The Great 'Cheapest Decent Laptop' Hunt

[gemma1585]

Dell Inspiron 6000 (http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/inspn_6000?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&s=dhs)

I've been quoted £729 for this laptop, upgrading to bluetooth and also getting all the tools to make my home a wireless environment. Any comments would be appreciated as I am dumb and don't wanna get ripped off. Also if this is a good deal I shall snap it right up!!!

Thanks guys!

Also can anyone give advise on insurances which I could take out to cover for accidental damage etc?

[HLK]

I've been looking around for a laptop, in no hurry tho. I'm after around the same spec as gemma1585. How abot these (http://www.acernotebooks.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_3000_Laptops/prod.asp) i've found..any good?


The Acer Aspire 5002LM in the 5000 series looks interesting. Acer are the first to launch using the new Turion range of processors from AMD - 64 bit mobile technology using PowerNow! for extened battery life and Hyper Threading.

There's also 512Mb RAM & 60gig hard disk & a dual layer DVDRW.

If you aren't fussed about dedicated graphics this could be a wise choice. If you are then there are further models about to be released - details are sketchy though. Even Acer don't give anything away on their website and I haven't been able to find a complete Spec.

Still if you aren't in a rush - £570 gets you a lot of laptop! :D

Here...

http://www.acernotebooks.co.uk/asp/product.asp?recorprod=1&product=235&cat=79&ph=&keywords=&recor=&SearchFor=&PT_ID=

[Llamatamer]

Hi All,

Im am in the market for a cheapish laptop around £400.
Im looking for the following: -
20GB hard drive minimum
2-3 USB ports
Ethernet - not fussed on wireless
14" screen
3 hours+ battery life.
Dont want operating system.

Basically, Im looking for something to use as a secondary home computer for occasional use but primarily to take away with me on trips when I am taking pictures to allow me to backup all the images I take. I will mostly be near a power supply so a reasonable battery life is needed but nothing incredible.
Having followed some of the links off this thread and done my own searching I am completely lost as to where to start!

Any help much appreciated.

[AuntyJean]

Gemma,

I bought my laptop from Dell but they still sold me the wrong Router. In the end they agreed to refund me for the router & I bought one from another source. I explained my set-up (Telewest cable modem operating my PC on Windows 98SE and the laptop on XP with a wireless LAN card).

I am completely ignorant about wireless connection so if I say anything wrong could someone please correct me.

I wanted to be able to connect to the internet from anywhere but understand that in order to do this you need bluetooth and, I would not be able to use my current ISP (Telewest). So, I settled for wireless connection at home meaning I could use my laptop anywhere within range of my PC at home.

Having failed to set up the wireless router before I went away, I settled for downloading some files onto disc and accessing them that way on my laptop.

Having returned yesterday, I got completely confused by all the different instructions for setting up my router. I rang Belkin's helpline (the manufacturers of the router), and they talked me through connecting my modem that Telewest supplied me with, to the router. Then I had to connect my computer to the router. This is where the trouble started.

I only have two usb ports on the back of my computer. One WAS plugged into the modem. When I tried installing the Wireless USB Adapter nothing happened. About 2 hours of phone calls later, Belkin said they would have to get their senior technician to phone me within 24 hours. I am still waiting for the call.

In the meantime, I am sat here with my laptop connected by ethernet cable to the router in order to access the internet.

It would seem that there is a problem with my usb port but when I swapped it over to the other USB port it still would not work. I have been advised to established the version of my USB port(s) but as Gateway (my PC manufacturer) no longer exist I have no idea how to do this.

I would say Dell have been absolutely marvelous and I cannot fault them. I have a great laptop but from my initial expectations of being able to use my laptop anywhere to connect to the internet I am now down to sitting with it balanced on a chair next to my PC instead and cannot envisage me ever getting the two to 'speak' to eachother.

Hope this helps a little.

Aunty Jean

[Edinburghlass]

I might know, just a little bit more about this in an hour or so Jean as I am off to friends to help them set up their wirelss router ;)

On the other hand, I might not be back :o

[gemma1585]

Aunty Jean,

I've settled for an 802.11b/g wireless card and I will wait until my laptop arrives before I purchase a router!

Hope you get everything sorted soon!

[AuntyJean]

Well my router is obviously working as I am wirelessly connected!!!

But, still cannot get the Adapter connected to my home PC! Tried ringing Belkin again and was told to await a call from the senior technician. I explained that I had been waiting since Friday so they said they would try to get someone to ring me today.

As this is not really the correct forum for problems I will post in the Techie forum to let you know how I get on. Just thought I would conclude here first so anyone thinking of buying a laptop can see the sort of problems I encountered.

Aunty Jean

[damski]

Hi All,

Im am in the market for a cheapish laptop around £400.
Im looking for the following: -
20GB hard drive minimum
2-3 USB ports
Ethernet - not fussed on wireless
14" screen
3 hours+ battery life.
Dont want operating system.

Basically, Im looking for something to use as a secondary home computer for occasional use but primarily to take away with me on trips when I am taking pictures to allow me to backup all the images I take. I will mostly be near a power supply so a reasonable battery life is needed but nothing incredible.
Having followed some of the links off this thread and done my own searching I am completely lost as to where to start!

Any help much appreciated.

how about

Microsoft® Windows® XP Home AMD Athlon XP2500, 40GB hard disk, 256MB DDR-RAM, Combined DVD/CD-RW optical drive.

or
Intel® Celeron® 2.2 GHz Notebook
MD41060 Intel® Celeron® 2.2GHz, 14.1" TFT Display, 128 MB DDR-RAM, 40GB HDD. Microsoft® Windows® XP Home & Works.

both only 399.99

or for an extra 50 quid

Microsoft® Windows® XP Home, Intel® Pentium® 4 with 2.66 GHz, 15" TFT XGA Colour Display, 512 MB DDR-RAM, 40 GB hard disk, DVD/CD-RW Combo drive


from here

https://www.medionshop.co.uk/

[Llamatamer]

Damski,
Ive had a look at them, they do look quite good, Ive never heard of Medion before and can only seem to find their laptops in Toys R Us and Staples, any idea how reliable they are?

Llamatamer

[HLK]

Damski,
Ive had a look at them, they do look quite good, Ive never heard of Medion before and can only seem to find their laptops in Toys R Us and Staples, any idea how reliable they are?

Llamatamer

I went along with a friend to see the Medions in Toysrus - the top of the range one on display was falling to bits - literally .. most of the keys were missing, which I know is probably from being sited at 6yr old height in a toyshop, buy well you could see the innards of the laptop and it looked pretty cheap.

This was enough to put us off so we left. I'd research them pretty well before I handed over any cash.

[Llamatamer]

Cheers for the warning HLK.
I couldnt really find much by way of customer reviews etc on them so decided against getting 1 which I feel is supported by your comments as well.

Has anyone ordered from insight before (http://uk.insight.com/index.php), as Im considering getting my machine from them, and would appreciate any comments.
Thanks

[fatboyonadiet]

Need a new laptop and would like a Sony or Toshiba, but noticed that Compaqs, Advent, Packard Bell and Fujitsu are much cheaper and you get a bit more for your money. Generally speaking what would you recommend? If it helps I'm looking at a P4, 512 with 60gb not sure if that has any bearing.

[ThemeOne]

I don't think you can beat IBMs for sheer robustness. They're not trendy, pretty or cheap, but they're solid and reliable.

[Sheel]

I've voted for Toshiba as i'm biased , having got one and I love it , but if I got another one i'd certainly consider a Sony

[fatboyonadiet]

Doh, should have added IBM and HP

[rolpaula]

Would definately recommend Sony Vaio not one problem at all with it

[lipidicman]

Sony's have lovely screens, as long as the shineyness doesnt bother you.

[rolpaula]

Commentating
"And after taking a two length lead Sony has been caught by Toshiba now its neck and neck in the poll..................."

[Fran]

Need a new laptop and would like a Sony or Toshiba, but noticed that Compaqs, Advent, Packard Bell and Fujitsu are much cheaper and you get a bit more for your money. Generally speaking what would you recommend? If it helps I'm looking at a P4, 512 with 60gb not sure if that has any bearing.Hi fatboy, thanks for starting the POLL. I've merged it with this thread as I thought it would be useful for anyone looking for a laptop.

[8383]

Tesco have a brillant laptop which I bought.

1.3Ghz
512mb DDR Memory
60gb Hard Drive
64mb Graphics Card
Built in modem
LAN
Wireless Networking
15.4" screen

Only £598

[bflatman10]

I bought a Medion PC from Toys R Us a few years ago. It was excellent value and I'm still using it too this day. The Medion monitors are dirt cheap and work really well, excellent defanition for the price. I haven't seen the laptop in question so can't really comment on it's quality but I would vouch for Medion as a Company.

[beadysam]

Hiya
Does anybody know how often medionshop change their stock? They had some great laptops on clearance but I faffed about making my mind up for too long and missed them! Hubby got one though (GRRRR!) and he loves it! Are these the guys that do Aldi PC s? Also is there some link between Belkin and PC World as until yesterday its been about a year since I last went to PC World. I noticed they have loads of Belkin stuff and their baskets advertise the Belkin brand!
Regards
SAM

PS: You'll be please to know I didn't buy anything, I just looked at the back of packets so I could compare stuff online!

[grahawk]

Here's one at PC World. OK it's PC World but it is a very good price. It's on the website under clearance if this link doesn't work.

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/product/seo/485355?microsite_id=clearance_bargains

Its a:

ADVENT 7063M INTEL BANIAS PENTIUM M 1.5GHZ PROCESSOR LAPTOP

And it now costs £499 which is very cheap for a Pentium-M. Needs 256mb more RAM and unsurprisingly at this price it has a shared graphics.

Banias is the older (first generation) type of Pentium-M (The latest are known as Dothan) but you don't lose much worth worrying about.

[mjr600]

Computer Shopper has this month reviewed sub £500 notebooks.

Coming in as best value for money is the Compaq nx6110 PT601ET from www.hp.co.uk at £480.

Second went to the Evesham Quest Explorer S26 at £500 from
www.lowestonweb.com/quest.

The remainder didn't cut the mustard Acer Aspire 1362LC - Fujitsu Siemens L7300 - Aries Provision 2536 - Tiny MediaBook 360S.

The HP sounds to be a cracking bargain laptop and its from a company with a long track record in the industry.

Although the Tiny didn't win, its spec has been upgraded according to www.tiny.com since the review and with 512meg and an 80 gig drive it is now more attractive at £495.

[Woolwards]

I am looking at a Tiny laptop for £599 - Tiny Powerlite C780 on the website link as follows

http://laptops.tiny.com/computers/bargain_laptops/14647

It looks good to me but I am no expert. Anyone out there to help?

Karen

[Woolwards]

The upgraded one looks good too - £698

http://laptops.tiny.com/computers/power_laptops/14780/61319/

Karen

[grahawk]

Yes - don't buy from Tiny. They have the worst reputation out there for both quality and support. They don't even seem to include a backup system CD as standard.

[phancey]

no way Sony. My girlfriend has had to send hers back twice in 2 years with exactly the same fault as a friend of ours who has had to send hers back too. Overheating and just cutting out.

I avoid Sony wherever possible now in all products

[LaParka]

How did Computer shopper manage to get the nx6110 for £480? Just been to the hpstore and its £599 (exc. VAT) on their.

If someone could get the price to £480 i'd buy that in a flash :D

[freeonline]

How did Computer shopper manage to get the nx6110 for £480? Just been to the hpstore and its £599 (exc. VAT) on their.

If someone could get the price to £480 i'd buy that in a flash :D

As I did.
nx6110 PT601ET (reviewed by Computer Shopper)
£ 468.83+£9.99 (delivery)
http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/uk/en/sm/WF06b/21675-283229-283229-283229-297845-12095478-30667655.html

The one you are talking about is nx6110 PT604ET (it is not the same).

Now dash and let them take your cash in a flash.

[hollie.weimeraner]

Acer Aspire 1682wlmi has been reduced and is selling at around £599. Excellent spec for the price 1.6 Pentium M, 512 RAM, ATI 9700 graphics card, Inbuilt wireless networking and dual layer DVD writer. (15.4" widescreen)

Cheapest place including delivery I can find is here http://www.comet.co.uk/comet/html/cache/320_237922.html

Just ordered 1 for my son, reviews seem to be few and far between but what there are speak favourably.

[oh_no]

I've only read the last couple of pages so if it's been mentioned before....................sorry.

Walmart.com are doing laptops for $500.At the current exchange rate that is about 275 quid.Cost to DHL it over is another $50 (Walmart don't ship overseas except to US Forces post-boxes).They work on 240V and look identical to UK models.I'm not sure about any import duty that you might have to pay but if you knew someone in the States who would ship it as a "gift" then you would be quids in.Just a thought.

