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

[MerryHolidays]

1. Can I suggest you get a used laptop?

Your requirements sound pretty basic (and are, to some degree, about the same as mine).

One thing: I would assume you would want to use your new (used?) laptop for streaming? If so, make sure you get something that will work. I have a number of computers, since I tend to save everything. Sadly, most of my family are Mac-users, but I am a hardcore PC and Chromebook user, mainly because of the far lower costs. I generally maintain my own computers, so I have stuff that's at least a decade old (and one that's 40 years old!). I have noticed that certain of my laptops (e.g., older Chromebooks) are a bit cranky when streaming.

I agree with you: don't waste your money for getting top of the line/state of the art computers. For what you and I do, it's not worth it. Try Amazon and eBay for used computers. Frankly, I am getting increasingly disenchanted with Amazon, as its computer recommendations are increasingly less straightforward. Back in the mid part of the last decade, essentially all of my computer purchases were through Amazon....but now, no longer. If you want something new, I am increasingly impressed with BestBuy.

Good luck!

[jmbar2]

2. High recommendation

PCs for People is a nonprofit in St. Paul that refurbishes computers and resells them dirt cheap to low income folks. I bought my last computer from them and it has been great.

They also offer a low cost internet service that uses a Coolpad Hotspot - basically a small device that picks up the internet. I pay $15/month for internet service and the quality has been excellent.

Everything about this group has worked well for me. Check them out and good luck!

https://pcsrefurbished.com/sales/salesHome

[left-of-center2012]

3. Thank you

Looks like a winner

[left-of-center2012]

4. They get horrible reviews online n/t

[jmbar2]

5. I can only speak to my own experience.

What online source are you looking at?

[left-of-center2012]

6. Yelp for one n/t

[jmbar2]

7. These are truly awful reviews

So different from my experience. I've been on their internet now for two years with no problems, and am using a PC from them as well. No problems.

Good luck in finding what you are looking for. It sucks to have tech problems these days.

[jrandom421]

8. Try Here

I've had good luck with systems from here over the last 20 yrs

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