I was in this thread looking for something on HP, didn't find it here or in a search. For those in the know on HP an easy one. Is the Pavillion model consistent in the general quality of the case and keyboard - a shared quality? I ask because I like the one below but can't find it locally... I can find Pavillion at my Discount Store (BJs - where my last 3 laptops were purchased) and so I can to a "look-see" at other versions of the Pavillion. Something else that bothers me is the physical size (it is a 17.3" and will be used to move from room-to-room, not for travel) Item Dimensions L x W x H 3.10 x 22 x 13.60 inches Forget the confusion of the listed LWH... the 3.1 must be how thick it is, can it be that thick? A compact desk top computer box may be no more than 5" thick. My current Toshiba and most others I see in the store are just over 1" thick, maybe 1.5" but nothing near 3". The specific machine I'm targeting is: HP Pavilion G7-2220us 17.3-Inch Laptop Sorry for any typos, basically is the Pavilion an HP line with similar physical look/touch? And what about the thickness?

I have the HP a1130n which may be an older model than yours, but I have no problem at all working with photos. I did upgrade my RAM to 3GB, and I use CCleaner to get rid of temporary files and clean cache before I run defrag about once a month. You might also want to check your startup to see what's running and using resources as mk suggested. I use the free version of WinPatrol to alert me whenever a new program wants to run in startup. I also agree that if you want to stay within the amount you mentioned, you don't want a laptop because one in that price range will not have the "guts" for lots of photo editing.

Judy, technologies change so fast nowadays that by the time you're ready, all these responds may be useless. A few things you may want to remember when buying a laptop. Laptops are not built like desktops. Most everything in a desktop is upgradeable at your own paste before having to replace it. A laptop on the other hand is not all upgradeable or not easy to upgrade, ie: the CPU (main mother board), video card, etc.. Because of this, you'd want to chose these parts as powerful or "top of the line" as you can afford. Things such as the size of the hard drive and the memory chips, do not need to be so large if you can't afford it. They're easy to be upgraded when you're ready. Size of the laptop also matters. I have a 17" HP laptop and absolute loving it. It has a wider screen and a full size keyboard. It's important because I have long fingers and a full size keyboard is more ergo to type. I work with graphic alot so a 17" display is easier on the eyes. However, a 17" is a 2-3 times heavier than a 14" or 15" laptop. So, if you carry it around alot, it may not be suitable for you. One thing I do recommend. Our today's technology is heading toward wireless, so get one that has a wireless unit built in. You may eventually need it but without having to get extra components that can be costly later on. As mentioned, technology changes constantly. One of the latest tech besides speed, is a swivel display. Check the one below to give you an idea. Some even have different size memory card slots so you can insert your camera memory card into it for easy download of your photos & video clips. There's also those that have a built in camera so you wouldn't need to have a separate one. There are many options and I can imagine that when you're ready, there would even be more. How fast you may ask? I still can't believe my new phone that was purchased barely 6 months ago has already made on the obsolete list! Good Luck and Happy Shopping! Natalie Here is a link that might be useful: HP swivel display laptop

I'm planning a big remodel and have already engaged with an architect and a general contractor. However, I feel like I may need additional help to come up with the most optimal and efficient kitchen layout. I'm looking for a designer with whom I could discuss pros and cons of different kitchen layouts based on the way that we use the kitchen. I'm not 100% sure how to find such a person. Most of the local kitchen designers seem to offer additional services, as a part of the whole package.... I'm aware that kitchen cabinet stores offer design services as well, but I think my kitchen is a bit tricky and I would like to get an opinion of a designer. Would on-line services such as Decorilla be a good option in this case? Any other options? Thanks!