Expert opinions please!
Hello all, I am a student looking to purchase a new laptop, seeing as I have sold my desktop. (It was old and useless to me). I have been doing some preliminary research, but I am overwhelmed with the number of choices and would like your expert advice in choosing a model! I am interested in graphics and multimedia, and will also be doing a lot of word-processing. I have included a list of specs which I am aiming for, but will compromise if necessary.
- minimum 80GB memory
- minimum 512MB RAM, 7200 rpm preferred but will settle for 5400
- CPU - minimum 1.66 GHz
- mobile processor (core duo preferrably)
- decent battery life...minimum 3 hours
General Questions
1) What is your budget?
I don't want a cheap, low quality product... the absolute maximum I will spend is $2500.
2) What size notebook would you prefer?
Anywhere from 13" to 16" screen is perfectly acceptable.
3) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
A lot of wordprocessing, multimedia (Photoshop, etc.), internet, low-key gaming, other basic tasks.
4) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
For the most part the notebook will be stationary. Some portability, however, would be useful.
5) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
Only low-key gaming.
6) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
I have been interested in the Sony VAIO's, but I'm open to suggestion.
7) How many hours of battery life do you need?
Minimum 3 hours.
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
It's not really an issue, would prefer to see in person though.
9) What country are you buying this in?
Canada, most likely.
Screen Specifics
10) Would you prefer standard or widescreen?
Doesn't matter.
11) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
No preference.
12) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
No preference.
Build Quality and Design
13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
Somewhat.
14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?
Probably buying within the next few months, would like it to last for a while
Notebook Components
15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 120GB?
Minimum 80GB.
16) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD-ROM, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-RW drive?
CD-RW/DVD combo drive would be nice.
Thank you, any feedback would be much appreciated! :)
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
Will the games you play run on integrated graphics?
The HP nc6400 is high-quality:
http://www.hp.ca/products/static/not...6400/index.php
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
First of all, you will not need to spend even 2000 USD to meet your needs.
Second, you are right in that your requirements are so broad that a number of laptops qualify. There must be something that you really really want your new laptop to have, something that you've seen on someone else's computer and thought, "Holy #*^#*. That is mad tite yo" LoL!
I recommend you take a look at Asus notebooks. Some of their notebooks are very stylish, have good build quality, and some of their resellers have excellent customer service. Even in Asus you have a wide range to choose from so finding that limiting-factor is very important.
Im no expert by the way, im just a former buyer now happily settling down with a new laptop.
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
Thanks for your quick replies! In answer to your question Chaz, I doubt I will be doing any "hardcore" gaming requiring an advnced graphics card, etc. Gaming is not a top priority. I have been looking over the specs for the HP Compaq nc6400 and it seems like a nice option. Right now, I think I have it narrowed down to the Sony VAIO, HP Compaq nc6400, Thinkpad T or Z series, and possibly an Asus if I can find a specific model? Any further suggestions or opinions?
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
I like the ThinkPads. Best laptop keyboards, plus they are well built with good support.
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
the asus w7j would fit your needs.
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
After some more research, I have whittled down my search further. I have decided that I would be most comfortable with a 14.1" screen, although anywhere from 13-15" is reasonable. I have decided against the Sony...it was just too expensive. Currently, the models I am considering are the Thinkpad T60 and the Hp Compaq nc6400. I have heard that the fans on Compaq's can get a bit noisy, and I have had difficulty finding user reviews for the nc6400...is there anyone who has worked with one and would let me know how it runs? Another question...is there really a noticeable difference between a hard drive that runs 5400 rpm vs. 7200 rpm? Also, any other suggestions or comments would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
T60 is a good option.
I would like to add the ASUS w3j. I have one, and love it. Very powerful and more "flashy" than the T60.
Finally, for a more budget, but still nice laptop, I think the compaq v3000 is a real looker, and has everything that you could want.
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
Everyone else seems to be giving you good advice and I tend to agree with them. Fujitsu is also well rated, if you want another brand to look at.
Another question...is there really a noticeable difference between a hard drive that runs 5400 rpm vs. 7200 rpm? I have had both in desktop machines. The 7200 will load apps faster. It is noticable - similar to adding more memory or bumping the processor speed a little.
I wouldn't call it a drastic increase, though.
Answer:
Re: Expert opinions please!
There is also the new Compal HGL30. Check it out at www.powernotebooks.com