With technology advancing so quickly these days, it is now possible to pick up not only a decent but a great laptop for under $400. There are so many available, but it can be hard to choose which one will perform the best.
That’s why we put together our in-depth review of the best laptops under $400 to make the decision a little easier. We will take a look at the most important things first, like the processor and memory, followed by any other useful features.
So, let’s go through them and get ready to be as surprised at what you will get with the Best Laptop Under $400…
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Best Laptop Under $400 Review
- 1.1 1 ASUS L406 – Best Lightweight Laptop Under $400
- 1.2 2 Dell Inspiron 15 3000 – Best Intel Laptop Under $400
- 1.3 3 HP Pavilion – Best 15.6 inch Laptop Under $400
- 1.4 4 ASUS – Best Student Laptop Under $400
- 1.5 5 Acer Aspire 5 – Best Ryzen 3 Laptop Under $400
- 1.6 6 Jumper – Best Windows 10 Laptop Under $400
- 1.7 7 ASUS L210 – Best Kids Laptop Under $400
- 1.8 8 HP – Best Value for the Money Laptop Under $400
- 1.9 9 Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – Best Business Laptop Under $400
- 1.10 10 Fusion 5 – Best Bargain Laptop Under $400
- 1.11 Looking for Something Else?
- 2 What is the Best Laptop Under $400?
Top 10 Best Laptop Under $400 Review
1 ASUS L406 – Best Lightweight Laptop Under $400
This laptop from ASUS is a 14-inch model and is one of the thinnest laptops under $400 in this price range. At only 0.7 inches (1.8 centimeters) thin and weighing only 2.87 pounds (1.3 kilos), it is easily portable.
The design of this laptop will have others thinking you paid a lot more than $400. Finished in an attractive gray color, the top cover has a brushed aluminum look with a strong and durable feel.
Going through the processors…
Running this laptop is the ultra-efficient dual-core Intel Celeron N4000 processor. To conserve power and keep things cool, the processor idles at 1.1GHz but then can boost to 2.6GHz for more demanding tasks.
Basic multitasking can be completed thanks to the 4GB of DDR4 RAM used for memory. While you won’t be able to swap between Photoshop and Fortnite quickly, you can certainly have multiple tabs open for web browsing.
Keeps going…
Using such an efficient processor allows for longer battery life. Enjoy up to 12 hours of use from a single charge. This should keep you going all day. Especially if only browsing the net using the super-fast built-in WiFi 5 technology.
The storage drive is a little small, at only 64GB, but it is extremely fast. Instead of an HDD, the ASUS L406 is fitted with an eMMC flash drive. Programs, including the Windows OS, will load almost instantly, reducing load times dramatically.
(4.4 / 5)Pros
- Build and reliability of ASUS.
- Thin and lightweight are great for transporting.
- An efficient Intel processor helps to provide a long 12-hour battery life.
Cons
- The storage drive is small at only 64GB.
- Windows 10 requires upgrading from S mode.
2 Dell Inspiron 15 3000 – Best Intel Laptop Under $400
Dell has been providing families with reliable and affordable computers for some time now, and they continue to do so. A great example of this is their Inspiron 15 3000 model laptop, offering performance above expectations.
Featuring a large 15.6-inch anti-glare HD 1366 x 768p resolution screen, images come to life. This laptop is great for web browsing, completing assignments, work projects, or even kicking back and watching a movie.
Powered by Intel…
At the heart of this Inspiron laptop is the dual-core Intel Celeron 4205U processor that runs at 1.8GHz. There is no turbo boosting with this processor, and it runs at a constant speed. The advantage is that it is already ready to perform at its maximum capability.
Memory in the Dell is provided by 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which is capable of some basic multitasking functions. What helps with performance a lot is the 128GB NVMe Solid State Drive, which reads and writes data lightning fast. This also helps make it one of the best SSD laptops under $400 available.
Connectivity galore…
No matter what type of device you wish to connect to this laptop, chances are it’s possible. There are two USB 2.0 ports and also a USB-C port. For expanded storage, there’s also an SD card slot.
Accessing the Internet can be wired using the RJ45 Ethernet port or wireless using built-in WiFi. Another wireless connection option for accessories is Bluetooth 4.0. There’s even an HDMI output for connecting to an external monitor.
(4.8 / 5)Pros
- Quality Intel Celeron processor.
- Latest NVMe SSD storage drive.
