Gaming/college laptop?

BrianB

Now that I am in college, I am looking to replace my desktop with a laptop so I can game on the go.
I was looking into the Alienware M11x, but I see alot of people trash talk it. Does anyone on here have any good suggestions for gaming laptops around 800-1100$? People say that alienware is over priced trash but from looking around I cannot find a laptop that has the same specs for the same price. Please help!

Answer
I find that the best gaming laptop you can get right now is the ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-X3 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop (Blue) because of its high end graphics card and it has an i5. It also has a powerful audio system. I'm using it now and i can't find a game I can't run on all high details. It'll only cost you a $1000 by the way.

Specifications:# Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
# Display: 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit Widescreen (1920 x 1080)
# CPU: Intel Core i5-430M processor 2.26 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.53 GHz
# Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
# Wireless: 802.11 b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) with Bluetooth v2.1 +EDR
# LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet
# Memory: 4GB DDR3-1066 RAM, 2 x SODIMM Sockets (up to 8GB)
# Storage: 500GB 7,200RPM hard drive
# Optical Drive: DVD Super Multi Double Layer Drive
# Camera: 2.0 Megapixel
# Speakers: Altec Lansing speakers
# Microphone Digital Array Microphones
# Card Reader: 1 x 8-in-1 card reader (MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory stick/MS Pro/MS-Duo/MS-Pro Duo)
# Input/Output: 1 x Mic-in, 1 x Headphone-out, 1 x VGA port/Mini D-Sub 15-pin for external monitor, 4 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x IEEE 1394 port, 1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert, 1 x HDMI, 1 x eSATA, 1 x Express Card 34/54
# Battery Pack: 6 cell
# Dimensions: 14.8 x 10.4 x 1.4~1.6 inches (WxDxH)
# Approximate Weight: 7.27 pounds (with 6 cell battery,1xHDD)
# Color: Blue

Buy this on amazon for the best deal:
http://www.amazon.com/Republic-Gamers-G51JX-X3-15-6-Inch-Gaming/dp/B00361G0ZO/?tag=klnprk-20

Also check out at Ebay there are really good deals going
http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574865779&toolid=10001&campid=5336440665&customid=klnprk&mpre=http%3a%2f%2fdesc.shop.ebay.com%2fi.html%3f_nkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_sacat%3d0%26_dmpt%3dLaptops_Nov05%26_odkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_osacat%3d0%26bkBtn%3d%26LH_TitleDesc%3d1%26_trksid%3dp3286.m270.l1313

Gaming Laptop for College?

Josh

Alright guys, my budget is around $1600 (already calculated out warranty). And i need a gaming laptop that will last me and not end up being a buggy piece of junk. It has to be a name brand probably not dell because alienware sucks :P, because it needs that warranty that i mentioned earlier. Any ideas?

Answer
There is a general supply gap in the Intel Ivy Bridge, and it may be to clear inventory. The custom's which are modified Clevo's and MSI's are possible, but I do not trust that cooling has been designed in properly. You can browse for example ibuypower and avadirect.

My recommendation at your price point is checking Newegg, Tigerdirect, BHPhoto, Toshiba.com, and googling a model you find for a slightly better price.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/244419/laptop_reliability_and_satisfaction_macbooks_rule.html
(Average in the table is alphabetical and Mac's cost a fortune and not gaming level)
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Computer-Games-on-Laptop-Graphic-Cards.13849.0.html
Graphics card(IC) is the biggest factor in gaming.
Added CPU + GPU on another tab:
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php
And, you can also browse Game-debate after you find something.