[hollie.weimeraner]

I've only read the last couple of pages so if it's been mentioned before....................sorry.

Walmart.com are doing laptops for $500.At the current exchange rate that is about 275 quid.Cost to DHL it over is another $50 (Walmart don't ship overseas except to US Forces post-boxes).They work on 240V and look identical to UK models.I'm not sure about any import duty that you might have to pay but if you knew someone in the States who would ship it as a "gift" then you would be quids in.Just a thought.

Yes Walmart are doing "cheap" laptops but thats exactly what they are. Look at the spec. Have a look further down the page and compare a decent spec product with UK prices and you'll find there's not much difference eg Acer Ferrari UK price £1147 Walmart price $1947. Even in America you tend to get what you pay for;)

[gmrsupplies]

Could anybody who knows the slightest bit about Laptop's please look at this and advise me whether it is a good buy if I can get it for £594.99, Before everybody jumps in ?, I can get it for that as my Dad gets 15% off but only up to £1500 per year, I normally use all of his allowance !!!

Any advice would be appreciated,

Thanks
http://www.currys.co.uk/martprd/store/cur_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@0498878650.112071112 7@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccciaddfdjlhidjcflgceggdhhmdgmh.0&page=Product&sku=439869&category_oid=-21154&fm=15&sm=1&tm=undefined

[grahawk]

Could anybody who knows the slightest bit about Laptop's please look at this and advise me whether it is a good buy

I'd probably say no - even with the discount. While Celeron-M processors are good you can get decent laptops with this one for £499. The main things it has to bump up the price are the widescreen, though I've read that the advantages are questionable over normal 15inch screens, and the graphics chip which may be a new updated version of the Intel chipset but it appears still to use system memory (shared graphics) (plus of course the Toshiba name). It's not a bad price but it's not great either. I'd prefer a Pentium-M with 64mb shared graphics and 15 inch screen. My Pentium-M with DVD writer and seperate graphics card was only £599 and thats the sort of bargain I'd be looking out for.

[Fingers]

Hi guys and gals,

despite being a regular visitor to the site this is my first post here, so lets hope it goes well.

Basically I'm looking for a new laptop but have a budget of £800 (+-£50) so can stretch a bit more than the cheapest bargain laptop. (although I'm more than happy to spend less!!). The plan is for a desktop replacement type, so can be used for work but also will be multimedia capable, and something which will last me as long as possible.

Having read through some of the posts on here i quite like the look of the acer aspire series here (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_16801690_Laptops/prod.asp), the 1691, or maybe spend a bit more and get the 1693? Any words of wisdom?

also what's difference between the graphics cards and extra memory (the ati radeon x600 or x700) is it worth the money?

And processors? worth the extra speed? should i also consider AMD versions. the 5014 and 5021 i think are roughly the equivalents, but for less money?

lots of questions, i know, but i'm hoping you may have lots of answers.

cheers

Fingers

[hollie.weimeraner]

Hi guys and gals,

despite being a regular visitor to the site this is my first post here, so lets hope it goes well.

Basically I'm looking for a new laptop but have a budget of £800 (+-£50) so can stretch a bit more than the cheapest bargain laptop. (although I'm more than happy to spend less!!). The plan is for a desktop replacement type, so can be used for work but also will be multimedia capable, and something which will last me as long as possible.

Having read through some of the posts on here i quite like the look of the acer aspire series here (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_16801690_Laptops/prod.asp), the 1691, or maybe spend a bit more and get the 1693? Any words of wisdom?

also what's difference between the graphics cards and extra memory (the ati radeon x600 or x700) is it worth the money?

And processors? worth the extra speed? should i also consider AMD versions. the 5014 and 5021 i think are roughly the equivalents, but for less money?

lots of questions, i know, but i'm hoping you may have lots of answers.

cheers

Fingers

My son has just bought the 1682wlmi from Comet at £599 inc delivery and he's over the moon with it. These are quality laptops that have been reduced in price by Acer recently and IMHO are the best value laptops available at the moment. Build quality is excellent, screens are excellent, battery life is really good. There have been reports that Acer customer service has left a lot to be desired recently and it has been suggested this is one of the reasons for the prices coming down, another reason is that there are a number of new processor chips coming out (AMD's Turion for one) which may also account for the price drop.

If you have any doubts pop into your local Comet store and have a look at one (£100 dearer than online in store though).

If you are considering using the laptop as a gaming machine go for the one with the best spec graphics card and most memory. If you're using it for web browsing and word processing then both machines will be more than adequate.

[the_canty]

I recently bought an IBM Thinkpad R50e from here:

http://www.technoworld.com/productdisplay.asp?ProductID=24387

IBM have an excellent reputation for building robust machines, and this one is fine for surfing the web, storing a few photos / mp3s. The RAM is easily upgradeable, if need be, but for the time being I'm very happy with it

[MissSunshine]

Now i know diddly about computers, but Mr Sunshine's a bit of a buff and after a lot of internet research ordered one from Dell http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/default.aspx?=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&s=dhs for my parents.

This was in June and i have no idea what model sorry, :confused: but Mr Sunshine said it was ample for what parents needed to do. It was a shade under £500, free delivery though it took 7 days, and there was a free printer thrown in :j

[mjr600]

The HP I mentioned earlier is even cheaper here, an authorised HP reseller as well.

http://www.inmac.co.uk/catalogue/item/HPNB0314

[stanzelsa]

i dont know if i've put this in the right place but i thought you should know about this. just been to staples in blackburn and their lexmark 16 black ink cartridge was £19,99, i was just about to buy one when i saw the stand behind the counter with special offers on and it had a promotional "european travel pack" which contains a lexmark 16 black ink cartridge and michelin route planning software and michelin guide for £9.99. could only afford 2 unfortunately but hope some of the rest of you can benefit from this

[lmpd]

Hi guys and gals,

despite being a regular visitor to the site this is my first post here, so lets hope it goes well.

Basically I'm looking for a new laptop but have a budget of £800 (+-£50) so can stretch a bit more than the cheapest bargain laptop. (although I'm more than happy to spend less!!). The plan is for a desktop replacement type, so can be used for work but also will be multimedia capable, and something which will last me as long as possible.

Having read through some of the posts on here i quite like the look of the acer aspire series here (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_16801690_Laptops/prod.asp), the 1691, or maybe spend a bit more and get the 1693? Any words of wisdom?

also what's difference between the graphics cards and extra memory (the ati radeon x600 or x700) is it worth the money?

And processors? worth the extra speed? should i also consider AMD versions. the 5014 and 5021 i think are roughly the equivalents, but for less money?

lots of questions, i know, but i'm hoping you may have lots of answers.

cheers

Fingers

I'm (well my partner but I'm doing all the leg work, I will hopefully get a new laptop one day) going to get the Acer Aspire 5014WLMi so I let you know what I think to it. I chose it over the others as the spec seam to be more in line with a desktop replacement laptop. I also found this review (http://www.compshopper.co.uk/shopper/labs/75319/acer-aspire-5014wlmi.html) and comparison of this laptop which mught help some. (I had to register to view it)

[ttoli]

Hello
I'm a complete novice with computers and need some advice I need a cheap laptop for letters, Digital photo processing and v light surfing and have found the following,
HP OMNIBOOK XE2
CELEROA 333 PROCESSOR
128Mb
REFUBISHED INCL DELIVERY £199
through www.cheap-it.com

Has any one dealt with this company, is the deal any good and will it fill my needs?

Thanks in advance

[sw_mina]

Been looking at this in PC World (I know... I know...)

What do people think??

FUJITSU SIEMENS - INTEL CELERON M 370 PROCESSOR 1.50GHz LAPTOP

Intel Celeron M 370 Processor 1.50GHz

400 MHz FSB

1 Mb cache

256 Mb RAM

30 Gb Hard Drive

DVD-ROM/CD-ReWriter Drive

15" TFT Display

Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition

Built in Wireless 802.11b/g

1 year FREE warranty

Processor Type Cel M 370
Processor speed 1500 mhz
Memory Size 256 mb
Memory Type DDR
Hard Drive Capacity 30 Gb
Optical Drives COMBO
CD-ROM Speed 24 x
CD-RW Speed. 24 x
DVD-ROM Speed 8 x
DVD-RW Speed Not Specified
Floppy Disk Drive No
Screen Size/Type 15" XGA TFT
Graphics Card Type Not Specified
Graphics Memory Not Specified
TV-out No
Sound Type Not Specified
Modem Type 56k
Wireless Enabled Yes
No. of USB Connections 4
No. of Firewire Connections 0
Infrared Port Included No
Other Interfaces WIFI
Battery Type Li-ion
Battery life (up to) Not Specified
Software Titles Included Not Specified
Operating system Win XP Home
Weight 2.9 kg
Height 35.3 mm
Width 330 mm
Depth 278 mm
Colour Not Specified
.
Operating System - Windows XP

[grahawk]

Been looking at this in PC World (I know... I know...)

What do people think??

FUJITSU SIEMENS - INTEL CELERON M 370 PROCESSOR 1.50GHz LAPTOP



Well that depends on the price.

[sw_mina]

oh.. whoops!

£450 inc. Vat and delivery

[grahawk]

It's OK but not a spectacular price. You should budget for an extra 256mb of RAM. For a similar price you could probably get something with a DVD writer and 512mb RAM. Here for example.

http://www.comet.co.uk/comet/html/cache/320_253472.html

Not that I'm recommending this one particularly.

[ms_london]

It's OK but not a spectacular price. You should budget for an extra 256mb of RAM. For a similar price you could probably get something with a DVD writer and 512mb RAM. Here for example.

http://www.comet.co.uk/comet/html/cache/320_253472.html

Not that I'm recommending this one particularly.

This was the laptop that I had found yesterday & was considering buying - never heard of ACER before though. Do you think it is worth getting? Also, any sites that offer cashback/free delivery on comet? I thought linemypocket.co.uk might, but their offer at the moment is for currys (5% cashback & free delivery!).

Help!!

[craigblade]

Hi,
Does anyone know of any 14 or 15 inch Widescreen laptops going cheap at the moment? The best I've found so far are the:
Acer AS3502WLMI - £499 at Comet
Acer AS3503WLMI - £484 at Shopacer.co.uk
Packard Bell R4622 - £499 at PCWorld
Fujitsu Amilo L1300 - £499 at PCWorld

I know I can reduce the price of some of these using various discount codes/cashback offers, but just wondered if there are any better deals available?

Thanks,
Craig.

[stinky101]

The Acer (£499 from comet) is £468 from Tesco

[elona]

I cannot find this online for £468 - was it in the stores?

[grahawk]

This was the laptop that I had found yesterday & was considering buying - never heard of ACER before though. Do you think it is worth getting?


Acer are one of the bigger laptop manufacturers. I have an Acer laptop which I'm happy with. They also sell cheap extended warranties - much cheaper than shops provide. However I've head their customer service isn't always the best. Is it worth it? At that price yes - if it meets your needs.

[Edinburghlass]

I cannot find this online for £468 - was it in the stores?

Was instore in my Tesco Extra but I happened to notice this morning that they only had a dearer one left ;)

[elona]

Edinburgh Lass and Stinky


Thanks for your help - I have just gone to my local Tesco and got the laptop we discussed for £468 - daughter is delighted!

They only had about three left on the shelves - so are selling fast! :T :j

[Edinburghlass]

Don't you just love Tesco :D

[stinky101]

elona, is it possible to tell me the specs as i'm thinking of getting one, also what your daughter thinks of it when she uses it! :D

[Edinburghlass]

elona, is it possible to tell me the specs as i'm thinking of getting one, also what your daughter thinks of it when she uses it! :D

Have a look at the link for Comet as I thought you reckoned it was the same one?

My friend's son has the one from Comet and is very happy with it, if that helps at all...

[stinky101]

hi, oh i didnt see the spec but the model number is the same!

i will look now

[Wonga]

It is £449.99 on the Comet website

[Edinburghlass]

Ah but that is Comet's online price, believe me if you can buy this instore in a Tesco and take it home with you it would be well worth the extra few pounds than spending several days waiting on Comet to deliver ;)

[Wonga]

Point taken though this is a 'cheapest' thread. Patience is a virtue ;)

[raeble]

Hello
I'm a complete novice with computers and need some advice I need a cheap laptop for letters, Digital photo processing and v light surfing and have found the following,
HP OMNIBOOK XE2
CELEROA 333 PROCESSOR
128Mb
REFUBISHED INCL DELIVERY £199
through www.cheap-it.com

Has any one dealt with this company, is the deal any good and will it fill my needs?

