Best Laptops Under $400 In April 2025 [10 Budget Laptops]

Are you looking for the best laptops under $400 in 2023? You’re in luck! In today's market, many laptops offer great features and performance without breaking the bank.

From powerful processors to lightweight designs, these budget-friendly options have everything you need to stay productive and connected on the go.

We've researched and compiled a list of top 10 laptops under $400, so you can find your perfect match. Whether for work or play, we're sure one of these picks will meet all your needs at an unbeatable price point.

Top 10 Laptops Under $400 In 2025

Considering all this information, look at the 10 best laptops you can get for under $400.

1. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop

Performance

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has an 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 Dual-Core processor. It has a base clock speed of 3GHz and a 6MB Intel Smart Cache. It can reach speeds of up to 4.1GHz, so it’s powerful enough to handle most everyday tasks and some gaming.

It comes with an integrated Intel UHD Graphics card which can handle some light gaming.

Build Quality and Design

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop is made of aluminum chassis with an almond-colored finish. The durability of this laptop is also pretty good, thanks to the robust construction. It looks and feels premium, so you won't be disappointed in the build quality.

Thermals and Battery Life

Thanks to its advanced cooling system, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has good thermals. The fans keep the temperatures low, even during intensive tasks like gaming or video editing.

The battery life of this laptop is excellent, lasting about seven hours on a single charge. It allows you to get through a full day of work or school without needing to plug in.

Memory

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has 8GB of DDR4 RAM, allowing you to multitask and run multiple apps simultaneously. It also has a 256GB M.2 Solid State Drive (PCI-e) for storage, giving you enough of room to store your files.

Display

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has a 15.6-inch HD (1366 x 768) display, which looks great and has good viewing angles. It also comes with an anti-glare coating to reduce any reflections from bright light sources. The touch screen helps to make it more user-friendly.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has a full-sized island-style keyboard with backlighting. The keys are well-spaced and provide good tactile feedback when typing. It also has a large precision trackpad, making navigating the display easy.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Lenovo IdeaPadPad 3 laptop has a variety of ports for connecting to external devices. It has two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports for connecting peripherals, one USB 2.0 Type-A port for connecting older devices, and an HDMI port for connecting to an external display or projector.

A combination audio jack for connecting headphones or speakers and a Multi-format SD Media Card slot allows you to transfer files directly from your camera or other devices.

The connectivity options include 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo, so you can easily connect to the Internet or other devices wirelessly.

The sound system on the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop is quite good, with two 2W stereo speakers that have Dolby Audio support. It enhances the audio quality and gives you a nice immersive experience when watching movies or playing games.

Size and Weight

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has a dimension of 16.3 x 11.2 x 1'' inches and weighs just 3.64 pounds (1.65 kg), making it very portable and easy to carry around with you.

Camera and Microphone

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has a 720p HD camera with a built-in microphone array, allowing you to make calls or record videos easily.

Pricing and Availability

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop is priced at just $387, making it one of the best budget laptops available. You can purchase it from various retailers, including Amazon and Best Buy.

Upgradability Options

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop has an extra slot for adding an extra memory module to upgrade it to a maximum of 20GB RAM. It also has M.2 slot for adding another SSD if needed.

Our Verdict

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop is a great budget option for those who need portability and don't want to spend too much money. Thanks to the Intel processor and 8GB of RAM, and excellent battery life that lasts an entire day of work or school, it performs well.

The build quality is also quite good, and the display looks great with good viewing angles. Plus, upgrading is easy if you need more memory or storage space. With all these features, it's no wonder this laptop is one of the best under $400.

2. HP Laptop

Performance

The HP Laptop is powered by an 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor designed to deliver excellent performance. It has a base clock speed of 2.4GHz, with Turbo Boost up to 4.2GHz and 8MB of L3 cache for fast loading times and smooth multitasking.

The Intel Iris Xe Graphics handles the graphics, which can handle even demanding tasks such as video editing and gaming. This HP notebook is the best windows laptop under $400.

Build Quality and Design

The HP Laptop is well-built, which ensures long-lasting performance, and it looks pretty stylish with its sleek silver body gives it a modern look. Hence, it would easily fit in at any workplace or school.

Thermals and Battery Life

The HP Laptop has a decent thermal performance which keeps the laptop cool and prevents it from overheating during long usage sessions.

As for the battery life comes with a 3-cell, 41Wh Li-ion battery, which can last up to 7 hours and 15 minutes with mixed usage and 9 hours and 15 minutes of video playback. It also supports fast charging so you can get a 50% charge in just 45 minutes.

