Cactus Game Design Message Boards
Open Forum => Off-Topic => Topic started by: Prof Underwood on November 25, 2011, 04:14:36 PM
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As I mentioned in another thread, my family is in the market for a new laptop. I have done a bit of research, but at this point I'm in over my head tech-wise.
Things I know:
I want a laptop
I want to spend less than $400
I want a 17 inch monitor
I want 4 GB of RAM
I want at least 320 GB of HD space
Things I don't know:
How to choose between processors (ie. AMD, Intel, dual-core, i3, pentium, etc.)
How important it is to have a HDMI port
How important it is to have a HD that reads at the faster 7200 speed
How important it is to have Bluetooth
How important are discreet graphics
How important is it to buy new vs. refurbished (or used on ebay)
Things I don't care about:
Weight (it won't be moving too often)
Looks (I'm not going for style points)
Battery life (it'll be plugged in most of the time)
Brand (unless it matters for some functional reason)
I have already found some options from Sears, (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00331196000P?sid=IDx20070921x00003c&srccode=cii_10043468&cpncode=22-184542860-2) Frys, (http://www.frys.com/product/6893496?site=sa:adpages%20page:p1) New Egg, (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834158157) another New Egg, (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834158046) and a bunch from Best Buy (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olstemplatemapper.jsp?id=pcat17080&type=page&qp=q70726f63657373696e6774696d653a3e313930302d30312d3031~~cabcat0500000%23%230%23%2311a~~cabcat0502000%23%230%23%23o~~f534||31372671756f743b20616e64205570~~f118||344742~~nf305||24333030202d20243339392e3939&list=y&nrp=15&sc=abComputerSP&ks=960&usc=abcat0500000&sp=-bestsellingsort+skuid&list=y&iht=n&st=processingtime%3A%3E1900-01-01)
Can anyone help me out?
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hey prof you if you can use skype id be glad to discuss the issue with you.
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Here's what you'll need: (https://www.cactusforums.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2F8%2F88%2FLockpicking_Tools.jpg&hash=5f5782269a8d75bc0f6532b01d7a13e67a572d62)
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How important are discreet graphics
Discreet or built-in graphics are pretty terrible if you want to do any video or 3D gaming (though I don't expect you to do much of the latter).
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I am in the market, too. My understanding of processors is that Celeron/Atom represent the lowest quality, while the i3/i5/i7 represent the modern generation of Intel top-quality processors.
The latter series also comes with turbo boosting additions. The AMD series may be roughly equivalent in speed to the Intel processors, but they are considered a "generic brand" much like Equate for medicine. You will generally find that the cheapest laptops use AMD or Atom/Celeron. Anything that uses the i-series is considered above average. The first generation of the i-series is the i3, but the second generation i-series would be preferable, if affordable. That would put you on the leading edge, rather than "cheaper because they're older."
You can add all the RAM and video graphics you want, but if the processor does not keep up with the times, then the computer will run slow. However, I agree with Kopp that if you can get a separate video card (rather than integrated graphics) you will be much happier, even if you don't do a lot of video gaming. It will make DVDs run better, and make live streaming more fluid.
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No AMD is not "generic" they cost less because AMD doesn't spend money on advertising compared to Intel that spends millions on ads. Intel is the established but that doesn't make AMD generic. They do far more testing on their products, their specs are more accurate than intel because of it. The only area that intel beats AMD is in heat. AMD processors run hotter than intels, but not to a point of failure and in laptops the difference is negligible. Your chances of getting a 17" screen for 400 dollars or less and NOT having it be a low quality laptop are low. Discrete graphics are all you're going to get for that price point, graphics cards are one of the more expensive parts of any computer and having a dedicated card already puts you over 400 no matter what your other part choices are. You pretty much never want to buy a computer used unless your really strapped for cash. The technology industry moves way too fast, last years models are already outdated and in danger of being left in the dust. Bluetooth is not important. For everyday computing having the faster hard drive speed is not that big of an issue, the difference will be negligible for most common tasks. 320 GB of Space will go fast if you do anything more than internet and word documents and such. I have 4 hard drives in my desktop computer (a 500 GB, 320 GB and 2 160 GB) and those are about 2/3 full of mostly movies and game which I realize isn't the norm but if you keep any movies or music on the drive you may run out of space fast. of course this can be easily solved by getting a cheap external drive and by being frugal with your hard drive space.
For the most part now a days your Processor is rarely going to be your limiting factor. almost all of the processors on the market outpace the limitation that arise. RAM is the limiting factor for most people, and for anyone that works with video and games it's your graphics card. for example my desktop computer is 4 years old now but the processor in can go toe to toe with any of the modern processors. (It's an AMD Phenom first generation quad core) but my video card can barely handle league of legends which is not a graphically intense game.
In short your gonna have to make a decision. If you want a 17" screen, your going to have a slower machine for the price you want. If you want a graphics card for movies games and live streaming than just throw out the price point now.
best bet for price point.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834158157 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834158157)
Disclaimer:You get what you pay for. If you want a computer for this cheap it might not be the greatest piece of machinery. it happens. there's a reason their called craptops when you get below a certain price point.
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No AMD is not "generic" they cost less because AMD doesn't spend money on advertising compared to Intel that spends millions on ads. Intel is the established but that doesn't make AMD generic.
I think you misunderstood my use of the word "generic." I actually use Equate and "store brands" all the time, and in some cases I prefer them. I stated that AMD processors run equivalent speeds as Intel. Therefore, the AMD Phenom is roughly equivalent to the i-series. AMD is simply cheaper in price, like generic brands.
Your chances of getting a 17" screen for 400 dollars or less and NOT having it be a low quality laptop are low.
I agree with the Anti-Apple here. Why is 17" so important? 15.6" screens are not that much smaller.
Discrete graphics are all you're going to get for that price point, graphics cards are one of the more expensive parts of any computer and having a dedicated card already puts you over 400 no matter what your other part choices are.
Once again I agree. Video cards usually bump the base price by around $100.
For the most part now a days your Processor is rarely going to be your limiting factor. almost all of the processors on the market outpace the limitation that arise. RAM is the limiting factor for most people, and for anyone that works with video and games it's your graphics card. for example my desktop computer is 4 years old now but the processor in can go toe to toe with any of the modern processors. (It's an AMD Phenom first generation quad core) but my video card can barely handle league of legends which is not a graphically intense game.
