Yup, Celeron sounded alarm bells to me.
Decide if CPU performance is an issue, e.g. for gaming, video playback, multiple apps, etc.
See: UserBenchmark: Intel Celeron N2840 vs Core i5-3320M
However, if it's just for the odd bit of web browsing, e-mailing, or Office s/w, then go for the brand new Celeron jobbie and enjoy the pristine condition and after-sales support.
It all depends on what is meant by 'best'....
Stick with core i3 or even Core i5 CPUS.
The new laptops out there with Celeron's (like the N2840) are junk. laughably slow. You will find even a slow (read: cheap) Core i3 is at least 100% faster.
What keyboard do you need?
What language?
Could you accept delivery in the UK and have it posted on?
Bought one of these for my wife, Neil, to replace a small notebook. Excellent - 364Euros
http://fr.johnlewis.com/store/compaq-15-s108na-laptop-intel-celeron...
We got it from John Lewis in UK, but you can find them on Amazon too at £269.99 e.g.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Compaq-15-s108na-Notebook-Celeron-Graphics/...
These are all brand new.
Unless you want a French keyboard?
By the way, Compaq owned by HP so it's basically same as HP laptops with same processor etc.
Here you go:
Lenovo ThinkPad T430 Intel Core i5-3320m 2600MHz 4096MB 160GB 14" D...
US Keyboard layout and only €335 (£239). Second hand - needs new battery.
NB May be German Windows 7.