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View Full Version : In Need of GEEK SQUAD... Best Laptop



Marta
08-20-2012, 01:13 PM
hey guys,

So basically, I am in dire need of a new laptop for school, and have no idea which laptop is right for me. I know if I go to Bestbuy or Futureshop or whatever, they will advise me but looking at the various computer specs makes me want to :bang considering I have NO IDEA what any of it means. And before I go in to buy one, I want to make sure I am indeed purchasing one suitable to my needs and not just the one the salesperson likes the most.

What I need:
Something light so I can carry it with me everywhere, but cant be too delicate cause it will get lugged around
Something with fast start up... cant wait for 10mins during lecture
Something with fast intenet browsing... I have high speed internet obviously.
Most of my work will be WORD based (mostly essays and reading and reserch)
LONG! Battery life.. my school doesnt have very many plugs
Something super reliable, that wont freeze, will save stuff, etc.
Also, a pretty big memory?- My essays are typically upwards of 20pages long and my semester notes per class are typically 50-60 pages...

Videos and Music.. not that important at all.
I dont know how to use a Mac and will probably not be able to learn efficiently before September. Im not super techy, so Id prefer a PC.


I do not want something cheap, I want something that is good. Budget is probably from $600-$1200 ? Is this reasonable? I dont mind spending more money as long as its worth it.
Ive checked the ratings for some computers but many seem to be biased (ie: sponsored by the company that makes/sells them, and are not very thorough). Some of the other ones are super techy and I dont really understand them.

I know alot of you on here are super smart Whiz kids (*cough* Noob *cough*) so I was hoping you can help explain to me in plain English what all this stuff means and maybe give me some of your laptop suggestions based on your knowledge/experiences?

Thanks ya'll :)

Fobio
08-20-2012, 01:29 PM
For ~$1200...you can get any of the higher end Ultrabooks.

For under $600...there are lotsa decent deals to choose from around ~$450 mark.

Chk canadacomputers.com.

SilentJay
08-20-2012, 01:40 PM
Here's a pretty good place to start reading:
http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?65378-Laptops


Based on what you've stated, you don't necessarily need anything powerful, just portable and good on battery life. Believe me, anything that you buy out there today, including the cheapy $300 specials at bestbuy/futureshop will have more than enough storage for what you're looking to do, so don't stress about that. You'd probably be fine with an i3-based ultrabook that's equipped with an SSD... In other words, 'round $800-900 should be good enough.

You're right though, this forum is teeming with nerds, myself included. I'm sure if you asked REAL nice someone would be willing to spend 30 minutes with you at NCIX or CanadaComputers to get a computer picked out - just be ready with your credit card :chuckle.

tmpz
08-20-2012, 01:46 PM
Lenovo T, W, or X series or ASUS.

Go for an Intel i3 or i5 processor.

To speed up booting time, replace the hard drive with a solid state drive ($80-100 for 120GB). You can boot windows in 30-60 seconds.

Iceman_F1
08-20-2012, 01:52 PM
None of what you listed really needs understanding on computer tech beyond knowing which number is better. The best advice I can give then is take the list of features you want and order it in whatever priority means most to you.

Is light weight the most important to you? Is battery life? Order the list then start searching based off of that list until you find the one you like the best in terms of look, feel, etc.

It's hard to suggest something without knowing how you are prioritizing the features as your price range can cover a lot. It also depends what you consider light or high battery life.

Based on your list:
- Light weight - 15" to me would be where to start looking. Decent screen size and they aren't going to be TOO heavy

- Not slow startup - Hard to say. Most are good however the more you install the slower a computer will take to load. Put this lower on the list until you narrow down results and stores to view them and then see if they have a demo model you can power off/on to see the boot times.

- Fast internet - Not applicable to any one computer as the browser is only as fast as your internet connection, the site you are accessing and how many programs you have open at one time. Even the fastest computer can have a slow loading site if it's a heavy site of images or the site you are connecting to is slow or you are on a bad connection somewhere.

- Word based programs - Doesn't apply to much as most computers in your listed price range shouldn't have issues

- Battery life - Depends what you consider "LONG". Also depends what you are doing. If you are just doing a single word document or a single web page, battery life should be good. Specially if power settings are set for it. But if you are doing 4+ word documents back and forth with a lot of websites open for research at a time then the battery life will be affected no matter what computer

- Reliable - Most computers should have no reliability issues unless the user does something to it. I've known people to have 0 issues for years because they don't do anything really with the computer. On the other side, I've known people who have issues almost every other month due to them doing stupid things with it (tweaking when they shouldn't, clicking on links they shouldn't, etc)

- Big memory - For just word documents, you should be good with 4GB of RAM which a lot of computers now come with as standard. If you get more, great, but it wouldn't really help for just word documents.

