Suggestions for a laptop under $400

[left-of-center2012]

I know one gets what one pays for but I am 75, and on Social Security.
Just need something to surf the net, listen to YouTube music videos, and post email.
I'd like something around a 14" screen.

No gaming, etc.
Not interested in a Chrome book (?).

Thanks

[jrandom421]

1. Start here

I've gotten a number of decent systems from here for a good price


https://www.dell.com/en-us/dfh/shop/dell-refurbished/cp/outlet

[left-of-center2012]

9. thanks

bookmarked

[Hoyt]

2. I've had good luck with Dell refurbished models. I use mine for work with big documents

and surfing, etc. I bet you can get something very good for $300. Other refurbished models can be good too.

Good luck.

[essaynnc]

3. I get dell refurbished

at work almost exclusively. www.dellrefurbished.com. I think that's right. sign up and they occasionally send a coupon deal for big discounts. the last was mother's day, 40% off and free shipping. good luck!

[TreasonousBastard]

4. I've had good results with Tiger Direct...

https://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/category/super.asp. They have lots of HP stuff which I would avoid like the plague. Other stuff, like Lenovo, Asus, and Dell are all over there.

The laptop I'm typing on now is a Lenovo I got at (gasp!) Walmart for about 220 bucks, new, maybe two years ago. It's beat up and missing the "K" key. But, it's been working like a champ all along.

I say avoid HP because I had two HP all-in-one desktops that died on me for no understandable reason. Cost me good money, too.

[left-of-center2012]

10. thanks

[lordsummerisle]

5. Looking at your requirements

it would seem that a chrome book would be perfect. What's your objection to them?

[left-of-center2012]

8. A friend has a Chrome book

It won't work with his printer and I need my printer occasionally.

[Demsrule86]

20. Chrome books do work with WIFI printers and with cord but not Blueooth printers

That being said I don't like them much myself. It has its own operating system and you can't easily install Windows software, or certain games.

[csziggy]

6. Another vote for a refurbished laptop - I've had good success with NewEgg.com

Here is a link to the page of their refurbished laptops: https://www.newegg.com/p/pl?d=refurbished&N=100006740&Order=1

You can go through the choices in the left column and narrow down the options. I just selected Windows 10, 8 GB RAM, and 14-14.5" screen and there were quite a few under under $300.

ETA - I've also had good performance with a Lenovo laptop.

[left-of-center2012]

11. Thanks

bookmarked

[Generic Brad]

7. Buy a cup of coffee at Starbucks and wait

When someone using a laptop that meets your specifications excuses themselves to use the restroom, swipe it and run like hell.

You did ask for suggestions.

[left-of-center2012]

12. .

[Generic Brad]

14. I wouldn't go that route either

Personally, I’m very happy with an iPad. You can even get Bluetooth keyboards for them if you prefer a more traditional computer feel.

[keithbvadu2]

13. I have bought two refurb desktop Dells from Walmart and they have done very well.

I have bought two refurb desktop Dells from Walmart and they have done very well.

[left-of-center2012]

21. You mention 'desktop'

I want a laptop, but will check their site for a laptop.
Thanks

[keithbvadu2]

22. Yeah. That's the only reference I can give.

Yeah. That's the only reference I can give.

[lillypaddle]

15. Just got a new hp silver pentium

with the last stimulus payment. I disabled the S switch, which was easy enough.

So far, so good! It was $362.

[left-of-center2012]

16. the S switch

What's that ?

[lillypaddle]

17. Relates to Windows 10

briefly, from Google:

Windows 10 S Mode is a configuration that is designed to give you faster boot times, longer battery life, and better security. However, with Windows 10 S, you can't use certain web browsers or download any apps that are not in the Microsoft Store.

Once you turn it off, you can't undo it. As I said, it was very easy to turn off and I don't have to use Edge as my browser, or only Microsoft apps.

[left-of-center2012]

18. Thanks n/t

[Demsrule86]

19. Try a Dell...I bought mine on EBAY...and you can get a warranty which I used on my

sisters and they were great.