Laptop Computer purchase

I know there have been numerous posts regarding purchase of new computers, but I dont really have the time to search, so I would like to apologize ahead of time.

I wanted to know what type of laptop you purchased, from where and what you looked for when purchasing one.
I was thinking more PC than Mac, but open to suggestions. The main use would be for grad school, such as typing papers, and power ppt presentations.

Just looking for suggestions.TIA!

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

I really love my MAC. I have had a dell and hp and they are nothing compared to a Mac in my opinion. I purchased my mac online at the apple store.

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

I just got a sony viao and love it. Bought if from Best Buy. It is small and light. I've had an HP and a Dell and so far I like the viao the best. I was look for something light. I use it to go online and school work (I'm a teacher).

Message edited 3/29/2009 6:56:31 PM.

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

i have a macbook and love it! i was just raving about it over on the newlywed board DH and i both use macs and neither of us will ever go back to a PC. i think for school related stuff, a macbook would be perfect. also, as a student you are eligible for a discount. click here for info from the mac site

good luck!!

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

Well, everyone I know is a complete sony vaio loyalist... including me. They're built to last, and run wonderfully. Mine is 3 years old and I still don't need an upgrade....

If I were you, I would NOT rely on random people's opinions online, however... becuase everyone has different computer skill levels and different needs.... You should speak to someone who is extremely techno-savy (ex. built their own tower) and get their opinion... My opinion is that you should NEVER buy a computer in a store, becuase they bundle features together... Always spring for the best graphics card, processor, and a reasonable harddrive (and if you don't already have one, buy an external or 2 to back-up).... If you custom design online you'll never pay for stuff you don't need. Also, ALWAYS flip the $$ for an 3 year top-tier extended warranty... trust me, all laptops need it... there are always those spill and "yanked on the internet cable" moments.... you need to be covered...

I give tons of ppt presentations and write manuscripts on my laptop... generally mac people have issues (especially in europe) becuase their powepoint files never convert flawlessly, and most academic meetings supply PC's for the presentations.

I think many people who love macs really like them becuase they're less targeted by viruses... but a good firewall (like zone alarm) would resolve that issue on a PC. I've never had a problem....

one more thing: liberal arts grad school or science? If you're doing a topic that you may require odd software (I'm a biochemist/neurobiologist and have prism (for graphing), sigma plot, chemdraw....) do NOT go mac..... you won't be able to run half the software you need! (I know there's a virtual PC on macs, but most of these programs don't run well on that... not sure why... but then again, I don't know how that partioned drive really works)


HTH......

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

I have a Toshiba Portege convertable tablet laptop. I got the super extended 4 year warranty and have used it MANY times. My son was able to remove the keys from the keyboard. The port where the power jack goes into the computer has broken repeatedly. Other than that it is a good computer. I love that it has both a stylus mouse and a flat mouse. I also really like to use the stylus to write on the keyboard. When I was in school that was a great feature. I have used a Dell, IBM, and this computer - they all have their plusses and minuses. I would look in the store to see which keyboard fits your hands and then go on line an build it so you get the features you actually need and want.

Re: Laptop Computer purchase

My last laptop was a Dell (lasted 5 years!) my current is a Sony Vaio. My next will be a Dell, I think they have great prices and are built very well.