Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 zammm Aug 18, 2011 14:33:42	Due to a recent hardware implosion, I'm in the market for a new laptop; however, due to that very same laptop explosion, my efforts at researching and comparing brands and stats--something I'm already not too great at--have been relegated to a practically ancient desktop that does everything at a rate that leaves me envious of the average slug. So I'm asking for help. What would you recommend in the way of Windows-based laptops for someone on a budget that's relatively tight? My needs are fairly basic; I'm not much of a PC gamer, so I don't need to worry about cutting-edge graphics or sound, just routine processing. Good wireless capability is a must, but I don't really need anything in the way of ports other than a network jack and a bunch of USB ports. Long battery life would be very nice, and a significant amount of storage space (200+ Gigs) would be major gravy. If possible I'd like a video-capable webcam and a decent mike, but that's completely optional.
#2 jetshield Aug 18, 2011 16:06:06	Why Windows-based? You say you're not much of a gamer, so there's really no reason to go with windows unless you need the OS for work. Getting a laptop without an OS, or with a linux distro, could save you hundreds (or give you more room for better hardware).
#3 zammm Aug 18, 2011 19:07:45	Why Windows-based? You say you're not much of a gamer, so there's really no reason to go with windows unless you need the OS for work. Getting a laptop without an OS, or with a linux distro, could save you hundreds (or give you more room for better hardware). A couple reasons: first and foremost, it's what I'm familiar with. I have no desire whatsoever to have to learn the ins and outs of a new OS if I don't have to. Second, one game I do play is Magic Online, and IIRC, that requires Windows. I'm exceedingly aware that Windows is flawed as all get-out, but until and unless it becomes completely unusable or Microsoft does something ridiculously intolerable, to me, it's just not worth the trouble to switch.
#4 jetshield Aug 18, 2011 22:33:25	www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchT... www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchT... www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchT... There's 3 options. Want a larger screen? It'll cost you, but here's a couple that're reasonable. www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchT... www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchT... You said your budget was "relatively tight", but weren't more specific. If it's relative to mine, you're hosed.