However, I would guess you paid much more than $400 for that computer at the time. ;)
For $400, the processors will be older generations (like Celeron) and therefore will not be able to run well with modern software for very long.
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the desktop was $600 dollars at the time yes, but the fact still remains that it's 4 years old and not the current generation of Phenom core processors. The processors for 400 dollars will be older generations but not 4 year old generations. you can probably even get an i3 for $400
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What I've learned from this thread about graphics:
Discreet or built-in graphics are pretty terrible if you want to do any video or 3D gaming
Really? This review (http://reviews.cnet.com/2719-7602_7-273-2.html?tag=page;page) at cnet seemed to think that discreet graphics were sufficient for video and gaming. Are they wrong when they say, "The majority of desktop replacement laptops have discrete graphics cards, either for help in playing HD video or for running 3D games."
if you can get a separate video card (rather than integrated graphics) you will be much happier, even if you don't do a lot of video gaming. It will make DVDs run better, and make live streaming more fluid.
Is this "separate video card you speak of the same thing as "discreet" graphics?
Discrete graphics are all you're going to get for that price point, graphics cards are one of the more expensive parts of any computer and having a dedicated card already puts you over 400 no matter what your other part choices are.
In short your gonna have to make a decision. If you want a 17" screen, your going to have a slower machine for the price you want. If you want a graphics card for movies games and live streaming than just throw out the price point now.
This makes me think that "graphics card" and "discreet graphics" are 2 separate things. Can someone help me to know what to look for to see whether there is a graphics card or not?
Most of the laptops I've been looking at have graphics listed as either:
Intel HD
Intel® HD Graphics 3000 with up to 1696MB Dynamic Video Memory
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4250
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470
AMD Radeon HD 6480G discrete-class
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My questions about Processors at this point:
Therefore, the AMD Phenom is roughly equivalent to the i-series.
OK, it seems a lot more complicated to me than that, considering that there are Phenom II and i3, i5, and i7 processors. And that doesn't even count the Athalon II and Turion II processors of AMD, as well as A4, A6, and A8.
Most of the processors I've been seeing are like:
Intel Pentium 6100 2.0GHz (I assume this is the worst of the Intel, lowest GHz)
Intel® Pentium® 2.13 GHz
Intel Pentium dual-core P6100 2.0GHz (this has lower GHz, but is dual-core, which is better)
Intel Core i3-350M 2.26GHz
Intel® Core™ i3 2.4 GHz (I assume this is the best of the Intel, highest GHz, and i3)
AMD Phenom™ II 1.8 GHz (this is the lowest GHz, but I thought Phenom II was supposed to be good)
AMD VISION A4 APU 1.9GHz (with Turbo CORE up to 2.5GHz) (do I look at the base or the turbo speed)
2nd generation Intel® Core™ i3-2330M Processor, 2.2GHz, 3MB L3 Cache (what is a L3 Cache?)
AMD A4-Series 1.9GHz (with Turbo CORE up to 2.5GHz)
AMD Phenom™ II 2.6 GHz (I assume this is the best of the AMD, but where does it compare to the Intel)
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Misc. thoughts on Hard Drives, RAM, and HDMI:
Bluetooth is not important. For everyday computing having the faster hard drive speed is not that big of an issue, the difference will be negligible for most common tasks. 320 GB of Space will go fast if you do anything more than internet and word documents and such.
Thanks for the info on the Bluetooth and the 7200 speed HD. As for the size of the HD, I'm not worried about that at all considering I have a 1TB external HD.
RAM is the limiting factor for most people
Do you think 4GB will be enough to last me for the next several years?
Also does anyone have any thoughts on how important it is to have an HDMI port?
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I agree with Kopp
I'm not Kopp. :P
Really? This review (http://reviews.cnet.com/2719-7602_7-273-2.html?tag=page;page) at cnet seemed to think that discreet graphics were sufficient for video and gaming. Are they wrong when they say, "The majority of desktop replacement laptops have discrete graphics cards, either for help in playing HD video or for running 3D games."
There are three levels of graphics processors:
Integrated. Just... avoid these at all costs.
Discrete. These are a step up, but still are pretty bad for video intensive stuff.
Dedicated. This is what you want if you plan to do anything video or 3D. Dedicated graphics use a separate graphics card for the processing, rather than just an addition to the motherboard. These also have their own memory dedicated just to video and graphics. Even if you don't plan on running games, it'll help with things like Flash, videos, etc.
This makes me think that "graphics card" and "discreet graphics" are 2 separate things. Can someone help me to know what to look for to see whether there is a graphics card or not?
Most of the laptops I've been looking at have graphics listed as either:
Intel HD
Intel® HD Graphics 3000 with up to 1696MB Dynamic Video Memory
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4250
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470
AMD Radeon HD 6480G discrete-class
AVOID THE FIRST TWO AT ALL COSTS.
as for the other ones, I'm not familiar with ATI / AMD's way numbering system (I've always used Intel and Nvidia)
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There are three levels of graphics processors:
Integrated. Just... avoid these at all costs. (is this what the "Intel HD" ones are?)
Discrete. These are a step up, but still are pretty bad for video intensive stuff.
Dedicated. This is what you want if you plan to do anything video or 3D. (how do I know if a laptop has this?)
Most of the laptops I've been looking at have graphics listed as either:
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4250
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470
AMD Radeon HD 6480G discrete-class
I'm not familiar with ATI / AMD's way numbering system
According to Wikipedia, (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_AMD_graphics_processing_units) the first two are older cards (Jan & May 2010), but the 6480G just came out in Jun 2011. Is that probably good enough to last me for several years?
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Of these, the 5470 looks the best.
Note, newer does not always mean better with graphics cards. My three year old Nvidia 8800 GT cards are faster than most laptop cards today.
http://www.notebookcheck.net/ATI-Mobility-Radeon-HD-5470.23698.0.html (http://www.notebookcheck.net/ATI-Mobility-Radeon-HD-5470.23698.0.html)
This site is pretty good for figuring out the mobile graphics card hierarchy.