- Plenty of connectivity options.
Cons
- Windows Home S mode will require updating.
- No numeric pad on the keyboard.
3 HP Pavilion – Best 15.6 inch Laptop Under $400
Who knew you could have this level of specs in a laptop in this price range? The HP Pavilion offers some of the latest technology in this 15.6-inch WLED backlit HD 1366 x 768p resolution screen laptop.
Do you know how they say that red goes faster? We don’t know how much truth there is to that, but you can find out with this laptop. The outside casing is a striking red color, with a black screen bezel and silver keyboard inside.
More power…
Using the advanced dual-core, 4 thread Intel Pentium Gold 6405U processor, this laptop is packed with power. Running at 2.4GHz, this is one of the most powerful laptops under $400 currently on the market.
For multitasking functions, there is 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which isn’t mind-blowing but is still acceptable. Handling the storage is a 128GB M.2 SSD with fast access speeds, allowing programs to load quickly.
Latest connection options…
For fast charging and high-speed data transfer, there are two USB 3.1 ports, plus a single USB-C port. Enjoy super-fast internet, too, with either the RJ45 wired Ethernet port or through the built-in WiFi.
You can connect speakers, headphones, keyboards, or any other accessory with Bluetooth 4.0. If you prefer storage media for faster data transfer, you can use the built-in SD card reader.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Powerful Intel Pentium Gold Processor.
- Latest USB 3.1 and Type-C ports.
- Fast a/b/g/n/ac WiFi for wireless internet.
Cons
- 4GB of RAM is light for this processor.
- The touchpad can lag at times.
4 ASUS – Best Student Laptop Under $400
If you’re a student, then you should consider this thin and light laptop from ASUS. Being a 14-inch laptop means it is small enough to be portable, yet the screen is large enough to complete your work comfortably.
Making it even more enjoyable to view is the LED backlighting and HD 1366 x 768p resolution. A battery life of up to 12 hours per charge means even after the most demanding day; you can still be cable-free.
Intelligent architecture…
At the brains of this operation is the Intel Celeron N4020 dual-core processor. This intelligent chip can deliver power when and where it’s needed for maximum efficiency. It can run at speeds anywhere between 1.1GHz and 2.8GHz.
Need multiple tabs open while studying in your web browser, and need to switch between them quickly? The 4GB of DDR4 RAM can help with basic multitasking, making it a fantastic study companion.
Even more help with your studies…
Store all your assignments on the 128GB eMMC SSD flash storage drive for fast reading and writing. Or you can connect an external storage drive to one of the two USB 2.0 ports or the USB Type-C port for even faster data transfer.
WiFi 5 and Bluetooth give wireless connectivity for both internet and compatible accessories. For added convenience, there’s also an SD card reader built-in. For presentations, you can even use the HDMI out port to connect to an external monitor.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Convenient size and weight for carrying around school or college.
- An efficient Intel Celeron processor allows for up to 12 hours of battery life.
- Multiple connectivity options are available.
Cons
- No Ethernet port available, wireless internet only.
- Windows 10 Home S mode will require upgrading.
5 Acer Aspire 5 – Best Ryzen 3 Laptop Under $400
Acer Aspire’s laptop exceeds all expectations with both specifications and performance. This attractive 15.6-inch laptop has a stunning Full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution display. It uses IPS panel technology for greater color accuracy and wider viewing angles. If you want the Best Laptop Under $400, this is worth serious consideration.
The screen is not the only pleasant part to look at on this laptop. The classy silver case, along with the deep black bezels and keyboard, gives a touch of class. And the best part is there’s still plenty more to get excited about.
Ryzen to the challenge…
This is our first product here to use an AMD CPU chip. The Ryzen 3 3200U dual-core four-thread processor idles at 2.6GHz and can boost up to 3.5GHz. There’s even integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics built-in too. Therefore, it’s one of the best high performance laptops under $400 you will find.
While the memory is still only 4GB of DDR4 RAM on this laptop, it can easily be upgraded for even better performance. For storage, the latest NVMe SSD technology is used with a 128GB drive which will load your programs at lightning speed.
But that’s not all…
Acer didn’t stop with the great CPU and SSD; they kept the features coming with things like a fully backlit keyboard. Super-fast Internet is also possible using either the RJ45 Ethernet port or the 2×2 802.11ac WiFi.