Thanks in advance
Haven't dealt with them personally. Can I ask why you need a laptop? A desktop will give you more bang for your buck so to speak. I wouldn't touch refurbished laptops as if they go wrong it can be quite expensive to fix - batteries for instance can be as much as £100 if you can still get them for the particular machine. Also it doesn't seem to mention if you get the operating system on cd, - the operating system is about three or four versions back from the current one and I believe another version is in the pipeline. If you don't get it, you would need to buy a new one if for any reason you needed to reinstall it and as you would probably have to buy the latest version - windows xp you would also need to get more RAM, as xp needs a minimum of 256mb ram to run and the laptop only has 128. The laptop is very, very low spec and will have an extremely low battery life. A lot of programs these days are ram intensive and you will need more than 128mb of ram to run them effectively. If you really want a laptop I would advise going for the Acer comet/tesco's one that has been mentioned. It is a shade under £500.

[craigblade]

Hi,
Thanks for your replies everyone. I think 'Wonga' may be mistaken regarding the laptop from Comet though: the price of £449 is for the Acer 3002 model, which isn't a widescreen. The laptop I was referring to is the the Acer 3502WLMI, which is £499 and has widescreen.

I'll be phoning my local tescos tomorrow though to enquire if they have any in, so thanks for suggesting that.

I suppose another way to make it cheaper is if I purchase one of the laptops at £499 from PCWorld/Currys/Dixons, then I can use a 5% off code, and if I go through a cashback site such as quidco or egg.com then I can get a further 4.5-5% off. The price would then come down to around £450. I may wait till the Bank holiday weekend before purchasing actually because often PCWorld/Currys/Dixons have 10% off days (well they did on the Easter Sunday, and May Bank holiday).

Thanks again for your replies and if you spot any more widescreen laptop bargains please let me know.

Craig.

[elona]

My daughter has just been trying out the laptop we got last night for £468 from Tesco - she is really pleased with it - it is 512 ram and she says it is really fast and just "zips along" :j

[pin]

A pretty decent speced laptop from Novatech for £586:

Screen
15.4" WXGA TFT Screen ( 1280 x 800 )
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Processor
1.6GHz AMD Turion 64 Processor
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Memory
512MB PC2700 333MHz DDR
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Hard Drive
60GB Hard Drive
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Graphics
Upto 64MB Intel Extreme Graphics
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Optical Drive
DVDR Multi Burner
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Features
4 x USB 2.0 Por

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
54g Wireless Enabled Network Port

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
56K Internal Modem

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Glidepad with 2 buttons & scroll button

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
<li>512MB PC2700 333MHz DDR
(Supports up to 1GB)
http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
1 x Type II PCMCIA Slot PCMCIA Slot

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
NA Firewire Port

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
1 x Mic-in,1 x H'phone/Speakers

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
DVDR Multi Burner

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
1 x S-Video Out Port

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Weight - 3.0Kg with battery

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
Dimensions (mm) - 33h x 358w x 272d

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/Silverstream/Objectstore/Images/d1-clearpixel.gif
12 Mths RTB

http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/NBsextra.html?NNB-332

Remember to use one of the rebate sites to get extra % off.

[z1000000]

Thank's Pin. Does anyone else think this is a good machine. I'm after a basic laptop, around the 500-600 mark, or less.
It's just for simple stuff, internet, but no games or Video.
I don't know much about Novatech, or computers in general, so any help would be great.

[iamnew]

I was hoping somebody on this thread might be able to help me as well.

I'm wanting to buy a laptop up to about £650ish exc vat (£770 inc).

I think it needs to be a Centrino laptop, based on the new Sonoma chipset, because it will be used on the move now and then. It'll be used mainly for office work (web, word processing etc) and the odd game, but really I just want to make sure it has a good bit of power, with a nice screen. And it needs to have a DVD writer.

I've narrowed it down to two; the HP nc6120 with a 1.6Pentium M, 512mb DDR, 60gb, DVD+RW with Windows XP PRO, and the Samsung X20 with 1.6Pentium M, 512mb DDR2, 60gb, and DVD+/-RW with Windows XP Home.

The advantage with the Samsung is that it has a dual format (and DVD RAM) DVD writer, a better screen (possibly), and DDR2 memory. However it has a 4200rpm hard drive, in comparison to the HPs 5400 rpm drive

So the question is, which of the two will be be better, will the slower hard drive let down the samsungs performance, even if it has faster memory?

And also, do you have any other suggestions of laptops for this kind of use. (as long as it isn't Acer/Dell/Advent/Packard Bell)

Many thanks in advance everyone.

[1sttimer]

I have seen a laptop advertised at Woolworths. Does anybody know if this is a good offer or not?

[r.mac]

I have seen this laptop advertised by PC world - what do you think?

advent 7063M Intel banias Pentium M 1.5 GHZ processsor £499.97 (inc VAT)


Intel Banias Pentium M 1.5GHz processor
400 MHz FSB
1 Mb cache
256 Mb RAM
40 Gb Hard Drive
DVD±RW Drive
15" TFT display
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
64 Mb Intel 855GME integrated graphics
1 Year FREE warrantyI appreciate any thoughts

r.mac

[grahawk]

For the price it looks good. Pentium-M laptops seem to be getting quite cheap these days. You should budget for an extra 256mb RAM. As long as your not going to use programs that are very graphic intensive like games it looks good.

[ttoli]

Many thanks for your response, I need a laptop as I'm emmigrating soon and it needs to fit in my hand luggage (I'm allowed one container and that has already gone with all my wordly goods, furniture etc). I'll check out tesco's tomorrow..thanx

[oh_no]

TTOLI,I'd check prices where you are emigrating.It might save you a few quid and all the hassle if it was cheaper out there.Goog luck.

[loopy_lass]

am i correct in thinking to recommended acer model from tesco is the Acer 3502WLMI???

if not wud someone mind putting the product no. on here for approx £468


thanks loops

[solly]

Staples are offering (in store only) the following:-

Acer Travelmate 2356xm for £399.00

Celeron M370 (1.5Ghz)
256MB RAM
40GB HDD
14.1 TFT
DVD±RW Drive
Microsoft XP Home

[oh_no]

PC World has a Packard Bell for 379.99.Mozilla has denied you the link and I don't know how to configure the darn thing !!

It's a web exclusive deal,but I have ordered stuff from them mail order in the past and was well impressed with the service.

As allways,check the specs and buy accordingly.These things seeem to be getting cheaper by the hour.I wouldn't be surprised if we saw a sub 300 quid laptop before chrimbo.

[edna_clouds]

I have seen a laptop advertised at Woolworths. Does anybody know if this is a good offer or not?

Is this the one?
http://www.woolworths.co.uk/wwstore/product.jhtml?op=details&product=50457714&op=details
I don't know if it's any good but as you can see with the link,an extra 10% discount through wanadoo.

Kenny
you need to go through http://www.woolworths.co.uk/wanadoo/ to get the 10% discount link to work.
Can't be bad for £404.99

[Edinburghlass]

am i correct in thinking to recommended acer model from tesco is the Acer 3502WLMI???

if not wud someone mind putting the product no. on here for approx £468


thanks loops

Checked this morning in my local store, Acer 3502LM ;)

Incidentally they also had a 18" Trolley case with matching laptop case in silver, hard plastic for £4.98.

[oh_no]

Staples are doing one for 399.Dvd re-writer,big hard drive and serious RAM-age also.This is a VAT inclusive price which is not always the case,especially with some of those Evil-Bay "power sellers".

My daughter wants one for Christmas and I will probably be shopping around November so If any of you get one of these 400 quid jobbies,please let us know if they are any good.

[CrazyChemist]

What's the difference between Pentium M and Celeron M and Centrino Mobile processors?

I'm looking for a cheap and decent laptop too (15"-15.4 screen is a must) but not having much luck. Any recommendations for places to go?

[gizmoleeds]

Dell have random offers on all the time, and although they're not always the cheapest they always come 1st in customer satisfaction surveys.

[Browntoa]

thought it was time to update this

current offers

Somerfield £350 (if you can find them, patchy supply)

Comet, Staples, Woolworths £399

All good BASIC spec for browsing, wordprocessing , internet etc

[delluver]

http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/nb_essentials?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&s=dhs

Ring Dell and quote the price as seen. Good luck! :eek: The offer runs out soon!!!

[CrazyChemist]

Their prices increase at the same time they offer a 'free' printer and 'free' double memory. :mad:

[CrazyChemist]

I phoned their sales team to ask about the prices going up when they offer freebies and they were only interested in taking my credit card details. It seems like pot luck as to whether the sales rep is pushy or not.

In light of this, I don't see how they could come top in a customer satisfaction survey...

[PACH]

Help! Help! Help!

I am looking in buying a laptop for my daughter who is going back to uni to do a PGCE course. She will be using it mainly to write essays and link to the internet .I noticed in the Which magazine that Toshiba was one of their best buys.( Toshiba Sat M30x-129).
As the above is rather expensive, any input about this one:

Toshiba Satellite Pro L10 Cel-M 370 1.5GHz 256MB 40GB 15" CD-RW/DVD WLAN XPH

I can get this under £500.
I have been also looking at the DELL site, as I have a Dell laptop form work, but I find the site very confusing. The advertised prices never match the final prices.

[Browntoa]

found this in Maplins

B Grade NX9010 Notebook PC Manufacturer: HP
Dimensions (WxDxH): 32.9 cm x 27.2 cm x 4.9 cm Weight: 3.5Kg CPU: Intel Celeron 2.6GHz with 2.6KB L2 cache Memory: 256MB installed DDR SDRAM PC2100 266MHz, upgradeable to 1GB Integrated floppy drive Hard Drive: 30GB 4200rpm Optical storage: Integrated CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo Display: 15 inch TFT active matrix, 24-bit (16.7 million colours), Max Resolution 1024 x 768 / 24-bit (16.7 million colours) Graphics Controller: ATI RADEON IGP345M 56K Modem 10/100 LAN Average battery life: 2 hours Windows XP Home

We currently have available some B Grade models. This stock has been returned to us as unwanted items and have been reduced for resale. All of these products are still covered by the Maplin 12 month guarantee.

£399.99

spend more than £300 and get £30 off so

£369

[delluver]

Not a great buy the HP in my mind - only 2.6kb L2 cache - are you sure about that? lol. Not WiFi enabled either? It's very heavy too. Only DDR SDRAM? DDR. Only a 30GB HD. POO! lol, if you're gonna pay that much, go for the Packard Bell 15.4" widescreen with a DVD RW from Dixons/Currys/PC World for at £100 more (£499) when they come back in stock. A good spec with a 50GB HD. Still, I would still go for the Dell anyway.

Come on, it's £385 with a printer... better than nothing! lol. I bought one 2 days ago, the offer's still there... it's not on their site, and they won't offer it to you. Contact me if you wanna buy it.

[PACH]

Thanks for your replies. I went at the end for the Dell Inspiron2200 with 512 Mb RAM, 40GB drive,+ Printer, etc.etc. I am sure my daughter will like ; if not I will have it!!!!!!

[delluver]

Cool, I hope it makes you very happy :)

[alykhalil]

i think this is the righteous place for me. i am looking for a laptop and the DELL deal on inspiron 2200 (totalling to £507, 512, 1.4ghz, DVD-writer, wifi) catches my eye...will i be doing the right thing by buying this dell 2200 ?

there is so much confusion flying around, its unbelievable. so say dell is great, others say NO, some say toshiba is best, some again dont agree...dont know where me and others like me (who need to buy a laptop) stand...pls advise ? thank you

[alykhalil]

Acer Aspire 1682wlmi has been reduced and is selling at around £599. Excellent spec for the price 1.6 Pentium M, 512 RAM, ATI 9700 graphics card, Inbuilt wireless networking and dual layer DVD writer. (15.4" widescreen)

Cheapest place including delivery I can find is here http://www.comet.co.uk/comet/html/cache/320_237922.html

Just ordered 1 for my son, reviews seem to be few and far between but what there are speak favourably.

PLEASE...DONT EVEN THINK ABOUT ACER...i had serious problems with it in just 4 months. it crashed ! court papers against acer still with me

[PACH]

I have ordered the Inspiron 2200 as per Dell's 0ffer that came to £449 including mem upgrade and printer. I have been using a Dell Latitude from my company for the last five years withouth any major problems. The only small problem I had was with the "running mouse" which I fixed very easily. Otherwise I am very pleased with my Dell. Since ordering the laptop I have had a very good way of tracking my order and I hope to receive it next week. When you order your Dell you end up speaking to a very polite person in India but watch out for extras that he will want to you to buy.
I have looked at other manufactureres but deceided to buy from Dell.
Good luck!

[delluver]

I have ordered the Inspiron 2200 as per Dell's 0ffer that came to £449 including mem upgrade and printer. I have been using a Dell Latitude from my company for the last five years withouth any major problems. The only small problem I had was with the "running mouse" which I fixed very easily. Otherwise I am very pleased with my Dell. Since ordering the laptop I have had a very good way of tracking my order and I hope to receive it next week. When you order your Dell you end up speaking to a very polite person in India but watch out for extras that he will want to you to buy.
I have looked at other manufactureres but deceided to buy from Dell.
Good luck!