Again, I'd order what you want in some priority and narrow down based on that. Set the minimum limits for certain thing (like 4 hour life, 5lbs laptop) and narrow down by that until you get some that you like the look/price of. Then go look at them in person to see if you like the feel of it as, to me, keyboard and trackpad feel is a big thing with laptops in terms of using it.

dambay
08-20-2012, 02:01 PM
I think by big memory she meant storage space. Personally, I would suggest you avoid an i3 processor. For a bit extra money, you will get a significant boost in performance (and startup time) with an i5. Getting a laptop with a solid state drive (SSD) is going to also have a huge impact on start up times, and just snappy response/performance in general every day computing. As others have said, the easiest thing would be to go with someone to help you pick one out, if you're willing. For less than $1200 you can find a laptop that more than meets your needs

Sent from my HTC Not-So-Incredible S

electricf3el
08-20-2012, 02:07 PM
this is a good deal. and Sony's are pretty.

http://www.futureshop.ca/en-CA/product/sony-sony-vaio-15-5-2nd-gen-intel-core-i3-2370m-laptop-sve15111fdw-white-sve15111fdw/10211185.aspx?path=a5de3092ff526574d485d4597571de4 3en02

Iceman_F1
08-20-2012, 02:11 PM
I think by big memory she meant storage space. Personally, I would suggest you avoid an i3 processor. For a bit extra money, you will get a significant boost in performance (and startup time) with an i5. Getting a laptop with a solid state drive (SSD) is going to also have a huge impact on start up times, and just snappy response/performance in general every day computing. As others have said, the easiest thing would be to go with someone to help you pick one out, if you're willing. For less than $1200 you can find a laptop that more than meets your needs

Sent from my HTC Not-So-Incredible S

Possibly. Then again, my advice on that point stands in that most laptops now have a good sized HD that shouldn't be an issue. Specially if it's just word documents.

One thing I disagree with on people suggesting i5 over i3 is the fact they need long battery. Higher processor/performance usually means a degrade in battery life. It's a trade-off. As is a SSD instead of a usual laptop HD. You get faster boot times and in theory power savings (no moving parts to spin) but the downside is the price per GB (less size than traditional HD's unless you pay out the nose). Then there are some bad reviews on the cheaper SSD's that personally make me reluctant right now to go that route.

This is why I suggest a priority list of what's most important and then either go and look or get someone with you. But a priority of what is most important to you is key no matter what as you'll be flip flopping all the time without it.

Marta
08-20-2012, 02:55 PM
thank you everyone for your input! Much appreciated :) In terms of prioritizing it has now become:

a) quick- start up and retreving documents
b) battery life (6hours plus?- possible? my old laptop was)
c) compact.


What is this SSD, and is the general agreement for an i5 or i3?

MarkWB
08-20-2012, 03:09 PM
So nobodys going to troll her for posting without reading the other laptop threads? WTF GUYS!

Jeez Marta, learn to use the search feature... http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?65378-Laptops

And as I mentioned up there, Sony Vaios are great, but get a smaller one if you don't feel like lugging around ~10 lbs.

dambay
08-20-2012, 03:10 PM
thank you everyone for your input! Much appreciated :) In terms of prioritizing it has now become:

a) quick- start up and retreving documents
b) battery life (6hours plus?- possible? my old laptop was)
c) compact.


What is this SSD, and is the general agreement for an i5 or i3?

A Solid state Drive is basically your main hard drive, but instead of spinning discs that store your information, it is like a large USB drive (flash memory). The advantage of this is that the SSD takes significantly less time to access information, so start-up and retrieving documents will be a flash (no pun intended). The disadvantage is that being a (relatively) new technology, it is significantly more expensive, and some will argue that because of the way flash memory works, the lifespan of an SSD will be shorter. However, I don't think that is as big an issue anymore, as SSDs have been around for several years now, and vast improvements have been made. In my opinion, finding a laptop with an SSD will net you a significant performance increase over a traditional harddrive.

For performance sake, an i5 would be the best bet, but it is a bit more expensive. You MIGHT see lower battery life with an i5 as well, due to the increased performance, though that largely depends on how you use it. Given that you won't be using it for any sort of gaming/video editing, you don't need a dedicated graphics card, so getting one with "Integrated Graphics" makes sense for you. When I get home from work tonight, I will have a look at options from Canada Computers/Future Shop/etc, and recommend a few that would fit your needs.

Finally, I apologise if I've confused rather than clarified, with any of these explanations. It all makes sense in my head, but I can understand that for someone who is not-so-tech savvy, it may be more confusing than anything.

Iceman_F1
08-20-2012, 03:16 PM
thank you everyone for your input! Much appreciated :) In terms of prioritizing it has now become:

a) quick- start up and retreving documents
b) battery life (6hours plus?- possible? my old laptop was)
c) compact.


What is this SSD, and is the general agreement for an i5 or i3?

SSD = Solid State Drive. Basically, instead of a normal HD that has to be spinning to write/read data and if left to idle will need to re-spin to begin reading, a SSD has no moving parts. Think of it as a big SD Card that is used to store pictures (or big USB flash drive). No moving parts means it's faster to write/read data as well as less power to run it. The downsides though is there is a finite amount of data that is able to be written to it during it's life (though for most it's so big that they wouldn't hit that), it's smaller size than a usual HD unless you pay a big price and the technology still somewhat new enough that the reliability seems to be hit or miss on some of the brands.

It's a risk/reward feature to me. When working, the rewards would be worth it but there is a risk based on some of the reviews I read and the price point it's at.

As for i5 of i3, can debate that all day. I'd go for i3 for good startup, better power saving and compact but i5 would be even better performance at likely reduction in power saving and sometimes less compact.

As an example, I have an i5 laptop at home. I got it for the performance since it will be plugged in most of the time but I can tell it tries to keep cool by using fans a lot. This will affect battery length if it wasn't plugged in. i3 being a bit less powerful should keep it a bit cooler and thus need less cooling and battery power to run.

Jackal
08-20-2012, 03:20 PM
A Solid state Drive is basically your main hard drive, but instead of spinning discs that store your information, it is like a large USB drive (flash memory). The advantage of this is that the SSD takes significantly less time to access information, so start-up and retrieving documents will be a flash (no pun intended). The disadvantage is that being a (relatively) new technology, it is significantly more expensive, and some will argue that because of the way flash memory works, the lifespan of an SSD will be shorter. However, I don't think that is as big an issue anymore, as SSDs have been around for several years now, and vast improvements have been made. In my opinion, finding a laptop with an SSD will net you a significant performance increase over a traditional harddrive.