Connectivity is covered extensively, including two USB 2.0 ports and a single USB 3.1 port for fast charging and high-speed data transfer. If you wish to use an external monitor, the HDMI out port makes it very simple.
(4.9 / 5)Pros
- Incredibly powerful Ryzen 3 processor with integrated Vega 3 graphics.
- Full HD 1920 x 1080p IPS display panel.
- Latest technology NVMe SSD storage drive.
Cons
- No built-in SD card reader.
- For optimal use, upgrade from Windows 10 S mode.
6 Jumper – Best Windows 10 Laptop Under $400
To compete with the big brand names, you need to offer something appealing and special. Jumper has done just that with this amazingly great value machine. It is packed with features you wouldn’t expect at this price.
Even though you may not have heard of Jumper, they have been committed to creating notebooks, laptops, and tablets for 22 years. This compact and light laptop is a great all-arounder for a wide range of uses.
You’ll recognize this name…
For fast and reliable performance, Jumper uses an Intel Celeron quad-core N3450 processor. For intelligent and efficient performance, the CPU operates between 1.1GHz and 2.2GHz depending on what task is being completed.
Multitasking is performed fluidly using the 8GB of DDR3 SDRAM with double the memory of most other laptops in this range. There’s plenty of storage space, too, with the 128GB of ROM. This helps make it one of the largest memory laptops under $400 currently out there.
Beyond expectations…
Viewing your work is a pleasure on the 13.3-inch Full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution screen. It also uses an IPS panel that has more accurate colors and a wider viewing angle than TF panels commonly found in this price range.
Connectivity includes two USB 3.0 ports for fast charging and high-speed data transfer. There’s also a convenient built-in SD card reader. A mini-HDMI port can be used, but it would have been nicer to be full-sized.
(4.4 / 5)Pros
- Intel Celeron processor and 8GB of RAM.
- Full HD 1920 x 1080p IPS panel.
- Easily expandable storage from 128GB.
Cons
- Smaller 13.3-inch screen.
- Will need an HDMI adapter from the mini-HDMI.
7 ASUS L210 – Best Kids Laptop Under $400
Next in our review of the Best Laptop Under $400, this compact little laptop is great for school kids as it will fit easily in their backpack or bag. Maintaining the quality, you would expect from ASUS, you have surprising performance for an incredibly affordable price.
The L210 is capable of performing web browsing for research and running word processing for completing projects and assignments. There are even more features that will allow the kids to increase their learning productivity.
Smart and efficient…
ASUS has chosen the highly efficient and intelligent Intel Celeron dual-core processor. It runs between a power-saving 1.1GHz, and a productive 2.8GHz depending on the task that is being performed at the time.
Basic multitasking between web browser tabs and word processing is handled easily by the 4GB of DDR4 RAM for memory. All of your child’s projects and assignments can additionally be stored on the eMMC flash storage drive.
A great learning tool…
With a smaller 11.6-inch HD 1366 x 768p screen, there is still plenty of desk space. The L210 is only 0.7-inches (1.8 centimeters) thin and weighs only 2.2 pounds (1 kilo). Making great use of the space, the trackpad can double up as a numeric pad for added productivity.
For those late-night study sessions, the keyboard is backlit for easy use in low light conditions. It will even last all day at school without needing a charge with up to a long 12 hours of battery life.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Highly affordable laptop for school kids.
- Small, light, and compact design makes transportation easy.
- Long battery life and backlit keyboard.
Cons
- A smaller screen might be difficult for older eyes.
- Limited function with Windows 10 Home S unless upgraded.
8 HP – Best Value for the Money Laptop Under $400
Everything you would come to expect from an HP product is still included in this budget model. Featuring a beautiful rose gold finish around the exterior and a stylish silver inside, this machine is sure to impress.
The 14-inch HD 1366 x 768p resolution screen is in the sweet spot for size. It’s big enough for easy viewing and small enough to keep the laptop portable. And it is backed up with integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600.
Turbo boosted processor…
Powering this attractive laptop is the dual-core Intel Celeron N4020 processor. For absolute efficiency, it will idle at 1.1GHz, and when needed, boost up to 2.8GHz. Basic multitasking is possible, too, with 4GB of DDR4 RAM.
The storage drive is not huge at only 64GB, but it is certainly fast. Using SSD flash technology, programs load extremely quickly due to the high-speed read and write capabilities.