I went for the lower ram, but same as the above 2200 for £386 inc. VAT & shipping - offer's still going. I bought my mouse from PC World - an Eclusive Web offer with a promotional code. I went with Dell coz I already have a Dell Dimension, my father and brother have too. Never had any problems at all with service or hardware. I really over use my PCs too - lol, poor things get a real beating from me, always use them day and night. lol.

[delluver]

i think this is the righteous place for me. i am looking for a laptop and the DELL deal on inspiron 2200 (totalling to £507, 512, 1.4ghz, DVD-writer, wifi) catches my eye...will i be doing the right thing by buying this dell 2200 ?

there is so much confusion flying around, its unbelievable. so say dell is great, others say NO, some say toshiba is best, some again dont agree...dont know where me and others like me (who need to buy a laptop) stand...pls advise ? thank you

A good buy with the DVD writer! I'd get it if I wanted a DVD writer and wasn't a skin flint. lol.

[scoobydo]

Hi , I at present have a home pc but am wanting a laptop I have £500 tops to spend ....it will be used mainly by me for working and surfing the net so it need to work wireless . I have ntl b/band ...but don't know what to look for in a laptop have been looking at Dell and Meridon web site . Would u go for a referb to get a higher spec cheaper ..
thanks

[delluver]

Hi , I at present have a home pc but am wanting a laptop I have £500 tops to spend ....it will be used mainly by me for working and surfing the net so it need to work wireless . I have ntl b/band ...but don't know what to look for in a laptop have been looking at Dell and Meridon web site . Would u go for a referb to get a higher spec cheaper ..
thanks

I just bought a Dell Inspiron 2200 laptop for £385 inc. VAT and Shipping and a FREE PRINTER! - the offer's still on... Celeron M 1.4GHz, 40GB HD, 15" display http://spaces.msn.com/rte/emoticons/smile_wink.gif. I decided between that and the Inspiron 1200, 14.1" without WiFi for £321, with WiFi £351, no free printer when their no VAT, no shipping offer was on.

The 2200's fine for what you want. Best to buy online, that way you don't have to speak with the sales rep and be hassled to part with your card details straight away.

(90 day collect and return service box checked):

http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?cs=ukdhs1&kc=350&oc=N09221&x=8&y=10#bottom_anchor

[scoobydo]

I can't seem to get the price to come up at that it seem to come up at much more expensive ....any clues or links

[delluver]

I can't seem to get the price to come up at that it seem to come up at much more expensive ....any clues or links

Just edited my previous post and added a link. Ok now?

[iwannamotorbike]

Hi

This price is available (it says today only!) if you go through the small business option from the Dell home page.

Hope this is useful


Allan

[delluver]

Hi

This price is available (it says today only!) if you go through the small business option from the Dell home page.

Hope this is useful


Allan

Darn, the link no longer works - they must have caught on that the e-value code got out for home users.

You can still use the e-value code on home the site - offer's still there.

[delluver]

E-value code 350-N09601 For any home user who wants a Dell Inspiron 6000 15.4" widescreen at £514.66 inc. p+p and shipping, FREE PRINTER! (512mb ram too)!

(1 Year European Collect and Return Service).

[Mr Skint]

Just found a really cheapy Dell http://www.laptopshop.co.uk/Dell-Latitude_C600_UL1785-u-cheap_laptop-2.htm

In grey.

[delluver]

Just found a really cheapy Dell http://www.laptopshop.co.uk/Dell-Latitude_C600_UL1785-u-cheap_laptop-2.htm

In grey.

Low spec - add the VAT & shipping... not that cheap.

[Mr Skint]

Well you could have mine for a bit more cash.

[delluver]

All the good Dell laptop offers have gone. Hope you ordered last night :)

[alykhalil]

got one and paid for yesterday :

- DELL inspiron 2200
- 1.40Ghz
- 8x DVD driver
- No printer (saved me £30, will get 1 from ebay for dirt)
- 512 RAM
- wifi card
- 90 days option
- cost total : £477 (incl. vat and shipping)

thank you

[delluver]

got one and paid for yesterday :

- DELL inspiron 2200
- 1.40Ghz
- 8x DVD driver
- No printer (saved me £30, will get 1 from ebay for dirt)
- 512 RAM
- wifi card
- 90 days option
- cost total : £477 (incl. vat and shipping)

thank you

Shouldn't be long until it arrives. My friend's is due Saturday. Was despatched yesterday... average time no more than 3 days... even at xmas.

[alykhalil]

Shouldn't be long until it arrives. My friend's is due Saturday. Was despatched yesterday... average time no more than 3 days... even at xmas.

is there a way to find out when will mine arrive. just 5 mins back received email from dell about order confirmation. thks

[delluver]

is there a way to find out when will mine arrive. just 5 mins back received email from dell about order confirmation. thks

Well they have the order watch facility when you log into your account, but the delivery date shown is approximate - they usually arrive sooner. Your laptop order will now be sent to Dell's manufacturing plant, then put into pre-production, then production and finally dispatch. It takes 5-7 working days from dispatch. I ordered my mate's one over the weekend and it'll be there Saturday - the courier rang them early this morning.

[CrazyDave]

Hi! New member here. ;)

Does anyone have any new Dell e-value codes for Laptops?


I'm toying between a Sony and an Acer in the £850 range,
but it'd be great to have a deal on a Dell instead...

[delluver]

Hi! New member here. ;)

Does anyone have any new Dell e-value codes for Laptops?


I'm toying between a Sony and an Acer in the £850 range,
but it'd be great to have a deal on a Dell instead...

Not at the moment, but I'll get back to you... what's your requirement and budget? Sony's are good, but pricey.

[Mr Skint]

Hi! New member here. ;)

Does anyone have any new Dell e-value codes for Laptops?


I'm toying between a Sony and an Acer in the £850 range,
but it'd be great to have a deal on a Dell instead...

I would go for a Sony for better quality, but a bit dearer.

Have a look at the Poll that should reassure you.

[Glad]

Hi! New member here. ;)



:rotfl: :rotfl:

[CrazyDave]

My total budget is about £1000 including the extended warranty
(knowing me it's just a good idea..) so along with a case etc that's
£830-£870 for the Laptop itself.


The Sony I'm looking at is this (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Sony_Vaio_FS285B_VGN-FS285B/version-1.asp) , which I can get at Comet's website for £780 it seems.
Otherwise an Acer (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_1693WLMi_LX.A5405.063/version-3.asp) seems like a sensible option - longer battery, for one thing.
The Viaos have a better feel etc, but I'm not sure they're reliable.


Otherwise I've been perusing the Dell Outlet (http://outlet.dell.com/Emea_Dfo/EuDispatcher?target=InventoryPage&action=sort&sortColumn=price_constraint&lob=INSP&sessionID=DpqsqgT4!766731943!770517553!11267876924 24&sortDirection=up#inventoryTable) store...

[CrazyDave]

:rotfl: :rotfl:
Is that somehow referring to my impending doom? :p:

Don't worry, I wont get addicted like you...
I actually use over a dozen forums ATM,
mostly for music but other things too.

[flip01]

Thanks for that, just got the last one :)


found this in Maplins

B Grade NX9010 Notebook PC Manufacturer: HP
Dimensions (WxDxH): 32.9 cm x 27.2 cm x 4.9 cm Weight: 3.5Kg CPU: Intel Celeron 2.6GHz with 2.6KB L2 cache Memory: 256MB installed DDR SDRAM PC2100 266MHz, upgradeable to 1GB Integrated floppy drive Hard Drive: 30GB 4200rpm Optical storage: Integrated CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo Display: 15 inch TFT active matrix, 24-bit (16.7 million colours), Max Resolution 1024 x 768 / 24-bit (16.7 million colours) Graphics Controller: ATI RADEON IGP345M 56K Modem 10/100 LAN Average battery life: 2 hours Windows XP Home

We currently have available some B Grade models. This stock has been returned to us as unwanted items and have been reduced for resale. All of these products are still covered by the Maplin 12 month guarantee.

£399.99

spend more than £300 and get £30 off so

£369

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=42903&TabID=1&source=1&doy=13m9&ForceUpdate=Y

[Lara]

E-value code 350-N09601 For any home user who wants a Dell Inspiron 6000 15.4" widescreen at £514.66 inc. p+p and shipping, FREE PRINTER! (512mb ram too)!

(1 Year European Collect and Return Service).

Can only get it at £731 :(. Do Dell put their prices up everytime they sell one!!!!!!!!!:(

[delluver]

Can only get it at £731 :(. Do Dell put their prices up everytime they sell one!!!!!!!!!:(

Yep, the offer ended that night after I'd posted.

[delluver]

Thanks for that, just got the last one :)

Link didn't work - lol, you really got the last one? Well done!

[CrazyDave]

My total budget is about £1000 including the extended warranty
(knowing me it's just a good idea..) so along with a case etc that's
£830-£870 for the Laptop itself.


The Sony I'm looking at is this (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Sony_Vaio_FS285B_VGN-FS285B/version-1.asp) , which I can get at Comet's website for £780 it seems.
Otherwise an Acer (http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Acer_Aspire_1693WLMi_LX.A5405.063/version-3.asp) seems like a sensible option - longer battery, for one thing.
The Viaos have a better feel etc, but I'm not sure they're reliable.


Otherwise I've been perusing the Dell Outlet (http://outlet.dell.com/Emea_Dfo/EuDispatcher?target=InventoryPage&action=sort&sortColumn=price_constraint&lob=INSP&sessionID=DpqsqgT4!766731943!770517553!11267876924 24&sortDirection=up#inventoryTable) store...

Any thoughts, guys? :think:

[PACH]

Here is a Coupon Code: **Code Removed** for Dell . This will give you another 5% off. I hope somebody can use it.

**Code Removed by Board Guide. All codes must be posted on the vouchers board - Reason explained here (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.html?p=257403&postcount=1)**

[delluver]

:rolleyes: I was given code by email for 5% off Dell after I'd ordered my laptop. It was a US code - they even give UK customers these codes and they don't work. I just tried this online to see if it worked - it didn't for me. If it was a US code, they're not valid according to their terms and conditions.

[CrazyDave]

I find this whole codes business in general quite interesting... ;)
just for the fact that it's so chaotic, as a promotional tool.

I assume Dell are still getting something out ot it? Seems like a lucky dip almost.


Anyhoo... I think I'll probably just order that Sony I linked to above.
*Should* be no problems doing it on a Saturday, but... we'll see.

[Burlesque Babe]

hi - I'm looking for a very cheap laptop (emphasis on cheap due to being a poor NHS worker!!!!), and wondered if anyone had seen any less than the £399 Acer in Staples? All I want it for is broadband internet access and Word etc.

[delluver]

hi - I'm looking for a very cheap laptop (emphasis on cheap due to being a poor NHS worker!!!!), and wondered if anyone had seen any less than the £399 Acer in Staples? All I want it for is broadband internet access and Word etc.

Yeah, but the Dell offers are over for a while :(. Have a search on www.kelkoo.co.uk (http://www.kelkoo.co.uk) - one of the best shop bots. I use it all the time to get bargains. lol, there's always the 5% off ... **Code Removed by Board Guide. All codes must be posted on the vouchers board - Reason explained here (http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.html?p=257403&postcount=1)**

[scheming_gypsy]

I've just ordered one of these
http://www.dabs.com/uk/productview?quicklinx=3T82&referrerid=TS


edit : it's got a referrer ID on the end of the link but it isn't one. I just search for it via the quicklinx code.

[delluver]

I've just ordered one of these
http://www.dabs.com/uk/productview?quicklinx=3T82&referrerid=TS


edit : it's got a referrer ID on the end of the link but it isn't one. I just search for it via the quicklinx code.

Just out of interest, I recently bought an Inspiron 2200 for £385 inc VAT, Shipping and a free printer and am chuffed to the nines with it :j :

Intel Celeron M 1.40 GHz, High-resolution 15" XGA (1024 x 768), Internal wireless LAN, via mini PCI, for wireless connection on the go, 3 fast USB 2.0 technologies offer more bandwidth for transferring digital files and sending images to and from your computer, DVD/CD-RW drive,
56K V.92 Modem and broadband ready 10/100 Ethernet network card, 256mb ram, Ni-Mh 8 cell battery.

It was either that or the Inspiron 1200 for £321 inc VAT, Shipping without a wireless PCIMA card for WLAN and no free printer which was on offer the week before:

Intel Celeron M 1.40 GHz, High-resolution 14.1" XGA, 3 USBs 2.0, DVD/CD-RW drive, 56K V.92 Modem and broadband ready 10/100 Ethernet network card, 256mb ram, Ni-Mh 8 cell battery.

