Which cheap laptop for ubuntu, programming and word processing?

I've been using an acer C720 chromebook with Ubuntu installed, but have found using apps like tor and chrome with multiple tabs open significantly slows down performance. I'm looking for a laptop $300-$500 AUD which will be able to run programming apps and function find with quite a few tabs open in Ubuntu.

I'm looking at a lenovo thinkpad (t420 etc.), any other suggestions?

There are many types of cheap laptops to sale in Ebay store.