Memory

The HP Laptop is equipped with 8GB of DDR4 RAM, which offers good performance for multitasking and running multiple programs simultaneously.

In terms of storage, it comes with a 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (solid state drive), ensuring fast boot and loading times when launching applications or games.

Display

The HP Laptop has a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with 250 nits of brightness and a 45% NTSC color gamut for accurate colors. The resolution is 1920 x 1080 pixels which makes it ideal for working with multiple windows.

It has micro-edge bezels on the sides for a more immersive viewing experience, so you can comfortably watch movies or do other tasks from different angles. The anti-glare coating prevents the display from getting too reflective in bright environments.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The HP Laptop offers an excellent typing experience with a full-sized keyboard. There is also a dedicated numeric pad for faster number crunching. The trackpad is also quite responsive and supports multi-touch gestures for navigating the OS.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The HP Laptop has all the essential I/O ports that you might need. It includes one SuperSpeed USB Type-C port (5Gbps signaling rate) for connecting peripherals and external displays. There are also two SuperSpeed USB Type-A ports (5Gbps signaling rate) for connecting USB flash drives and other devices.

It also has an HDMI 1.4b port for connecting the laptop to an external display, one AC smart pin for charging, a headphone/mic combo jack so that you can plug in your headphones, and one multi-format SD media card reader for transferring data from digital cameras or other compatible devices.

This laptop comes with the latest MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 technology for faster wireless speeds and a more extended range, so you can stay connected to the internet even if you are far from the router. Bluetooth 5.2 offers a reliable connection for connecting Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Furthermore, dual stereo speakers are loud and clear, so you can enjoy watching movies, playing games, or listening to music.

Size and Weight

The HP Laptop is quite portable as it has a slim profile, measuring just 14.11 x 9.53 x 0.71 inches in dimension and weighing 3.75 pounds (1.69 kg). This makes it easy to carry around in your bag wherever you go.

Camera and Microphone

The HP Laptop has a TrueVision HD camera with 1280 x 720 pixels resolution. It also has integrated dual-array digital microphones that offer clear audio quality to make video calls without hassles.

Pricing and Availability

The HP Laptop is one of the best laptops for $400. It has a powerful processor and decent specs, which make it an excellent value-for-money option. It is available for purchase online and in stores. You can also find it on e-commerce sites like Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy, etc.

Upgradability Options

The HP Laptop can be upgraded as it has two SO-DIMM slots for additional RAM and an M.2 slot to add solid-state drive (SSD).

Our Verdict

The HP Laptop is an excellent laptop for the price. It has all the necessary features and specs you need for everyday tasks, plus it has good upgradability options so that you can get more out of your laptop in the future.

Its slim profile and lightweight design make it very portable. Therefore, the HP Laptop is worth considering if you are looking for an affordable laptop that can handle your everyday tasks without any problems.

3. Asus VivoBook 15 Laptop

Performance

The Asus VivoBook 15 is powered by a 10th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor with 8MB Cache and a base clock speed of 2.4GHz that can be boosted up to 4.2GHz.

It offers enough power for everyday tasks such as web browsing, video streaming, and basic photo editing. This laptop has integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics that are good enough to handle light gaming.

Build Quality and Design

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has a sleek design and is made of durable materials. It has a smooth finish that looks great and feels good to the touch.

It has a slim profile which makes it very portable. The Slate Gray color adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of this laptop.

Thermals and Battery Life

Thanks to its cooling system, the Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has good thermal performance and can handle heat efficiently. The noise level is also relatively low, which ensures a quiet and comfortable working environment.

The battery life of this laptop is decent. It can last 5-6 hours on a single charge, so you don’t have to worry about charging it too often.

Memory

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has 12GB DDR4 memory, which provides enough power to run multiple applications simultaneously without any issues.

It has a storage of 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (solid state drive), which is quite spacious and can easily store all your data.

Display

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has a 15.6-inch full HD LED touchscreen display with 1920 x 1080 resolution and 10-finger multi-touch support. If you ask for best touch screen laptop under $400, then Asus VivoBook 15 is our priority to the users.

It ensures you enjoy a great viewing experience with sharp and vibrant visuals. The touchscreen allows you to navigate and interact with the laptop more easily.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard of the Asus VivoBook 15 laptop is comfortable to use and has ergonomic backlit keys for easy typing in low-light conditions. It has a dust-resistant keyboard that can withstand spills. The trackpad is also fairly accurate and responsive, allowing you to navigate around the screen without any issues.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has a wide range of I/O ports. It has one USB 3.1 Type-A port, one USB 3.1 Type-C port, two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port, a headphone/microphone combo, and an SD media card reader.