As of this minute, subject to change, and I assume you want a 17.3" and not for carrying to class.
An idea might be a 15.6 and display for your room.
This Toshiba at $1050 gets you most of the way there for gaming. Starting as a base model to compare, you will find you pay somewhat more for only small improvement.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834214604
TOSHIBA Qosmio X775-Q7170 i5 2450M(2.50GHz) 17.3" 6GB Memory DDR3 1333 640GB HDD 7200rpm DVD Super Multi NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M 1.5GB GDDR5
You can go to squaretrade.com and add a 3 year warranty including accidental damage and stay under budget.
MSI at $1250 if the rebate holds moves up to GTX 570M, i7 quad core, 17.3" 1080p, overflowing RAM:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152293
There is a little bigger HDD model in Raid at $100 more with more GDRAM also.
And at the top of your price:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152336
GTX 670M and Ivy Bridge i7 CPU has you a little better than GeForce GTX 550 Ti of desktops.
GTX 660M as a little lower gets Bluray and is decent:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2355975&CatId=4938
or w/o Bluray a little cheaper:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Asus+-+17.3%26%2334%3B+Laptop+-+8GB+Memory+-+1TB+Hard+Drive/5176239.p?id=1218621250769&skuId=5176239
Check taxes and warranty costs.

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A good laptop for gaming and college?

Q. Im going to be going to college in the fall and getting a laptop soon to do my work on, and I also want to be able to play games on it too, so what is a good kinda cheap laptop that I shouldn't have too many problems with while gaming (I'm completely fine with the graphics being on low)

Answer
Here are a few selections of laptop reviews I think you should take a look at as these could help you find the perfect laptop model for you

Budget Laptops - http://electronicsreviews4u.com/budget-laptops-notebooks/blog

Top End Laptops - http://electronicsreviews4u.com/top-end-laptops-notebooks/blog

Gaming Laptops - http://electronicsreviews4u.com/gaming-laptops-notebooks/blog

I hope this helps and good luck with your search

Laptop suggestions for college gamer?

Q. So next year will be my freshman year of college!
I'm getting my first laptop for school, and I'm not sure what to get.
Obviously I need a laptop that can handle Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
But I also like to play video games.
I would like to be able to play games such as Left For Dead 2 on my Steam account and Elder Scrolls Online. As much as I would love to play in stellar HD...that sh*t costs money!!!
My budget is somewhere between $600-$800.
So...any suggestions? Thanks! :)

Answer
A HP Envy dv6 Laptop Intel 3rd generation Core i7-3630QM only $704 down from $999 from here http://goo.gl/3dQ1l I would go for a i7 as its really good for gaming and will run microsoft office programs really well.

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What is a good laptop for college and decent gaming?

Grif

Im looking for a laptop that is good for college,meaning it could last to around 4 years. Also one that is pretty good at gaming. I dont need a graphics card since I dont plan on playing high end games like Battlefield or Bioshock, but games that wouldn't require as much power for graphics and processing like Team Fortress 2 or Minecraft. Here are some things I am looking for:
-At least a i5 intel processor, preferably an i7 since it should run programs smoother
-8GB of Memory
-At least 500 GB Hard drive
-15- 17 in screen
Price Range: $500-1000
-One I could possibly buy at Bestbuy or online
Thanks for any suggestions

Answer
ASUS laptop.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834230597
Core i7-3630QM(2.4GHz) 15.6" 8GB Memory 1TB HDD 5400rpm DVD±R/RW NVIDIA GeForce GT 635M 1920 x 1080 1 Year Accidental Damage/30-Day Zero Bright Dot

This HP does not have the Intel CPU but the AMD APU is very close to it and can be customized to what you need. If you want better performance upgrade the APU to a A10, dedicated graphics and increase the ram to 8GB.

http://www.shopping.hp.com/en_US/home-office/-/products/Laptops/HP-ENVY/C9W57AV;pgid=c7twGfjc0ptSRpIq7ZUcoGXQ0000fb8mNv9y;sid=NID2W1inOb6JXwkRbh2qz4GoAJwzDmy78dUe8LW2AJwzDtPc7Kuhl6jI?HP-ENVY-15z-j000-Notebook-PC A8-5550M APU HD 8000 Series Graphics 6GB DDR3 750GB 5400 rpm HD Starting at $530

This HP can be customized to. Upgrade the Graphics to NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M 2048MB of dedicated video memory. Do not get this lappy without the graphics upgrade.

http://shopping.hp.com/en_US/home-office/-/products/Laptops/HP-ENVY/E4T17AV?HP-ENVY-15t-j000-Quad-Edition-Notebook-PC i7-4700MQ 8GB DDR3 1TB 5400 rpm Hard Drive Starting at $870

Brand buying advise

You get what you pay for. Systems with high end parts with low prices are to be viewed with suspicion. They have to cut corners somewhere to get the price down. What cost you less today is going to cost you more tomorrow.