For performance sake, an i5 would be the best bet, but it is a bit more expensive. You MIGHT see lower battery life with an i5 as well, due to the increased performance, though that largely depends on how you use it. Given that you won't be using it for any sort of gaming/video editing, you don't need a dedicated graphics card, so getting one with "Integrated Graphics" makes sense for you. When I get home from work tonight, I will have a look at options from Canada Computers/Future Shop/etc, and recommend a few that would fit your needs.

Finally, I apologise if I've confused rather than clarified, with any of these explanations. It all makes sense in my head, but I can understand that for someone who is not-so-tech savvy, it may be more confusing than anything.

What Marta heard:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/7825658436_f8484868b3_z.jpg

electricf3el
08-20-2012, 03:30 PM
What Marta heard:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/7825658436_f8484868b3_z.jpg

lol hahaha.... Marta it really doesnt matter what you get. laptops from 5 years ago can startup fast and open word documents and browse the internet. Go with the best price and something from a good brand that looks good. The difference between an i3 and an i5 processor is like 4 milliseconds something you will never notice.

Marta
08-20-2012, 03:32 PM
A Solid state Drive is basically your main hard drive, but instead of spinning discs that store your information, it is like a large USB drive (flash memory). The advantage of this is that the SSD takes significantly less time to access information, so start-up and retrieving documents will be a flash (no pun intended). The disadvantage is that being a (relatively) new technology, it is significantly more expensive, and some will argue that because of the way flash memory works, the lifespan of an SSD will be shorter. However, I don't think that is as big an issue anymore, as SSDs have been around for several years now, and vast improvements have been made. In my opinion, finding a laptop with an SSD will net you a significant performance increase over a traditional harddrive.

For performance sake, an i5 would be the best bet, but it is a bit more expensive. You MIGHT see lower battery life with an i5 as well, due to the increased performance, though that largely depends on how you use it. Given that you won't be using it for any sort of gaming/video editing, you don't need a dedicated graphics card, so getting one with "Integrated Graphics" makes sense for you. When I get home from work tonight, I will have a look at options from Canada Computers/Future Shop/etc, and recommend a few that would fit your needs.

Finally, I apologise if I've confused rather than clarified, with any of these explanations. It all makes sense in my head, but I can understand that for someone who is not-so-tech savvy, it may be more confusing than anything.

No, no, this actually makes sense now (for the most part!) Thank you for taking the time to lay it out in plain english and to discuss the pros and cons. Given the pretty ovbious benefits of the i5, I think I will opt for it. Now just have to decide on this SSD thing... I guess some of them have this built in (from what I understood) so I should look for one of those. Maybe I can buy an external battery pack> or an extra one? I mean the libraries and study rooms all have plugs, its just in lectures but I also realized lectures will be shorter/much smaller in the grad programs so plugs will be more readily availble. So main objective should be speed.

Atleast now when I go in to a buy a laptop I have some sort of understanding of what all these weird specs mean... so I will be making a somewhat informed decision and not just going in blindly (call me a control freak, whatever lol)



Thank you Iceman (I dont know how to do multiple quotes...cause I suck at technology, see) your info combined with Danbays has given me quite a good foundation!


So grateful for the geek squad! Appreciate it gentlemen! Will post up photos of my new purchase when I finally settle on one. Still a little overwhelmed but its quite the start now


Mark... you're just jealous TM3ers seem to be a little bit more fond of me than they are of you :) Its okay, I dont think you're that bad.

Marta
08-20-2012, 03:33 PM
What Marta heard:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/7825658436_f8484868b3_z.jpg

okay, not gonna lie. This was pretty accurate.
Ever wanna see the blonde come out? Talk numbers or technology to me.

My mind = BLOWN. :bang

SomeGuy
08-20-2012, 04:13 PM
Simple
Lenovo x230, add i5 and 9 cell battery at least and optionals (HD webcam, bluetooth, etc) and call it quits. Should be around $1000 all said and done with the current deals on lenovo's site.

tmpz
08-20-2012, 04:18 PM
Lenovo Friends and Family EPP Link:
http://shoplenovo.i2.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/ibmeppfriendca/StdAffinityPortal/en_CA/Lenovo:EnterStdAffinity?affinity=ibmeppfriendca&passcode=FNDEPP

If you get a 9 Cell, you should be able to get 12 hours or so.

There is a coupon at the bottom of the page, enter it during checkout to save more! Note: make sure there the coupon is in all CAPS and no spaces.

Marta
08-20-2012, 04:23 PM
Lenovo Friends and Family EPP Link:
http://shoplenovo.i2.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/ibmeppfriendca/StdAffinityPortal/en_CA/Lenovo:EnterStdAffinity?affinity=ibmeppfriendca&passcode=FNDEPP

If you get a 9 Cell, you should be able to get 12 hours or so.

There is a coupon at the bottom of the page, enter it during checkout to save more! Note: make sure there the coupon is in all CAPS and no spaces.

thank u! except..which one should I get? LOL

Marta
08-20-2012, 04:25 PM
and it only has the 6 cell option. do i buy an extra battery pack then?

SomeGuy
08-20-2012, 04:26 PM
and it only has the 6 cell option. do i buy an extra battery pack then?