The USB 3.1 Type-A port allows you to transfer data quickly, while the HDMI port enables you to connect an external monitor or projector. The USB 3.1 Type-C port provides faster data transfer speeds and supports other devices. USB 2.0 Type-A helps to connect various peripherals.

A headphone/microphone combo lets you enjoy audio and video files. The SD media card reader can be used to transfer data from memory cards.

The connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth, ensuring a reliable internet connection and other compatible devices.

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has stereo speakers that provide loud and clear sound output.

Size and Weight

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has a compact form factor and weighs only 3.97 pounds (1.80 kg), which makes it very portable and easy to carry as it has a dimension of 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.8 inches.

Camera and Microphone

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has an HD 720p camera with a face-tracking feature that lets you easily take selfies and video calls. The computer has a built-in high-quality microphone that ensures clear audio output.

Pricing and Availability

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop is priced at around $445, which is very reasonable for a laptop of this quality. It is available from various online retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy.

Upgradability Options

The Asus VivoBook 15 laptop has upgradability options, allowing you to upgrade the memory and storage if you need more space or more power.

Our Verdict

This laptop offers excellent performance, good build quality, and a premium design. It has enough I/O ports for all your external devices and a touchscreen display that makes it easier to interact with the laptop.

Furthermore, its lightweight design makes it very portable. The memory and storage options are more than enough for anyone looking for a budget laptop. All these features make the Asus VivoBook 15 laptop one of the best for under $400.

4. Acer Aspire 3 Laptop

Performance

The AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor powers the Acer Aspire 3 laptop. It has a base clock speed of 2.4GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.1GHz, which offers a good combination of performance and power efficiency.

The processor is paired with an AMD Radeon Graphics card, which makes it capable of running most tasks without any issues.

Build Quality and Design

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop has a sturdy build quality with a sleek aluminum design which looks appealing and feels more premium than its price tag would suggest. It has chamfered edges and an excellent tactile feel.

Thermals and Battery Life

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop has good thermals and can handle high CPU workloads without getting very hot. The laptop stays cool even after playing games or using the laptop for long hours. The battery life on this laptop is excellent and can last up to 11 hours on a single charge.

This is great for those who are always on the go and need their laptop to last through the day without recharge.

Memory

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop has 8GB of LPDDR5 memory; this is enough for most tasks. However, it does not provide a lot of room for upgradability options, so you may need to consider external storage solutions if you require more space.

The storage gives you 128GB of SSD storage, which is enough for most users but may not be sufficient for those who require a lot of storage.

Display

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop has a 15.6-inch full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED-backlit IPS display, which gives you clear and vibrant visuals and makes it perfect for streaming videos or playing games.

The display also supports HDR content, giving you more dynamic colors. It has a 60Hz refresh rate, so the screen looks smooth and responsive. The ComfyView technology also reduces the amount of blue light exposure, making it easier on your eyes.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard on the Acer Aspire 3 laptop has good feedback, making it easy to type for long periods. Even without a backlight, the keys are labeled with a generous font size that allows you to type comfortably in low-lit settings. The trackpad is large and responsive to multi-finger gestures.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop has an ample selection of I/O ports, including 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port (up to 10 Gbps), DisplayPort over USB Type-C & USB Charging, 1x HDMI 2.1 Port with HDCP support, 1x DC-in for AC adapter, and a headphone/microphone combo.

The USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports are great for connecting external storage solutions, while the USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port supports fast data transfer speeds and external monitors. The DC-in for AC adapter allows easy charging of the laptop. A headphone/microphone combo port is included for audio input or output.

It has the latest (802.11ax) Wi-Fi 6 and 2x2 MIMO technology, which ensures fast, reliable Wi-Fi speeds. The Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to connect to external peripherals.

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop speakers are good and provide surprisingly loud audio, considering the laptop's price. The clear and crisp sound makes it great for streaming music or movies.

Size and Weight

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop is slim, measuring in at just 14.29 x 0.74 x 9.35 inches, and light at 3.97 pounds (1.80 kg). This makes it easy to take when traveling and is perfect for those who are always on the go.

Camera and Microphone

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop comes with a 720p HD camera. The image quality is decent and provides crisp visuals even in low-light conditions. It has an integrated microphone that is perfect for conference calls and video chats.

The microphone also has noise cancellation technology, eliminating background noise while providing clear audio.

Pricing and Availability

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop is available for under $400, making it one of the best-value laptops. This laptop offers excellent bang for your buck for its features and performance.