Apple makes a good quality laptop. The problem comes when it requires service or minor upgrades. It is near impossible to do anything with them. They even glue the battery and hard drive down so you can not change it. They solder the ram to the logic board so you can not increase it. They lock up most of the software so your stuck with what they approve.

Lenovo has serious stand behind their product problems. They bought IBM PC division and proceeded to drive the quality of the system into the ground. Their customer service is well below par. They even makes Dell customer service look good. Lenovo will not allow people to read instruction on how to access the BIOS menu or to get info on their puters on their web site unless you connect to them thru Facebook. They do this so they can spy on their users. The last and final thing to remember about them is they are a Chinese Government own company. It is up to you if you want to trust them.

Toshiba, Panasonic, Sony should be avoided because of their heavy modification of Windows and the drivers. If you remove some of the bloat they install, you can cripple the system.

Acer, Gateway, and eMachines should be avoided period. Low end system that are driving the race to the bottom.

Dell once made a good system and fell from grace. They are now struggling to regain their place in the market. Customer service is one of many problems with this company.

Alienware are glorified Dells and are more name then product. Priced extremely high for what you get. They do perform but you can get the same for less by looking around, just not packaged to be eye candy to the gamers.

Samsung has a history of using cheap parts in critical areas. Capacitors has been one area Samsung has a known history of going cheap, causing units to fail early. For that reason I would avoid them.

ASUS and HP do not modify Windows as bad as the other manufacturers. They have excellent build quality. They might add a lot of bloat but they also makes it easy to get rid of it.

Ultrabooks are the higher end of Wintel laptops but they have some of the same concerns as Apple. They make it next to impossible to change any hardware in them. Service of them will have to be done by the manufacturers. With most of them, you can not change your own battery or hard drive. They are designed to catch your eye but they are not any more special then other laptops except for the fact that they are slim or thin. Your paying for it being thin and slim. For the money your going to spend on it you can buy a much better laptop with more power.

Chrome books are useless. They are designed by Google to make you dependent on Google. If you can not access the web then you can not do anything.

Hybrids are the worse of the worse. The flip or detachable touch screens are just a disaster waiting to happen.

Never buy an All In One. They are far worst then laptops of any kind to service and they have a higher failure rate.

Choose wisely.

Gaming/college laptop?

BrianB

Now that I am in college, I am looking to replace my desktop with a laptop so I can game on the go.
I was looking into the Alienware M11x, but I see alot of people trash talk it. Does anyone on here have any good suggestions for gaming laptops around 800-1100$? People say that alienware is over priced trash but from looking around I cannot find a laptop that has the same specs for the same price. Please help!

Answer
I find that the best gaming laptop you can get right now is the ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-X3 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop (Blue) because of its high end graphics card and it has an i5. It also has a powerful audio system. I'm using it now and i can't find a game I can't run on all high details. It'll only cost you a $1000 by the way.

