New Computer/Laptop

TraceyB_2

Am after a bit of advice on model and prices really.

My PC is on its last legs and I desperately need a new one but am unsure what to buy.

At present I am working from home before packing up at the end of October to go on to maternity leave. It is my intention to then start back at work - from home initially - after 9-10 months.

Other than that period of using it for work, I mainly only use it for browsing and doing the odd invoice for hubby.

Used to download music but as that seemed to be when my problems with my PC started, have stopped doing that and deleted everything I had.

So, my questions (finally - sorry gone on a bit!) are:-

1. Would you go for a lap top or a 'normal' PC?

2. Any particular models?

3. What sort of money would you expect to pay and where would you go? Dell always seem to come up but have heard good and bad about them.

Any ideas would be really really helpful.

many thanks.

libra10

I am using a laptop (Sony Vaio) and wouldn't go back to a desktop machine. The laptop is perched on a chair arm and I can watch TV, chat, whatever, in a more relaxed way than sat at a desk, usually in another room.

I also do the occasional letter, spreadsheet etc, more or less anything that a desktop can do.

If the PC will be used for playing games or where larger hard disc space is needed, the desktop would be better. A laptop mouse isn't quite as flexible as the desktop, although ordinary type mouse could be plugged in.

I prefer using a laptop and prices are coming down compared to what they used to be, many good deals around.

Good luck with whatever you choose

TraceyB_2

Thanks for that.

Can I just ask would you say that your laptop is as quick as a desktop - someone (more PC illiterate than m though!) said he thought they were slower?

Also (and please dont think I'm totally daft!) is it completely wireless or is it better to have it plugged in to keep the battery topped up?

gizmoleeds

TraceyB wrote:

Can I just ask would you say that your laptop is as quick as a desktop - someone (more PC illiterate than m though!) said he thought they were slower?

Laptops usually have slower processors because they have to use specially designed small ones, and so are more expensive than the ones you would find in a desktop for a similar price.

So, yes they are slower, but a 2GHz laptop would be just as fast as a 2GHz desktop, it's just they tend to have slower clock speeds (if you see what I mean).

Browntoa

processor speeds are slower in comparison with a desktop for cheap laptops...top end ones are fast

Gizmo......poasted at the same time

highlighter

I would vote for a laptop over desktop.

What type of progs do you use for your home working?
If it isnt anything intense then i would not worry about processor speeds.

You can 'work' from any room with your laptop-with a little one around i think this would be important for you.

As for the wireless you can use your laptop with no cables whatso ever connected. However you are using the laptop battery (usually between 2-3hrs-depending on processor and what you are using the laptop for)

TraceyB_2

The only programs I would be using for work would be the usual Word, Exel etc.

I think a laptop is starting to look more favourable - any particular models that are worth looking at - or avoiding?

Cheap as poss would be nice!

highlighter

Well i am going to say Dell.

You would be fine with an inspiron 2200 or if you would like to watch dvd's the inspiron 6000.

How much do you want to spend?

TraceyB_2

Thanks Highlighter.

Up to say £500?

highlighter

Well for that you will get a half decent laptop-and more than capable for what you want to use it for.

I'm not really up to date with current dell offers-however if you are in no immediate hurry, keep your eye out for new dell posts.
Look at the dell website and decide which model you are going for(if you decide to go for dell).

Would you buy from dells outlet? if so-
Post in the forum at www.outletbargains.co.uk that you are looking for a sub £500 laptop they shoul find you a good deal. If your not sure what a good deal is just ask them or ask here.

Also if you are thinking about a wireless connection a router will set you abck around £40-50ish

Oh and if you go with dell, quidco offer 5% cashback i think

Browntoa

woolies doing this for £399

http://www.woolworths.co.uk/ww_p2/product/index.jhtml?pid=50457714