It is widely available online and in many retail stores. It's easy to find, and you can usually get it quickly shipped or picked up at your local store.

Upgradability Options

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop's RAM and storage are soldered onto the motherboard, so they cannot be upgraded. However, you can upgrade the storage, increasing capacity if you want more space.

Our Verdict

The Acer Aspire 3 laptop is one of the best laptops under $400. It has an impressive specs sheet with a 15.6-inch full HD display, abundant I/O ports, fast Wi-Fi connectivity, and decent audio.

The only downside is that the RAM and storage are soldered onto the motherboard, so they cannot be upgraded. With its competitive price tag and great features, this laptop is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable laptop.

5. Dell Inspiron 15 3511 Laptop

Performance

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop offers excellent performance with its 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, with a base frequency of 3GHz. It can reach up to 4.1GHz with the Intel Turbo Boost technology.

The processor provides a good amount of power for multitasking. The graphics are handled by Intel UHD Graphics, which is suitable for basic tasks.

Build Quality and Design

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop is well-built with solid chassis. The lid and base are sturdy, and the interior is made of soft-touch materials that improve the user experience. It has a narrow border display which gives it a modern look.

Thermals and Battery Life

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop has great thermals and does not heat up so much even when under load. The fan noise is relatively low, making it suitable for everyday use.

It comes with 3-cell, 41Whr battery, which provides decent battery life. The laptop can last up to 6 hours on a single charge, making it suitable for extended use.

Memory

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM, which offers good multitasking performance. The storage is handled by a 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (solid state drive), which provides fast boot and load times.

Display

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop has a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) anti-glare LED backlight non-touch narrow border WVA display, which offers great visuals with its high resolution and excellent contrast ratio. The display is also anti-glare, so it won't reflect light and cause eye strain.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop has a full-size backlit keyboard that offers good key travel and feedback. The trackpad is also quite large and supports Windows precision drivers, making it smooth and accurate.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop has a great selection of I/O ports, including two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, one HDMI port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack for audio connectivity.

The USB 3.2 Type-A port supports power delivery, so it can be used to charge other devices, and the USB 2.0 Type-A port is backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices. The HDMI port allows you to connect an external display.

The connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11ax and Bluetooth 5.0, which offer fast and reliable wireless connectivity. The laptop also has two built-in stereo speakers, which are loud and clear enough for watching movies and listening to music.

Size and Weight

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop weighs 3.82 pounds (1.73 kg) and is ‎14.11 x 9.27 x 0.74 inches in dimension, making it a lightweight and portable device that can easily fit in a backpack or even a small bag.

Camera and Microphone

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop has an HD (720p) webcam, which can be used for video calls. The camera also supports Windows Hello face authentication, so you don't have to type in your password when you log into the computer. It has a built-in microphone which is good enough for video calls, online meetings, and voice recordings.

Pricing and Availability

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop is available for purchase at a very reasonable price of $384. You can buy it from online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

Upgradability Options

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 laptop is upgradeable to upgrade the RAM and storage. The laptop comes with two SODIMM slots. If needed, you can replace the existing M.2 SSD with a larger one.

Our Verdict

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 is an excellent laptop for those looking for good performance, solid build quality, long battery life, and an excellent display at an affordable price.

Its 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor provides enough power for everyday tasks. The laptop also has a decent selection of I/O ports. We highly recommend this laptop to anyone in need of a budget laptop.

6. Lenovo Ideapad 3i Laptop

Performance

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop is powered by the 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, a dual-core processor with a base clock speed of 3GHz and a max turbo boost frequency of 4.1GHz.

The integrated Intel UHD Graphics handles the graphic performance. The laptop can easily handle word processing, web browsing, and video streaming tasks.

Build Quality and Design

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has a well-built design with high-quality materials, which is quite durable and scratch resistant. The laptop has a platinum grey finish, which looks quite professional and minimalistic.

Thermals and Battery Life

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has good thermals and runs cool even when it's under load. The laptop doesn't produce too much noise and is not loud even at full load, which makes it great for use in a quiet environment.

This laptop has a decent battery that lasts up to six hours on a single charge when used for light tasks like web browsing and video streaming.

Memory

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has 8GB of DDR4 RAM, so that you won't have an issue with multitasking. The storage options include a 256GB M.2 NVMe SSD (solid state drive), fast enough to boot the system quickly and open applications instantly.

Display

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has a 15.6-inch Full HD with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is quite sharp and produces good colors with excellent viewing angles.

