I need to get a new computer and I am thinking about going with a lap top, rather then a desk top. I may even make the move to a Mac.

I use the basic microsoft office programs, mostly word and power point, plus internet, and photos.

Just interested in some opinions on what to and where to buy.

Thanks.

Mike

A Mac will give less problems and runs about a hundred times better than a Win PC. Go look first as Mac's are different but if you go PC look around and find someone that builds if your going above $1200 as you can put one together that will outrun a cookie cutter. Under 1200 go with what ever you want but HP is OK but stay away from Dell.

The real difference between building one and buying one off the shelf is the quality of the components for the same price. Friend of mine builds them as a second biz so if you want to PM me what your price / specs are I can see what is out there.

If you're asking this question, I propose the following: Identify the person in your life who is going to get the phone call to FIX the computer when it (inevitably) has problems.

Have them pick for you, since they're going to be "supporting" it.

Thanks IrishRogue and Aunty. Good point on the support. My Dad has built computers and knows them well. I will be seeing him later this week. He is usally the one I call when I have problems.

IrishRogue, after I talk with my Dad I may give you a PM to have your friend check on a price to build one. My Dad is in his eighties and is too busy to build anything.

Mike, another option is to have a local geek build you one, or teach you how. It's considerably cheaper than buying retail, and everything you'll learn about how PC's work is invaluable. In addition, you can get EXACTLY what you want in a PC, instead of a bunch of garbage that someone else thinks you need. Major + for me.


Check out guys like this: http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/cps/1852256757.html on Craigslist and give him a call. The money you pay him to build it for you or teach you how would be worthwhile, IMHO.


I'd build you one, but the fish are biting

Ryley and I are in different camps here. Yes, building a computer is cheaper. yes you'll learn a ton. Yes you'll get exactly what you want/need.

... but it's a long long LONG journey for a novice.... If you're interested/passionate about it, by all means follow Sky-Guy's advice. If on the other hand, it's a tool that you just want to work, then talk to your support guy.

No reason a computer need be different than how/why you buy a car. Better yet, they're relatively cheap--get one that you can get support for.

Getting windows to run on a Mac isn't that difficult. But if you're using only the Microsoft Office suite of software and manipulating photo, you don't need to worry about that. I switched from a PC to a Mac. It was a learning curve, my brain is programmed (brain washed) by the windows environment.

However, for a Windows laptop, in addition to what others recommended, you might want to take a look at the Lenovo Think Pad series of laptops too. They got a high opinion from my computer department at the College, and my daughter bought one. I think they're a good choice. If you live in the Seattle area, Hard Drives NW in Bellevue sells and services them. They're one of the few laptops you can get serviced locally with out sending them back to the factory.

Thanks for the extra info. Mike

Mike,

I just saw you live in Post Falls. A little far from Bellevue.