Laptop advice for a complete IT numpty

Devon

Devon

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Can anyone recommend a laptop for me? I know next to nothing about computers apart from how to use Word to type a letter and how to surf the net. I spend a lot of time on the net lately and figure it would nice if had a laptop to use in front of the telly, at least then I am in the same room as the family when I'm online. Also as my Desktop is 3 years old I am out of date with the latest computer software.

From what I can gather WiFi is the way to go as far as internet connection. I would also like to be able play DVDs for the kids when caravaning, Store Photos etc usual computer stuff really.
3 years ago when I purchased my Desktop, magazine articles recommended the bigger the screen the better. I presume that still holds true? plus a bigger Laptop would offer a bigger keyboard.

I have searched here and the Dell inspiron 6400 seems to get good reviews, I see Dell also sell the Vostro 1700 as a Desktop replacement, which also has a 17" screen as opposed to the Inspiron's 15.4" screen.
I have never heard of Windows Vista before today: does it offer any advantages over XP?

I have never even turned a laptop on and after spending £12 on computer mags and a visit to PC World and Currys I am even more uncertain of what to spend my money on :blast

I have a budget of £500/£600 but don't mind spending less :). Any advice greatfully received. :thumb2
 
Like you I have limited IT knowledge.
Just ordered a Dell Inspiron 6400 laptop which will be used at home on my wireless network. There was an option for XP or Vista so I have stuck with XP as I use it on my desktop PC and it does what I want it to do.
Got mine for £347 - I'll post the link if you want?
 
I know sweet bugger all about computers but wouln't change back to a desk top now. I bought a Packard Bell from PCW for about £500 and its been fine.
Great to take away and easy to get connected to the net where they have wifi, they even had one at the campsite and we had broadband in our tent.
I was in PCW the other day and they had a Toshiba on sale that looked good The only thing I did wrong was buy and install Norton which after a week or two uninstalled and now use AVG free. I can't remember why but if you get Vista get Home premium.
 
Two basic points, the rest is all subjective.

If you're buying a Windows PC, get one with Vista and a dual-core processor. XP and single core processors are yesterdays technology, and the small difference in cost will be far outweighed in a couple of years when you're replacing your single-core XP machine because it just can't run current software.

This is the subjective stuff. Wireless is good, but you'll also need to get a wireless router. Virtually anything will do, but make sure you get the correct type.... an ADSL router is no good on cable, and a cable router no good on ADSL. Truth is, if you've just got one PC to use at the sofa, a cable will do. You only really need wireless if you're moving about, have to wire up multiple computers and don't want dozens of cables about the place etc. etc. In the majority of cases, you'll have to plug the laptop in to the mains for more than an hours use anyway, so true wireless use is impossible..... why spend another £60 on something that can be insecure and a pain to set up?

More memory & disk space is good, but unless you're playing games you can use much less memory and space..... just write your photo's to DVD (which is good practice anyway, in case your HDD blows up).

I run 15.4 displays..... 17 is just too big if you are ever going to be using the laptop as a portable computer.

As I say, mostly subjective. But I'll reiterate the point about the OS/processor. If you buy old technology, it'll need replaced sooner. Took me four years and about £15k to persuade my ex-boss of this point. The next four years cost £8k, and we'd doubled the number of computers.
 
We have two Dell Insprions at home and so far very pleased with them and Dell's customer service. Still unsure about Vista so stuck with XP.
 
Thank's for the info everyone :thumb2 I can see your logic in buying the Vista/Dualcore processor Wizard. Thinking about it, If I get the more portable laptop with WiFi I will be able to stay in touch with home more easily when I am away. Plus loads of places seem to be offering the WiFi facility now. I figure the Dell Inspiron will do everything I require and it's on offer on the Dell website at the moment. :) Is that where you got yours from Traveller?
 
Devon said:
Can anyone recommend a laptop for me?
I have a budget of £500/£600 but don't mind spending less :). Any advice greatfully received. :thumb2
Click to expand...


Devon,

Take a look at Acer Laptops, very good value for money and has more than you would want right now. Even come wireless ready. And well within your budget...

The link is to PC World Business (Used to called Redcracker).

HTH

T
 
I'm a computer numpty -I've just bought a new desk top with Vista , and now i've used it for a few days and got used to how it works find it better than XP.

It's vista home/premium ( can't remember which, i've thrown the box away:D), i was advised not to get vista basic , as it's err, basic.

Lap top next, so i'll watch this threw with interest.
 
Thank's for all the info again.
I have ordered The Dell Inspiron 6400 and specced the dual core T2080 processor. 2048MB DDR2 SDRAM Memory. 160GB SATA Hard Drive and 9 cell power pack.
I have gone for the Vista Home Premium as I figure it will do everything I require and not use up the computing power that the full on Vista requires for doing stuff I don't need (I guess I can upgrade in the future if I change my mind) £449 inc Del. and VAT

So who will be the first to find a much better computer at a much better price :blast :D
 
You won't do better than that Andy I have one and recently bought one for my son although I requested XP
 
Timolgra said:
You won't do better than that Andy I have one and recently bought one for my son although I requested XP
Click to expand...

Cheers Tim, there seemed to be a lot of happy Dell Inspiron owners here. That swayed it for me. :)
 
Got the dell inspiron 6400 with the following for £347 - hope it does what it says on the box

Intel Pentium Dual-Core Processor T2080 (1.73 GHz, 533 MHz FSB, 1 MB L2-cache)
Genuine Windows Vista® Business or XP Pro
1024MB 667MHz Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM [2x512]
120GB (5400rpm) SATA Hard Drive
Intel Media Accelerator 950 Graphics Up to 256MB shared graphics memory
Fixed Internal 8X DVD+/-RW Drive including Software
Integrated Sound Blaster Audigy ADVANCED HD Audio
Microsoft Works 8.0 - English
9 cell Lithium-Ion Battery (53 Whr)
15.4" Wide Screen WXGA (1280 x 800) Display
Dell Wireless 1390 802.11b/g Mini-PCI Card (for Dual-Core Processors)
Resource DVD - (Diagnostics & Drivers)
56.6k V.92 Capable Internal Modem & Adapter - UK
 
Nippy Normans supply Touratech, Wunderlich, Desert Fox and many other makes of accessories.
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