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Of the graphics processors you listed only the ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 is a dedicated card and is therefore your best option for good graphics, but again we run in to the price problem. ATI cards (a subdivision of AMD) will have cheaper cards but they still drive up the price. As for the hdmi port, do you have now or plan to get an HDTV with HDMI input? if the answer is no than you don't need an HDMI port. If the answer is yes than do you want to be able to hook your computer up to the tv and watch movies or just generally use your computer on your tv? if the answer is no than again you don't need one. If the answer is yes, than we have a problem. If you have or plan to get a display of 22" or less then you'll be okayish. If you plan to get a TV bigger than that and want to use any kind of actual HD than we come back to the issue of a video card. fact is that onboard graphics will not be able to power your tv. they aren't built for things like that, and the laptop will overheat quickly. Discrete graphics will handle standard definition but thats it. A dedicated card is the only thing that will be able to power HD on the tv. which leads us back to dedicated cards often being expensive.
As for processors, Ghz is not always better. newer processors sometimes have lower Ghz but handle processes more gracefully making more efficient use of the speed they have. Any multicore processor is going to be better than a single core, the more cores the better. AMD Phenom II processors are AMD's "equivalent" (personally i think they're better) of Intels core processors (i3 i5 i7) but where they actually rank on that list depends on their model number, so if you could provide that it would be helpful. leaving the phenons off the list for now the processor ranking looks like..
Intel Pentium 6100 2.0GHz lol
Intel® Pentium® 2.13 GHz lol again
Intel Pentium dual-core P6100 2.0GHz best option among the cheaps
AMD A4-Series 1.9GHz (with Turbo CORE up to 2.5GHz)
Intel Core i3-350M 2.26GHz
Intel® Core™ i3 2.4 GHz
AMD VISION A4 APU 1.9GHz (with Turbo CORE up to 2.5GHz) (do I look at the base or the turbo speed)
2nd generation Intel® Core™ i3-2330M Processor, 2.2GHz, 3MB L3 Cache (what is a L3 Cache?)
why is the slower i3 better than the faster ones? it's all about that "2nd generation" part and the L3 cache. L3 cache means better multitasking, it;s basically RAM built right in to the CPU. the more Cache, the less the CPU has to go over to the RAM to retrieve what it's looking for which improves performance. There were also a number of chances put in place when the 2nd gen of intel Core processors were released. The AMD Vision comes in a close second, only because I don't know how many cores t has. VISION technology is a great leap forward, it basically means theres a mini (albeit not great) graphics card built right in to the processor. Its not anything to write home about but when combined with an ATI card it can do wonders.
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Of these, the 5470 looks the best.
Of the graphics processors you listed only the ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 is a dedicated card and is therefore your best option for good graphics
OK, so it's unanimous :) However, I still don't know how to tell that the 5470 is a dedicated card and the others aren't. Where did you guys see that?
Any multicore processor is going to be better than a single core, the more cores the better. AMD Phenom II processors are AMD's "equivalent" (personally i think they're better) of Intels core processors (i3 i5 i7) but where they actually rank on that list depends on their model number, so if you could provide that it would be helpful.
AMD VISION A4 APU 1.9GHz (with Turbo CORE up to 2.5GHz) (do I look at the base or the turbo speed)
2nd generation Intel® Core™ i3-2330M Processor, 2.2GHz, 3MB L3 Cache (what is a L3 Cache?)
it's all about that "2nd generation" part and the L3 cache. L3 cache means better multitasking, it;s basically RAM built right in to the CPU. the more Cache, the less the CPU has to go over to the RAM to retrieve what it's looking for which improves performance. There were also a number of chances put in place when the 2nd gen of intel Core processors were released. The AMD Vision comes in a close second, only because I don't know how many cores t has. VISION technology is a great leap forward, it basically means theres a mini (albeit not great) graphics card built right in to the processor. Its not anything to write home about but when combined with an ATI card it can do wonders.
OK, this is helpful too. So "2nd generation" is important with Intel, as is "Vision" with AMD. and L3 Cache is good :)
As far as which model number the Phenom II's are, I can't figure that out. They are in this, (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Factory-Refurbished+Laptop+/+AMD+Phenom%26%23153%3B+II+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+-+Pewter/3449924.p?id=1218402871977&skuId=3449924) and this (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Factory-Refurbished+Pavilion+Laptop+/+AMD+Phenom%26%23153%3B+II+Processor+-+Pewter/3599114.p?id=1218417740521&skuId=3599114) computers.
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The second model has the best processor on this list it's a quad core were as all the others are dual core at most and has the vision tech. Built in. The only problem with that model is that it does have on board graphics but really as long as you aren't a gamer it will do fine when you combine the on board hd graphics with the vision processor.
As far as how we know hear things the only one I knew off hand was the ati graphics card the rest google is now and always will be your friend. Google the model number and usually the first result will tell you all you need to know
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OK, so if I'm understanding everything, then the scorecard so far is:
Computer CPU (rank) Graphics (rank) HD (rank) Note
HP g7-1167dx Phenom II Quad (1) ATI 4250 (3) 500 (2) Refurbished ($400)
HP g7-1277dx Vision A4 Dual (2) AMD 6480G (2) 320 (3) New ($380)
HP DV7-4077CL i3350M Dual with 3M cache (3) ATI 5470 (1) 640 (1) Refurbished ($400)
HP G7-1273nr 2nd gen i3-2330M w/3M cache (4) Intel HD (4) 500 (2) New ($400)
This is based on:
1 - number of cores being most important about CPU, and AMD beating Intel
2 - dedicated graphics cards being best, discrete being second, and integrated last
3 - all the other things are equal (ie. 17in screen, 4GB RAM, approximate cost)
So what's the most important factor to consider, and how important is the factor that 2 of these are refurbished?
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For my part, the refurbished aspect bothers me more than any of these other factors. Some people have probably had better luck with this than I, but I have never bought a refurbished piece of hardware that I did not subsequently return defective. Not one.
Honestly, I think out of all the things you mentioned, the 17in. monitor is probably going to kill you the most on available options, with the probable exception of a dedicated graphics card. Frankly, I was surprised that you found ANYthing with that size monitor, new, at that price point.
My general take on this is that laptop prices have been plummeting so fast that, barring the two significant factors I just mentioned, you can basically name your own price and get a decent laptop. Whereas not even five years ago it could be said that you couldn't get a laptop worth owning for under a thousand dollars, now you can walk into your big box store and pay full retail, and have a hard time finding ANY (PC) laptop that will cost you OVER a thousand dollars.
For example, I am typing this response on my HP Pavilion g4 series laptop that I just picked up three months ago for something like $350. Aside from having a 14-inch monitor, it meets every one of your required specs. Despite sporting an onboard graphics chip, I have played titles like Portal 2, DC Universe Online and the Bioware space-themed shooter/RPG which shall remain nameless, without any significant (to me) loss of performance.