Specifications:# Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
# Display: 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit Widescreen (1920 x 1080)
# CPU: Intel Core i5-430M processor 2.26 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.53 GHz
# Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
# Wireless: 802.11 b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) with Bluetooth v2.1 +EDR
# LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet
# Memory: 4GB DDR3-1066 RAM, 2 x SODIMM Sockets (up to 8GB)
# Storage: 500GB 7,200RPM hard drive
# Optical Drive: DVD Super Multi Double Layer Drive
# Camera: 2.0 Megapixel
# Speakers: Altec Lansing speakers
# Microphone Digital Array Microphones
# Card Reader: 1 x 8-in-1 card reader (MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory stick/MS Pro/MS-Duo/MS-Pro Duo)
# Input/Output: 1 x Mic-in, 1 x Headphone-out, 1 x VGA port/Mini D-Sub 15-pin for external monitor, 4 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x IEEE 1394 port, 1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert, 1 x HDMI, 1 x eSATA, 1 x Express Card 34/54
# Battery Pack: 6 cell
# Dimensions: 14.8 x 10.4 x 1.4~1.6 inches (WxDxH)
# Approximate Weight: 7.27 pounds (with 6 cell battery,1xHDD)
# Color: Blue

Buy this on amazon for the best deal:
http://www.amazon.com/Republic-Gamers-G51JX-X3-15-6-Inch-Gaming/dp/B00361G0ZO/?tag=klnprk-20

Also check out at Ebay there are really good deals going
http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574865779&toolid=10001&campid=5336440665&customid=klnprk&mpre=http%3a%2f%2fdesc.shop.ebay.com%2fi.html%3f_nkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_sacat%3d0%26_dmpt%3dLaptops_Nov05%26_odkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_osacat%3d0%26bkBtn%3d%26LH_TitleDesc%3d1%26_trksid%3dp3286.m270.l1313

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Gaming/college laptop?

BrianB

Now that I am in college, I am looking to replace my desktop with a laptop so I can game on the go.
I was looking into the Alienware M11x, but I see alot of people trash talk it. Does anyone on here have any good suggestions for gaming laptops around 800-1100$? People say that alienware is over priced trash but from looking around I cannot find a laptop that has the same specs for the same price. Please help!

Answer
I find that the best gaming laptop you can get right now is the ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-X3 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop (Blue) because of its high end graphics card and it has an i5. It also has a powerful audio system. I'm using it now and i can't find a game I can't run on all high details. It'll only cost you a $1000 by the way.

Specifications:# Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
# Display: 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit Widescreen (1920 x 1080)
# CPU: Intel Core i5-430M processor 2.26 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.53 GHz
# Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
# Wireless: 802.11 b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) with Bluetooth v2.1 +EDR
# LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet
# Memory: 4GB DDR3-1066 RAM, 2 x SODIMM Sockets (up to 8GB)
# Storage: 500GB 7,200RPM hard drive
# Optical Drive: DVD Super Multi Double Layer Drive
# Camera: 2.0 Megapixel
# Speakers: Altec Lansing speakers
# Microphone Digital Array Microphones
# Card Reader: 1 x 8-in-1 card reader (MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory stick/MS Pro/MS-Duo/MS-Pro Duo)
# Input/Output: 1 x Mic-in, 1 x Headphone-out, 1 x VGA port/Mini D-Sub 15-pin for external monitor, 4 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x IEEE 1394 port, 1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert, 1 x HDMI, 1 x eSATA, 1 x Express Card 34/54
# Battery Pack: 6 cell
# Dimensions: 14.8 x 10.4 x 1.4~1.6 inches (WxDxH)
# Approximate Weight: 7.27 pounds (with 6 cell battery,1xHDD)
# Color: Blue

Buy this on amazon for the best deal:
http://www.amazon.com/Republic-Gamers-G51JX-X3-15-6-Inch-Gaming/dp/B00361G0ZO/?tag=klnprk-20

Also check out at Ebay there are really good deals going
http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574865779&toolid=10001&campid=5336440665&customid=klnprk&mpre=http%3a%2f%2fdesc.shop.ebay.com%2fi.html%3f_nkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_sacat%3d0%26_dmpt%3dLaptops_Nov05%26_odkw%3dASUS%2bRepublic%2bof%2bGamers%2bG51JX-X3%2b15.6-Inch%2bGaming%2bLaptop%26_osacat%3d0%26bkBtn%3d%26LH_TitleDesc%3d1%26_trksid%3dp3286.m270.l1313

Gaming Laptop for College?