Which laptop are you looking at? The x230 definitely has the 9 cell option plus gives you the option of a second external battery if you want.

Marta
08-20-2012, 04:28 PM
http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/webca/LenovoPortal/en_CA/catalog.workflow:category.details?current-catalog-id=12F0696583E04D86B9B79B0FEC01C087&current-category-id=0DD7060EAA679E66ADB95A2D078E20EF&action=init

the 2nd one?

Booostin
08-20-2012, 04:45 PM
Just go to a Canada Computer store in person and pick one. Finito

tmpz
08-20-2012, 04:51 PM
ThinkPad X230 - 1 Year Depot Warranty
Intel Core i5-3210M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.10 GHz)
Windows 7 Professional (64 bit)
12.5" HD (1366x768) LED Backlit Display, Mobile Broadband Ready, 3x3 Antenna
Intel HD 4000 Graphics in Intel Core i5-3210M Processor
4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
UltraNav™ with TrackPoint® and buttonless multi-touchpad
320GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm
No Optical Drive
9 Cell ThinkPad Battery X44++
Bluetooth 4.0 with Antenna
Intel Centrino Wireless-N 2200 (2x2 BGN)
Mobile Broadband upgradable
1 Year Depot/Express Warranty

Subtotal: $1,745.00
Sale Price: $979.00
[CAPBTSBEST] -$117.48
Estimated total: $861.52



ThinkPad T430 - 1 Year Depot Topseller Warranty

Intel Core i5-3210M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.10 GHz)
Windows 7 Professional (64 bit)
14.0" HD (1366 x 768) LED Backlit AntiGlare Display, Mobile Broadband Ready
Intel HD Graphics 4000
4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
UltraNav without Fingerprint Reader
320GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm
DVD Recordable
9 Cell Li-Ion TWL 70++
Bluetooth 4.0 with Antenna
Intel Centrino Wireless-N 2200 (2x2 BGN)
Mobile Broadband upgradable
1 Year Depot/Express Warranty

Subtotal: $1,645.00
Sale Price: $969.00
[CAXAUG2012] -$193.80
Estimated total: $775.20


X230 - small, lightweight, small screen
T430 - larger screen, heavier

Options:
6 cell vs 9 cell
Bluetooth
Webcam
Fingerprint reader
Higher Screen Resolution
Extra warranty

MarkWB
08-20-2012, 04:53 PM
ThinkPad X230 - 1 Year Depot Warranty
Intel Core i5-3210M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.10 GHz)
Windows 7 Professional (64 bit)
12.5" HD (1366x768) LED Backlit Display, Mobile Broadband Ready, 3x3 Antenna
Intel HD 4000 Graphics in Intel Core i5-3210M Processor
4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
UltraNav™ with TrackPoint® and buttonless multi-touchpad
320GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm
No Optical Drive
9 Cell ThinkPad Battery X44++
Bluetooth 4.0 with Antenna
Intel Centrino Wireless-N 2200 (2x2 BGN)
Mobile Broadband upgradable
1 Year Depot/Express Warranty

Subtotal: $1,745.00
Sale Price: $979.00
[CAPBTSBEST] -$117.48
Estimated total: $861.52



ThinkPad T430 - 1 Year Depot Topseller Warranty

Intel Core i5-3210M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.10 GHz)
Windows 7 Professional (64 bit)
14.0" HD (1366 x 768) LED Backlit AntiGlare Display, Mobile Broadband Ready
Intel HD Graphics 4000
4 GB PC3-12800 DDR3 (1 DIMM)
UltraNav without Fingerprint Reader
320GB Hard Disk Drive, 7200rpm
DVD Recordable
9 Cell Li-Ion TWL 70++
Bluetooth 4.0 with Antenna
Intel Centrino Wireless-N 2200 (2x2 BGN)
Mobile Broadband upgradable
1 Year Depot/Express Warranty

Subtotal: $1,645.00
Sale Price: $969.00
[CAXAUG2012] -$193.80
Estimated total: $775.20


X230 - small, lightweight, small screen
T430 - larger screen, heavier

Options:
6 cell vs 9 cell
Bluetooth
Webcam
Fingerprint reader
Extra warranty

T430 seems like the better value here

Marta
08-20-2012, 04:57 PM
T430 seems like the better value here

how so? I was opting for the first one?
*shifty eyes*

peterm15
08-20-2012, 05:06 PM
Best thing I did for school was buy a second battery. When my battery was close to done I'd shutdown and swap. Of course I'd plan it out for breaks, my battery cost me 20 bucks on eBay. Worked just as good as the original. I know there is external batteries now. But didn't know that at the time. And frankly I'm pretty cheap.

MarkWB
08-20-2012, 05:10 PM
how so? I was opting for the first one?
*shifty eyes*

Well it's cheaper and doesn't really feature any noticeable differences in comparison to the former, plus, it's got a bigger screen.

Marta
08-20-2012, 05:12 PM
Well it's cheaper and doesn't really feature any noticeable differences in comparison to the former, plus, it's got a bigger screen.

which means its heavier, uglier and less compact though..


OKAY, thank you everyone for your input! Now I know more or less what Im looking for. Maybe one day I'll be all techy too.... orrrrr not lol

tmpz
08-20-2012, 05:18 PM
T430 seems like the better value here

The only difference is screen size. Both are pretty much the same specs.

On the T430 you get option to get a higher resolution for $50 more. If you get the T430 I would get the screen resolution upgrade for $50.

So the question is: screen size (T430) vs portability (X230).