So while the technical arguments to the type of graphics processor, the number of cores, etc are correct on their face, it's my observation that the hardware is surging upward in power and downward in price at a speed where, for the user to tax the system or be required to invest heavily in the laptop for reasons other than heavy-duty case construction, they'd need to be doing some hardcore adobe work (video editing, 3d modeling, large-scale graphics editing) or playing games with the latest Crytek engine or whatever.
In other words, you asked for my educated insight at a time when, as laptops go, I don't really think it matters any longer.
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You pretty much never want to buy a computer used unless your really strapped for cash.
For my part, the refurbished aspect bothers me more than any of these other factors.
So with both of you guys suggesting to avoid the refurbs, that just leaves me with the 2 options left.
Computer CPU Graphics HD Price
HP g7-1277dx Vision A4 Dual AMD 6480G 320 $380
HP G7-1273nr 2nd gen i3-2330M w/3M cache Intel HD 500 $400
I'm thinking that the top choice would be better since it has the dual core processor (with Vision enhancement), the better graphics card, and the lower price. The bottom choice has the better hard drive, but as I mentioned, I have a huge external already and don't really care much about that.
Am I missing anything before I pull the trigger on this?
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Wow, so all this tech is way out of my league but I can offer my own personal experince in the purchasing of a laptop. I have a Dell Inspiron with an intel core i5 and a 17 inch screen that I purchased for around 700 because it had a such a big screen. If your willing to go with a 15 inch screen that knocks off at about 200. It seems in the world of laptops you can get a great machine for around 500 regardless of make, but I am sure someone wil correct me on this :)
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I just found another option to add to the list. All of the laptops below are 17inch screens with 4GB of RAM.
Computer CPU Graphics HD Price
HP g7-1277dx (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+AMD+A-Series+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Pewter/3668202.p?id=1218424575060&skuId=3668202) Vision A4 Dual AMD 6480G 320 $380
ACER 7551-5358 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/ACER-ASPIRE-7551-5358-BLACK-AMD-TURION-II-X2-P540-2-4GHZ-/160684458253?pt=Laptops_Nov05&hash=item25698a410d) Turion II Dual-Core P540 Radeon 4250 320 $400
HP G7-1273nr 2nd gen i3-2330M w/3M cache Intel HD 500 $400
All the reviews seem to say that Acer's customer service is TERRIBLE. Should I avoid them purely for that reason?
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That, and I consider their Vision line to be a better purchase than their Turion processors, though some might call it six of one, half-dozen of the other.
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I had an HDMI port on my old laptop for 3 1/2 years, used it once to play Doom on a 67" screen for irony's sake. I don't miss it at all.
I think it would help us if you were able to tell us exactly what you want to do with this. Some options:
Minor internet (Facebook, CGD)
Moderate internet (Flash games, YouTube)
Major internet (Never get off, major browser-based games)
Word Processing
Watching video
Major number crunching
Minor gaming (Flash, Plants vs. Zombies, etc)
Major gaming (Crysis, MW3, Skyrim)
Extended time away from plug
Others can add to this, I'm probably forgetting something.
Also, plug for AMD: they usually are cheaper, but are just as good as Intel. AppleHater is right about their testing. I've used them in every computer but this one (and I wanted the battery life of this model)
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I just wanted to thank everyone for their helpful advice and assisting me in choosing the next laptop for my family. I feel like I learned a LOT from this process, and I feel really good about the product that I ended up getting. In case you're interested it is this one:
HP - Pavilion Laptop g7-1257dx (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Core%26%23153%3B+i3+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+-+Pewter/3686143.p?id=1218426422811&skuId=3686143&st=3686143%203994054&cp=1&lp=1)
Intel 2nd Generation Dual Core i3-2330M 2.2GHz (with 3MB cache on level 3) (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Intel-Core-i3-2330M-Notebook-Processor.52200.0.html)
Intel HD Graphics 3000 (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Intel-HD-Graphics-3000.37948.0.html) (which is supposed to be comparable or better than the AMD Radeon 5450)
17.3 inch monitor
500 GB HD
4 GB RAM
HDMI output
3 USB ports, 1 media card reader
DVD R+W, CD R+W
6 cell battery
multi-gesture support touchpad
and best of all, for a price of: $379.99
I am thankful to God for blessing us with such a great deal on a really great machine. I look forward to years of good use from it in the future :)
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Oops.
I got an email from Best Buy today saying that my computer was actually NOT in stock after all and there had been a computer glitch. Therefore my order was cancelled. The good news is that they were professional and apologetic about it and are sending me a $50 gift card for my trouble.
The bad news is that I have to now go find another laptop to order :(
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I really suggest getting a quad core processor, not so much for now but to future proof it (at least as much as can be done) with the except of minecraft which can't use multiple cores, there aren't many applications coming out now-a-days that doesn't run better on a quad core, and with new applications coming out every day that use more and more processing power there's no downside considering you can get an AMD quad core for the same or less than an intel i3 dual core. obviously don't overspend to get it but if you have two comparable laptops, and one has a quad core processor (especially an AMD :angel:) go with that one. SomeKittens list of questions is also extremely relevant
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I really suggest getting a quad core processor...considering you can get an AMD quad core for the same or less than an intel i3 dual core.
I'd love to get a quad-core AMD, but the only ones I've found in my price range are in refurbished computers which you and Schaef both said to avoid. The good news is that the extra $50 gift card from Best Buy has increased my price range to $450 (but only at Best Buy). Find me a quad-core AMD there for that price that isn't refurbished, and I'll probably buy it :)
SomeKittens list of questions is also extremely relevant
The big 3 for my family is:
Moderate internet (Flash games, YouTube)
Word Processing
Watching video
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You won't need quad-core for those simple tasks.
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You won't need quad-core for those simple tasks.
most people buy computers for long term.......
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You won't need quad-core for those simple tasks.
Which is why I'm in the market on the bottom end of the price range.
most people buy computers for long term.......
