|
Seeking advice on Laptop Purchases
Hi, I am looking to purchase a new laptop. Looking ideally to purchase from Dell (already have purchased 4 computers from them), but have some reservations about their new systems. The models I am looking at are:
Inspiron 5100
Inspiron 8500
Latitude D800
Most of the work I do is with CAD and Graphics (Photoshop, Illustrator, et.), so I need a system that will be used mostly as a desktop replacement. Looking to keep the budget below $2k. Need the laptop to be reliable and steady, liable to be left on for weeks at a time. Portability not really too much of an issue, although I would be doing a decent amount of travel with it, although while traveling the laptop will be used for email & DVD's and almost all heavy graphics work will be done at the office. Am I better off just getting a desktop now and then purchasing a less powerful laptop to use for trips, or should I just splurge now for a very good laptop? And if I should go for the laptop, which of the ones above are the best bet? I have heard bad things about the 5100 (too much heat, not enough expandability) and the 8500 (flimsy cabinet, terrible soundcard) while the D800 seems like a very good fit, but it runs only up to 1.6 Ghz P4-M (although it seems to best the 2.4Ghz 8500 in some bench tests on CNet). Also, what if any other laptops from other companies are better than the ones from Dell listed above? thanks for your help.
|