I did also consider the Inspiron 6000 which was on offer at the same time as my 2200 for £514 Inc, VAT & Shipping:

Intel Centrino Celeron 1.40 GHz, High-resolution 15.4" XGA, Internal wireless LAN, via mini PCI, for wireless connection on the go, 4 USBs 2.0, DVD/CD-RW drive, 56K V.92 Modem and broadband ready 10/100 Ethernet network card, 512mb ram, Li-Ion 6 cell battery, free printer.


My reasons for choosing the 2200 over the 6000 were:

1). Price.
2). Looking at the detailed specs of the Inspiron 6000, there are media buttons - more to wear out and go wrong. What's wrong with using software to increase the volume, or play, pause, skip tracks etc?
3). It's not much to install an extra 256mb of ram yourself.
4). I don't like widescreen.
5). it's silver and white - very tacky in my mind. lol. I think the 2200 I went for is more robust with less add ons to go wrong (a bit of a tank). lol.

You all probably come to the conclusion that I don't part with my money until I'm sure that I'm getting what I want for a good price :). Perspective sellers must love me - "can I help you m'am?" "No, !!!! off while I go look at the other 5 offers I have seen and compare before I part with my life savings." lmao. :rotfl:

[Browntoa]

delluver, I thought you were not going to go on about your laptop anymore

your last post has NOTHING to do with this thread....where is the cheap laptop offer ???

it's just going on about the spec of your Laptop

[delluver]

I was helping out fellow members when it comes to choosing specs and the reasons I go for before I buy a bargain laptop.










Predantic one.

[scoobydo]

Hi I keep looking for the Dell 2200 for the price You mentioned £385 but its comming up much more expensive .....I do want this machine but even the price they Quote it at as i go through it comes up more expensive ...Do they have offers on regularly . I'm a chld minder can i buy through the buisness section as it seems cheaper ..
thanks

[Browntoa]

yes, that offer is over but keep an eye on the thread , someone will post as soon as it is back on :)

[manutd]

http://www.misco.co.uk/HPSinfo/~101814~WW~/Acer%20Travelmate%202313WLMi%20Intel%20Celeron%20M %20370%201.5GHz%20Notebook%20PC.htm

[saki]

hi - I'm looking for a very cheap laptop (emphasis on cheap due to being a poor NHS worker!!!!), and wondered if anyone had seen any less than the £399 Acer in Staples? All I want it for is broadband internet access and Word etc.

There is a patriot in currys / dixons at £369 - there are codes available to get £25 off anything over £250 bringing it down to £344.

You will find the codes in the online discount forum

[suncika]

Hi,

what do you think about this offer and Fujitsu-Siemens laptops in general?

http://www.laptopmegastore.co.uk/product.asp?pID=445&cID=159

I think that's a good deal,for £440 you can have 512MB RAM,15" screen,Wireless LAN,DVD/CDRW....

Has anybody come across any better deal for these laptop specs?

Thanks.

[catsilversword]

Am struggling to find the best deal - as I want to get a wireless one. If they say they're wifi enabled, does that mean I then only need to buy a route plus something else for my pc? Or do I need to get anything else for a laptop as well?????

To throw in my 2p worth - Dell seems to have some good deals - anyone got experience of their lappies? I have one of the desktops and it's been fine.

[delluver]

Am struggling to find the best deal - as I want to get a wireless one. If they say they're wifi enabled, does that mean I then only need to buy a route plus something else for my pc? Or do I need to get anything else for a laptop as well?????

To throw in my 2p worth - Dell seems to have some good deals - anyone got experience of their lappies? I have one of the desktops and it's been fine.

Yes, if it's got a PCIMA card (wifi enabled), you just need to get yourself an adsl router (if you're on adsl, not cable) and wireless PC adapter/LAN cable if you have an ethernet card in your pc... I have a LAN cable running from my PC ethernet card to my adsl router, and a PCIMA card in my Lappy. I have a Dell Desktop and Dell Laptop. Just love them to bits.

Amazon do a good deal on a wireless Netgear adsl router and this comes with a PC USB wireless adapter. Just PM me to find out more on the promotional code. I have one myself, and I not only saved a lot of cash, but it came within 2 days of ordering and it's a great bit of kit.

[nao]

Hi there

I found this on the Dell site (http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?b=&c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&oc=N10606&rbc=N10606&s=dhs&sbc=ukdhsftdppnotebook3) - does it seem like a good deal?

InspironTM 6000
Intel® CentrinoTM Mobile Technology with Intel® Pentium® M Processor 740 (1.73GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, 400MHz FSB) & Intel® Pro/Wireless 2100 (802.11b)
Genuine Windows® XP Home Edition
15.4" Wide Aspect UltraSharpTM WXGA (1280X800) Screen
60GB Hard Drive
Integrated 8xDVD+RW Drive
FREE DELIVERY
NOW 1024MB (Was 512MB)

If you take of the extra cover and training it comes out as £692.

Also does anyone know what the battery life and weight would be for something like this? - Dell give a typical battery life for the whole range of 5 hours and a weight of 3kg (by typical i think they mean best!).

Cheers

[LizzieT84]

Why can't we vote on IBM's?

Thinkpads are WITHOUT A DOUBT the best laptops in the world. Is the excuse that they are too expensive? The R52 is extremely competitively priced and has vastly superior perforance and durability than any other 'cheap' laptop. I have absolutely no affiliation to IBM but have relied on their laptops for years.

[cwaite]

Comet seem to have a fair spec Acer Laptop for £499.99 its a ACER AS3003WLM link below shows the specification

http://www.comet.co.uk/comet/html/cache/572_289302.html

Does any one know if the Acer 3yr extended warranty avaliable from ebuyer Quickfind code: 66436 can be purchased from ebuyer without actually buying a laptop from ebuyer, as comet want £199 for a 3 year warranty on this but you can purchase an Acer warranty for £55.01 from Ebuyer, there is nothing on the website to say that you need to purchase it with a laptop.

I phoned one laptop dealer who said that they would NOT sell warranty pack without me actually buying a laptop from them.

If it is possible to buy the Acer 3 year warranty pack on its own from Ebuyer this would be a really good deal a high spec laptop with DVD-RW and 3year warranty for around £550 instead of paying £700 from Comet.

Click Here to View Extended Warranty from Ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?rb=11507994659&action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=66436))

If anyone has purchased the acer notebook 3yr warranty seperately from the notebook itself and registered it successfully please let me know.

[Tharweb]

If anyone has purchased the acer notebook 3yr warranty seperately from the notebook itself and registered it successfully please let me know.

I bought the "WITH accidental damage" version for my Acer laptop from http://www.rlsupplies.co.uk/Products/default.asp?type=dept&DepartmentID=446&MID=12 I found out about this company on a laptop website and this warranty was much cheaper than I could find anywhere else. They do sell the "WITHOUT" version but it's a bit more expensive than Ebuyer but I haven't checked p&p. I had no problems whatsoever buying it or registering it even though I didn't buy my laptop from them.

HTH

[apang]

Also does anyone know what the battery life and weight would be for something like this? - Dell give a typical battery life for the whole range of 5 hours and a weight of 3kg (by typical i think they mean best!).

Cheers

I hear from reviews that battery life is good, but it is a bit more weighty than most similar laptops.

I found exactly the same deal - although i would recommmend the LCD upgrade for £30.

It's a shame the 5% off doesn't work!

[Meridian2uk]

Toys r Us are offering an Intel Celeron M 1.4Ghz, with 512MB DDR ram and 80GB hard drive for £449.oo to include a Lexmark printer (which I don't want).
http://www.toysrus.co.uk/Product.aspx/TruHome/TruComputers/TruComputersLaptop/802387

I thought it seemed quite good as it seemed to be double the Ram and Hard drive of other I looked at but I'm not sure what I need and from what some of you have been saying I probably don't need as much as that as it would only get light use and internet.

[delluver]

Toys r Us are offering an Intel Celeron M 1.4Ghz, with 512MB DDR ram and 80GB hard drive for £449.oo to include a Lexmark printer (which I don't want).
http://www.toysrus.co.uk/Product.aspx/TruHome/TruComputers/TruComputersLaptop/802387

I thought it seemed quite good as it seemed to be double the Ram and Hard drive of other I looked at but I'm not sure what I need and from what some of you have been saying I probably don't need as much as that as it would only get light use and internet.

I'm finding it hard to see why the price goes up to £759 when you go to checkout.

[apang]

Dell have a laptop today for £357. Decent spec too.

[Browntoa]

which one ??

can only find

Inspiron 1200
http://img.dell.com/images/global/general/spacer.gif From £419
Now From
£399
Price inc. VAT & Del
Includes 90-Day Collect and Return Service & Technical Support

[Burlesque Babe]

I've just tried to find it also....there are some voucher codes, but none come down to that price - I've also clicked on the 1200, and when you go to checkout, it adds delivery, so I'm going to wait :-(

[Meridian2uk]

I'm finding it hard to see why the price goes up to £759 when you go to checkout.

The £449 one is out of stock at mo so you cannot select it. The picture and "add to to basket" link next to it is of the next model up (1.6 Ghz model) which is £749.00, a different model

[Browntoa]

E-Value code 305-N10126

90 Day Collect and Return Service


still £399 inc delivery but nothiced it is 512mb ram this time

[chunter]

As a quick summing up on 'cheap' laptops I've seen at this present moment

1)
Acer TravelMate 2312LM
Cel-M 360 1.4GHz 256MB 40GB DVD±RW 15" LAN XPH
(I'm almost afraid to mention Ebuyer, but's it's been running around this price for the past 3 weeks)
Quickfind code: 94298
£420 inc VAT (delivery costs depending on where you live)

2)
Dell Inspiron 1200
Intel® Celeron® 360(1.4GHz, 1MB L2 Cashe, 400MHz)15" XGA LCD, 512MB, 40GB HD, Combo Drive
EValue Code: 305-N10126
£399 delivered

3)
Dell Inspiron 6000
Intel® Celeron® M 360(1.40GHz 1MB L2 cache 400MHz),15.4" WXGA, 256MB
Evalue Code: 305-N10605
£467 delivered


..so things are quiet..
.. who's going to break ranks & cut prices to get the initial Christmas rush..

[Jim_Rob]

Don't know if these guys have been quoted yet, but do have a look at http://www.buyit247.net and click on the "Grade 2 computers" link at the bottom of the page - they usually have some good headline deals.

Best deals if you've got a bit of time and are happy researching models and specs is to get their spreadsheet of available models:
http://www.pc-interworks.co.uk/stock_list.csv

and have a very careful look through it - they have deals which are not listed on the main pages and (even better) can make mistakes when listing models which you can spot and get underpriced machines.


James

[John Gray]

The almost, but not quite lowest-spec "IBM" Thinkpad R50e was advertised at the weekend by Staples for £399 (inc VAT), apparently about £50 less than anywhere else. If you are happy with the spec "it seems a good buy" (says the impecunious friend of mine who bought one!). Couldn't find it on the website, though, only in store...

John

[rustywallet]

I am looking for an affordable laptop but would like one that is very light weight too. Does anyone have any ideas?

[John Gray]

I'm afraid these are (almost) mutually-exclusive objectives. It costs money to design laptops which are lighter than the average (which is usually a fraction below 3 kg).

See, for example, the review of seven "ultra-portables" in this month's (December 2005) Personal Computer World (pp 85-94, if you're reading it in WHSmith!), where the weights were 1.85-2.0 kg. The cheapest was £911 inc VAT, the dearest was £1699. Compare my post above, which was £399 for a variant of 3 kg IBM Thinkpad R50e...

John

[rustywallet]

thanks john, I'll take a look.

[Burlesque Babe]

Each day I'm hoping for that bargain..........I'm desparate now for a new laptop, but the stubborn streak in me (apparently I haveone!) refuses to buy one at the moment, just in case a sub-£300 appears for Christmas!

What is the cheapest one around at the moment? Does anyone know?

[delluver]

Each day I'm hoping for that bargain..........I'm desparate now for a new laptop, but the stubborn streak in me (apparently I haveone!) refuses to buy one at the moment, just in case a sub-£300 appears for Christmas!

What is the cheapest one around at the moment? Does anyone know?

6 weeks or so ago Dell were selling their Inspiron 1200 for £325 all in. So there might be a chance. Hang in there.

[Burlesque Babe]

That's the kind of thing i'm hanging in for.......but.....I have to ask a really stupid question......all the Dell laptops have a USB floppy for an extra £40 or so. If I don't add one to the price, I guess I won't be able to use floppies? Is this now standard with new laptops? The cheap Acers etc - do they have floppy disc drives with them as standard (or am I being thick in some way?!!)