The display also supports up to 250 nits of brightness, so you can use it in bright environments without any issues. It has an anti-glare coating which makes it good for use outdoors.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has a full-size traditional keyboard, which is quite comfortable for long typing sessions. The keys have a reasonable travel distance so that you can type accurately without any issues. There is also a large touchpad, which supports Windows 10’s precision drivers and gestures.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has a decent selection of I/O ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports for connecting peripherals, one USB 2.0 Type-A port for connecting legacy devices.

And one HDMI port for connecting external monitors and TVs, one headphone/microphone combo jack for audio and one 4-in-1 media card reader which supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.

The laptop supports Wi-Fi (802.11 Wireless-AC) 2x2 and Bluetooth 5.0, which allow you to stay connected wirelessly. There are also two 1.5 W speakers with Dolby Audio, which deliver immersive sound. Hence, you can enjoy media on this laptop without any issues.

Size and Weight

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop is 14.26 x 9.98 x 0.78 inches (D x W x H) and weighs 4.07 pounds (1.84 kg), which is relatively light and portable enough for taking it with you on the go.

Camera and Microphone

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop has a 720p HD webcam that captures clear, detailed images and videos. It also has a built-in dual-array microphone, suitable for making voice calls and video conferencing.

Pricing and Availability

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop currently retails for $418, which is quite a good deal for its specifications and features. It is widely available in both online and offline stores. It can also be found on the most popular e-commerce websites like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, etc.

Upgradability Options

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop can easily be upgraded with more RAM and storage. It has two memory slots and one M.2 slot for additional storage, so you can upgrade it in the future if required.

Our Verdict

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop is an excellent choice for users looking for a computer that can handle everyday tasks without breaking the bank.

It has a good build quality and design, good thermals and battery life, decent memory and storage options, a sharp display with good viewing angles, proper I/O ports and connectivity, and two speakers with Dolby Audio support.

On top of that, it has an upgradeable design and is priced very reasonably. Overall, we highly recommend the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i laptop for anyone who wants a reliable machine for everyday computing tasks at an affordable price.

7. Microsoft Surface Laptop

Performance

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is powered by a 10th Generation Intel Core i5-1035G1 Quad-Core 1GHz Processor (6MB Intel Smart Cache, up to 3.6GHz), capable of handling everyday tasks without any issues. Intel UHD integrated graphics can handle light gaming and casual photo/video editing.

Build Quality and Design

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a sleek and premium design, which looks very attractive. The laptop is made from durable anodized aluminum, which can withstand minor drops and bumps.

Thermals and Battery Life

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has excellent thermals thanks to the efficient cooling system. The laptop stays cool even during heavy workloads and does not heat up excessively.

It has a fantastic battery life that can last up to 13 hours, which should be enough for an entire day of work or entertainment. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on usage and settings.

Memory

The Microsoft Surface Laptop comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which is suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing and word processing.

It also has a 256GB M.2 NVMe SSD (solid state drive), which is fast and offers enough storage space for all your documents, music, and movies.

Display

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with a 1536 x 1024 pixels resolution. The display is sharp and offers excellent viewing angles so that you can share the screen with multiple people without any loss of clarity.

The touch sensitivity is also exquisite, so you can easily use the laptop for drawing and other tasks that require precise inputs.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a chiclet-style keyboard, which offers a comfortable typing experience. The trackpad is large and precise, making navigating the laptop’s UI easy.

Although the laptop does not have a dedicated number pad, it has function keys that can be used to replace the number pad.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a variety of I/O ports, including a USB Type-C port which can be used for charging and data transfer, a USB Type-A port for connecting peripherals, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The laptop also has a Surface Connect port used for power delivery.

It has good connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for fast and reliable internet access and Bluetooth version 5.0 for connecting wireless peripherals.

It has two Omnisonic Speakers with Dolby Audio Premium, providing a powerful sound output. The speakers are loud enough for a medium-sized room and can quickly fill the space with music or sound from movies or games.

Size and Weight

The dimension of the Microsoft Surface Laptop is ‎10.95 x 8.1 x 0.62 inches, and it weighs just 2.45 pounds (1.11 kg), making it one of the lightest and thinnest laptops in this list. This makes it ideal for portability, so you can easily carry the laptop if you’re going to school or on vacation.

Camera and Microphone

The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a 720p HD webcam with Windows Hello facial recognition support, so you can quickly and easily unlock the laptop with just a glance. The laptop also has a dual microphone array for better audio input, making it perfect for video conferencing or streaming.

Pricing and Availability

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is one of the best laptops under $400 and is currently available for just $399.99 on Amazon. You can also find it in stores like Best Buy, where you have the option of buying.

