I need some advice on a laptop manufacturer for a new computer. I have been out of the loop for so long that I don't know who makes what how and well. My sister is planning on buying a new one for college since hers died. I wanted to get opinions about the quality of the different manufacturers and/or models. I know all about what specs are needed for it, and I can view the sites on them, but that wont tell me which are clunky or which break in 6 months. So any advice about who makes good ones, or which to stay away from would be appreciated. Size and weight are a major influence. Along with quality, style and reliability of hardware. Thanks.

2/22/2007 7:34:26 PM

tech talk

2/22/2007 7:35:44 PM

i just got a new Dell Inspiron E1405 in December, other than a CD burner I had to have replace, this thing rocks

it only cost me $900, so a damn good deal IMO

2/22/2007 9:30:43 PM

^They're pretty good if you don't need a dedicated video card. In terms of reliability ThinkPads are pretty much always rated at the top. Bookstore has some new deals on those, but due to certain issues they haven't been able to post them on their website. All the prices there are a couple hundred too high except for the lowest end one, and it doesn't include the new core 2 duo models.

The Macbooks are pretty good for small light laptops too, but I'd reccomend one of the 12 inch dells over them for most people.

[Edited on February 22, 2007 at 9:39 PM. Reason : ]

2/22/2007 9:37:17 PM

http://www.apple.com/store/

2/22/2007 9:48:42 PM

macbook

2/22/2007 9:51:50 PM

go with a macbook 1299 white one.

2/22/2007 11:22:27 PM

the 12" dells dont have a full size keyboard. The Thinkpads do though.

2/23/2007 2:34:08 AM

ibm x series. no competition as far as quality. size and weight only outdone by the sony micro-laptops. standard 3yr warranty and a MAJOR discount from the bookstore. can't think of a reason to buy anything else.

2/23/2007 10:29:27 AM

They ARE pretty nice and get stupidly long battery life with the extended batteries. Just have to be willing to use some kind of external drive solution. Of course, with no optical drive the things can weigh under 4 lbs depending on configuration.

2/23/2007 12:45:46 PM