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General discussion

Notebook purchase help?

Apr 3, 2005 1:16AM PST

Hello everyone,

I was wondering if anyone could help me with a laptop purchase, since I don't know the laptop scene very well and it changes rapidly. My needs are as follows:

- It will be serving as a desktop replacement primarily, travelling at most 1-2 times per year. So weight isn't an issue...

- The biggest task will probably be web surfing...

- I'll also be doing frequent Powerpoint work and word processing.

- I will also be doing frequent Photoshop Elements work, which is the task my current Pentium 600 mhz doesn't handle well. For this reason, a DVD-burner would be nice.

- I will NOT be using it for games (that's what my X-Box is for).

- I will be using a home wireless network.

- I would like it to last (and be relevant) for about 2-3 years before I'll be upgrading to a new model.

So that's it. I was thinking of purchasing a Gateway 7405GX at Best Buy, which seems to meet my needs and is getting excellent reviews. However, my gut reaction is that you never get the best deal at a place like a Best Buy. Is there another model you folks would recommend I consider? If I do get it at Best Buy, would you recommend that I get their extended warrantee?

Thanks!

Discussion is locked

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(NT) (NT) HP ZD8000
Apr 3, 2005 3:05AM PDT
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Is it worth the price difference?
Apr 4, 2005 4:05AM PDT

It seems like comparatively configured, the HP ZD8000 is about 50% more than the Gateway 7405GX. Is it really worth the difference?