or touchscreen
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No fingerprint scanner
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Not brand new, but refurbished
After using the Dell Latitude E5580 for a few weeks, I can confidently say it's an impressive laptop, especially considering it's under $400. The Intel Core i5-6300U processor and 16GB RAM provided a smooth experience when multitasking between different applications, without noticeable lag.
One of my favorite features was the 256GB SSD, which allowed for quick boot times and speedy file transfers. Additionally, with Windows 10 Pro 64-bit, I had no issues using different languages, making it a versatile option for those who require multi-language support.
Though it has plenty of great features, Latitude E5580 is not without its drawbacks. As someone who often works in dimly-lit environments, the lack of a backlit keyboard was a bit inconvenient. Additionally, it doesn't have a touchscreen, which could be a deal breaker for some people. Lastly, keep in mind that this laptop is refurbished, not brand new, but it comes with a 90-day warranty which gave me some peace of mind.
In conclusion, the Dell Latitude E5580 Renewed offers reliable performance, good storage capacity and comes with Windows 10 Pro, all at an affordable price. Despite a few minor drawbacks, I found it to be a great value for the money and a smart option for those on a budget. Dell also makes some amazing laptops for remote work. You can check them out in this list of best laptops for working from home.
HP EliteBook 840 G6 14" FHD Business Laptop
The HP EliteBook 840 G6 presents a solid option for those seeking an affordable yet powerful laptop under $400.
Pros
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Smooth performance with Intel Core i5-8265U processor
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Ample storage with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD
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Comfortable typing experience with backlit, spill-resistant keyboard
Cons
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Non-touch display may limit user experience
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Occasional overheating during extended use
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Mediocre webcam quality
I recently had the opportunity to try out the HP EliteBook 840 G6, and I must say, I was quite impressed with its performance. The 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor ensures efficient multitasking, and with 16GB of RAM, working with multiple applications simultaneously was a breeze.
The 512GB SSD storage capacity provides plenty of space for all necessary files without any hiccups. Additionally, the spill-resistant, backlit keyboard allows for a comfortable typing experience, even in dimly-lit environments. It's also worth noting that the laptop comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Professional, catering to the needs of business users.
On the downside, the EliteBook 840 G6 does not feature a touch display, which may limit the user experience for those accustomed to touchscreen devices. Moreover, I noticed the laptop tends to overheat during prolonged use, which could be problematic for some users. Finally, the built-in webcam quality is passable at best but may not meet the needs of those looking for a high-quality video conference experience.
All in all, the HP EliteBook 840 G6 is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a reliable and efficient laptop under $400, though it may not be the perfect fit for those in need of a high-quality webcam or a touchscreen display.
Buying Guide
When I'm looking for the best laptop under $400, there are several features I consider for making an informed decision. It's essential to focus on those aspects that align with my requirements and preferences.
First, I pay attention to the processor of a budget gaming laptop. A powerful processor ensures smooth multitasking and faster loading times. I consider laptops with at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 for an affordable and efficient option.
Next, I assess the RAM and storage capacity. I know that having sufficient RAM is crucial for smooth multitasking, so I look for at least 4-8 GB of RAM for optimal performance. For storage, I often choose laptops with SSDs over HDDs. SSDs are not only faster but also offer improved reliability. A minimum of 128GB storage capacity works well for basic needs.
One of the essential factors is the display quality. I examine the screen size, resolution, and panel type when choosing a laptop. For a decent visual experience, I aim for at least a 14-inch screen with 1920x1080 resolution (Full HD). I also prefer IPS panels for better color reproduction and viewing angles.
Another aspect I look into is battery life. I search for laptops offering at least 6-8 hours of battery life to ensure I don't run out of power during critical moments or while traveling.
Lastly, I evaluate the build quality and portability of a laptop. A lightweight and compact design is preferable, especially if I need to carry it around regularly. I also check the availability of essential ports such as USB, HDMI, and a headphone jack to ensure compatibility with my peripherals and devices.
By focusing on these features and weighing my options, I can find the best laptop under $400 that fits my needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top gaming laptops under 400 dollars?
I believe there are some great options for budget gaming laptops under 400 dollars. Some popular choices are Acer Aspire 5, ASUS VivoBook 15, and Lenovo IdeaPad 3. While they might not be the most powerful machines, they offer decent performance for casual gamers playing less demanding titles.
Can I find a quality touch screen laptop for less than 400 dollars?
Yes, you can find some good touch screen laptops under 400 dollars. Options like the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5, Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1, and HP Pavilion x360 convertible can offer quality touch screen experience with reasonably good performance.
If you are looking for laptops under other budgets, you can check out our lists of top laptops here:
What are the best Windows laptops available for under 400 dollars?
There are several Windows laptops available under 400 dollars that provide an amazing computing experience. Among them are Acer Aspire 5, ASUS VivoBook 15, HP 14-inch laptop, and Lenovo IdeaPad 3. These laptops can handle daily tasks efficiently and offer great value for a budget-friendly price.
Which HP laptops offer the best value for under 400 dollars?
HP has a range of laptops that offer excellent value for under 400 dollars. The HP 14-inch laptop and HP Pavilion x360 convertible are popular choices that provide efficient performance and reliability. Additionally, the HP 14z Laptop is an affordable option with an AMD processor and Radeon graphics.
What are some reliable 14-inch laptops priced below 400 dollars?
If you're looking for a reliable 14-inch laptop below 400 dollars, check out the HP 14-inch laptop, Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14", Dell Inspiron 14, and ASUS VivoBook 14. These laptops come with decent specifications and offer a solid balance of portability and performance.
Are there any good refurbished laptops available for under 400 dollars?
Yes, you can find good refurbished laptops for under 400 dollars. Authorized refurbishers like Dell, HP, and Apple offer certified refurbished laptops that come with a warranty, ensuring that you get a reliable machine at a lower price. When searching for a refurbished laptop, be sure to buy from a reputable source and check the warranty details.