Josh

Alright guys, my budget is around $1600 (already calculated out warranty). And i need a gaming laptop that will last me and not end up being a buggy piece of junk. It has to be a name brand probably not dell because alienware sucks :P, because it needs that warranty that i mentioned earlier. Any ideas?

Answer
There is a general supply gap in the Intel Ivy Bridge, and it may be to clear inventory. The custom's which are modified Clevo's and MSI's are possible, but I do not trust that cooling has been designed in properly. You can browse for example ibuypower and avadirect.

My recommendation at your price point is checking Newegg, Tigerdirect, BHPhoto, Toshiba.com, and googling a model you find for a slightly better price.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/244419/laptop_reliability_and_satisfaction_macbooks_rule.html
(Average in the table is alphabetical and Mac's cost a fortune and not gaming level)
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Computer-Games-on-Laptop-Graphic-Cards.13849.0.html
Graphics card(IC) is the biggest factor in gaming.
Added CPU + GPU on another tab:
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php
And, you can also browse Game-debate after you find something.

As of this minute, subject to change, and I assume you want a 17.3" and not for carrying to class.
An idea might be a 15.6 and display for your room.
This Toshiba at $1050 gets you most of the way there for gaming. Starting as a base model to compare, you will find you pay somewhat more for only small improvement.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834214604
TOSHIBA Qosmio X775-Q7170 i5 2450M(2.50GHz) 17.3" 6GB Memory DDR3 1333 640GB HDD 7200rpm DVD Super Multi NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M 1.5GB GDDR5
You can go to squaretrade.com and add a 3 year warranty including accidental damage and stay under budget.
MSI at $1250 if the rebate holds moves up to GTX 570M, i7 quad core, 17.3" 1080p, overflowing RAM:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152293
There is a little bigger HDD model in Raid at $100 more with more GDRAM also.
And at the top of your price:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152336
GTX 670M and Ivy Bridge i7 CPU has you a little better than GeForce GTX 550 Ti of desktops.
GTX 660M as a little lower gets Bluray and is decent:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=2355975&CatId=4938
or w/o Bluray a little cheaper:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Asus+-+17.3%26%2334%3B+Laptop+-+8GB+Memory+-+1TB+Hard+Drive/5176239.p?id=1218621250769&skuId=5176239
Check taxes and warranty costs.

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Good laptops to buy? How do I know a laptop is a good laptop?

best laptops for college and gaming image

Allison

What are good laptops to buy? I have no experience so even random information about laptops are useful. Please give me as much info as possible. I'm buying a laptop for college uses not gaming uses so I don't need a pricey laptop. My budget is $1000. I need the laptop to last long though(4years).

Answer
i recommend dell because it has the best customer service and also 1 year breakage warranty
take a look at the links below

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndom32b&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&model_id=inspiron-14r-combo-mod

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndor34b&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&model_id=inspiron-15r-combo-mod

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndon27b&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&model_id=inspiron-17r-combo-mod

the above links which i have provided gives the complete specifications of dell inspiron 14 ,15 and 17 laptops which are below $1000 and will be long lasting for 4 years also
i recommend you to go for one of the laptop above which has specifications like
-intel i5 processor
-4GB Ram
-500gb hard disk
as you are not the gamer i have listed out the laptops with integrated graphic cards only.
take a look at all 3 notebooks and select one of your choice...
if you cannot acess the link just copy the url and paste it in your browser which will redirect the respective web page..

Where can I find big ten college football games live on my laptop?

Amy

I want to watch these games legally and free. Is there any place I can do this while the games are live. If not I'd stil like to know if I can watch the games even after they are over. Also, I found the ESPN 3 online. Does this also include college football games that are usually shown on the Big Ten Network?
Any input would be appriciated.
Thanks.

Answer
Nothing free (that's legal) you'll just have to sign-up for a Big Ten Network Online Streaming package. It's pretty affordable.

