Laptop decent alternative to a Macbook?

miss_independent

Not to start a Mac vs PC debate...but.

I had terrible trouble with my old Laptops (Compaq, Toshiba, Acer, Sony) and they were constantly in and out of PC World with various problems. And I hated Windows.

I am a heavy computer user and sick of all the hassle, 7 years ago I decided to try a MacBook and it has been AMAZING (touch wood). Never a problem. Until I knocked over a cup of coffee onto it the other day.

It has been running slow and some software isn't supported on it as it's now "old". I was considering getting a new Mac when I start my Masters Degree in September (waiting for the student discount). However...funds are low and they are SO expensive. My mobile is also awful and I really need a new one.

Can anyone recommend a decent PC Laptop that isn't too expensive? £600 max?

To be used for Uni Work, Web Browsing etc.

System

miss_independent wrote: »

they were constantly in and out of PC World with various problems

I see the problem...

what kind of "uni work" is it for?

movilogo

If you are using Macbook for last 7 years and hate Windows, you won't be happy with PC. I always use PC and Windows and even I hate Windows 8 and thus I'm sticking with Windows 7.

Unless you use very specialized/professional software (which are still mostly on Windows), most apps are offer both Mac/PC versions.

You can buy any good laptop for £600 - in fact I wouldn't spend over £450 to get a decent laptop. But again, ask yourself first whether you want a mac only.

miss_independent

the_r_sole wrote: »

I see the problem...

what kind of "uni work" is it for?

Word processing (essays), journal keeping, Powerpoint presentations, watching and editing films (basic), web based research, music editing (but fairly basic), photo editing, downloading sheet music and teaching resources.

I use iplayer and lovefilm alot.

In terms of software I like the streamlined no fuss approach Apple has...hence me hating Windows. And when it comes to computers I'm not very patient so speed...time=money lol.

System

I would ask the uni the specific software you will be using film/music editing can be fairly intensive (even "fairly basic") - and if they are teaching using mac based software you don't want a windows machine and vice versa (also you might be able access some student licences for the software through the course...)

closed

anything above about £250-£300 will do that easily

find one you like in a shop, then go hunting for prices on the web

if you mean slow by "pretty rubbish", there's a sticky on speeding up above.

miss_independent

the_r_sole wrote: »

I would ask the uni the specific software you will be using film/music editing can be fairly intensive (even "fairly basic") - and if they are teaching using mac based software you don't want a windows machine and vice versa (also you might be able access some student licences for the software through the course...)

They've said we can use either...they just insist that we all have a laptop. The software they use (one is very rare) works on both PC and Mac. I do have access to a PC for "emergencies"...but it is pretty rubbish.

macman

Your original problem wasn't Windows-It was PC World. PCW can't mend laptops (or much else TBH). They can just reinstall the OS-any other major work gets outsourced.
If you buy from a decent supplier then you will get decent support. Nothing on your list requires more than a bog-standard modern laptop.
However, not many people who migrate from Windows to Apple go back voluntarily.

miss_independent

macman wrote: »

Your original problem wasn't Windows-It was PC World. PCW can't mend laptops (or much else TBH). They can just reinstall the OS-any other major work gets outsourced.
If you buy from a decent supplier then you will get decent support. Nothing on your list requires more than a bog-standard modern laptop.
However, not many people who migrate from Windows to Apple go back voluntarily.

I wouldn't say it's voluntary...it's financial :cool:. £600 is my upper limit...ideally, I'm looking at £400. Way out for a Mac.

I know I want a Mac, but "I want doesn't get!". My considering a PC is purely related to the cost and I was wondering if there are now PC's that run similar (i.e have simple/streamlined software like Apple's) or if Windows has improved recently? The PC (Acer) I have access to runs on Vista. It's running quicker than my poor old Macbook (which actually isn't running at all at the moment since it got wet!) but I'm finding it as annoying as hell.

ETA: I'd be going for the Macbook Pro 13" 2.5. Having used a relative's a fair bit I don't like the Macbook Air.

onzey

miss_independent wrote: »

ETA: I'd be going for the Macbook Pro 13" 2.5. Having used a relative's a fair bit I don't like the Macbook Air.

For info MacBook Pro 13" 2.5 is currently £859.20 with your education discount. You would get £70 App Store Gift Card added

Current models have 3rd generation processors (the current Airs have 4th gen).


Refurbished MacBook Pro 13" 2.5 from Apple store is £849.

(Possible 3% cashback using Quidco, not sure if it applies to refurbs)

Cycrow

If y ou really hated windows, you could always try something like Mint.

Althou it'll depend if the software you use is able to run on it