Which is also true of me, and why I'm trying to get the biggest bang for my buck. Still haven't found a new quad-core for $450 though :)
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For the $450 price point, i think this is your best option. (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Satellite+Laptop+/+AMD+A-Series+Processor+/+15.6%22+Display+/+4GB+Memory+/+320GB+Hard+Drive+-+Matrix+Silver/2971032.p?skuId=2971032&id=1218367940866)
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For the $450 price point, i think this is your best option. (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Satellite+Laptop+/+AMD+A-Series+Processor+/+15.6%22+Display+/+4GB+Memory+/+320GB+Hard+Drive+-+Matrix+Silver/2971032.p?skuId=2971032&id=1218367940866)
Thanks, but that is NOT a 17inch monitor which is one of my requirements.
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only one of your listed laptops has a 17 inch screen and is also not used. That one is 500 dollars, and not from best buy where you have your gift card. There's a reason for that. Your chances of finding a non refurbished laptop with a 17" screen that isn't from several years ago are pretty much nil. You have a choice to make. Money, or screen.
Scratch that. The chances are non existent. I just checked every major seller, new egg, best buy, all brand sites, those kinds of things, and you can't get a 17" screen
This Intel based (http://us.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/model/LX.RL702.023)
and
This AMD based (http://us.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/model/LX.RL602.037)
are the closest you are going to get however as you notice they are both $450 and not available at best buy where you have your gift card. You're asking something that is pretty well impossible.
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Scratch that. The chances are non existent. I just checked every major seller, new egg, best buy, all brand sites, those kinds of things, and you can't get a 17" screen
What about this one? (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Core%26%23153%3B+i3+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+-+Pewter/3686143.p?id=1218426422811&skuId=3686143) It seems to me that this one (which is at Best Buy) is cheaper and at least as good as the Acer you just pointed to.
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I'm still not sure I understand your insistence on a 17" screen. If you want God to bless you, then don't put limitations on His blessings. That's like God opening the door for a fully equipped Ford Explorer, but you said no because you really wanted a Range Rover. ;)
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Scratch that. The chances are non existent. I just checked every major seller, new egg, best buy, all brand sites, those kinds of things, and you can't get a 17" screen
What about this one? (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Core%26%23153%3B+i3+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+-+Pewter/3686143.p?id=1218426422811&skuId=3686143) It seems to me that this one (which is at Best Buy) is cheaper and at least as good as the Acer you just pointed to.
I personally dislike HP products as a whole, but for the price it seems like a decent deal. Basically, unless you are going to be working with some intensive applications, such as the Professional Adobe products, or gaming, any intel-i series processor, or AMD phenom II processor will work for you. Now that all modern laptops are 64bit, the potential power in a processor is much greater than before, making old dual-cores much more powerful. I personally have an old Athlon I used to run at 32 bit. Now that I installed Windows 7 64 bit, it beats even a Phenom processor ran at 32 bit. Also, most modern laptops come with enough graphic power to watch videos, even through an hdmi output. While the on paper specs may not be that great, they actually work better in real life than they look on paper.
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While the on paper specs may not be that great, they actually work better in real life than they look on paper.
We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
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While the on paper specs may not be that great, they actually work better in real life than they look on paper.
We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
Tebow?
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If they were Tebow Specs, then the processors would actually be absolutely terrible at their job but would fantastic at being RAM. (Cause Tebow is a QB who can't throw a football to save his life, but can run like a running back. Thus making him useless at his job but exactly at a job other members of the team are doing.) And eventually the Hard Drive (I guess that's the metaphor I'll use for defense) will no longer be able to keep the problems away and the processor will come crashing down to earth.
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While the on paper specs may not be that great, they actually work better in real life than they look on paper.
We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
Tebow?
Tim Tebow's one of the most underrated players of this season.
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Ahh. See that's why I didn't get the reference. I don't follow football.
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I don't either, but everyone else in my suite won't shut up about their fantasy teams...
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While the on paper specs may not be that great, they actually work better in real life than they look on paper.
We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
Tebow?
Tim Tebow's one of the most underrated players of this season.
If you were being sarcastic #isedwhatyoudidthere if not then I lol in your general direction
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I'm still not sure I understand your insistence on a 17" screen. If you want God to bless you, then don't put limitations on His blessings.
I'm not trying to limit his blessings, but since one of the main things that we do with our laptop is watch video, and since it usually (but not always) stays in one place, it just makes sense to go with the larger size screen. If God dropped an absolutely phenomenal deal in my lap (ie. quad-core processor, more than 4MB RAM, dedicated graphics card, 7200 speed HD, and 15" monitor) then I would take it because EVERYTHING else on it is a step up from what I'm looking for (except the monitor). But it would basically take something like that to outweigh the benefit that I'm expecting from a monitor that is 23% larger.
I personally dislike HP products as a whole
Do you like Acer more? I heard their service was absolutely terrible. Why don't you like HP? Who do you like?
We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
That was funny. I don't get what the big deal is about Tebow (other than his outspoken witness for Jesus, which I appreciate). It's not like this is the first time the NFL has had a quarterback who was better at running than passing (ie. Randall Cunningham, Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick, etc.)
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I personally dislike HP products as a whole
Do you like Acer more? I heard their service was absolutely terrible. Why don't you like HP? Who do you like?
Quite honestly I think Acer, HP, and Dell are all low-quality. I much prefer Toshiba and my personal favorite, and the one I will only buy from any more, Lenovo.
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We'll call those Tebow Processors. ;D
That was funny. I don't get what the big deal is about Tebow (other than his outspoken witness for Jesus, which I appreciate). It's not like this is the first time the NFL has had a quarterback who was better at running than passing (ie. Randall Cunningham, Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick, etc.)
McNabb wasn't worshipped as a god for doing absolutely nothing. Vick didn't stand by and watch his teammate get tormented for no reason, and letting it affect the team in the process.
McNabb Culpepper and Cunningham can all complete passes. Theres a difference between being a better runner, and just not being able to pass, letting the defense win games for you AND STILL GETTING WORSHIPPED AS A FRANCHISE QB.
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Quite honestly I think Acer, HP, and Dell are all low-quality. I much prefer Toshiba and my personal favorite, and the one I will only buy from any more, Lenovo.
This is good input, I hadn't really heard much from anyone else about brands making a difference. Do others out there agree with Zardeck, or would you rank the brands differently?
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Quite honestly I think Acer, HP, and Dell are all low-quality. I much prefer Toshiba and my personal favorite, and the one I will only buy from any more, Lenovo.
This is good input, I hadn't really heard much from anyone else about brands making a difference. Do others out there agree with Zardeck, or would you rank the brands differently?