Upgradability Options

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is not upgradeable, so you won’t be able to add more RAM or storage to it. However, if you want to upgrade your laptop, you go for laptops with more upgradability options.

Our Verdict

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is perfect for students and professionals looking for a good laptop without breaking the bank. It has great thermals, a fantastic battery life, an excellent display, a comfortable keyboard, a trackpad, and good connectivity options.

The speakers also provide decent audio output, and the webcam supports facial recognition for easy access. With all that in mind, it's definitely one of the best laptops under $400.

8. ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 Laptop

Performance

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop is powered by an 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, which offers reliable performance for everyday tasks. It has a base frequency of 3GHz and can reach up to 4.1GHz.

It is paired with integrated Intel UHD graphics, offering good performance for casual gaming and media editing.

Build Quality and Design

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 is one of the most stylish laptops on this list. It has a brushed aluminum chassis with a sandblasted finish, giving it a premium look and feel.

The laptop also features a 360-degree hinge which allows you to flip the screen around to use it as a tablet, tent, or stand mode.

Thermals and Battery Life

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop provides good thermals with its excellent cooling system, so you don’t have to worry about overheating when using the computer for prolonged periods.

It also has a decent battery life of up to eight hours, so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice during the day.

Memory

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop has 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM, sufficient for everyday use. It also has 128GB of PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (solid state drive) storage, which is enough for storing your media files and documents.

Display

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 has a 14-inch full HD touchscreen display with 1920 x 1080 pixels. The screen is also anti-glare, so you don’t have to worry about reflections when working outdoors.

Touchscreen features are also available for more intuitive use. It has a 60Hz refresh rate, good enough for casual gaming and media consumption.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard of the ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 is chiclet-style, making it easy to type for long periods. It also has a decent critical travel distance, so you don’t have to worry about feeling cramped when ordering.

It also has a backlit keyboard which is great for working in dark environments. The trackpad is also comfortable to use and supports multi-finger gestures.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 has all the necessary ports and connectivity options for connecting peripherals and accessories. It has one USB 3.0 (Type-A) port for fast data transfers, one USB 2.0 (Type-A) port for connecting your device.

One HDMI port for connecting an external monitor, a Thunderbolt 4 Type-C port for connecting new generation devices, a 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack for connecting headphones and a MicroSD card reader for transferring data from your memory cards.

The laptop also has the latest wireless connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. It offers fast and reliable internet connection and data transfers.

Two stereo speakers provide the audio system, which offer decent sound quality. Hence, you can enjoy watching movies or listening to music without external speakers.

Size and Weight

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop is thin and light, with a dimension of 12.76 x 8.66 x 0.74 inches and a weight of 3.31 pounds (1.5 kg). This makes it ideal for carrying around without feeling too bulky in your bag or backpack.

Camera and Microphone

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop has an HD webcam, which lets you stay connected with friends and family. It also has an integrated digital microphone, ideal for online calls and conferences.

Pricing and Availability

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop is priced at just $424. Its features and specifications make it an excellent choice for an affordable yet capable notebook. It is widely available at major retailers and online stores like Amazon, so you don’t have to worry about finding one in stock.

Upgradability Options

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 laptop is not upgradeable, meaning you can’t increase the RAM or storage. However, if you need more power, you can always upgrade to a higher-end version of the laptop with better specs.

Our Verdict

The ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 is an excellent entry-level laptop for those on a budget. It offers outstanding performance, features, and decent battery life, making it ideal for everyday use. The build quality is also up to par, and the design looks great.

Thunderbolt 4 Type-C port and Wi-Fi 6 support make the laptop future ready. All in all, this is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a budget laptop with respectable specs and features.

9. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

Performance

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop has an AMD Ryzen 3 3350U quad-core processor. It has a 2.1GHz base frequency and can reach up to 3.5GHz at maximum boost clock speed. It also comes with 4-cores, a 4MB cache, and 4 threads, giving you plenty of power for multitasking.

It has an integrated AMD Radeon Vega 6 graphics chip that helps with the visuals, ensuring your games look great and run smoothly.

Build Quality and Design

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop has a sleek, modern design. The laptop feels sturdy in your hands. Hence, it can take some minor bumps and drops without any damage. The silver color of the laptop helps it stand out from its competitors.

Thermals and Battery Life

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop has great thermals, keeping it cool while running intensive applications or tasks. You will not have to worry about your laptop overheating, even when pushing it hard. The laptop's battery life is also better than average and can last up to eight hours with regular usage.

