Buying laptops isn’t a cheap task. Owing to the fact that the technology is fast growing, there are more and more developments in this field, thus making the prices of the laptops touch the sky.
It goes without saying that there are a number of laptop devices available in the market but it all comes down to your budget that decides which one you will be able to afford and own.
If you are planning on buying a laptop with a limited budget of under $400, you would be surprised to know that there are abundant of them available in the market.
Given that there are so many models available and that too from so many brands, it often does become a lot confusing as to which one would best suit your needs and requirements.
This is the primary reason we have curated this article for you to have a better perception into the main factors that make each one of them in the last stand out from the rest.
While going through so many models of laptops available, there were a number of factors that we focused on to bring forth the best updated list for the budget friendly systems available currently under the price point of $400.
With the growth of the economy, the requirements of the mid-range and budget friendly laptops are on the rise as well.
From helping out in the basic office work to clearing out the videos and prospects of entertainment, majority of the people are on the lookout for something that is in the price range yet good quality at the same time.
Mind you that with the price point, there are some compromises that you have to make on your part too.
Table of Contents
- Our Pick: 10 Best Laptops Under $400 for 2023
- 1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-56 Laptop Under $400
- 2. ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip Thin and Light 2-in-1 Laptop
- 3. HP 15z-ef2000 Laptop Under $400
- 4. Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R8AH Slim Laptop
- 5. ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop
- 6. Dell Inspiron 15 3511 Laptop Under $400
- 7. ASUS Chromebook C425 Clamshell Laptop
- 8. Lenovo Ideapad 3 15 Laptop Under $400
- 9. Acer Aspire 5 A515-46 Laptop Under $400
- 10. HP 14-dq2020nr Laptop
- What should you consider before buying a laptop?
- What Not To Do When Buying A Laptop?
- Final Verdict
Our Pick: 10 Best Laptops Under $400 for 2023
In here, we have sorted out the top 10 picks for the best laptops under $400 2023 for you to look into.
1. Acer Aspire 5 A515-56 Laptop Under $400
To top it off, the device is further priced under $400. Despite the affordable price point, the device is constructed with an all-metal construction for enhanced durability.
The device is powered by the latest 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor with Intel graphics for unmatched performance and productivity throughout the day.
The finely tuned design offers uninterrupted performance and reliability throughout the day. The Aspire 5 is equipped with a 15.6” FHD display with 1080p screen resolution for crisp visuals.
Moreover, the laptop is integrated with 128GB NVMe SSD for storage and 4GB RAM for unmatched performance like no other. The device is also equipped with all the latest I/O ports including the USB 3.2 Gen 1 port along with the other latest additions. The 8.5 hours of battery life keeps you hooked to your work throughout the day.
2. ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip Thin and Light 2-in-1 Laptop
Tech brands are consistently improving their product diversity, creating laptops that are accessible to every user, both in terms of specifications and the price range.
The VivoBook Go 14 Flip is one of the most affordable convertible laptops in the market.
The model is powered by the Intel Pentium Silver N6000 Processor with up to 3.3GHz and Intel UHD graphics that renders one of the best entry-level performances without any lags and delays in the process. Also, the convertible device is equipped with a 14” FHD wide-view touch display with 178 degree viewing angle for comfortable viewing experience.
What stands out in this model is the lightweight and portable design and is integrated with 4GB RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for tackling basic personal use and productivity applications. It runs on the Windows 11 in S mode.
Reasons to buy
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Optimal productivity
- Responsive performance
Reasons to avoid
- Not the best for intensive applications
- Battery life is average
3. HP 15z-ef2000 Laptop Under $400
Are you a student or a professional on the hunt for a 15.6” laptop but under $400? We’d highly recommend looking into the HP 15z-ef2000.
This one is a versatile beast that is powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor with up to 4.0 GHz boosted performance. It is backed with AMD Radeon graphics for tackling the graphics performance like a breeze.
Despite the cheaper price point, what stands out in the model is the 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD storage configuration that supports faster boot-up of the applications and channels uninterrupted multitasking experience.
It is equipped with a 15.6” diagonal HD display with 768p screen resolution and 250 nits brightness for the most vivid resolution in this price range. The laptop comes pre-installed with Windows 11 OS for smoother operations.