Completely agree with his evaluation of dell
Disagree with the other two
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Quite honestly I think Acer, HP, and Dell are all low-quality. I much prefer Toshiba and my personal favorite, and the one I will only buy from any more, Lenovo.
This is good input, I hadn't really heard much from anyone else about brands making a difference. Do others out there agree with Zardeck, or would you rank the brands differently?
Completely agree with his evaluation of dell
Disagree with the other two
I'm not saying everything they make is pure junk. But I would never trust my money with them personally. Also, I'd have to order them in order of most dislike to least dislike:
The only reason Dell isn't at the top of the dislike list is because I mostly use their enterprise hardware. While I still would prefer Lenovo, the enterprise hardware seems to at least pass the bare minimum.
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Disagree with the other two
Do you mean that you disagree that HP and Acer are junk, or that Toshiba and Lenovo are awesome?
Wow, you really dislike HP MORE than Acer? That's the first time I've heard that perspective.
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Wow, you really dislike HP MORE than Acer? That's the first time I've heard that perspective.
I probably hate HP just SLIGHTLY less than Apple. If it helps to put things into perspective, I'm a MS fanboy.
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I probably hate HP just SLIGHTLY less than Apple. If it helps to put things into perspective, I'm a MS fanboy.
Where does Gateway go on your list?
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I like and have never had any issues with any HP I've ever owned (two desktops and a laptop) though I don't buy throw away models. Only had experience with one Acer and it was surprisingly solid. Currently typing on a toshiba because I bombed , my Asus (KEYGENS!!!!) and haven;t fixed it yet. Had the touchpad but it's meh otherwise. Never used a Lenovo so no comment.
I would rather buy an emachine than a dell. AN EMACHINE!
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I would rather buy an emachine than a dell. AN EMACHINE!
For personal use, amen.
I probably hate HP just SLIGHTLY less than Apple. If it helps to put things into perspective, I'm a MS fanboy.
Where does Gateway go on your list?
Gateway doesn't even exist in my worlds. I have never used a gateway that wasn't pure crap. Same as their support.
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I don't know a lot about computers and I'm about to be really bias with an anecdote, but...
I currently have an Acer Aspire laptop. It is about 1.5 years old and I like it. It is definitely a cheaply made machine, as most of it is just plastic. That being said, I've been pretty rough on it and use it every single day, it is still working well for me and in good condition. I have yet to have any issues with the hardware (at least, issues that weren't my fault.....) The speakers are somewhat quiet, but if I'm somewhere that there's so much background noise it's difficult to hear, I'll be using headphones anyway. Overall I'm very happy with it. The performance it offers for the price I paid has been worth it, especially if I can get another 1.5 years out of it (which seems likely).
I've had good support, too. I spilled water on it once and a few of the keys on the keyboard stopped working due to that. I sent it in to have it repaired and it was back to me in a week. It only cost me the $5 or whatever to ship it, even though it was totally my fault. (I just have the standard warranty.)
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I don't know a lot about computers and I'm about to be really bias with an anecdote, but...
I currently have an Acer Aspire laptop. It is about 1.5 years old and I like it. It is definitely a cheaply made machine, as most of it is just plastic. That being said, I've been pretty rough on it and it is still working well for me. I have yet to have any issues with the hardware (at least, issues that weren't my fault.....) The speakers are somewhat quiet, but if I'm somewhere that there's so much background noise it's difficult to hear, I'll be using headphones anyway. Overall I'm very happy with it. The performance it offers for the price I paid has been worth it, especially if I can get another 1.5 years out of it (which seems likely).
I've had good support, too. I spilled water on it once and a few of the keys on the keyboard stopped working due to that. I sent it in to have it repaired and it was back to me in a week. It only cost me the $5 or whatever to ship it, even though it was totally my fault. (I just have the standard warranty.)
what i do against apple as bias, this is just a helpful anecdote considering all of our minimal experience with Acer
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what i do against apple as bias
What I do against apple ISN'T biased. ;)
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what i do against apple as bias
What I do against apple ISN'T biased. ;)
I didn't say it was well grounded, but at this point yeah it's bias ahaha i pretty much just say oh apple came out with a new product? i'm gonna go buy the original product they took their idea from
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Is there a reason I shouldn't buy this computer? (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Brand-New-HP-Pavilion-G7-1219WM-4GB-MEM-500GB-HDD-AMD-DUAL-1-65-GHZ-/130610157046?pt=Laptops_Nov05&hash=item1e68f8d5f6)
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My turn,
I don't buy electronics on EBay, what if something goes wrong? You have to send it to HP IF it's in the 1 year manufacturer warranty and IF that problem wasn't an issue with the machine instead of wear and tear. All of my laptops I have bought service plans with, and as a former member of Geek Squad I do stand behind them. Though I, like others would prefer that if something goes wrong Best Buy or whoever would replace it instead of repair it, I understand why they do since sometimes what the customer says is wrong with the machine isn't that at all (Shudders back to all of the water damaged IPod Nanos he had to call about that the customer never told him were left in the car overnight...)...Also, unless it's plugged in all the time you will need a replacement battery which is not covered under warranty but is under a service plan. However, I know you are on a tight budget but these are things to think about when going with a laptop....a desktop on the other hand is a different story, mostly because I build all of ours myself...
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All of my laptops I have bought service plans with
My problem here is that a service plan costs something like $200. I just can't see how it is a good idea for me to spend half the cost of the laptop for a 2 year service plan.
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Unless you are worried the kids are going to drop and break it, don't get the accidental damage handling version. The standard two year plan is 89.99 for this model http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Pentium%26%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Matrix+Graphite/3624697.p?id=1218421871958&skuId=362469 (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Pentium%26%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Matrix+Graphite/3624697.p?id=1218421871958&skuId=362469)7 as an example.
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The link didn't work (although I went to the website and found where you were trying to point).
But still, do you think it is worth spending a fourth of the price you pay for a computer just to basically insure it for 2 years?
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But still, do you think it is worth spending a fourth of the price you pay for a computer just to basically insure it for 2 years?
No. I bought my laptop on ebay almost 2 years ago, and still runs perfectly fine. It's all about finding the right seller. just don't buy from someone who only has less than a couple hundred reviews. You are going to give this person a large amount of money. You need to be able to trust them. If at all possible, try to buy from a business, not an individual. You'll be much happier.
