13in laptop for around $500

[Zorander]

Hi,

My C50 netbook display is dying so I'm looking for replacement. Light weight and reasonable performance are key. It's not replacing my desktop as I intend to use it only casually (e.g. when travelling around) for web browsing, media playback, spreadsheets and some light gaming.

I've been looking at the following units on eBay:

• HP Probook 4340s i5 3210M / 8G / 500G / DVDRW / CAM / 13.3" LED / WIN 8 Pro
• HP Pavilion DM1-4108AU Notebook 11.6" AMD-E450 1.65GHz 2GB 320GB HDMI 11" Laptop

I think I'll be happy with the E-450 unit though I'm also ok to pay for the 4340s (and reap the higher performance). Appreciate your thoughts on this and if you think there are better alternatives out there.

Thanks.

p.s. I'm located in Australia so there will likely be availability diffences.

 

[tosaytheleast]

I can see that you are clinging towards refurbished laptops. Basing on the price, it is almost less than 30% the price of the brand new HP ProBook 4340S in one online computer store in Australia. That made me think how good the condition of the unit is in such a low price.

If you make me choose between two laptops you presented, the HP ProBook 4340S is the better one. That's a no-brainer.

 

[Zorander]

Hi,

I see your point but I suppose as long as the refurbished unit is in reasonably good condition, I'm happy to accept it for the reduced price. I'm mainly sticking to the 2 criterias I have: <13in screen & no more than $500.

To be honest, I'm still brainstorming for ideas on a laptop. I have been looking at a refurbished E450 for a while and only saw the 4340s yesterday. Both look enticing to me, and I would like to know if there are other, similar options that fit my two criterias. I don't expect great gaming performance but I reckon an IB-based laptop will be quite decent anyway.

Thanks.