[dc]

Staples have the IBM Thinkpad R50e for £399

Similar to Dell 1200 with Cel m360.

plusses, Wi-fi , and dual layer DVD RW.

but only 256 ram

[highlighter]

That's the kind of thing i'm hanging in for.......but.....I have to ask a really stupid question......all the Dell laptops have a USB floppy for an extra £40 or so. If I don't add one to the price, I guess I won't be able to use floppies? Is this now standard with new laptops? The cheap Acers etc - do they have floppy disc drives with them as standard (or am I being thick in some way?!!)

You can buy a external floppy drive (dont buy this from dell) after you have bought your laptop. Try ebuer.com or ebay-will be alot cheaper thant Dell.

p.s. if you have access to a floppy drive now why dont you buy a pen drive (usb drive) and transfer your data from your floppies onto that- they are very small and cheap. They can be bought in different sizes 64mb, 128mb 256mb....and so on.

[delluver]

Staples have the IBM Thinkpad R50e for £399

Similar to Dell 1200 with Cel m360.

plusses, Wi-fi , and dual layer DVD RW.

but only 256 ram

Or hopefully the Inspiron 2200 will come down again to £385 with a free printer. Better spec than above (15"), but without DVD RW. Just CD RW/DVD player. You won't get one for around £300 unfortunately.

[grahawk]

Tesco's have an Acer Centrino laptop with Pentium-M 1.6ghz and DVD writer in store at present for £568 which sounds like a decent price to me.

[Browntoa]

That's the kind of thing i'm hanging in for.......but.....I have to ask a really stupid question......all the Dell laptops have a USB floppy for an extra £40 or so. If I don't add one to the price, I guess I won't be able to use floppies? Is this now standard with new laptops? The cheap Acers etc - do they have floppy disc drives with them as standard (or am I being thick in some way?!!)

you can pick usb floppy drives on ebay for about £20...same as Dell sell !!

[grahawk]

That's the kind of thing i'm hanging in for.......but.....I have to ask a really stupid question......all the Dell laptops have a USB floppy for an extra £40 or so. If I don't add one to the price, I guess I won't be able to use floppies? Is this now standard with new laptops? The cheap Acers etc - do they have floppy disc drives with them as standard (or am I being thick in some way?!!)

Try to get out of the floppy habit. You'll have a CD writer so why use disks that can take less than 2mb when you can use discs that take 700mb.

[delluver]

Try to get out of the floppy habit. You'll have a CD writer so why use disks that can take less than 2mb when you can use discs that take 700mb.

So true... but then it's hard to break a habit :)

[Burlesque Babe]

I've just found this, not sure if it is a new offer, or been around for a while, from PC World with free delivery......

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/product/seo/155367

a bargain????

[fmcdowell]

Tesco's have an Acer Centrino laptop with Pentium-M 1.6ghz and DVD writer in store at present for £568 which sounds like a decent price to me.

I saw that too - is that machine any good for the price? What about the dell? for £548?

[itsallaboutmoney]

There are many offers on these days but at the end of the day I would rather by a laptop from PCWorld rather than eBay, simple because I feel that if you are inexperienced with laptop and you had a problem where would you turn.

[itsallaboutmoney]

Spec for a mid range laptop:

2 GHz or more (1.2 mobile) pentium
256 mb ddr ram (the more you have the better it is, i recommend having 512 but 256 is ok for most users)
40 gig hdd (the smaller the harddrive the faster the laptop will load, esiar to locate files)


If you can get all of the above for under £450 you're Ok any more and they're pulling you arm.

[seaniboy]

AMD Sempron 3000http://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gif40GB HHDhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifWifihttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gif256MB for £350.00 is this a good deal?http://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gifhttp://media.venda.com/btshop/ebiz/btshop/images/spacer.gif

[annitahamnett]

THIS IS A LAPTOP FROM ALDI

This feature-packed laptop will allow you to create and communicate faster than ever. It is loaded with the very latest advances in multimedia technology. Multimedia at the push of a button.

Intel Pentium M 740 Processor (1.73GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, FSB 533) with Intel 915PM Chipset
DVB-T digital and analogue TV1
15.4" W-XGA widescreen display (resolution 1280 x 800 pixels)
Integrated Bluetooth 2.0 (for wireless connection with your mobile, PDA, etc)
Panasonic 8 x multi-format DVD/CD burner
High end graphics, ATI Mobility, Radeon X700 XL PCI-Express Technology with 128MB DDR RAM
Large 100GB hard disc drive
Huge memory 1024MB DDR II RAM
Software Pack

Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP2
Microsoft Works Suite 2005
MS Flight Simulator 2004
Home Cinema XL - watch TV, DVDs or videos, audio CD, MP3 (PowerDVD 6, PowerCinema, PowerDirector 4.0 SE, PowerProducer 3, Medi@Show)
Nero Burning ROM 6
Nero Recode 2-SE
Videon
e-Trust AntiVirus
Skype Internet telephony software - includes 120 FREE minutes of SKYPEOUT calls
OEM versions
And more...

8-channel high definition audio out
Intel PRO/Wireless 2200
Integrated speakers
8-in-2 multi card reader
Fast Ethernet LAN 10/100Mbit/s
56K/v.90 modem
LED keyboard light
Integrated fingerprint sensor lock - maximum security for your data
FM radio
Accessories: remote control, headset, carry bag, external TV tuner, optical scroll wheel mouse, AC adaptor, lithium ion battery pack. £899

* Check Pack for warranty details.

[annitahamnett]

This Is Priced At £899

[callansdad]

question from a laptop thicko,

i have no idea about laptops i am thinking of buying one for my wife (she has a job which is based on the internet a kind of live help thing).

My question is i know that laptops have wireless connections but how does this work? Does this mean that we can go for a trip in the car and my wife can work away in a 'live situation' whilst we are travelling?

Thanks for your help

[Matt_F-Smith]

Don't know if these guys have been quoted yet, but do have a look at http://www.buyit247.net and click on the "Grade 2 computers" link at the bottom of the page - they usually have some good headline deals.

Best deals if you've got a bit of time and are happy researching models and specs is to get their spreadsheet of available models:
http://www.pc-interworks.co.uk/stock_list.csv

and have a very careful look through it - they have deals which are not listed on the main pages and (even better) can make mistakes when listing models which you can spot and get underpriced machines.


James

Having bought a refurb myself last year (from a different place - www.europc.co.uk) I gave PCInterworks a shot, and they're great!

There are some top deals to be had, especially if you heed the advice and wait for the stock list to be updated (every mon/wed/fri?) Just bought an Intel Centrino 1.5ghz, 15" screen, 256mb ram, 40gb hard disk, Microsoft XP-Home installed, DVDRW-Drive and WIFI built-in for £369 inc shipping

I'm a tek-head and reckon this is a good deal, unless you want to wait for the next Dell deal...... what with Christmas coming and all!

Why go elsewhere :)

Matt

[Sabz]

Free laptop

theres an incentive for taking/going on an I.T. course where you can get a free laptop, yes thats free laptop I said, all they ask is you contribute £150 towards it which is fair enough considering its worth about £700 odd quid and you get a fantastic qualification afterwards. All you need do is this foundation degree, which lasts for a couple of years, or you can just do it for a year.

At the end of this course you get a free laptop and an invaluable skill for life.

These courses are run in Birmingham.

It just might be worth mentioning that I do hear of other colleges/further education establishements also offering different incentives in order for you to sign up/partake e.g. a local learn direct centre offering free choice shopping vouchers to the tune of £30 for each course undertaken, and a free brand new dell computer on completion of the ECDL course and some other minor courses.

Just really to sum up, it might be worth seeing what local colleges offer in your area

[greyster]

You can get the £399 PC World (Dixons and Currys too) laptop for £374.99 with voucher (link below). You have to order from their website as its an online offer. Delivery is free and takes up to 5 days. Mine took 3 working days.

http://www.ukshops.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!/vouchers.html

Can't find a better deal for a brand new laptop with 1 year guarantee.

[Browntoa]

https://www.medionshop.co.uk/

under Notebook computers

Medion Electronics
REFURBISHED Intel® Celeron® NB with 2.0 GHz
MD2853 Intel® Celeron® with 2.0 GHz, Microsoft® Windows® XP Home, 14.1" TFT XGA Colour Display.
https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gif
https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gif£ 319.99 https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gifhttps://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/abb_warenkorb.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:addSingleItem('434D543C264C48F1E10000000A00005B43 4C1738E6382006E00000306E0F2A06'))https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/link_kaufen.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:addSingleItem('434D543C264C48F1E10000000A00005B43 4C1738E6382006E00000306E0F2A06'))

or

Medion Electronics
REFURBISHED Intel® Pentium® 4, 2.66 GHz. Microsoft® Windows® XP Home.
MD2837 Intel® Pentium® 4 with 2.66 GHz. Microsoft® Windows® XP Home. 15" TFT XGA Colour Display, 512 MB DDR-RAM, 40 GB Hard Disk.
https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gif
https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gif£ 349.99 https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/clearpixel.gifhttps://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/abb_warenkorb.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:addSingleItem('434D543C264C48F1E10000000A00005B42 CE30604CA061FEE00000306E0F2A06'))https://www.medionshop.co.uk/ukshop/mimes/medion/images/link_kaufen.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:addSingleItem('434D543C264C48F1E10000000A00005B42 CE30604CA061FEE00000306E0F2A06'))

[oh_no]

Here's one from Woolies,it seems a reasonable spec for the money.


http://www.woolworths.co.uk/ww_p2/product/index.jhtml?pid=50501958
Evesham Quest Explorer G320 Laptop -
Non Variant
PRICE: £449.99
YOUR PRICE: £404.99
YOU SAVE: £45.00
Features:
# Processor - Via C3 1.2GHz Mobile Processor
# Operating System - Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
# Memory - 256MB DDR RAM Memory
# Hard Drive - 40GB,
# Optical Drive - CDRW/DVD Combo- Copy CDs, Play Cds and DVDs
# Graphics - Integrated AGP
# Screen - 14" XGA TFT Screen (1024 x 768)
# Sound - Built-in audio and Speakers
# Keyboard - Advanced Keyboard with 2 button TrackPad
# Ports - USB 2.0 x 4, 10/100 LAN, 56k Modem
# VGA Port for external TFT / Monitor
# External Microphone Port
# External Speaker Port
# LPT Parallel Printer Port
# Software - Roxio Easy Media Creator 7 - Advanced tools to capture,edit,enhance & burn photo, music & data
# Software - BULLGUARD Internet Security - Free 90 day antivirus definition updates to protect your laptop

[mikewillis]

morgan computers normally do good deals on laptops.

If u want a really good sub notebook, i'd go for the Sony Vaio T2XP for 1240 pounds on the dixon website.

[Pulse]

The laptop which oh_no has posted would certainly be sufficient for light use, but in terms of performance will not compare to the other £400 laptops posted in this thread, such as the IBM R50e, due to the processor being so weak.

As for the laptop Browntoa posted, to be honest, it's a good enough laptop, but I used to work for Medion, and you'll be lucky to have no problems when you take it out of the box, let alone in the first year or so! And you have to be careful, because Medion are VERY reluctant to do anything about any problems their computers have.

[terriermann]

I have just ordered a basic Inspiron 6000 laptop from DELL for £450 delivered with 1 year collect and return. Reasonable spec 512Mb Ram, CDRW/DVD, 1.4 CeleronM, Wifi enabled, XP. I know this is a not a gamers machine and there are issues with on board graphics which cannot be upgraded, but for basic software applications and internet browsing it should fit the bill. A lot of the Dell laptops seem to have 15% off and double memory promos at the moment. Hope this may be useful.

[dougadam]

I found the best buys on eBay.

[Slinky]

I bought an Evesham laptop in January. The hard drive had to be replaced twice in July. Now it has stopped working again, looks like some sort of power spike problem. They have said they will send a courier on Monday, it could take 7 days to sort (if they sort it) I might loose all my data again (apart from what I've got backed up on my Freecom).

Do you think I've got grounds for asking for my money back? I use this laptop to produce a magazine. I'm supposed to be in production mode next week, which I now cannot do unless I go out and buy another laptop (my trusty old PC on which I type, can't handle the software), so it's affecting my business seriously.

[Tariq M]

PC world are currently selling the advent 7081 for £399. it seems pretty good for the price. and now you can also get a usb stick to go wireless. i can't find any reviews on this product so if anyone else can, perhaps you could post it up on this board.

[greyster]

The advent 7081 is the laptop I recommended. If you keep an eye peeled you can get it for £374.99 using the correct dixons/pc world/currys discount code.

I still think its one of the better deals at the moment. I mean its sub £400 with a DVD rewriter and good CPU.