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Also, as for that specific laptop on ebay, it looks like you can trust the seller, so if money is really tight for you, then go for it.
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OK, I think I'm getting a basic idea of how to rank things at this point. Here's my first try at a point system:
CPU: (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Mobile-Processors-Benchmarklist.2436.0.html) Top 50 (0 pt)
51-100 (1 pt)
101-150 (2 pt)
RAM: Over 4GB (0 pt)
4 GB (1 pt)
3 GB (2 pt)
Graphics Card: (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Comparison-of-Laptop-Graphics-Cards.130.0.html) Class 1 (0 pt)
Class 2 (1 pt)
Class 3 (2 pt)
Screen size: 17 inches (0 pt)
15 inches (5 pt)
Brand: Toshiba/Lenovo/Sony (0 pt)
Asus/HP/Dell (1 pt)
Acer/Gateway/Other (3 pt)
HD speed: 7200 (0 pt)
5400 (1 pt)
My thinking is that I have a maximum limit of 10pts on whatever laptop I end up getting. I'll see how some of my current options fit into this system :)
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Best Buy HP ($430): (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Core%26%23153%3B+i3+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+-+Pewter/3686143.p?id=1218426422811&skuId=3686143)
CPU = #68 (1 pt)
RAM = 4GB (1 pt)
Graphics = middle of class 3 (2 pt)
Screen = 17.3 in (0 pt)
Brand = HP (1 pt)
HD speed = 5400 (1 pt)
Total = 6 pts
Toshiba Custom ($480): (http://www.toshibadirect.com/td/b2c/cdetland.to?poid=2000016415&src=ANEM&cm_mmc=SF_Pricegrabber)
CPU = #68 (1 pt)
RAM = 4GB (1 pt)
Graphics = middle of class 3 (2 pt)
Screen = 17.3 in (0 pt)
Brand = Toshiba (0 pt)
HD speed = 5400 (1 pt)
Total = 5 pts
Best Buy HP ($380): (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Pentium%26%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3%26%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Pewter/3892145.p?id=1218441019077&skuId=3892145)
CPU = #114 (2 pt)
RAM = 4GB (1 pt)
Graphics = bottom of class 3 (2 pt)
Screen = 17.3 in (0 pt)
Brand = HP (1 pt)
HD speed = 5400 (1 pt)
Total = 7 pts
Best Buy Toshiba ($350): (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Laptop+/+Intel&%23174%3B+Pentium&%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3&%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Matrix+Graphite/3624697.p?id=1218421871958&skuId=3624697&ref=25&loc=SHZ&srccode=cii_10043468&cpncode=18-98722102-2#tabbed-customerreviews)
CPU = #114 (2 pt)
RAM = 4GB (1 pt)
Graphics = bottom of class 3 (2 pt)
Screen = 17.3 in (0 pt)
Brand = Toshiba (0 pt)
HD speed = 5400 (1 pt)
Total = 6 pts
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The only computer I ever bought on eBay had pirated software and OS.
My current Acer laptop was fine for the first two years, but has had overheating and other issues ever since. It still works in short bursts, though, after five years.
I have always gone cheap, and found that the processors and video could not keep up with the times after the first year. Everything runs slow, and the computer has to work harder for basic uses. You definitely will regret going low-end just to save on price. I say ditch the 17" monitor and get the best specs you can find in your budget. Be prepared to extend your budget slightly, since this will do wonders in the long run.
My school system uses Dell laptops, and my current desktop is a Dell, and I have had no problems with them.
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OK, I think I'm getting a basic idea of how to rank things at this point. Here's my first try at a point system:
CPU: (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Mobile-Processors-Benchmarklist.2436.0.html) Top 50 (0 pt)
51-100 (1 pt)
101-150 (2 pt)
RAM: Over 4GB (0 pt)
4 GB (1 pt)
3 GB (2 pt)
Graphics Card: (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Comparison-of-Laptop-Graphics-Cards.130.0.html) Class 1 (0 pt)
Class 2 (1 pt)
Class 3 (2 pt)
Screen size: 17 inches (0 pt)
15 inches (5 pt)
Brand: Toshiba/Lenovo (0 pt)
Asus/HP (1 pt)
Acer/Dell (3 pt)
HD speed: 7200 (0 pt)
5400 (1 pt)
My thinking is that I have a maximum limit of 10pts on whatever laptop I end up getting. I'll see how some of my current options fit into this system :)
You know, that's not a bad idea. I man create one of those these days, so you can plug in specs of computers you're checking out and see which one would be best. Of course, I'd have to go by official ratings for brands and not my own personal opinion/experience
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I say ditch the 17" monitor and get the best specs you can find in your budget. Be prepared to extend your budget slightly, since this will do wonders in the long run.
Just for you, I put an example of a 15.6 inch laptop with the best specs I could find for the same cost as the 17inch ones I've been looking at. As you can see, the CPU is only slightly better than the Best Buy HP. Everything else is the same except the screen being smaller. I would much rather have a significantly larger screen, than a slightly faster CPU.
My current favorite does seem to be the Best Buy HP. It has the 2nd fastest CPU, the fastest graphics card, the typical RAM and HD speed, and has the 17 inch screen.
Also, where does Samsung belong on the brand list?
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Some points of mine regarding brands of laptops.
My first laptop was a Dell. It was used, and boy did I use it even more. It went through ~2yrs of wear just with me, and was coming apart at the seams (the mouse ceased to click), but still was a sturdy product. I know Dell has the highest DoA rate in the industry (2%), perhaps they've changed since I had that model. (7 years ago).
My second was a Gateway. I loved this machine. I had it for 3 years of wear and tear and it took them in stride. Features worked well, the main issues I had were with the MBR (Install Windows first on a dual boot system, kids), and that's not Gateway's fault. The main issue was with a third-party power cord after someone borrowed my laptop and failed to return the cord. After three great years of service, it suddenly died of motherboard failure.
My current laptop was purchased on ebay, and it's pretty bad. It's an Acer Aspire One, and I bought it to do homework on. It's got some compatibility issues with Linux (but that shouldn't worry you), but there's two main issues. One, it doesn't start charging unless it's off. So if I'm Skyping a friend, and my battery gets low, I have to hang up, hibernate, plug in, and then resume. Arg. That's kind of a pain, but the biggest issue is the black hole of death growing on my screen. There's a growing hole of dead pixels that has no recourse other than buying a new screen.
