Question:
Graphic Designer - Mac to Windows Switch
I am graphic designer who has been a mac user since the IIc. In the past few years my professional focus has shifted more toward multimedia on the web. Unfortunately, since over 70% of web users are using IE for windows, it has become a chore to do browser testing. So, I have decided to join the Microsoft herd and buy a laptop but I am overwhelmed by all of the choices. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
General Questions
1) What size notebook would you prefer?
A mainstream; 15" - 16" screen is fine. I would like the ability to hook up to a monitor for doing presentations and video editing.
2) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
My primary software programs / technical needs are Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Flash, Apache and SQL. Some of the time I will need to use Carrara studio 3d software and video editing software (some kind of replacement for iMovie – NOT Premiere or AfterEffects, NO sound editing).
I will also need a tv tuner, may be using Windows Media Center Edition or Windows XP Pro and tuner software.
3) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
Being a suitable computer for my software is the most important factor.
4) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
Myst V: End of Ages was never released for the mac. It would be kind of nice to play it, but not essential.
5) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
The PC world is unknown to me over all. Is Alienware as good as they say?
6) How many hours of battery life do you need?
A lot. but I guess we all do.
7) What is your budget?
Under $2000
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
No problem
9) What country are you buying this in?
USA
Screen Specifics
10) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
I usually use 1280 X 1024 but I am open to wide screen aspect.
11) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
I am open to either one, as long as graphics are not fuzzy.
Build Quality and Design
12) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
No
13) How long do you want this laptop to last?
All my macs still work, what is the life span of a laptop pc?
Notebook Components
14) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 120GB?
At least 80GB (5400rpm is ok). I use a lot of external drives for storage to keep my primary drive tidy, so I will need firewire and USB ports.
15) Do you need a DVD, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-R drive?
A DVD-R / CD-RW would be handy, again I have external burners so I will need firewire and USB ports.
Thanks again for any recommendations.
Answer:
Re: Graphic Designer - Mac to Windows Switch
hi, you might want to checkout these other 2 threads that has sugestions for a notebook with the same purpose as you have
but if you want longer lasting battery life, i would go with the Lenovo Thinkpads since they offer higher capacity battery and has an option to use 2 batteries by the media bay.