My friend bought a X200 and dropped a half full Sigg water bottle on to it. It made a small dent, but everything worked fine. Thinkpad W, T and X series are built tough. I've had T61p for 4-5 years, the battery life is down to 1 hours from 3 hours. I have W520 now and it's great except for the power brick, it's massive :(

05Mazda3GT
08-20-2012, 05:29 PM
I started the other thread on laptops and after a couple weeks of research i'm back to square one. After I was set on a pc I think i'm getting a Macbook Pro...it's only money :P

But in all seriousness i've been to Canada Computers, Best Buy, Future Shop, Apple Store and a mac is standing out at the moment.

Karmaspeed
08-20-2012, 09:38 PM
Nobody mention this place so I'll add it in, have a look at Staples if you're looking for 14" or 13" they have the best prices with i5 cpu's and 500gb hd. When I went back to school in 2010 I wanted a 13" for mobility and staples had the best price then, and it looks like they still do.

SilentJay
08-21-2012, 10:37 AM
Nobody mention this place so I'll add it in, have a look at Staples if you're looking for 14" or 13" they have the best prices with i5 cpu's and 500gb hd. When I went back to school in 2010 I wanted a 13" for mobility and staples had the best price then, and it looks like they still do.

Kinda sortta true - they sell the same cookie-cutter models as bestbuy/future shop. So while they may have prices occasionally better than the aforementioned stores, they still don't offer the better or CTO (custom to order) units as mentioned by everyone here.

n00bMeiSter
08-21-2012, 11:17 AM
The only difference is screen size. Both are pretty much the same specs.

On the T430 you get option to get a higher resolution for $50 more. If you get the T430 I would get the screen resolution upgrade for $50.

So the question is: screen size (T430) vs portability (X230).


The x230 you listed doesn't have an optical drive. I would never buy any computer that doesn't have an optical drive.

tmpz
08-21-2012, 11:21 AM
The x230 you listed doesn't have an optical drive. I would never buy any computer that doesn't have an optical drive.

My bad, nice catch. I guess you need to get the dock to get the optical drive.

T430 is better deal unless you're ok with no optical drive.

SomeGuy
08-21-2012, 11:26 AM
The x230 you listed doesn't have an optical drive. I would never buy any computer that doesn't have an optical drive.

Who cares about an optical drive? I can't remember the last time I used one...and if you really need one, spend the $30-40 and get an external USB one for the once in a blue moon that it's necessary.

SilentJay
08-21-2012, 02:22 PM
Using coupon code CAPREDFLAGDEALS (obviously taken from RFD), you can take another 18% off your order.

Lenovo T430s (slim)
Intel Core i5-3320M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.30 GHz)
Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit)
14.0" HD+ (1600 x 900) LED Backlit Anti-Glare Display, Mobile Broadband Ready
Intel HD Graphics 4000 with Intel Core i5-3320M Processor
4 GB DDR3 - 1600MHz (1 DIMM)
UltraNav multi-touch touchpad & TrackPoint
500GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm
DVD Recordable
6 Cell Lithium Battery T81+
1 Year Depot/Express Warranty

This build, including the higher res screen, came out to $851.

SilentJay
08-21-2012, 02:23 PM
Who cares about an optical drive? I can't remember the last time I used one...and if you really need one, spend the $30-40 and get an external USB one for the once in a blue moon that it's necessary.

It's nice to have one built in - Saves all sorts of time if you're in a bind.

n00bMeiSter
08-21-2012, 02:34 PM
Who cares about an optical drive? I can't remember the last time I used one...and if you really need one, spend the $30-40 and get an external USB one for the once in a blue moon that it's necessary.

I boot from them lots. And use them regularly.

I find a lot of times you can't boot from an external usb OD.




It's nice to have one built in - Saves all sorts of time if you're in a bind.

My thoughts exactly.

SomeGuy
08-21-2012, 02:50 PM
I boot from them lots. And use them regularly.

I find a lot of times you can't boot from an external usb OD.



I just setup USB keys with bootable images, it's far more convenient. Laptops that dont have optical drives are always setup to be able to do this and I've yet to have issues with it. I guess to each their own, but I would take the portability of the x230 over the larger T420 with an optical drive.

BTW my work uses lenovo exclusively and I've had the T42, T61p, W500 and W510's personally so far as I'm a developer and need substantial power...we also currently have x220's and t420's for some of the sales and PM's.

Marta
08-21-2012, 03:24 PM
-_- ?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?

n00bMeiSter
08-21-2012, 05:02 PM
I just setup USB keys with bootable images, it's far more convenient. Laptops that dont have optical drives are always setup to be able to do this and I've yet to have issues with it. I guess to each their own, but I would take the portability of the x230 over the larger T420 with an optical drive.

BTW my work uses lenovo exclusively and I've had the T42, T61p, W500 and W510's personally so far as I'm a developer and need substantial power...we also currently have x220's and t420's for some of the sales and PM's.

Yeah, that's fine for us, but for someone who doesn't know how to do this stuff, being able to insert her windows or ms office cd and click "repair" if something should go wrong; is slightly more important, and easier than running to get one of us to fix it.

Honestly, an x230 with optical would be perfect.
I thought I saw optical drives in their specs PDF sheet.

MarkWB
08-21-2012, 05:20 PM
Yeah, that's fine for us, but for someone who doesn't know how to do this stuff, being able to insert her windows or ms office cd and click "repair" if something should go wrong; is slightly more important, and easier than running to get one of us to fix it.