My two cents. This laptop is my first ebay purchase to go wrong (and the screen didn't start dying until 6 months after I bought it).
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I found what I think is the best deal so far on a new laptop (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Laptop+/+Intel&%23174%3B+Pentium&%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3&%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Matrix+Graphite/3624697.p?id=1218421871958&skuId=3624697&ref=25&loc=SHZ&srccode=cii_10043468&cpncode=18-98722102-2) which comes in on my scale above at only a 6 (lower is better) and only costs $350.
But I had a friend who just told me that only 1 in 10 new laptops are even checked to ensure that they operate, but that 100% of refurbished laptops are checked to make sure they work right. Does this mean that I need to rethink my previous conclusion that I should stay away from refurbished laptops?
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I can count the number of Dead on Arrival (DoA) laptops that we had at Best Buy on my hand, I might have had 1 dead laptop over the span of working there 16 months. Plus, if it is dead, take it back to Best Buy and they have to give you a new one, it doesn't go to the manufacturer if it's defective out of the box. I would still stay away from refurbs.
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I found what I think is the best deal so far on a new laptop (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Laptop+/+Intel&%23174%3B+Pentium&%23174%3B+Processor+/+17.3&%2334%3B+Display+/+4GB+Memory+-+Matrix+Graphite/3624697.p?id=1218421871958&skuId=3624697&ref=25&loc=SHZ&srccode=cii_10043468&cpncode=18-98722102-2) which comes in on my scale above at only a 6 (lower is better) and only costs $350.
But I had a friend who just told me that only 1 in 10 new laptops are even checked to ensure that they operate, but that 100% of refurbished laptops are checked to make sure they work right. Does this mean that I need to rethink my previous conclusion that I should stay away from refurbished laptops?
You'll also note that 100% of referbs had a problem that might show up again.
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I bought a refurbished all-in-one printer and it had issues right out of the box. It still prints fine for the money, but changing the ink cartridges is a pain in the butt.
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I bought a refurbished all-in-one printer and it had issues right out of the box. It still prints fine for the money, but changing the ink cartridges is a pain in the butt.
You're printing money? For shame!
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I bought a refurbished all-in-one printer and it had issues right out of the box. It still prints fine for the money, but changing the ink cartridges is a pain in the butt.
You're printing money? For shame!
It's not worded that way at all. However, reading it fast leads to hearing "it still prints money fine". Read it slowly, analyse it's grammar, and you'll see.
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Sarcasm, the Kittens is full of it :P.
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I bought a refurbished all-in-one printer and it had issues right out of the box. It still prints fine for the money, but changing the ink cartridges is a pain in the butt.
You're printing money? For shame!
Both Rob Anderson and Doug Grey did. I don't see why I can't, too.
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Well over Christmas, I finally found what I was looking for. Here's what I ended up with:
HH Gregg Toshiba ($499): (http://www.hhgregg.com/toshiba-satellite-laptop-with-intel-core-i3-2330m-processor/item/C675-S7322)
CPU = #70 (1 pt) Core i3-2310M (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Intel-Core-i3-2330M-Notebook-Processor.52200.0.html)
RAM = 4GB (1 pt)
Graphics = middle of class 3 (2 pt) Intel HD 3000 (http://www.notebookcheck.net/Intel-HD-Graphics-3000.37948.0.html)
Screen = 17.3 in (0 pt)
Brand = Toshiba (0 pt)
HD speed = 5400 (1 pt)
Total = 5 pts
Other specs:
3MB L3 cache
500 GB HD
Wi-fi b/g/n
2 USB ports
Mem card port
Built in webcam/microphone
DVD R/W
6-cell batter with 5hr life
Office Starter (Word & Excel only)
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That's about as good as you'll get with that screen size. I'm afraid you overpaid though. I have an i5 processor with 6 gigs of RAM that I paid about $500 for. The screen size is 14.9" though, so that's where the difference is coming in.
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That's about as good as you'll get with that screen size. I'm afraid you overpaid though. I have an i5 processor with 6 gigs of RAM that I paid about $500 for. The screen size is 14.9" though, so that's where the difference is coming in.
One of the things that I've learned is that you can just go by whether a processor is an i3, i5, or i7. For example, my i3-2330M is actually a better processor than the i5-430M and even the i7-2637M. So I'd have to know exactly which i5 processor you have to be able to really compare. In addition, the screen size was one of the most important factors to me, so I was willing to pay a bit more to get the extra real estate :)
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Yeah, screen size is nice... especially in my field. I have a 2048 x 1152 display for my desktop, and a 1920 x 1200 screen on my laptop. InDesign and Flash were so freaking CRAMPED in a 1440x900 screen.
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Yeah, screen size is nice... especially in my field. I have a 2048 x 1152 display for my desktop, and a 1920 x 1200 screen on my laptop. InDesign and Flash were so freaking CRAMPED in a 1440x900 screen.
Amen. I am saving up for a multi-monitor setup instead of a single high-res monitor simply because i don't want everything that small
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Currently posting this from my duel monitor set up one at 1600x900 the other 1980x1080. If my video card could only support a third...
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Currently posting this from my 8-year-old laptop using 800x600 resolution on a screen that has children's fingerprint smears caked all over it.
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Currently posting this from my 8-year-old laptop using 800x600 resolution on a screen that has children's fingerprint smears caked all over it.
lol if I ever get a new computer I may just donate this one too you that's awful
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Currently posting this from my 8-year-old laptop using 800x600 resolution on a screen that has children's fingerprint smears caked all over it.
That's very similar to the one I was using before I bought this one. That is, except for the fingerprints, as my wife and I were too stingy to let our kids play with it :)
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Currently posting this from my 8-year-old laptop using 800x600 resolution on a screen that has children's fingerprint smears caked all over it.
I think the real question is, why'd you steal your eight-year-old's laptop? That doesn't sound very nice.
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Currently posting this from my 8-year-old laptop using 800x600 resolution on a screen that has children's fingerprint smears caked all over it.
I think the real question is, why'd you steal your eight-year-old's laptop? That doesn't sound very nice.
(https://www.cactusforums.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-xGpRAHzoBVg%2FTfTT4JZpPPI%2FAAAAAAAAC3M%2Fw0ZsktRaUf4%2Fs1600%2FDoubleFacePalm.jpg&hash=b17729945c2e180df34f6bfbf72a2a8aaa64e360)