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight design and configuration
- Amazing RAM management
- Brighter and vivid display
Reasons to avoid
- Storage isn’t impressive
- Port selection could be better
4. Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R8AH Slim Laptop
Powered by the AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor with Radeon graphics, this slim and lightweight laptop doesn’t compromise on the performance.
Furthermore, it is equipped with a 15.6” FHD widescreen LED-backlit display panel with 1080p screen resolution that produces vivid colors and has decent viewing angles too. However, the panel isn’t matte, so, taking it out in the sun might not be the best option.
The Aspire 5 is integrated with 4GB RAM and 128GB NVMe SSD for storage, which is a decent configuration for simple usage. We wouldn’t recommend this for extensive productivity. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11.
Reasons to buy
- Extensive 15.6” display panel
- Slim and lightweight design
- Comes with Windows 11 OS
Reasons to avoid
- Not for extensive productivity
- Glossy display panel
5. ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop
Designed for the students, the Chromebook Flip C433 from ASUS is a versatile package that brings together performance, productivity and the latest design, all packed into one. Featuring a durable 360-degree hinge, the model is equipped with a compact 14” FHD touchscreen display panel with narrow bezels for expansive viewing experience.
The Chromebook Flip C433 is powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor and integrated graphics that supports optimal performance without glitches and buffers in the middle. The 8GB DDR3 RAM renders superior multitasking experience, although the 64GB eMMC storage is a little disappointing.
Overall, the model is optimal for students and runs on the Chrome OS for easy access to all the important applications without any worries.
Reasons to buy
- Premium design
- Compact design
- Optimal RAM configuration
Reasons to avoid
- Storage is quite less
- Display isn’t that vivid
6. Dell Inspiron 15 3511 Laptop Under $400
Dell is a public favorite among Windows laptop users, so to find an amazing brand in an affordable price under $400 is a steal. The Inspiron 15 3511 works like a breeze, especially when it comes to the performance and the productivity functionalities.
The laptop is equipped with a 15.6” FHD display panel with LED-backlit that contributes to bright and vivid display with true color reproduction, which is pretty impressive. It is powered by the Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor with Intel UHD graphics, which justifies the kind of smooth performance you get to experience.
Despite the price range, Dell has integrated the model with 256GB SSD storage and 8GB RAM, which is nothing short of impressive. It runs on the Windows 11 OS.
Reasons to buy
- Premium and sleek design
- Smooth and uninterrupted performance
- Faster storage configuration
Reasons to avoid
- Display is subpar
- Ports aren’t optimal
7. ASUS Chromebook C425 Clamshell Laptop
This particular one is powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor with integrated graphics for superior usability and performance like no other.
The C425 is equipped with a 14” FHD display with 4-way nano-edge bezel with touchscreen for superior viewing experience like no other. It does feature a backlit keyboard and comes with the Chrome OS, providing users access to all the latest applications without any shortcomings.
Also, it is integrated with 128GB eMMC storage and 4GB RAM that caters to your basic productivity needs with flair. Also, it comes with backlit keyboard and a stunning silver color body for a premium look and usability.
Reasons to buy
- Slim and lightweight design
- Nano-edge bezel display
- Backlit keyboard
Reasons to avoid
- Not for high-end productivity
- Storage and RAM configuration is disappointing
8. Lenovo Ideapad 3 15 Laptop Under $400
Key specs
- Comes with a 15.6” full HD display
- Paired with 1920×1080 pixels resolution
- Powered by the Intel Core i3-1115G4
- 4GB DDR4 RAM
- 128GB SSD Storage
- Intel UHD Graphics
- 7.3 hours of battery life
Why do we recommend it?
The Lenovo Ideapad 3 is one of the best in budget mid-range laptops in the market which keeps the balanced prospects of both efficiency and productivity aligned. The product is marketed as the model which personifies the word simple and there is no two ways about it. The plain gray lid along with the gray shaded interiors provides this with a very sophisticated look, one that is unparalleled.
The premium processing with the Intel Core i3-1115G4 along with the amazing Intel UHD Graphics allows you to keep things easier when it comes to the basic functions but also allows a seamless experience when you are trying to play some online games.
The full HD display provides an immersive experience when you are operating some of the basic functions on the device.
It has a very crystal clear appearance and vibrant colors further add in to the immersive experience even more so. It is very safe and easy to use and definitely, puts the other competitors for a strong battle altogether. The optional touch-pad further adds to the innovation with budget even more so.
