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General discussion

Dell questions

Feb 28, 2005 12:26PM PST

Both my roommate and I are in the market for laptop computers and want to spend about $1,000.

The Inspiron 700m looks like a good deal since it is in the price area we are both looking in and received a favorable review from CNET.

Does anyone have any opinions on this computer? Does Dell give any price breaks if you order more than one computer?

We both basically just want to run Microsoft Office Programs and get wireless internet access. I travel alot would also like to play some computer games. (I have Zoo Tycoon and would really like to give Sims 2 a try). Would I be able to play Sims 2 on the 700m?

I am open to other computers than Dell. It's just that Dell came word of mouth recommended to me and had good value for the price. I have heard by word of mouth that Toshiba makes the best laptops, but I looked into it and they seemed a little pricey. I'm kinda not feeling much love for HP since my last HP had some hardware problems (In fact it was a hardware problem that finally did it in last month!)

Take care,

Andrea

Discussion is locked

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Buy refurb and CHECK SCREEN SIZE
Feb 28, 2005 12:45PM PST

If you have a price limit, buy off of DellOutlet.com. I got an i8600 for $899, and similar deals can now be had on Dell 6000's with SONOMA.

That being said, make sure you don't want to play games because if you do, you'll need to spend more than a grand, because you'll want at least 64mb of Dedicated Video Ram.

If you don't plan on gaming, still go to the store and use a computer with a 12.1" widescreen for about 10 minutes. If you find yourself leaning in to see or squinting, go for a larger screen.

Also, type on the keyboard. If you're a touch typist, you may find the keyboard too cramped. I know i did, but I have large hands and long fingers.

In all I'd say go with a 6000 refurbished. . . it should play the two games you've listed and has great performance and battery life. Plus with dell outlet, the computer you get is veritably brand new. Were it not for the red sticker on the bottom of mine, you never would have been able to tell. Happy

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Okay
Feb 28, 2005 12:58PM PST

Thanks for the insight, Ryan!

My roommate wants to use hers for her writing so I am sure she would not want a cramped keyboard.

The game thing is not a make-it-or-break-it for me, but would be nice. I will definitely scope out the 6000 in the Outlet!