Laptops

Chaz · 06-06-2006, 09:33 AM

So I'm sure that with Graduation coming up (or maybe it has already happened for some), a laptop for Brown is probably on the top of most of your lists.

The question: PC or Mac? Keep in mind that this is not intended to be one of those PC vs. Mac discussions analagous to Capitalist vs. Communist and Republican vs. Democrat. Rather, consider which brand will be better for BROWN. Maybe Brown has mostly PCs or mostly Macs, or other stuff like that.

modestmelody · 06-06-2006, 11:33 AM

It's the same as any school, more Macs than most places but still a solid mix and it does nto matter one bit which you have.

So get what you like better and can afford.

ILoveAlliO · 06-06-2006, 11:44 AM

It's definitely best that you stay with something you're used to. I attempted to switch over to mac's this year... because of the new intel dual core processors... but it didnt really... make me feel comfortable? I'm still using it and stuff for internet browsing and image editing... but when it comes to everything else, gaming, etc... i stick with my newly built pc.

Go for a business division dell. Dont go for any of the crappy bulky dells... go for the nice ones. compact and light weight.

G'luck with everything. If you have anymore questions, post it up!

bobbobbob · 06-06-2006, 12:06 PM

^ thats what Im planning on getting. The Dell D620 that has a 14.1" screen, weighs only 4.4lbs and has a 256mb video card.

modestmelody · 06-06-2006, 01:19 PM

I would buy anything but a Dell just about. Toshiba laptops are a close second behind Dell for worst in class...

Do your research, I use OSX, Linux, and Windows every day and only started to do so in the last few years. THe switch is quite easy, I think, it completely depends on what you're using a computer for.

Gluck.

Chaz · 06-07-2006, 09:26 AM

I've only used Dell computers, but Macs seem more exciting and more "up and coming" if you will. With the iLife programs and all of that new stuff they just seem like more fun. Plus, though I don't really know where I intend to concentrate, I've heard that Macs are much better for video/picture editing and artsy stuff like that.

My guess is that for any college student, the bulk of time spent on the computer is on the internet (facebook has consumed me) and word processing, so with respect to that, it probably doesn't make a huge difference.

Thanks for the advice guys, and I'll see you in Augsut/September!

stupefied06 · 06-07-2006, 03:42 PM

I have a friend who is a major computer buff and asked him to send me a list of all the specifications necessary for a computer at brown. i'm not going to post the email, but if you want a copy pm me and i'll cut and paste it to you.

modestmelody · 06-07-2006, 08:19 PM

If you want a laptop and you're going to use it like a desktop-- rarely leaving your desk and as your sole computer I'd say you want an Intel Core Duo processor at 2ghz, 1gb ram, 40-60gb harddrive (save your money on laptop harddrives, they're slow and break down frequently get a large external for media storage), a 14-15" screen, larger is nice to look at but a ***** to move around. Nothing thicker than 1 and 1/4 of an inch, less than 6.5lbs. Video card at least 128 mb ram, not integrated is very important.

07-04-2006, 02:40 AM

if you go mac, then i would suggest getting a powerbook. but be prepared to shell out sum cash. just buy whatever makes you most comfortable b'c you will spend SO much time with your laptop. it's quite ridiculous actually. i'm sure other current students can claim the same thing.

p.s. modest is totally right about using the laptop as a desktop!

fooka · 07-10-2006, 11:51 PM

Brown mentions that there's certain programs, etc. that students' laptops need to have to "connect to our university's system"...most likely I'm bringing up my family's ol' clunker laptop (I can't quite squeeze out the money for a spanking new one right now) ...can someone link me up or list out what's deemed "essential" to have? thanks!

bobbobbob · 07-11-2006, 12:45 AM

I love Sonys the most but the Dell business one I mentioned is nice.

mgcsinc · 07-11-2006, 07:50 AM

fooka - that's just something they tell you because they don't want the system to get flooded with viruses, etc. Just get a virus checker and you'll be fine...

fooka · 07-11-2006, 05:03 PM

thanks for letting me know...you saved me alot of time!

psalm139 · 07-29-2006, 10:59 AM

If we're planning to get a Dell labtop from the Dell premier site, can we use online coupons to get further discounts? If that's impossible, should we purchase from the Dell premier site or use online coupons?

People generally say that Macs are more expensive than Dell, but it doesn't seem the case to me if you look at Brown prices for Dell latitude D620 ($1333) vs Intel iMac ($1318). If I want to use the Windows OS on the iMac, it would cost more than $1318 I guess? I know using Windows OS on a Mac seems ridiculous to Mac faithfuls, but I really want to stick to Windows

modestmelody · 07-29-2006, 11:47 AM

IF you want to use WIndows don't buy a Mac you're wasting your money.

If you want to use OSX, and sometimes may need to run a Windows program, by a Mac.

Get everything at the cheapest price possible, which in this case, is to use the www.gotapex.com online coupons for Dells and buying direct from Apple with the student discount and $200 rebate on any iPod.

Don't worry about what Brown is advertising, it's never better than buying direct.