Thursday, January 1, 2009

Wanted: Opinionated Computer Junkies

Okay, all you readers out there, here's the deal.

I need a laptop.

I have been borrowing the schools - a fantastic Apple Macbook, but those are WAY out of my price range. I know that many of you who read this aren't really computer oriented, don't program, pull apart, put back together, etc. But I am in the market for a laptop - looking to get one in the next week or so and would really like some direction. With grading, writing a thesis and papers and a book, yea, the time has come.
I'm going to have money left over from a student loan - here are some of my requests.

1. I would like to keep it under $1000 final price

2. I want something functional (basic functions are okay - not a huge gamer and don't do tons with graphics - just powerpoints, word processing, internet use, etc.

3. It has to be reliable, something that isn't going to make me want to throw it against a wall or hit it with a hammer - I'm too busy to take time to kill a computer

4. It must be wifi compatible and not slower than cold tar going up Mt Everest in the dead of winter.

So, there you have it. My requests. Now comes the participation part of blogging - I need all you real people out there to let me know what you have loved, what you have hated - all opinions welcome (even if a spouse or friend has to look over your shoulder as you type to make sure their opinion is known and you got it right)

If you are shy about your opinion but still have one, you can drop me an email if you prefer...

2 comments:

Harmony said...

I'm with Jeff. The two Toshiba laptops we've had have been great for the functions you are looking for. But then I know nothing about any other brands, so I don't know if my opinion counts for much. Recently I found consumersearch.com to be a good place for product reviews, along with amazon.com. Maybe they would be good sources for help with your decision.

James Swineford said...

I did some quick shopping around, but you kept your wish list short so you'll still have to choose between three of my recommendations, all under $1000.

First is a Toshiba at $679. Only downside to this is a 15 inch screen.

Second is a HP/Compaq with a 17 inch screen, but open box. It's going for $449 with the new item for $899. Even with open box, it's still covered by warranty so you should be alright.

Third is a Gateway refurbished with a 15 inch screen for $599.

Each will still allow you to buy Office 2007 for $129. Or there's always OpenOffice which is free.

All prices are with tigerdirect.com where I have had good luck with prices and support. I haven't had any problems with open box or refurbished products from them.