Pretty sure getting one of you guys to fix it would be easier for Marta than running any sort of software application would be. :chuckle

XTOTHEL
08-21-2012, 10:47 PM
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/18/macbook-air-review/

yes yes, if you're typing stuff, there isn't much of a difference and nothing to learn. Have you gone to an Apple store to poke at it? I would suggest that instead of thinking "there is no way I'm learning it", give it a try, ask someone at an Apple store how you would write notes and have them show you. If it is waaaaaay over your head, then PC.

n00bMeiSter
08-21-2012, 11:22 PM
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/18/macbook-air-review/

yes yes, if you're typing stuff, there isn't much of a difference and nothing to learn. Have you gone to an Apple store to poke at it? I would suggest that instead of thinking "there is no way I'm learning it", give it a try, ask someone at an Apple store how you would write notes and have them show you. If it is waaaaaay over your head, then PC.

But why bother? For half the price of the shitty base model Mac she will get a PC that is more powerful, and much cheaper. As well it would not require her re-learning how to use a computer.
The point here is the cost mostly. Why spend $1700 for a mac when you could get the same thing in a PC for a third the price? Especially when you already know how to use a PC and have never used a Mac before.
Really, there's no point in moving to mac.

SilentJay
08-22-2012, 07:53 AM
:p Everyone miss out on my post about that T430s that has optical AND is relatively slim?

SirWanker
08-22-2012, 08:41 AM
But why bother? For half the price of the shitty base model Mac she will get a PC that is more powerful, and much cheaper. As well it would not require her re-learning how to use a computer.
The point here is the cost mostly. Why spend $1700 for a mac when you could get the same thing in a PC for a third the price? Especially when you already know how to use a PC and have never used a Mac before.
Really, there's no point in moving to mac.


which means its heavier, uglier and less compact though..


Never underestimate the power of vanity......

Just go and test-drive a mac with similar specs as the PC and then decide from there.

Jackal
08-22-2012, 09:14 AM
which means its heavier, uglier and less compact though..


Noob doesn't mind bulky. Check out his functional laptop computer on the go:
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQcM_IlYRYkN-U06cTV7yREO6ekEr_3vHk-DKr9L2m8xCtYBGJHnA&t=1
credit goes to Kappa for finding this pic.

Marta
08-22-2012, 09:33 AM
Noob doesn't mind bulky. Check out his functional laptop computer on the go:
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQcM_IlYRYkN-U06cTV7yREO6ekEr_3vHk-DKr9L2m8xCtYBGJHnA&t=1
credit goes to Kappa for finding this pic.

bahahahah, oh mannnn


Thank you gentlemen, all your help is vastly appreciated. Evertime I thought we had found a good one, seems to be missing something basic (ie: this optical drive thing). Im just not willing to risk it so I have selected a very smart, super duper whiz kid to come computer shopping with me so I dont come home with a pager instead...

n00bMeiSter
08-22-2012, 10:35 AM
:p Everyone miss out on my post about that T430s that has optical AND is relatively slim?

What's the battery life like on it?





Thank you gentlemen, all your help is vastly appreciated. Evertime I thought we had found a good one, seems to be missing something basic (ie: this optical drive thing). Im just not willing to risk it so I have selected a very smart, super duper whiz kid to come computer shopping with me so I dont come home with a pager instead...

Wait, you wanted a pager? Why didn't you just say so? :P

S.F.W.
08-22-2012, 10:46 AM
What's the battery life like on it?


With a 6 cell battery should be around 4 hours actual use, maybe 5. If one used the 9 cell which is heavier, could get 6 hours.

SirWanker
08-22-2012, 01:23 PM
Or read this: http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2012/08/the-ars-pc-laptop-buying-guide-back-to-school-edition/

Karmaspeed
08-23-2012, 08:20 AM
If you're getting a new laptop you're not going to need an optical drive as all new laptops will be able to boot from usb. Save on the weight and get a nice mobile unit; it will save your back too. The only reason you'd want a dvd recordable is if you want to burn you're own dvd's; but are you going to do that while going to school? and why store files on a dvd when you can store it on a usb. Just a thought.

XTOTHEL
08-23-2012, 11:30 AM
what luck! http://gizmodo.com/5936910/best-battery-life-10-laptops-that-last-7%252B-hours

n00bMeiSter
08-23-2012, 01:03 PM
If you're getting a new laptop you're not going to need an optical drive as all new laptops will be able to boot from usb. Save on the weight and get a nice mobile unit; it will save your back too. The only reason you'd want a dvd recordable is if you want to burn you're own dvd's; but are you going to do that while going to school? and why store files on a dvd when you can store it on a usb. Just a thought.

Windows and all the drivers come on a cd. How's that booting from USB working out for ya?

Dvd burners are the defacto default. You're not paying extra for them. I don't even think you can buy a new dvd drive that isn't a burner these days.

dambay
08-23-2012, 01:24 PM
Windows and all the drivers come on a cd. How's that booting from USB working out for ya?

Dvd burners are the defacto default. You're not paying extra for them. I don't even think you can buy a new dvd drive that isn't a burner these days.

Its not overly complicated to create a bootable USB drive. Microsoft actually has a tool you can download to make a USB drive bootable and copy all the necessary files from a Windows CD, all in one step. Its pretty simple to use. Alot of software today can be downloaded as well, if you have the savvy to find it and install things that way, but as others have said, having an Optical drive is still useful/important. CDs/DVDs are still the go to format for software/game distribution, so you'll have to decide if you're comfortable without one. The best way to decide would be to consider how much you have used one in the last year or two.

