If you could buy a new laptop...

14 years ago

which one would you choose?

I've been a happy HP PC owner for decades, but the fifth (or is it the sixth? seventh?) one has gone to wherever comatose computers end up.

I haven't used a laptop for several years [and those were office provided], but I think I'd rather like the portability of one for personal use. But which one? Screen size is not an issue because I'll be using my nearly new monitor, however, I think keyboard format *may* be important.

Any opinions or recommendations?

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Comments (14)

mwoods
14 years ago
I just bought one.. a Dell Studio and love it. I've never had anything but Dells from day one and have never once had a single problem with any of them. My only recommendation is to buy one that covers your needs without all the bells and whistles. Dell allows you to do that..pick and choose what you want installed.
User
14 years ago
It is an individual choice depending on your budget and what extras you want. Here is my favorite place to get computer stuff, each one has a bigger description if you click on it.

Here is a link that might be useful: Micro Center
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rob333 (zone 7b)
14 years ago
I'm waiting and compiling information, so I can't answer that. But one thing that did stick in my puny brain was the keyboard issue. Right now, the only keyboard I use is one of those that is ergonomic and raised. I can't imagine using one with flat keys and have to move my wrists/elbows to the awkward position necessary on the laptops I see; I dread that when I go to a laptop. I saw that they make flexible keyboards that can be rolled and will travel well. Full size. So you might be able to get around the keyboard issue in the way I am considering.

Hope this helps!

Here is a link that might be useful: traveling full size keyboard
calliope
14 years ago
I read the ratings first for several evenings, and had a mental list of what I wanted/needed for my first laptop I bought nearly a year ago. I wanted the largest screen size I could get. Big hard drive and good processors, because my work is number and graphic intensive. A comfortable and well made keyboard was high on my list of priorities. Compatibility with programs to my desk PCs were also an issue.

I ended up with a high end HP and I like it. I had to change operating systems and the operating instructions sucked eggs. That was the down side. Also check out your ports. I presumed my cards from my digital cameras and also my other peripherals would all fit. They don't so I ended up with having to thumb drive them over from my desk unit and vice versa. Overall, however, I am pleased.
mwoods
14 years ago
Meldy..another thing. Make sure,if for some reason you have a choice,get Windows 7 over Vista unless you are getting a Mac. If you are currently using XP,there is not a big difference between that and Windows 7.
sheila
14 years ago
I have a Mac laptop and even though it was probably more expensive than a PC you will be free from virus problems forever. I've never had one crash. I've had Macs for years I will never, never, go back to a PC.
gabriell_gw
14 years ago
I have an Acer mini.It's really great.
petaloid
14 years ago
I'm with Sheila - once you get a Mac you'll never go back! No virus worries, easier to operate than other PCs and customer service is good.

My MacBook Pro laptop has more features than most people need, so the regular MacBook is what I would recommend.
sara_the_brit_z6_ct
14 years ago
I LOVE my MacBook Pro! I had an iBook for years, which was my first Mac - whenever I have to use Himself's PC laptop, I just hate it.

Unfortunately, he now feels the same way, and keeps "borrowing" my Mac. . . .
tibs
14 years ago
this is such good info. Our 'puter that is about 6 or more years old just refused to operate the printer. The disc drive doesn't work so we can't reprogram the printer connection. So I would like to go to lap top. I an not sure if I want to go to a mac because I use other system at work.
wandaredhead
14 years ago
I had an HP laptop that I loved and never had any problems with it. After it literally 'hit the wall' I ended up with a Toshiba and would personally NEVER recommend it or get anotherone.
calliope
14 years ago
I'd go to a mac in a heartbeat, except work generated on my laptop has to be transferred back and forth to my desktops. Not only can I not really afford to buy a whole bunch of mac based programs duplicating what I already have, some of them have no mac equivalent.
meldy_nva
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks to everyone for all your help!

Those who love Macs, really love 'em, and those who don't don't. After using Mac for a couple years, I switched to HP with no regrets, and I don't see me going back to Mac.

Suzy ~ I'm dithering about HP in laptop, so I'm glad to know you are pleased.

I'm still looking at Dell... haven't heard much about service.

Don ~ Thanks for the link!
sara_the_brit_z6_ct
14 years ago
For what it's worth, we had poor experience with Dell. Our desktop hard drive died, without warning - which is how I learned the hard way to make sure I always back stuff up on an external hard drive. Himself was unimpressed with his Dell experiences through work, but is very happy with his HP laptop - so much in fact, that we bought one for his sister. His view is, if you're not getting a Mac, then get an HP.

If you could buy a new laptop...

Comments (14)

mwoods

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