Laptops Under 400 Dollars
Dual Core Laptops Under 400 Dollars
Dual core refers to the processor technology embedded in the laptop. What exactly is a dual core processor? It is just a technological advancement by Intel that is described by its name. In simple words, Intel CPUs with double processors inside them are called dual core CPUs. It is true that recently Intel has gone far beyond double processors and has introduced multi core technologies to the market but the dual core technology is still not outdated. Even though it is not the best technology in the computer industry it is recommendable to users who require a little faster performance.
You are probably wondering what a double processor inside a CPU would do for you. What it means in simple terms is that a dual core processor could compute a certain task with in half the time it could be computed with a typical “single core” processor. The advantage of this is that the computer will operate faster keeping the time glass away from view. Heavy duty applications will run smoother with vibrant graphics on the display. If you are a graphics editor, animation artist or a design engineer then the dual core laptops should be your low cost options. You should target for dual core laptops under 400 USD and harness the capacity.
Brand: Toshiba Satellite
Model: C655D-S5234
Brief Description: Demanding applications are not just satisfied with processing speed only. There is also the requirement of more memory (RAM). This laptop comes with a 3GB memory with its AMD Dual-Core C-50 accelerated processor. This high performance laptop comes with an LED back lit 15.6 inch widescreen display on top of which is mounted a built in webcam with integrated microphone. An optical drive to read/write on CDs/DVDs, 320 GB hard drive to store thousands of files and a wireless LAN to easily connect to the internet are also standard features of this laptop.
Price tag: This laptop is offered for 355 USD which makes it a good candidate for the category dual core laptops under 400.
Brand: Compaq Presario
Model: CQ57-229WM
Brief Description: The black compact design of this laptop gives it a modern look. But the AMD Dual-Core C-50 processor with the 2GB DDR3 memory is what concerns us here. The Windows 7 Home Premium operating system looks great on the 15.6 inch display. A 250 GB hard drive, superMulti DVD burner and wireless LAN are also standard features in this laptop.
Price tag: This laptop can be found on Amazon for 350 USD and is also another member of the dual core laptops under 400 group.
Discount Laptops Under 400
With today’s economy most are more frugal than ever before. I remember ten years ago it was almost impossible to find discount laptops under 400. Today you can find laptops under 400 that will meet and exceed most consumer expectations. Last month I had a little bit of extra money in my budget and decided it was time to upgrade to something new.
With my budget I was looking at laptops under 400 dollars. I narrowed my search down to three discount laptops under 400. I had to have at least a 15.6 inch monitor, 4GB ram and a 320GB hard drive. The laptops I found with these specs and within my price range are listed below:
- Toshiba Satellite C655-S5339 – 15.6” Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit Notebook
- Acer Aspire AS5750Z-4887 – 15.6” Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit Notebook
- Lenovo G570 (43344QU) – 15.6” Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit Notebook
While all three have what I’m looking for, there are a few other things to consider when formulating my final decision. One of the most important differences is battery life. The Acer and Lenovo average about 4.5 hours battery life while the Toshiba gets about 5.5 hours on a charge. To me this is a significant advantage for a laptop at this price point. While most specs are almost identical there is one other major difference between the models. The Toshiba also has a 10-key on the side. Although this may not seem significant to many, if you are in the habit of using one it’s a nightmare when no longer there. I end up wasting time when typing because I’m a creature of habit and I find my fingers reaching out for what isn’t there.
My final decision was the Toshiba and I’ve been very happy with it. With the 10-key on the side and the extra battery life when compared to the other models is a great addition to the already wonderful laptop. Be sure to pay attention to the little details when comparing models, because these are the little things that really will stand out throughout your experience!
Buying Tips for Laptops Under 400 Dollars
When purchasing a new Laptop there are many factors you should consider. When you have a budget of $400 you must be very careful on what you purchase and go into this knowing what you need and want. I have made the mistake of purchasing less than what I needed and all it did was frustrate me and destroyed the whole experience. Think about what you are going to primarily need the laptop for and also keep in the back of your mind other things you would like to do. This will help you decide what the best laptops under 400 are taking into consideration size, speed, storage space, keyboard and monitor size.
Here are 5 probing questions to help find which route to take:
1.) What size monitor do I need?
Netbooks are less expensive then full-sized laptops. Although the price is right, they are not always easy on the eyes, but they can be very convenient and easy to transport due to the size.
2.) Do I need an optical drive (cd/dvd-rom) for anything?
If you need an optical drive, the netbook is out of the picture unless you use the rest of your budgeted money for an external drive. The downfall with this is you have another device to take with you. On the other hand, if you don’t always need it you don’t have to take it with you. However if you don’t have it with you and need it, you are out of luck.
3.) How big of a hard drive (storage space) do I need?
Most netbooks have smaller hard drives to keep the price down. Laptops usually have more storage space out of the box. In the future no matter which route you take you can always purchase a flash drive or an external hard drive for your storage needs.
4.) What size keyboard is most comfortable and do I need the 10-key on the side?
Laptops have larger keyboards and some also have a 10-key on the side. Netbooks have smaller keyboards that can be difficult to type on even if you have small fingers.
5.) How much battery life will I need between charging to complete the tasks I will use the device for?
Netbooks are slower than laptops and is the biggest “con” when deciding if you should purchase one. They normally don’t have the best battery life either, but you have money from your budget to purchase a second battery. If you can handle the slower processor then make sure if battery life is important you purchase a backup.
The best suggestion I can make is go to a store with a good selection and try them out. Ask a sales associate to show you a demo on both. Try typing, running a few programs at the same time, check battery life and ask questions. I spend a day with a piece of paper and a pen writing down any questions I can think of and I take that pad with me. And don’t feel bad writing down model numbers and calling other retailers or searching on-line for a better price. There’s nothing wrong with getting a better deal!