Yes, if portability and compact factor is your primary concern, forego the optical drive, but for ease of installing software, etc, having one is great.

SilentJay
08-23-2012, 01:29 PM
If you're getting a new laptop you're not going to need an optical drive as all new laptops will be able to boot from usb. Save on the weight and get a nice mobile unit; it will save your back too. The only reason you'd want a dvd recordable is if you want to burn you're own dvd's; but are you going to do that while going to school? and why store files on a dvd when you can store it on a usb. Just a thought.

The assumption is being made that Marta is able/comfortable/willing to do all of this. She may want the simplicity and near-zero-touch nature of popping in a restore DVD and letting it rip.

n00bMeiSter
08-23-2012, 01:37 PM
The assumption is being made that Marta is able/comfortable/willing to do all of this. She may want the simplicity and near-zero-touch nature of popping in a restore DVD and letting it rip.

Exactly. And she doesn't know how to do that, nor would she know where to go from there, and she doesn't want to have to go through that.

dambay
08-23-2012, 02:02 PM
My response may have been misinterpreted, I am a proponent of optical drives, I was just trying to present the merits of both sides. But yes, I would definitely recommend that Marta buy a laptop with an optical drive

n00bMeiSter
08-23-2012, 02:38 PM
My response may have been misinterpreted, I am a proponent of optical drives, I was just trying to present the merits of both sides. But yes, I would definitely recommend that Marta buys a laptop with an optical drive

Ah, my apologies.

Karmaspeed
08-23-2012, 02:41 PM
Windows and all the drivers come on a cd. How's that booting from USB working out for ya?


You telling me you haven't put a whole bootable cd on a usb and boot from it? Tell me this isn't so cause I'll start to loose respect for your technological knowledge hehehe...

And also you can get her laptop imaged and create a backup file with all the drives already in; create a bootable usb with the file on it for auto extraction. This is how we imaged 100's of laptops at my old company. Every time we got new specs and drivers we created another image and within 10 mins brand new laptops had all the software and updated drivers that were needed for company use.

Oh and if you scratch your cd try booting and restoring from that and see how that's working for you. :thumbsup NOT !!!

Impressive
08-23-2012, 02:45 PM
Marta, get a Macbook Pro and fiddle with it for a bit. I'm confident you'll love it and if you need any further assistance with programs and such, you can always take it in to any Apple store and have their customer service reps help you out (or ask on the forum here :chuckle). I know it's within the highest ranges of your price point but (even with the most basic model) once you start to play around with it and learn how to use it - you'll love it. Also if you choose to sell it once you're out of school to upgrade or something it'll hold its resale value much better.

Karmaspeed
08-23-2012, 02:59 PM
Marta, get a Macbook Pro and fiddle with it for a bit. I'm confident you'll love it and if you need any further assistance with programs and such, you can always take it in to any Apple store and have their customer service reps help you out (or ask on the forum here :chuckle). I know it's within the highest ranges of your price point but (even with the most basic model) once you start to play around with it and learn how to use it - you'll love it. Also if you choose to sell it once you're out of school to upgrade or something it'll hold its resale value much better.

If you can afford it he has good points.

Marta
08-23-2012, 03:10 PM
I am going to be honest hear and admit I do absolutly not understand a word of what this entire debate is about -_-
My 'dumbed down computer version' thread was hijacked by computer experts and while Im sure it was for some sort of benefit, Im just happy I have someone capable of translating this stuff.

When it comes to all these extra things I would need to do, its not going to happen.
a) I wont know how/what to do
b) I dont have time

ex: my blackberry is friggen useless cause I dont do the updates. Its NEVER been hooked up to my computer, I wouldnt know what the hell to do. So I have a phone that doesnt work, has viruses, etc LOL

So, the less work the better.
Just need small, fast and durable.

-_- its so complicated its making my head hurt LOL



Mac? I dont know... not sold. Pretty impartial on them to spend that amount, not an iphone or ipod person either. Plus, what about flash? I heard Macs have a probkem with word programs?

Karmaspeed
08-23-2012, 03:18 PM
hehehe ok im done posting here, I'm sure Dave and the rest of the guys are being helpful but when the young ones make it sound like I don't know I.T. i have to defend myself considering I was in it for over 18 years. Good luck with the laptop purchase and if you want help with the blackberry we can upload the latest version and see if that fixes your problems.
Cheers,

Impressive
08-23-2012, 03:19 PM
Mac? I dont know... not sold. Pretty impartial on them to spend that amount, not an iphone or ipod person either. Plus, what about flash? I heard Macs have a probkem with word programs?

That was like pre-2009. Flash works just fine on Macs now and their word processing programs are also good. You can choose either MS Word or Apple's version called Pages. Both should do exactly what you need from them. (Pages is a fraction of the cost of MS Office however)

Marta
08-23-2012, 03:25 PM
hehehe ok im done posting here, I'm sure Dave and the rest of the guys are being helpful but when the young ones make it sound like I don't know I.T. i have to defend myself considering I was in it for over 18 years. Good luck with the laptop purchase and if you want help with the blackberry we can upload the latest version and see if that fixes your problems.
Cheers,

Would never question your authority on the subject. It laps mine (any most people's) by tenfold :)

Marta
08-23-2012, 03:25 PM
blackberry FREEZES* and is useless... didnt mean viruses :bang

n00bMeiSter
08-23-2012, 04:44 PM
You telling me you haven't put a whole bootable cd on a usb and boot from it? Tell me this isn't so cause I'll start to loose respect for your technological knowledge hehehe...

