Getting a capable laptop for under $400 might seem too good to be true. However, technological advancements have made it possible to get decent performance without breaking the bank. I‘ve analyzed today‘s best sub-$400 laptops to help you find one that fits your needs and budget.
What to Consider in a Laptop Under $400
While these affordable laptops can‘t match premium models, they pack impressive specs for the price. When searching sub-$400 options, keep an eye out for:
- CPU: Look for Intel Core i3 or comparable AMD processors for web browsing and office tasks.
- RAM: At least 4GB for smooth multitasking, but 8GB is better.
- Storage: 256GB SSD offers much faster performance than 500GB HDD.
- Display: Aim for 1080p resolution and an IPS panel for wider viewing angles.
- Battery: Expect around 6-8 hours of mixed usage per charge.
Getting the right mix of these features results in a reliable daily driver laptop that doesn‘t cost a fortune. Now let‘s look at five great options in detail.
1. Acer Aspire 5 – Best Overall Under $400
If you want the best balance of performance, build quality and battery life, check out the Acer Aspire 5.
Specs:
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Processor
- 4GB DDR4 RAM
- 128GB SSD Storage
- 15.6-inch 1080p Display
- Up to 8 Hours Battery Life
For just over $300, the Aspire 5 brings speedy SSD storage, a sharp 15.6-inch screen and a decent AMD processor. Performance is very responsive for everyday tasks like web access, Office apps and even light gaming. The battery lasts nearly 8 hours on a charge.
While the 4GB RAM is limiting for heavy multitasking, it has an open slot to easily upgrade later. Overall, casual users who want good specs for the money will appreciate the Aspire 5.
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – Best Battery Life
If you need a laptop that keeps going on long flights or road trips, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is an excellent choice.
Specs:
- Intel Core i3-1005G1 Processor
- 8GB DDR4 RAM
- 256GB SSD Storage
- 14-inch 768p Display
- Up to 12 Hours Battery Life
Priced around $380, the IdeaPad 3 stands out with an amazing 12 hour battery life while packing 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Performance is reliable for document editing, web browsing, streaming media and light content creation. The lower resolution screen helps extend battery life.
Frequent travelers will love how long they can use this Lenovo on the go before needing to plug in. It‘s also thin and fairly lightweight.
3. Dell Inspiron 15 3000 – Best Budget Touchscreen
If you want a touchscreen laptop without paying a premium, Dell‘s Inspiron 15 3000 delivers.
Specs:
- Intel Pentium Silver N5030 Processor
- 8GB DDR4 RAM
- 256GB SSD Storage
- 15.6-inch 1080p Touch Display
- Up to 7 Hours Battery Life
For under $380, no competitors can match this Dell‘s crisp 1080p touchscreen display and ample 256GB SSD. The latest 11th Gen Intel processor handles web apps smoothly.
The RAM is upgradable later if needed. Battery life is solid at over 6 hours typical use. If you want a budget big screen touch laptop, the Inspiron 15 3000 is a steal.
4. HP 14‘‘ HD Laptop – Best Budget Pick
If you just need basic functionality for light computing, HP‘s 14‘‘ HD model is a great value pick.
Specs:
- Intel Celeron N4020 Processor
- 4GB DDR4 RAM
- 64GB eMMC Storage
- 14-inch 768p Display
- Up to 8 Hours Battery Life
Available for around $260, this budget HP keeps costs down with a Celeron processor, 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. Performance is understandably limited compared to pricier options. However, it handles basics like web access just fine.
Battery life is impressive at over 8 hours per charge. The HP 14‘‘ HD delivers if all you need is the basics at home and on the go.
5. Refurbished Dell Latitude – Best Refurb Business Laptop
Refurbished business models like the Dell Latitude offer premium quality and specs while fitting under a $400 budget.
Specs:
- Intel Core i5-4310U Processor
- 8GB DDR3 RAM
- 128GB SSD Storage
- 14-inch 768p Anti-Glare Display
- Up to 8 Hours Battery Life
Priced from $250+, refurbished Latitudes boast faster processors, more RAM and sharper displays than new economy options. Models like this pack robust specs and durable chassis into a slim, 3 pound frame.
Performance easily handles everyday office work and web multitasking thanks to the dual core i5 chip and 8GB RAM. The anti-glare HD display offers a clear picture. Refurbs make fantastic deals if you don‘t need absolute latest features.
Bottom Line
The good news is there are capable laptops available for shoppers on tight budgets. Just $400 now buys speedy solid state drives, crisp HD displays and processors able to take on typical daily tasks. Refurbished business models stretch capabilities even further.
Of the new models, the Acer Aspire 5 stands out as the best overall choice. But all options highlighted pack respectable bang for your buck. Take some time to evaluate your usage needs and hardware preferences to decide which sub $400 machine delivers the right fit.
