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Resolved Question

Advice on a new PC laptop buy? Web design and light gaming

Nov 25, 2011 12:38AM PST

I am looking for a new PC laptop and I want to stay under $800. I do web design, some graphic design and will be doing light gaming as well. The other day someone recommended the Samsung Series 7 Chronos which I LOVE but it is a little out of my price range.

I was also recommended the Dell Inspiron 14R but I'm not too crazy about Dell right now (my last two laptops have been Dell and were terrible...). I was also recommended the HP Pavilion DV6T which I really liked. However I heard that HP will no longer be selling PCs soon and am worried that I won't be able to find adequate tech support and parts in the future if I buy an HP. Of course if this isn't true I would still be open to HP.

I am pretty open as far as the brand (Except no Dell) and would love a recommendation for something comparable to the HP and Samsung laptops I posted but under $800.

Discussion is locked

hbgowest has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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The Inspiron display is not inspiring.
Nov 25, 2011 3:58AM PST

Inspect the LCD on that Dell and it's barely passable. I used one for a year and moved on.

Did you try the laptop pickers at newegg and top of this forum?
Bob

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Looking now
Nov 25, 2011 4:28AM PST

I'm on newegg right now, yes I really don't want to go with a Dell but it is hard for me to make a decision without speaking to someone. There are so many options on every website that I find it very overwhelming especially since I am savvy with designing ON a computer, but not very knowledgeable when it comes to picking one with the right specs I will need.

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Let's get some baselines. Starting points.
Nov 25, 2011 4:31AM PST

I'd like to see.

i3 or better CPU.
The GPU to be midrange to high (this is a gamer laptop).
And some aluminum case to help with the resulting heat production.

RAM at 4 or more GB.
HDD at 7200 RPM (gamers again.)

Bob

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Just what I need!
Nov 25, 2011 4:49AM PST

Thank you that is sooo helpful! I can generally understand that higher is better but seeing as I don't have the biggest budget I wanted a better idea of what I should be looking at (And not looking at)

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And we can look at refurbs?
Nov 25, 2011 4:56AM PST
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Not sure
Nov 25, 2011 5:35AM PST

That could work, I've never bought a refurbished computer though is that a good idea?

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At home, most are refurbs.
Nov 25, 2011 5:48AM PST

At the office we get new machines, at home I think out of 3 laptops, 2 are refurbs. You can boost the warranty with Squaretrade if you want. But it's a way to meet the specs when one has to meet the price.

I didn't link it but a similar 15 inch model is there for the same price.
Bob

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Thanks!
Nov 25, 2011 6:00AM PST

Thank you! I will definitely look more at the Lenovo since it has everything and the price works for me.