Latest connectivity options…
Even though this is a budget PC, it is still fitted with the latest in connectivity technology. It features two USB 3.0 ports and a single USB-C port. Easily use an external monitor for viewing with an HDMI 1.4 output port.
Wireless accessories receive energy-efficient and reliable connections using Bluetooth 5.0. Connect to the internet wirelessly with high speeds thanks to the built-in dual-band WiFi chip.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- Beautiful rose gold and silver color scheme.
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600.
- Latest connectivity technology.
Cons
- No SD card reader included.
- Only a small 64GB storage drive.
9 Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – Best Business Laptop Under $400
When you think of a Lenovo laptop, you think of a reliable business workhorse. It might be surprising that you can purchase a budget model with the Lenovo brand attached. Well, believe it or not, here it is.
Enjoy sharp and detailed visuals on the 15.6-inch 1366 x 768p resolution screen. Enhance those visuals also with Dolby Audio augmented sound for crystal clear sound. Plus, there is still much more to enjoy too.
Powerful AMD processor…
Lenovo has outdone themselves by offering an AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor in their IdeaPad 3. This processor has 2 cores and 4 threads with an operating speed between 2.6GHz and 3.5GHz, blowing the Intel Celeron away.
Helping the processor along further with some memory is 4GB of DDR4 RAM providing basic multitasking ability. Taking further pressure off the CPU is integrated AMD Radeon Vega 3 graphics. As a result, it’s one of the best AMD Radeon laptops under $400 currently on the market.
A full version of Windows 10…
Instead of being installed with Windows 10 S, which has restricted ability, you get the full Windows 10 Home version. It is installed on a super-fast, latest technology NVMe 128GB SSD storage drive.
There are still many more useful features, too, like dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 4.1 wireless connectivity. You also get a webcam with an integrated microphone, three USB ports, an SD card reader, and an HDMI output port.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 3 processor.
- A full version of Windows 10 Home.
- Fast NVMe 128GB SSD storage drive.
Cons
- Shorter battery life of around 6 hours than competitors.
- Webcam has low frame rates but is still usable.
10 Fusion 5 – Best Bargain Laptop Under $400
The final product in our Best Laptop Under $400 review is an up-and-coming brand that is striving to match and even exceed the big brands. It is a great value machine, using quality components and having useful features.
One of the quality components is the 14.1-inch Full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution IPS panel display. Images are crisp and detailed, making this machine great for watching YouTube or Netflix for your favorite movies and series.
Small price, big power…
Fusion uses an Intel Atom quad-core processor that can run at speeds between 1.44GHz and 1.92GHz. This is enough power for general web browsing, word processing, spreadsheets, and video streaming.
Basic multitasking functions can be done by taking advantage of the 4GB DDR4 RAM. Easily switch between multiple browser tabs and low-demand programs. There’s also 64GB of NVMe storage, which can be expanded further.
Make some connections…
There are multiple options for connecting other accessories to this laptop. Featuring a USB 3.0 port and USB 2.0 port, along with an SD card reader. Use an external monitor, too, with the HDMI output port.
Unlike many of these other laptops, you will receive a full version of Windows 10 Professional. This unlocks the full features offered by Windows without needing to perform any updates.
(4.1 / 5)Pros
- Full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution IPS panel display.
- The storage drive is expandable.
- A full version of Windows 10 Professional.
Cons
- The CPU is not as powerful as other competitors.
- Limited connectivity options compared to other products.
Looking for Something Else?
If you want a laptop, we’ve got plenty of them. Check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Laptop With DVD Drive, the Best Gaming Laptops Under $2,000, and the Best Gaming Laptops For Sims 4 you can buy in 2023.
Or, how about our comprehensive Best GTX 1070 Laptops Review and our Best GTX 1080 Laptops Reviews for even more awesome laptops currently on the market.
And you might like our Best Laptop Trays And Tables For Beds Review, our Best Universal Laptop AC Chargers Review, and our Best Magnetic USB Charging Cables Review for additional items currently available.
What is the Best Laptop Under $400?
Choosing the best laptop for under $400 was not easy. We were blown away by what’s available for this price. In the end, there can only be one winner, and the product we will be crowning best is the…
It has one of the most powerful processors in this price range with the awesome AMD Ryzen 3. Add to that the spectacular Full HD 1920 x 1080p screen. With so many great specs, we can forgive the missing SD card reader and need to upgrade from Windows 10 S.
Until next time, enjoy your new laptop.