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What would be better and last longer, a dell or hp laptop?

best laptops for college and gaming image

Terrell

At a crossroad on if I should order a dell or hp.
If it makes a difference I will be using the laptop for college and gaming (not hardcore gaming) so no alienware suggestions please.

Answer
In my opinion, Dell for sure. I have had nothing but bad luck with HPs. They all overheat all the time and they, in my opinion are slower, probably because they stay hot.

What's a good laptop for college and gaming?

icecreamlu

I plan on buying a new laptop for college, but i also want a laptop that can support gaming decently (doesnt have to be amazing ). I'm extremely disappointed my current laptop can't handle games, but i still put more emphasis on the college part, so any recommendations would be much appreciated, thank you!

Answer
For gaming and college purposes you need a highly powered laptop which is nice to be very portable, i will suggest you the one which i love to play on and its sleek look is marvellous for college, it is HP ENVY 14-1210NR 14.5-Inch with an affordable price here:

http://amzn.to/fpmbGU

Its stunning specifications are:

Intel Core i5-480M Processor 2.66GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.93 GHz
4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 DIMM) Max supported = 8GB
750GB (5400RPM) Hard Drive (SATA) with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 switchable graphics with 1024MB DDR3 with up to 2714MB total graphics memory

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What is the best type of laptop for a college student?

best laptops for college and gaming image

maggles12

I'm looking to buy a new laptop for college but I'm not very computer savvy. I don't need one for making movies/music or whatever but just for papers, internet, etc. I've used both a mac and a pc and don't really have a preference. I simply want the best quality laptop that will hopefully last for 4 years. Also, price is not a factor in the decision.

Answer
I would get a PC for the following reasons..


PC=Variety of specs, options, quality, prices, vendors, support
Mac=One vendor, limited options, still more expensive. Look below for more information..

Contrary to belief, Macs are not better quality. Apple also has been changing suppliers to try to "lower the price" and thus lowering quality. Even with the lower prices, Macs still cost more, they spend a higher percent of budget trying to make it look pretty, and marketing.

Today, Macs use the same hardware as PCs. Why spend extra to get the same CPU chips, graphics cards and OS X isn't as secure as you think.. Look below.

WINDOWS ADVANTAGES:

Aprox 90% of the market is Windows. Most PCs include windows already pre-installed.
1) A number of websites still require Internet Explorer to view and IE for Mac Stinks (it is really ies4osx which is the Windows IE version running really buggy on OS X and illegal if you don't have a legitimate copy of Windows, too many problems with it).
2) More supported peripherals (printers and other things you hook into the computer) on Windows.
3) Many more games
4) Like the Dock on OS X (Mac)? google/yahoo rocketdock, objectdoc.

Install at least Free Versions of Avira AntiVir, Avast, Comodo Firewall on the Vista.

LINUX ADVANTAGES:

1) Install Linux, and then get tons of software for free.Update software easily and automatically. (Checking a checkbox in either two ways to install (Add/Remove or Synaptic Package Manager), search for something you want, check a box and click apply)
2) Like the Mac OS X effects? go yahoo/google COMPIZ FUSION. It can do just about any cool effect a Mac can do and more...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4Fbk52Mk1w
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3gkX9HDfEE (there is no flickering when you use it like on the video, not sure why the person has the flicker)
3) Like the Mac OS X Doc? google/yahoo Cairo Dock, avant window navigator.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3rf5q_cairo-dock-mac-os-x-leopard-dock-on_tech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0hzi22g2DE
4) It is faster/MORE SECURE. Surf the internet and even run some windows programs with Wnehq/Crossover..

LINUX OS
If you are worried about viruses, spyware, security, Try Linux (it is free), I have included some information about Linux and links so you are not lost if you decide to try it.