Memory

The memory on the Acer Aspire Slim laptop is 8GB DDR4 SDRAM, which is more than enough for multitasking and running applications. It also has a 128GB M.2 SSD, giving you enough storage space for your files and programs. The (solid-state drive) also helps the laptop boot up faster and run smoother.

Display

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop display is a 15.6-inch widescreen LED-backlit IPS panel. It has an anti-glare finish, so you won’t have to worry about eye strain or fatigue even after prolonged usage.

The colors are vibrant and sharp, with a good contrast ratio. The (1920 x 1080) resolution also allows you to watch movies and play games in full HD.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop has a decent selection of I/O ports. It has one USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C port for fast data transfer, two USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-A ports(Data Transfer only), one HDMI 1.4b port for connecting external displays, and a headphone/microphone combo jack so that you can easily plug in your headphones or microphone.

The laptop has Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support, which allows you to get better speeds with compatible routers. It has Bluetooth version 5.1 as well, which helps in connecting to other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

It has adequate stereo speakers located at the bottom of the laptop. Moreover, the audio is well-balanced, making it ideal for listening to music.

Size and Weight

The size of the Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop is relatively compact, measuring L x W x H (inches): 14.3 x 9.9 x 0.71 inches. It’s lightweight as it weighs only 3.97 pounds (1.80 kg), so it will not make your bag heavy to carry around.

Camera and Microphone

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop has a 720p HD webcam for video conferencing. The image quality is decent, and the colors are accurate. It also has a dual digital microphone, which does an excellent job of picking up your voice clearly for online communications.

Pricing and Availability

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop is affordable at $419. It is available now, so you can quickly get it online or at retailers like Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy.

Upgradability Options

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop is upgradeable in many ways. You can upgrade the memory to a maximum of 20GB, and the storage can be upgraded by replacing the M.2 SSD with a higher-capacity one.

Our Verdict

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim laptop offers many features and components at a low price point. It has enough power for most tasks, and its thermals are good enough to handle intensive workloads without throttling.

Despite its low price, it offers good performance and decent battery life. It is an excellent choice for users looking for a budget-friendly laptop with solid specs.

10. HP Pavillion Laptop

Performance

The HP Pavillion Laptop is powered by the 11th-Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 dual-core processor with a base frequency of 3GHz and a turbo boost to 4.1GHz. It has 6MB of L3 Cache and 4 threads, which offers fast performance in everyday tasks.

It has an integrated Intel UHD graphic that can handle casual gaming and photo editing tasks.

Build Quality and Design

The HP Pavillion Laptop has a heavy-duty metal design, which gives it sturdy construction and a premium feel. The chassis has been reinforced with metal frames to ensure durability, and the textured finish helps in reducing smudges on the surface. It has silver accents on the lid and keyboard, which gives it an elegant look.

Thermals and Battery Life

The HP Pavillion Laptop has good thermals, allowing it to handle intensive workloads without any throttling. It also has a fan for dissipating heat, which helps keep the laptop cool and prevents overheating.

It has a 3-cell, 41Wh lithium-ion battery, which provides decent battery life. It can last up to 6 hours on a single charge, so you can work or play for hours without worrying about charging it.

Memory

The HP Pavillion Laptop has 16GB of DDR4 memory, ensuring smooth multitasking performance even when running multiple programs simultaneously.

It also has 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (solid state drive) storage so that you can store all your files and programs without any lag or slowdowns.

Display

The HP Pavillion Laptop has a large 17.3-inches diagonal HD+ (1600 x 900) display with 220 nits of brightness and 60% NTSC color. It has wide viewing angles, allowing you to view the screen from different angles without losing image quality.

The colors are accurate, and the text is sharp and transparent, making it suitable for multimedia tasks. It has an anti-glare coating so that you can work outdoors without any discomfort.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The HP Pavillion Laptop has a full-sized keyboard. It also has discrete media keys, so you can control your audio and video settings without using the mouse. The trackpad is large and responsive, making navigation easier.

I/O, Connectivity, and Speakers

The HP Pavillion Laptop has numerous ports for connecting various external devices. It has two SuperSpeed USB Type-A ports (5Gbps signaling rate) for connecting other peripherals. It has one USB 2.0 Type-A port for connecting older devices. It also has one HDMI 1.4b port which allows you to connect an external monitor.

The AC smart pin port lets you easily connect the laptop to a power source. It also has an RJ-45 port for connecting to wired networks and a headphone/microphone combo, so you can easily use a headset.

Lastly, it has an SD media card reader, which can transfer data from digital cameras and other devices.

The HP Pavillion Laptop has dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11ac) for stable connection and Bluetooth for connecting wireless peripherals such as headphones or mice.

