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Maybe this as a second choice? IdeaPad S215 Laptop | Entry-Level Ultraportables | | Lenovo (US)
Maybe this as a second choice? IdeaPad S215 Laptop | Entry-Level Ultraportables | | Lenovo (US)
I got this a Lenovo core i5 with 4gb RAM, 1tb HD, solid build, number pad - everything I need - for $400. I upgraded to 8gb RAM ($40) and have now added a SSD ($60). With a perfect Win7 install it runs as good as any $1000+ laptop. I don't need anything with greater specs since I'm not a gamer, but I would guess it runs nearly as good as any expensive gaming rig with the perfect install I keep since that tends to make the biggest difference.
It's out of stock at Best Buy but similar to this: Amazon.com: Lenovo G500 15.6" Laptop i5-3230M, 4GB Memory, 1TB Hard Drive, Black: Computers & Accessories
While it was a Black Friday deal there are always $400 laptops to be found. Using Best Buy's 15 day no-questions-asked money back return policy, I was able to trial a dozen of them over two years until I found the perfect one with no flaws. You can do this online with Best Buy but must pay return shipping, so its best to shop in store or at least return in store. If you don't have the time or patience to do this then I would want to know about their refund or exchange policy in case you don't want to keep it. Most retailers alllow a 30-day return but they may not have anythign else you want to try in your price range.