And also you can get her laptop imaged and create a backup file with all the drives already in; create a bootable usb with the file on it for auto extraction. This is how we imaged 100's of laptops at my old company. Every time we got new specs and drivers we created another image and within 10 mins brand new laptops had all the software and updated drivers that were needed for company use.

Oh and if you scratch your cd try booting and restoring from that and see how that's working for you. :thumbsup NOT !!!

Nope, all my computers have optical drives, and I've always got spare drives around in case something happens and I need to use a disk. Hell, I've got B: drives kicking around still :P
CD's can be buffed, and since they won't be leaving their cases unless needed (which would probably be an extremely rare occurrence) there's no worry of them getting scratched.
However, yes I've used usb booting, but we're not talking about what you or I would do, we're talking about someone who doesn't know anything more than how to write an essay and use facebook (no offense Marta ;))

So everyone saying to do all this stuff that us IT professionals can do, she can't do it and it's not worth it trying to teach her or going down that path, thus making it a completely useless and moot point. So let's just leave it be.

Back on topic! :)

Anyone else with Laptop suggestions?

Ozil
08-23-2012, 05:27 PM
http://www.engadget.com/2012/08/23/gigabyte-p2542g-gaming-laptop-hands-on/

:hawt

SirWanker
08-24-2012, 09:17 AM
Computer Systems Centre ( http://www.csctoronto.com/) may have used macs for sale.

SilentJay
08-24-2012, 10:26 AM
Samsung Ultrabook series 9
http://www.samsung.com/us/computer/laptops/NP900X3A-A03US

SilentJay
08-24-2012, 12:17 PM
Lenovo X1 Carbon:

Intel Core i5-3317U Processor (3M Cache, up to 2.60 GHz)
14.0" Premium HD+ (1600x900) LED Backlit Display, 720p HD Camera, Mobile Broadband Enabled
Intel HD 4000 Graphics in Intel Core i5-3317U Processor with 4GB 1333MHz DDR3L On Board
4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3L SDRAM 1333MHz SODIMM Memory (1 DIMM)
TrackPoint with Fingerprint Reader and Clickpad - Type US
128GB Solid State Drive, SATA3

$958 with CAPREDFLAGDEALS coupon code.

SirWanker
08-24-2012, 04:01 PM
Lenovo X1 Carbon:

Intel Core i5-3317U Processor (3M Cache, up to 2.60 GHz)
14.0" Premium HD+ (1600x900) LED Backlit Display, 720p HD Camera, Mobile Broadband Enabled
Intel HD 4000 Graphics in Intel Core i5-3317U Processor with 4GB 1333MHz DDR3L On Board
4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3L SDRAM 1333MHz SODIMM Memory (1 DIMM)
TrackPoint with Fingerprint Reader and Clickpad - Type US
128GB Solid State Drive, SATA3

$958 with CAPREDFLAGDEALS coupon code.

oh my! that is sweet but bump it up to 8GB ram (can't upgrade memory) and 250GB hd.

dambay
08-25-2012, 12:29 AM
oh my! that is sweet but bump it up to 8GB ram (can't upgrade memory) and 250GB hd.

Meh. 128gb is plenty for an OS drive. Just need an HDD for storage.

Marta
08-27-2012, 06:00 PM
http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/6457/imagescalktm7s.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/imagescalktm7s.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

SilentJay
08-28-2012, 09:51 AM
Translation: A very pretty laptop, pretty good specs, built to withstand rough conditions, good price.

http://8.mshcdn.com/wp-content/gallery/lenovo-thinkpad-x1-carbon-worlds-lightest-ultrabook/lenovo-x1-carbon-table-600.jpg

zzz3
08-28-2012, 10:52 AM
Lenovo X1 Carbon:

Intel Core i5-3317U Processor (3M Cache, up to 2.60 GHz)
14.0" Premium HD+ (1600x900) LED Backlit Display, 720p HD Camera, Mobile Broadband Enabled
Intel HD 4000 Graphics in Intel Core i5-3317U Processor with 4GB 1333MHz DDR3L On Board
4 GB PC3-10600 DDR3L SDRAM 1333MHz SODIMM Memory (1 DIMM)
TrackPoint with Fingerprint Reader and Clickpad - Type US
128GB Solid State Drive, SATA3

$958 with CAPREDFLAGDEALS coupon code.

Sold!

Jackal
08-28-2012, 11:06 AM
Sold!

Still space available for Heart for Hearth!

Marta
08-29-2012, 10:04 AM
thank you all for your help. After much consideration and the fact Im on a time limit (school starts Tuesday) and last week was a write-off time wise,

I bought a laptop at best buy.

According to someone that knows alot about computers (aka-not me), she's exactly what I need and then some.

oh, AND SHE'S SOOOOOO PRETTY! :D
http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/672/29663310151171688746475.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/809/29663310151171688746475.jpg/)

SirWanker
08-29-2012, 12:22 PM
Meh. 128gb is plenty for an OS drive. Just need an HDD for storage.

Beg to differ, it defeats the purpose of having a laptop if you need to carry an external drive with you.

Karmaspeed
08-29-2012, 12:41 PM
thank you all for your help. After much consideration and the fact Im on a time limit (school starts Tuesday) and last week was a write-off time wise,

I bought a laptop at best buy.

According to someone that knows alot about computers (aka-not me), she's exactly what I need and then some.

oh, AND SHE'S SOOOOOO PRETTY! :D
http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/672/29663310151171688746475.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/809/29663310151171688746475.jpg/)

Happy to hear you finally got your laptop, nice colour too. Congrats !!!