Advice on choosing a laptop computer

[Lisa0825]

I am going to be starting grad school in the spring, and have been computerless the past year or so since my previous one went kaput. I have never had a laptop before, and I was wondering if there are any particular factors to consider that are different from purchasing a desktop computer. Also, do certain brands do laptops better than others? My last 2 desktops were Dell.

I am hoping to find a decent used computer, because I don't want to spend a whole lot of money. What are good specs that you think I should use as a standard, considering I'll be looking at past models, not the latest?

Any input would be appreciated:-)

[welshTerrier2]

1. link to c/net notebook reviews ...

start here ==> http://reviews.cnet.com/Notebooks/2001-3121_7-0.html?tag=glnav

there are lots of reviews by c/net and also by c/net readers ...

[Lisa0825]

2. Thanks!

Good resource, thank you for posting it! :hi:

[KitchenWitch]

3. My suggestion is to buy the best one you can afford

And to get a cooling fan for underneath, as laptops run very hot.

[gulfcoastliberal]

4. If you're going to take it to classes, get a light one.

Desktop replacements weigh in around 9-10lbs, are very bulky, and barely last an hour on battery power. So you'll want a lighter one. Personally I'd recommend an apple powerbook, unless you're doing window-intensive applications.

[unhappycamper]

5. Also try to buy a maintenance agreement that covers

stupid. A laptop will eventually drop on the ground. Chances are a coffee, coke or beer will end up on the keyboard.

[democracyindanger]

6. Check with the school first

Most have deals with computer manufacturers that give students good prices.

[Lisa0825]

7. Thanks everyone!

GOPisEvil has an old laptop he's going to let me have, so I can take my time on buying a new one. Thanks for the input on it!

[Crazy Guggenheim]

8. BTW, if you do buy a new one stay away from Dell. I've heard

that either IBM or Toshiba are the better ones.