Comments on: Buy a Laptop

By: Karl Plesz

Karl Plesz — Wed, 15 Sep 2004 17:07:03 +0000

Another thing to consider is availability of accessories. You might buy a laptop and then months later realize you need a spare battery. When you visit the store that sold you the laptop, you may find that accessories are more expensive than you imagined, or no longer available for your model. I recommend checking into and if possible, buying all your accessories at the time of purchase. This will prevent a lot of disappointment later.

By: Curtis

Curtis — Wed, 15 Sep 2004 15:07:29 +0000

My experience is based on years of assisting 200 laptop users who use their laptops as their only workstations some 5-8 hours per day.

We've used Dell machines on 3-year leases, and the most important item is the extended warranty (we get the 3 year, next-day repair option).

The Dell machines typically have one or two significant hardware issues for each model--for example, one model needed frequent (8% failure) repairs of the LCD screen while another model had about 30% keyboard failures. The AC adapters are failing at a 20% rate on the current model we're using (just over a year old).

I wouldn't want to buy one of our off-lease machines unless it was a super bargain and lightly used. The big issue is that the expected life of the used machine could be as little as 90 days or few years...and if your machine needs repairs (even if under warranty), replacement parts will probably not be available a year or two after you buy the machine.

Dell machines are serviceable but definitely not cutting edge...but from my perspective, the specs aren't as important as warranty, warranty, warranty!

By: mattz

mattz — Wed, 15 Sep 2004 10:52:56 +0000

Meryl - Good tips. Here are some other considerations:

Other peripheral interfaces besides the PCI i.e. USB, card readers, headset (if you plan on using VoIP with it - check out SKYPE), IR etc.
Test drive the keyboard for layout, comfort and quality.
With respect to portability, determine whether to purchase with Intel's Centrino "M" processor for increased battery performance.
Service agreement/support and warranty
Construction...metal or plastic.
Connection of screen to body...we all grab grab the screen to pick it up at some point.

By: Buster

Buster — Wed, 15 Sep 2004 10:08:35 +0000

I was wondering why you didn’t mention HP in the laptop line up? I understand they are the bigest.

By: Lockergnome's Windows Fanatics

Lockergnome's Windows Fanatics — Tue, 14 Sep 2004 18:28:13 +0000

Buying a Latop

Shopping for a laptop is overwhelming because of the numerous choices. No one can tell you what you need or don't need, except maybe your spouse, parent, kid, local geek, or know-it-all who knows you. But it's still good to...