This laptop has dual stereo speakers, which provide loud and clear audio. The sound is crisp and detailed, so you can enjoy listening to music or watching movies without distortion.

Size and Weight

The HP Pavillion Laptop has a 17.3-inch diagonal display. It has a dimension of 16.33 x 10.72 x 0.93 inches, which makes it slightly bulky, and it weighs around 4.6 pounds (2.08 kg). It is still portable enough to carry in your briefcase but may be too heavy for prolonged use.

Camera and Microphone

The HP Pavillion Laptop has a 720p HD webcam, which allows you to take selfies or join video calls with family and friends. It also has dual digital microphones, so the sound quality is good even in noisy environments.

Pricing and Availability

The HP Pavillion Laptop is listed at a price of $465, which makes it a bit over our $400 budget. It is available online and at select retail stores such as Amazon.

Upgradability Options

The HP Pavillion Laptop can be upgraded with additional memory and storage. It has two RAM slots, so you can double the amount of memory if needed. You can also upgrade the storage by adding a larger SSD. It is easy to access the RAM and storage, making it simple to make upgrades when necessary.

Our Verdict

The HP Pavillion Laptop is an excellent option for a laptop with powerful specs and good build quality. The battery life is decent, and has plenty of ports for connecting other devices. The only downside is that it is slightly over our $400 budget.

This is for you if you’re looking for a reliable laptop to handle everyday tasks and multimedia projects.

Buying Guide: Best Laptops Under $400 In 2025

CPU

Regarding laptops, the processor is one of the most critical components. You want to ensure you get a computer with an excellent CPU to run your applications quickly and efficiently.

Look for laptops with at least an Intel Core i3 processor or better. And if you want an alternate, you can find laptops with AMD Ryzen 3 processors at this price range.

GPU

Another essential component to consider is the graphics processor. You'll want a laptop with a dedicated graphics processor for light gaming or video editing.

Unfortunately, most laptops in this price range don't have a dedicated GPU, but some options are still available. Look for laptops with integrated Intel UHD Graphics or AMD Radeon Graphics.

RAM

RAM (random access memory) is another essential component when choosing a laptop. The more RAM you have, the better your laptop will perform.

Getting at least 4GB of RAM is usually enough for most basic tasks like web browsing, but if you plan on using more intensive programs or playing games, you should get 8GB of RAM.

Storage

The storage capacity of your laptop will determine how much data you can store on it. Most laptops under $400 come with a hard drive or an SSD (solid-state drive).

An HDD is typically slower than an SSD but holds more data. If you're looking for faster speeds, an SSD is the way. Most of the laptops on this list come with either a 128GB or 256GB drive.

Display

A good display is key to watching movies, playing games, and being productive. Ideally, you'll want to find a laptop with 1080p resolution, but some laptops may offer lower resolutions for a lower price.

Some mid-range laptops come with IPS displays, which offer better viewing angles. Look out for LCD screens with LED backlighting, which provide better image quality and are more energy efficient.

Ports

The ports on your laptop are essential for connecting external devices such as a mouse, keyboard, and other peripherals. Look out for laptops with USB ports to easily connect your accessories.

Some laptops even offer Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are incredibly fast but are more expensive. Make sure the laptop you choose has enough ports to meet your needs.

Connectivity

If you plan on using your laptop while traveling, ensure it has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These features will allow you to connect to the internet and other devices without cables quickly. You will also want to look for laptops with the latest Wi-Fi standards for faster speeds.

Battery Life

Getting a laptop with good battery life is essential if you plan on using your laptop away from home. Most laptops in this price range come with a 3-cell battery that should last 6 to 8 hours, but some options offer up to 10 hours of battery life.

However, battery life can vary greatly depending on your laptop use.

Portability

Portability is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a laptop. If you plan on taking your laptop with you, it's best to find one that is lightweight and compact. Most laptops listed here weigh less than 4 pounds and are easy to carry in a backpack.

Price

Last, you'll want to ensure your chosen laptop is within your budget. Prices can range quite a bit in this price range, so it's essential to research and find out what features are most important to you before deciding on a laptop.

Conclusion

When selecting the best laptop for under $400, there is no one size fits all answer. With so many great models on the market, you can easily weigh your options and find a machine that meets your needs and budget requirements.

The laptops we’ve listed above offer potent features at an affordable price point, making them ideal for students, professionals, and everyday users.

From sleek ultrabooks to reliable workhorses, there is something for everyone. So no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find the perfect laptop under $400 that fits your needs and budget.

Hopefully, this list of options has helped you narrow your choices and make the right decision.

Happy shopping!