Easily turn your system into a Dual booting computer with Linux, fast, safe and secure, easy to use (contrary to belief). You then get the best of both worlds (Windows with all of its supported products, freely go online without the worry)

Installing Linux in general is very simple and much more secure than OS X(Macintosh) and free.
Also, most Linux distributions have a LiveCD which means you can try without installing...
UBUNTU, KUBUNTU, FREESPIRE, PCLINUXOS, etc.. all have live CDS.
All you have to do is..
A) to download .iso file off the internet from the Linux website
B) burn the .iso file to a CD or DVD (Make sure your burning software can burn an ISO or get InfraRecorder http://infrarecorder.org/ )
C) restart the computer with the CD in the drive
D) As computer is restarting, press on F12 Key a bunch of times to get a boot menu
E) Select the option to boot from CD or DVD.

Click on this link and follow instructions up to the point of "Once the system has started up...", (the rest is how to backup windows) for an easy picture guide for steps A-E above http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/use-ubuntu-live-cd-to-backup-files-from-your-dead-windows-computer/
For easy instructions on setting up Dual Boot http://apcmag.com/how_to_dual_boot_windows_xp_and_linux_xp_installed_first.htm

ANOTHER QUICK NOTE: People have been able to run OS X on a PC since the PC and Mac use the same hardware. This is not legal and I would not recommend it for security and legal reasons, the purpose is to show that there is nothing special about the MAC.

A)Price... (may not matter to you but why pay more than you have to)
A similar equipped PC is much cheaper to purchase than Mac. Lets use Dell (but you can compare with another PC Brand if you like)

**(LAPTOP)
Dell Inspiron Laptop $849 dropped to $799
15" Screen
CPU: (upgrade to) 2.1GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Graphics: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100
Memory: 3GB 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM
Hard Drive: 320GB Serial ATA Drive @ 5400 rpm
Optical Drive: Blu-ray Disc Combo (DVD+/-RW + BD-ROM) - WRITES DVDS,CDS, READS Blue-Ray Disks

Macbook $1349 just dropped to $1224
13" Screen (SMALLER)
CPU: 2.1GHz Intel Core 2 Duo (SAME)
Graphics: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100 (SAME)
Memory: (upgrade to) 2GB 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM (LESS RAM)
Hard Drive (upgrade to) 250GBSerial ATA Drive @ 5400 rpm (SMALLER HARD DRIVE)
Optical Drive: (DVD-ROM/CD-RW) - (Writes CDs, DVDs, cannot read Blue-Ray) (WORSE AND 1/2 SPEED)

**(DESKTOP)

PLEASE NOTE: I'm comparing Apple Mac's vs Dells best deal. If you decide that you must have an all-in one. The Dell all-in-one has more ram, wireless keyboard and mouse and equivalent to $400 for free making the Imac still more expensive when you upgrade the Imac to try to match. Personally I don't think the All-in-Ones are a good choice, and consider them overpriced, lack expandability and repairs both more expensive and require the entire computer.

PS: Apple knows that they must make Macintosh look different than PC so all Macs except the Mac Pro will not have a tower option. Apple's low end lacks expandability but it makes the Mac "look different", if Mac had a tower for low-end, more people would realize the similarities between the two.

Dell: (Right Now) Specs Below costs $809
CPU: 2.4 GHZ Dell Inspiron QUAD (4 Processor) CORE
SCREEN: 20inch Screen
MEMORY: 3GB Ram
HARD DRIVE: 500 GB hard Drive
OPTICAL DRIVE: 16x DVD/CD Read/Writer
GRAPHICS: (upgrade to ) ATI Radeon HD 2400 PRO 128MB

The Best Deal Mac is not the Mac Mini since it has no monitor, keyboard, mouse, very skimpy on options and setup... IMac is better price than the Mac Mini.

IMac ($1400)
CPU: 2.4 GHZ DUAL (2 Processor) CORE (SLOWER CPU)
SCREEN: 20inch Screen
MEMORY: (upgrade to) 2GB Ram (LESS RAM)
HARD DRIVE: (upgrade to ) 500 GB hard Drive
OPTICAL DRIVE: 8x DVD Reader/Writer (1/2 speed)
GRAPHICS: ATI Radeon HD 2400 PRO 128MB

**END OF DESKTOP

B) SECURITY:

Mac OS X was hacked in 2006 under 30 minutes, and hacked within 2 minutes in a contest in 2008. Linux and Vista were not able to be hacked until another day when restrictions were lowered.
All macs are standardized with Cameras, if your system gets hacked, the hacker would more likely be able to turn on your camera.
Please Note: All OS's have vulnerabilities.

