Looking to buy a used laptop

[Cakescare]

Hey,
Im looking to buy a laptop where portability is the most important factor.

Screen size can't be bigger than 14".
Very light gaming, close to none.
Mainly for programming with c++, Java, Python, Ruby, etc
Good Battery life preffered

My budget is close to $400 cad. No more than 500.

I hoping to get the zenbook but that's way out of my budget.

Recently i was thinking of getting an upgraded version of the Lenovo thinkpad T420. Lots of ram, and upgraded 1600x900 res, ssd harddrive.

I was also looking into the dell xps 2013 model (L322x), seems light,portable and within budget range.

Im not sure if these will be worth the money though, i was hoping you guys can help me out with that. I will post the specs and prices below. If you have any other suggestions do let me know please. (prices based on add on kijiji)

1. T420($200)

Specifications:
Intel corei5-2520M 2.5 - 3.2GHz
HD 3000 GPU
4GB of RAM
14.1" 1600x900p HD+ screen
320HDD 7200RPM (Optional SSD or 2nd HDD )
Webcam
Battery
Original charger
Windows 10 PRO 64 bt, COA included.

Says he will add 128gb ssd for 40 bucks. Im most likely going to upgrade ram to 8 or 12 as well

2. Dell Xps 13 (500)

Specifications:
Intel core i5-3437U 2.8GHz
4GB of RAM
13.3" IPS screen (13" screen in 11" body)
128GB SSD
New Battery (holds ~6h)
Original Charger
Windows 10 PRO 64 bt, COA included.


If you guys have any other suggestions, let me know please

Thanks.

 

[hang-the-9]

There are lots of options for used systems, the T420 is a very good system but larger than the XPS 13 and is more of a business model. Dell XPS are more home use with a fancier design, Lenovo T models are build for work not showing off fancy curves.

You may want to look at the T420s models also, thinner and lighter than the regular 420 and will be the same price.

Either of them will be a good computer though, and equaly reliable. The Lenovo T models are more solidly built but not very pretty. I actually had someone meet me to buy a T430 and did not get it because he was expecting "something more modern looking" LOL He thought just because the laptop was flat black and had sharp corners it was old.