9. Acer Aspire 5 A515-46 Laptop Under $400
Backed with the latest AMD Ryzen 3350 mobile processors and Radeon graphics, the device enables you to experience high-speed performance and enables multitasking to ample storage and memory.
The device is heavily tuned to match the needs of the users in this media-heavy lifestyle that helps them create and launch the most out of their creativity. It is backed with a 15.6” FHD IPS display that allows you to experience the most out of the display and helps you keep up with your work, even when you are on the go.
It is backed with 128GB SSD for storage and 4GB RAM for memory and features a fingerprint reader for seamless and secure login. The device runs on the Windows 11 Home in S mode operating system and has a backlit keyboard too.
Also read, Top 10 Best Laptops Under $500 in 2023
10. HP 14-dq2020nr Laptop
Besides the staple HP design with the curved edges, the device does stand out with the stunning performance and efficiency.
The 14-inch laptop is equipped with a stunning and vibrant display with a Full HD display with the superior Intel UHD Graphics.
Pair that with the latest 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 mobile processor and it simplifies all your everyday tasks with heightened responsiveness like you have never experienced before.
Furthermore, the combination of 128GB SSD of storage with 4GB RAM enhances the efficiency as you work and browse through your everyday work.
And, to top it all off, the device is backed with 9 hours and 45 minutes battery life for consistent performance.
Related Posts:
- 10 Best Laptops Under $500 2023
- The 10 Best Laptops Under $700
- 10 Best Laptops for College Students 2023
What should you consider before buying a laptop?
When it comes to buying a laptop, whatever the price point be, it is important to ensure that you do keep certain things in mind. To help you with the basics, we have listed out the same as well.
Consider portability
When you are planning on buying a laptop, it is important that you look through the portability of the system.
It is always best suggested to stick to a laptop which is not just smaller in size but is thin as well. This ensures that it will fit right into anything and won’t be too heavy to carry around as well.
Focus on the resolution
The resolution of the display of the laptop matters a lot. If you wish to have the best kind of immersive experience while operating it, it is important that the resolution should at-least be 1080p.
This is what is suggested as the full HD laptops and the experience of watching or even just working on them is one of a kind.
Focus on the battery life
If you are buying a laptop for regular use, it is important that you watch out for one which won’t end up giving up on you halfway through.
Battery life is one of the most important things to consider when you are purchasing a new laptop. If possible, look out for a laptop with at least 8 hours and more of screen on time.
Focus on the specs too
Last but not the least is to consider walking yourself through the specifications of the laptop too. Make sure that it fulfills all the criteria according to your needs in a laptop.
What Not To Do When Buying A Laptop?
While we have touched bases with the prospects of what to do when it comes to buying a laptop, the next thing to consider is the kind of mistakes that one can easily avoid when it comes to the purchase.
Buying the cheapest
It is true that we all have a budget to focus on but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you will settle for just about anything.
Even if you get a laptop for cheap doesn’t mean you need to buy that just for the sake of owing a laptop. If there is a laptop that is out of your budget but suits your requirements, wait it out and save more money. Don’t settle for a cheaper variant because you will end up regretting it later.
Not comparing prices
With the growing competition in the market, especially the e-commerce market, more and more vendors are trying to come up with ways to attract more customers. One of the most common ways being discounted pricing.
If you have been planning on buying a laptop, don’t buy it from the first place you see. Instead, tally the prices with the other platforms and even in the offline market and then opt for the best mode.
Thinking about today
We often have a tendency to end up buying laptops that fill the bill better today but end up being a complete waste in the future. If you are buying a laptop, you need to ensure that it will have the features that last you at least 5-10 years.
Final Verdict
In order to help you with your budget and the best quality performance, we have listed out the best in class laptops under $400 that you just can’t settle around with.
If you have been looking around for an immersive experience with no compromise on the quality of build and performance, each one of them lives up to all the expectations.
We have enlisted a little of all of the types and variants that you can possibly come across, thus making it an even better option to take a peek into.
All the laptops mentioned are under the budget of $400, so you won’t have to compromise on your savings and the budget that you can spare.
Every single one of the are from some of the leading brands of laptops in the market so you are assured that the quality of the same won’t be compromised.
There is a little for every person seeking an advice on the best laptop within a budget price. From the ones that have pre-installed graphics card to the one which can be converted to a tablet whenever required, the options are extensive.
Make sure to be thorough with the specifications because that will help you get a better idea about everything that you would need in the laptop you are set to buy.