[daveonline]

Finally made-up my mind and went for the following at currys -

http://www.currys.co.uk/martprd/product/seo/574701

PACKARD BELL B3605 £499
AMD Sempron 3000+ Processor
512 Mb RAM
50 Gb Hard Drive
DVD ReWriter MultiDrive
15" LCD display
Wireless Enabled

I made the total price over £500 and got £40 of using the code CURRYS40.
Seems good for £460. Will let all know what its like when i get it.

[dc2447]

Looks like a decent laptop, I have dissapointed with semperaon performnce on desktops but I suspect it will kick the !!! of any celeron.

I might get the Thinkpad from stables but I don't want to buy something with propiatary memory dimms :(

[wizzer]

Hi,
Can anyone confirm the promo code for either the Advent 7081 at PC World/Currys or the Packard Bell?

Thanks

[dc2447]

Looks like a decent laptop, I have dissapointed with semperaon performnce on desktops but I suspect it will kick the !!! of any celeron.

I might get the Thinkpad from stables but I don't want to buy something with propiatary memory dimms :( The thinkpad doesn't use propiatary dimms at all. I ended up buying one and upgrading the ram to 512.

It is a great laptop, I would consider it before buying lesser 'named' laptops

[Fifer]

My MIL wants to buy my technophobe FIL a laptop for Christmas so he can keep himself amused on the net in his retirement. I've explored the desktop vs laptop value for money argument with them and it's definitely a laptop that's wanted. I'm looking for something like a fairly low spec Celeron-M 1.4 or 1.5 (with WiFi - I thought they all did but I notice some Acers don't). 256MB and 40GB should be fine and a CD Writer DVD combo will suffice (though a DVD writer wouldn't go wrong). Her budget is around £400 but all the bargains appear to have disappeared. I know Woolies were doing Acers and Fujitsu-Siemens at reasonable prices a wee while back, but the best I can find just now is an Acer at around £450 delivered. Any suggestions?

[kwikky]

hi what about the targa 826t amd turion64 699 at lidl soon seems realy high spec for the money

1.8ghz processor 512kb cache
mobility radeon x700 with 128 ddr ram
pci express
1024 ddr ram so-dimm
80 gb hard drive
loads more stuff tv card i think dual layer dvd burner blue tooth wireless lots software
german machine but does have english website might be worth checking out

[dc2447]

I'd stick to a reputable brand when buying a laptop, hp/compaq, ibm, tosh etc.

[cosmile]

i bought a medion laptop when it was offer at tcm for £399,had it 5 weeks and hard drive has failed and windows will not start,i hope it does not continue like this??anyone else had probs with medion?

[dc2447]

i bought a medion laptop when it was offer at tcm for £399,had it 5 weeks and hard drive has failed and windows will not start,i hope it does not continue like this??anyone else had probs with medion?

TBH I would return the laptop - they hyave a shocking reputation

[cosmile]

TBH I would return the laptop - they hyave a shocking reputation

they are going to send a courier and repair it...can i return it and get my money back?? do u think i will have probs all the time?...i have a 3 yr warranty on it.

[tightwadcross]

I've just been made aware of a new laptop available from Tchibo from 7th December, and would like to ask anybody with a bit of techie knowledge if it's a deal or if there are better deals out there?

Cost is £899.00 and details can be found at www.tchibo.co.uk

Many Thanks :

[dc2447]

they are going to send a courier and repair it...can i return it and get my money back?? do u think i will have probs all the time?...i have a 3 yr warranty on it. I think distance selling regs mean you can get a refund for up to 30 days.

[Fifer]

My MIL wants to buy my technophobe FIL a laptop for Christmas so he can keep himself amused on the net in his retirement ... I'm looking for something like a fairly low spec Celeron-M 1.4 or 1.5 (with WiFi ...
I ended up getting the IBM from Staples at £399. Looks ideal. Thanks for the suggestions.

[Jacinta]

I wished I had seen this thread before I started looking for a laptop. There are some great links on here, which even after hours of Google I still didn't come across.

On ebay there are some great deals, but very few offering a warranty.

I wanted to buy a cheap lightweight laptop. I went for the Dell latitude c400, which I ordered from laptopsuperstore.co.uk.

Specs: Pentium 3M 1.2 Ghz, 512MB RAM, 20G hard drive, Wireless LAN, CDRW/DVD/Floppy drive, Windows 2000 professional, free USB pen drive, free carry case, free digital camera, 12 months warranty

Price = £369 including delivery and VAT.

I think perhaps I should have waited for the Christmas deals from Dell, as suggested on this site. I didn't know Dell were doing deals, since I couldn't find any cheap laptops on their website.

[nemo183]

I think I may have made this post before, but before you buy the latest "bargain" from a High Street store, or even online, remember that many budget systems don't include MS Office, which will cost you around £200 extra, depending on which version you buy. Also, the after sales service from a large store is likely to be hopeless.

I have recently bought several laptops from small, local shops, that at first glance I would previously ignored.

However, for example, one in particular seems to have access to almost unlimited supplies to a particular HP laptop that most people sell for around £500. However, he's quite relaxed about supplying it with MS Office Professional for no extra charge - but obviously without the disks. If you want to pay him in cash, he's also very flexible about the price - and will give you a discount of (surprise. surprise) around 17.5%.

Best still, if all goes pearshaped, he's prepared to take back the machine and sort you out.

So, don't always overlook that rather grotty looking local shop - you may get a much better deal than you think.

Sadly, it's also true that some small local dealers are hopelessly uncompetetive, and also offer useless after sales service.............

[dc2447]

It's nearly 2006, nobody needs to be held to ransom by microsoft anymore. There are free alternatives to MS Office that you can download for free.

Open Office (http://www.openoffice.org/)

[Jacinta]

Thanks for the tip dc2447! I saw a lot of people auctioning laptops on ebay with Open Office but I didn't know if it was supposed to be any good or not.

[dc2447]

Thanks for the tip dc2447! I saw a lot of people auctioning laptops on ebay with Open Office but I didn't know if it was supposed to be any good or not. No worries.

[Jacinta]

Are there any good (cheap/free) anti-virus and DVD/CD playing software that you know of? I think my new (refurbished) laptop will come with Win 2000 but will be otherwise blank.

Also, I just had a look at the demo on the Open Office website, it looks great!

[pin]

Are there any good (cheap/free) anti-virus and DVD/CD playing software that you know of? I think my new (refurbished) laptop will come with Win 2000 but will be otherwise blank.

Also, I just had a look at the demo on the Open Office website, it looks great!

Anti Virus - AVG

Firewall - Zone Alarm

CD / DVD playing software - I use Media Player Classic

[Jacinta]

I had a look at those - this is great! Thanks pin!

[Jacinta]

I think the best deals really are to be had on ebay. You have to check all the time though. I just won a bid, and for £282 (postage and VAT included) I got a BRAND NEW Dell PRECISION M70, with:

DVD BURNER
WiFi Enabled
Intel Pentium M Processor 760 2.0 GHz
1GB RAM
60 GB hard drive
15 inch screen with Windows XP pro loaded
3 year warranty

Bargain!!! Just hope it works, the guy who sold it to me lives on the other side of the globe so no chance of chasing after him for my money back :P

[dc2447]

dvd software - check out VLC (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/)

I would be very wary of very cheap laptops on ebay this time of year :(

Ebuyer are doing a 399 acer laptop (http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=99084&_LOC=UK) at the moment, no wlan and it's an acer.

AFAIK there isn't a deal to touch the Staples thinkpad at the moment

[Fifer]

However, he's quite relaxed about supplying it with MS Office Professional for no extra charge - but obviously without the disks.

Mmmmmm.


I'd second Open Office though. Fantastic package, I've installed it on FIL's new laptop, along with AVG, Spybot and a few other legal freebies.

[oh_no]

PC World are doing a refurbished E-Machines notebook for £300.

Check www.pcworld.co.uk

I don't know too much about this particular model,it seems a bit basic but you get a full 12 month warranty and a free Vodaphone "thingy" that you could knock out on E-Bay if you didn't want it.

[davilown]

Hi

I need a relatively cheap laptop with a reasonable spec for under £375 if poss. I need it for word processing and searching the internet only (via wireless) I've looked on Dell and found the chepest - £329 but does anyone know how good/bad they are please.

Cheers

:beer: monster

[panther]

Saw these in my local Staples for £549. I'm very tempted but don't know much about laptops so if anyone can confirm if this is a good deal?

FUJITSU SIEMENS Amilo Pro V2040

Intel Pentium M Processor 725 1.6 GHz
Level 2 Cache 2 MB
RAM: 512 MB (2 x 256)
60GB HDD
DVD±RW
15Inch TFT 1024 x 768 pixels
6 cell Lithium Ion

4 x Hi-Speed USB
1 x audio - SPDIF
1 x display / video - S-video output
1 x headphones - output - mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
1 x microphone - input - mini-phone 3.5mm
1 x modem - phone line - RJ-11
1 x network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX/1000Base-T - RJ-45
1 x IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
1 x display / video - VGA - 15 pin HD D-Sub (HD-15)
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g

[steady__eddie]

I saw this on Sunday and put a thread up concerning Fujitsu Siemens.
The thread is located here http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=123619

[panther]

Cheers, think I'll take the plunge and go for this. Comparing prices of similar spec it's seems a good deal.

[Plumbuddle]

Whatever you do, don't don't don't use Ebuyer. They have been slammed recently by Which? and there are several discussion boards on the web revealing that they consistently send the wrong or malfunctioning stuff, and then spend months and months replacing it or do not do so at all. I was given the run around by them on a multifunctional and found that only letters before legal action worked. See the discussions on Pricerunner at the very least.

[mercurystar999]

Has anyone heard of this website www.wizmarkcomputers.co.uk, they seem to list all of the deals dell are doing. I am in the market for a laptop should i wait until the "january sales"? What the best deal anyone has seen for under £500??

Thanks Neil

[tight-git]

hi people, after hunting on and off line -i took the plunge and brought my first laptop ...wait for it ..from STAPLES :j

http://uk.gateway.com/products/prodDetails.html?prod=Gateway_MX3050b

im happy with it so far, until my bro spotted this AMD 64 bit 1 from ebuyer?! :snow_laug
Acer Aspire 5002WLMi AMD Turion ML30 1.6GHz/1MB 512MB 60GB DVD±RW 15" WLAN XPH

http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=99087


my question is
1) how difficult is it to return the £499 gateway ( the young chap said ,if you are unhappy, bring it BACK-whatever reason!) within 14 days

2) is it worth the extra £65 to get the ACER

3) the screen on this Gateway is SUPERB,anyone know if the acer is good also??


and merry christmas :xmastree: :xmassmile :santa2: :rudolf: :rudolf:

[shazamaca]

Can anyone tell me where I can get a good cheap laptop from. I have been looking aroung and see that Currys are doing one for £399. It has Intel Celeron inside. Don't know much about computers but am sure I have heard someone say to me dont buy one with celeron, can you tell me if this is right.

I would only be using it for the net and a bit of word and excel.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

:xmassign: :xmastree: :xmassign: :xmastree: :xmassign: :xmastree: :xmassign:

[davilown]

Received this laptop yesterday - 4 days from initial order and very impressed with it.
Spent about 6 hrs getting the wireless to work but all is ok now.

Many thanks to all for these posts as i believe i saved a lot of money, time and effort.
:xmassign:

:beer: monster

[tight-git]

got my Acer from http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/prod...oduct_uid=99087
YES its better than the gateway 1 by a mile AND wifi is fitted on mine-in he ebuyers reviews people have to use a wifi pcmcia card?!
oh that screen is as good BUT as per the reviews , the angle of viewing is limited but i can live with that -better cpu , more ram, bigger screen for £70 more.....

[withabix]

As this thread is now VERY long and many of the laptops mentioned are no longer available, could we have a round-up of what eveyone has found in the low-price laptop market RECENTLY:

I've seen an NEC one at Staples for £399 The spec on that one appeared to be the best in the £399 field. Built in WiFi. Anyone got any comments on this one?

Should I instead go for a £340-£399 Dell? New offers probably starting tomorrow...

Anyone bought the awful-specced PCWorld £299 lappy? Any comments from actual buyers?

Post your £399 (and below) nationally-available laptop offers and reviews here!

Please include vital specs if you've got them (screen size/HDD size/Processor/RAM/WiFi/Optical drive spec) and include a weblink if it's online.

[oh_no]

Just took the plunge and bought an NEC I-select 5210 from Staples for £399.

I was going to plump for the IBM T50e but the sales lad said they were being discontinued.

This one has a Celeron 1.4ghz chip,40 GB HDD,256MB ram,a DVD-RW and Wi-Fi.You don't get much software with it though,but for 400 quid I think it's a pretty good deal.

BTW I went to PC World on boxing day to look at the £299 lappy they were advertising.It was an old spec and I think they must have been holding them back for a while just to get people in the door.They had sold out after about half an hour aswell.

