Ask Engadget: Best non-netbook laptop for around $400?

We undergo you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to communicate the concern for answers, here's the activity to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is reaching to us from Todd, who's looking to behave up a solidified cheap laptop (for his father-in-law, no less!) before that prophetical weekday in December. Have a countenance below and hand discover whatever Christmastime cheer, won't you?

"My father-in-law is heading back to school in the outflow and wants a laptop for Christmas. The only catch is their budget is around $400 and he does not want a netbook. He's not rattling "tech savvy" at all and doesn't requirement a hoss of a organisation (not that $400 could intend you one). We would same to intend it for him as presently as possible and would love whatever input. Thanks for any support and Happy Holidays!"

We've already penned our laptop gift guide for 2009, but we understand the want to intend more signaling for this particular scenario. It's thickened to encounter a sub-$400 organisation that's not a netbook (and not a amount heap), but we're confident that digit or two gems are discover there. Spill it if you undergo it, cool?