C) VIRUSES

The argument that OS X has less viruses is true, but that is against XP, BUT Mac OS X has viruses (which is significantly on the rise), a friend of mine has a virused Mac. As more users use Macs, more viruses will come out for it. Especially when users think "they are safe".
Viruses on Mac are rising significantly.

Google/Yahoo Mac Viruses


D) WINDOWS LICENSE is discounted with PCs

You do not pay the full price, for instance Dell -> you pay $50 or less for Vista Home Premium If you buy a Mac and want Vista, you pay full price.


E) EXPANDABILITY & REPAIR...

Repairs are more expensive than PCs since the IMac, Mac Mini are compact units, and Apple charges a premium for their services. Some repairs can be done by another repair service but the compact design of the computer causes problems.
With an IMac, if the problem is with the monitor, the whole computer would have to be brought in.
IMac and Mac mini lack expansion.


F) PROBLEMS

Sample of problems: Overheating Macbooks, OS X- not responding to keyboard, some units with 16bit screens, etc. Apple statistics are misleading since Mac users with problem machines are more likely to go out and buy a new computer than PC users. Apple is lowering prices which means you can expect lower quality than in the past. Apple had switched the manufacturers producing parts. OS X also has problems slowing down.

http://www.tuaw.com/2008/08/01/apples-quality-dwindling-my-macbook-pro-sob-story/
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Microsoft-Finds-Irony-in-Mac-OS-X-Getting-Hacked-Before-Vista-SP1-82135.shtml
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-10020263-17.html
http://infosecurity.us/?p=4005
http://blogs.chron.com/techblog/archives/2008/07/malware_authors_take_aim_at_growing_number_of_1.html
http://www.macsimumnews.com/index.php/archive/poll_have_you_noticed_an_increase_in_malware_viruses_etc_on_your_mac/
http://www.ubuntu.com/
http://www.kubuntu.org/
http://www.freespire.org/
http://www.pclinuxos.com/
http://distrowatch.com/
http://polishlinux.org/
http://www.desktoplinux.com/
http://xwinman.org/gnome.php
http://xwinman.org/kde.php
http://www.linuxalt.com/
http://screencasts.ubuntu.com/
http://www.linuxfoundation.org/en/OpenPrinting/
http://www.avast.com/
http://www.free-av.com/
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromMacOSX
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/SwitchingToUbuntu/FromWindows
Google/Yahoo OS X on PC

What are some good suggestions for a laptop for a college student?

Jason

I'm just about heading off to college, and I'd like to get a laptop, but I don't know what's good out there. Is a laptop even necessary for college? I know I could get twice the machine for the same price if I got a desktop, but I figured I would need something mobile like a laptop for college. What do you think works best from experience? I'm a college student, so basically I'm poor, and I don't wanna spend too much. What's the difference between AMD and Intel processors? What would you suggest? I also assume I'd like to use my laptop for gaming a bit, but I'm not an extreme gamer, but I'm also aware that laptops aren't good for gaming.
And what about brands? I've heard dells aren't very reliable. My dad's also biased against HP, but I've heard good things about HP too. Anyway, I'd just like to hear your suggestions...
I'm majoring in Physiology and Developmental Biology, eventually planning on going to medical school, but that's about six years away.

Answer
http://www.cnettv.com/9710-1_53-28767.html?tag=bubble

here is a video on back to school laptops I didnt watch it but it should be good as its from cnet @ download.com

hp are the best in my opinion my dad would say dells are laptops for students and suggested a dell for me( I got HP), and you could get a desktop with much power full for the same price(probably not twice the machine tough more like 1.5 )

a computer is neccesary for college but if it has to be a laptop depends on your college and what you are studying

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