[Browntoa]

afraid its not allowed to post your own stuff for sale

[stewpot]

Just a couple of thoughts - Very surprised Dell doesn't figure anywhere in the laptop poll. Personally very happy with quality and support I have had for my (very old) PC. Second, price isn't everything, nor is the spec. Reliability and on-going support figure top of my list, hence my preference.
Seasonal greetings

[eagleeye]

HP NX6110 Centrino 740 1.73GHz 512MB 60GB 15" DVD±RW WLAN XP Pro
http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=94786
I think this laptop is good one to buy .Another one is from same company but without DVD rewriter .

http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=94785

HP products are better than the dell and as well as good customer support.Moreover,Dell laptops are without floppy drive or one has to buy the external floppy derive.

[cherries]

I am writing this on my sister in laws new medion laptop that she picked up from Woolworths for £400. It is only 1.3 ghz celeron with 256mb ram but comes with xp home virus software and works a treat. He keyboard is nice ofr a laptop and the screen is a nice widescreen 15.4". Wireless works olut of the box and the software is all patched and up to date. I would recommend this for any novice looking for a budget laptop that they can use wirelessly to buy online, do their banking and a bit of office stuff etc. Also Woolworths say if there is a fauilt all you need to do is take it back to the shop. Which s kind of nice if you can't get on site warranty at this price.

[Tharweb]

I was going to plump for the IBM T50e but the sales lad said they were being discontinued.
I wouldn't worry too much about that. Everything is discontinued eventually. I bought one from Staples this time last year last year which was discontinued. Apart from it coming with XP SP1 (soon remedied) it still is fairly good spec compared to the current offerings.

[buglawton]

Comet in store: Acer 512MB Memory DVD RW and good screen, £499. This was at the end of last week when they were offering a free Vodafone 3g Pay as you Go data card "worth £200" with it. Most sub £500 laptops in Comet have 256MB ram.

[akvoice]

I bought the NEC deal from Staples (really pleased with kit), Manager told me that if I open up a business account with them I get 10% off everything, instantly saved a further £50! The account is free and gives 30 days credit. I returned today to buy another (not received my bus.store card yet) and same guy reckoned the 10% was one off first purchase only! I am returning this evening (when I have more time) to kick up a stink and to remind him of his earlier promise.

[walks]

HI all you computer buffs,
can you all help me out, I have 450 to get a lap top, i have never brought a computer b4 so realy dont no much about them struggling to use them.!
I use it mainly for surfing the net, but will also be srating a course at work that i shall be needing it for, I have seen one on Dell called the inspiron 1300 for 439 do you know if this is good value and could i get better!!

would be realy gratefull for any advice

many thanks

PIP x

[Sweetchuck]

For anyone considering buying a Dell, try looking at the Dell Outlet, which is accessible from their homepage.

They still sell the same specification of computers but at lower prices. Most of the stock they deal in is stuff that has been returned or orders that have been built then cancelled. Any stock that has been returned to them and then made available through the Outlet has been rebuilt and tested to the same standard as a new Dell laptop.

At the moment, they're also offering over £100 off ANY laptop purchased from the Dell Outlet, so you can currently get an Inspiron 1300 with a Celeron 1.6, 512MB RAM, 60GB HDD, DVD-RW for about £380.

As you're still buying from Dell, you're given the same warranty you would get with a laptop bought from the main section of the site. The only problem is that you can't customise the PCs available in the Outlet - you either take it or leave as it is, which is a problem for me as I'd like to get a laptop with a graphics card with dedicated RAM, but this doesn't come as standard on the Inspiron range.

Still, if you know the kind of spec you're after, there is a good search facility which allows you to see what kind of specifications are available in your price range.

[mercurystar999]

Can't seem to find the dell outlet deal with £100 off?

[ksh123]

that seems a very good price SweetChuck.
would it suit me/my daughter.?
Main use would be the usual software (windows XP, word etc) a few games (but not anything faster than the Sims); surfing and shopping and emailing.

Also do you/does anyone know if I can network it with my PC? I am on NTL broadband. Is it expensive to get a network going (and do you have to be techie? cos I'm not)

[GMonster]

While I wouldn't put you off buying form Dell as they are very good I think it is very hard to beat PC World for value. You tend to find when you Buy something from Dell they suddenly start suggesting you should 'upgrade' memory, processor speed, monitor spec etc and before you know it you're paying 200 quid more than you wanted to!

If you're starting out and you're mainly going to use your laptop for surfing the net and using the most popular applications like microsoft word, excel, outlook (for your email) etc then you should expect to pay no more than 450 for a laptop that will easily meet your needs. For 500 pounds you could get a laptop that would be wi-fi enabled. This basically means you can connect to the internet from anywhere in your home via a wireless connection (of course you will still need to sign up to a broadband provider - this site has loads of tips on the best broadband providers). Normally to connect to the internet like this you would have to buy a seperate wireless card so alot of laptops now are moving towards wi-fi.

Another option to look at is tesco (www.tesco.com) - they have an excellent Acer 4021WLMi Intel Centrino 15.4'' laptop offer at the minute for 499 - it has more than enough power to meet all your current (and future) needs - and it is also wireless enabled.

alternatively two good websites to try are

www.dabs.com

www.laptopsdirect.co.uk


HOPE THIS HELPS - GOOD LUCK!!

[buglawton]

Don't forget that Comet has an Acer laptop with 512MB RAM, DVD writer, wifi and a free Voda PAYG 3g data card "worth £200" at £499 currently. It looks fine if you don't mind a shiny looking tft screen rather than a matt one. The image is very sharp, mind.

[Sweetchuck]

Acer have a horrendous track record when it comes to build quality and customer service. Even if you are on a budget, I would advise anybody to steer clear of them.

Dell are far from perfect - there are much better laptops out there, but for a sub-£450 budget, you get just as much bang for your buck as with the less reputable brands, plus decent customer and after-sales service.

The Dell Outlet can be found here (http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/default.aspx?c=uk&l=en&s=dfo). To get the extra £100 rebate, you need to find a laptop you're interested in. Add it to your cart and scroll down the 'My Cart' page to the "Software & Peripherals" section. One of the options you can select to add to your order there is a £100.08 rebate voucher. Select it, then scroll back to the top of the page and click "Update Selected Items". Voila! You've just knocked a further hundred quid off the price.

[ksh123]

ahaaah I knew it was too good to be true! You see it was the £350 pricetag that attracted me to the Dell just can'tafford that extra £150-200.
ah well, patience is a virtue (and I ain't got it!)


But thanks GMonster and Buglawton (of the Congleton Buglawton's I assume?) because your advice was still helpful. Especially re the wi-fi. So, with NTL broadband which I already use I can use a wi-fi for the same monthly cost can i?????

[Sweetchuck]

ahaaah I knew it was too good to be true! You see it was the £350 pricetag that attracted me to the Dell just can'tafford that extra £150-200.
ah well, patience is a virtue (and I ain't got it!)

What extra £150-200? I've just checked and you can get a decent laptop from the Dell Outlet for £402 right now - 40GB HDD, DVD-RW, 512MB RAM. That price includes the rebate I mentioned earlier (which is available to everyone) and includes VAT and P&P.

If you keep checking, you'll find new deals coming up every day.

[GMonster]

Hi ksh123

Re the wi-fi.......

in order to get use wireless broadband you will need to get a wireless router - i'm not sure about NTL but I'm sure they'll give you a good deal on one considering ur already a customer. It may be worth checkin out their website as I know BT give a 50% reduction on the price of a wireless router if u buy online. U should get one for around 30 pounds sterling.

Once u have the the wireless router u can surf away on ur laptop for d same cost as ur already paying!

Then you'll never have to get out of bed!!!!

(,")

[buglawton]

...Especially re the wi-fi. So, with NTL broadband which I already use I can use a wi-fi for the same monthly cost can i?????

Yes I have 3 computers on the NTL Broadband connection at basic broadband single line price. The same scheme works on adsl (thru your phone line) I am told but certain providers eg AOL/Tesco were not possible to set up this way at one time or still aren't. Things are changing fast - more Broadband providers now even make a feature of wireless broadband routers & multiple computers at no extra cost.

[Browntoa]

just posted this on the Grabbit forum as today only

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?p=1387794#post1387794

Dell inspiron 1300 for £339 inc shipping

[mercurystar999]

Thats a super deal gonna get me one of those!

[Davey s2]

Am absolutely gutted!! Have been watching this forum, and dell.co.uk, and the ukdeals website desperate for a laptop deal, I have a day off and they go put a 1 day special on! Have subscribed to the dell email list, will I get emails about that type of thing then? How often do the deals come around?

[jetbabe]

wow... so many pieces of advice on here i have developed a headache.
i need a new laptop but am unfortuantely on a tight budget. The laptop needs to be small and light as I travel so much.
Main uses for the laptop are: surfing web, emailing, watching movies, downloading music.
any advice gratefully received.
thanks

[cmallaby]

Have a long on www.studentlaptops.co.uk

I like that site! Compaq is now HP btw lol and HP rules! why u not got them up there

[urban_fox]

Saw these in my local Staples for £549. I'm very tempted but don't know much about laptops so if anyone can confirm if this is a good deal?

FUJITSU SIEMENS Amilo Pro V2040

Intel Pentium M Processor 725 1.6 GHz
Level 2 Cache 2 MB
RAM: 512 MB (2 x 256)
60GB HDD
DVD±RW
15Inch TFT 1024 x 768 pixels
6 cell Lithium Ion

4 x Hi-Speed USB
1 x audio - SPDIF
1 x display / video - S-video output
1 x headphones - output - mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
1 x microphone - input - mini-phone 3.5mm
1 x modem - phone line - RJ-11
1 x network - Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX/1000Base-T - RJ-45
1 x IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
1 x display / video - VGA - 15 pin HD D-Sub (HD-15)
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g


I've it at Staples too. I am looking for one for my lad who is at Uni. He will be using it mainly for doing his projects and surfing the net. Can anyone recommend this one bearing in mind what it will be used for?

[Nemo]

Posting this on my V2040 which I bought in Xmas week. I paid £499 for it, plus got £15 off a bag with a bit of negotation. Don't know what the current price is, assuming they still sell them of course, but the £499 was supposedly a 2-day offer.

It's my first laptop, so don't really have anything to compare it to, but I'm very happy with it. Battery, with the WLAN on, lasts around 3hrs. Keyboard and mousepad work well. I thought it looked little strange at first, having white keys and black case, rather than the usual black keys and silver case, but I soon got used to it. It makes typing much easier in dim light. The laptop is also very quiet.

Definitely recommend it.

[EdCov]

I was in Staples yesterday and asked about the FUJITSU SIEMENS Amilo Pro V2040 and was told yes it was only on sale for £499 for two days, currently £549.

Is it likely to go on sale again at £499. The reality is they did not know, but said it was possible if there was lots of stock nationally. How many machines left at the shop? 10.

So it would be possible that it may end up on special offer again, but again for only a couple of days.

I asked where do I have to watch so I do not miss out and it was suggested that I signed up for the newsletter on the website.

Interestingly enough the said machine was not working in the shop, and they could not get it to turn on, and the keyboard does feel quite flimsy. Still my aim is to normally use it with a usb keyboard.

The techie who helped me said he bought one at £499 and got a 10% staff discount, it was not really what I wanted to hear!

[Malestrom]

I bought the Fujitsu Siemens Amilo Pro V2040 for £549 at Staples a few weeks ago and after minimal haggling we got a Logitech MediaPlay wireless mouse for nowt as the missus doesn't like trackpads much. Its excellent and doubles as a media remote-control for music or DVD/video files. Its 25 quids worth at Ebuyer so not a cheap piece of tat.

As mentioned above, the keyboard feels a bit flimsy so I hope this won't be a problem but its nice and quick and very, very quiet compared to most laptops i've worked on. The screen is excellent, very clear and a reasonable field of view. The wireless side seems to be very strong and was simple to setup although only supports WEP as far as I can see. I'd agree that battery life is about 3 hours on wireless, closer to five with it turned off. Our (unopened) box was missing WinDVD v5 which is supposed to be included but a quick call to Staples and they had one ready for us to collect within the hour.

Considering all the blimmin' hassle i've had since Christmas with first Dell and then Ebuyer with regards to laptop purchase, buying the Fujitsu from Staples was refreshingly trouble-free and both the salesman and the person at the end of the phone was english, fantastic! The salesman didn't even try to sell us a crappy warranty - what a refreshing change!

[espresso]

The wireless side seems to be very strong and was simple to setup although only supports WEP as far as I can see.

WPA wireless security was a Windows XP update, so this machine will support it if it is kept up to date.

:rolleyes:

[Malestrom]

Thats good to know, thanks. Although I fail to see why it warrants a 'Roll Eyes' smilie...perhaps i'm missing something here?