Laptop spc advice - 2 machines

ogriofa

Helloooo
Got a couple of questions that Id like some advice on.
I havent looked at the specs needed for machines for years,
any help would be good.
2 questions
Ta

1) My mothers pal is coming over from the states next week or so. She'd be willing to bring in 2 laptops (1 for, 1 for me mum).
a) Is there hastle with customs? Doubt it, 1 in her bag, 1 as carry on?
b) Im guessing its a lot cheaper?

2) My mom just wants a very basic machine, I want something a little bit higher
The 2 machines:
a) Basic machine for www & word/excel. Low usage, small files &
b) Basic machine, but want a 17" screen and a decent chip for using CS3. I use this software periodically, once or twice a week max. I have an external hard drive so not too worried about HD size.

We obviously want to keep costs wayyyy down. Im not a brand snob (within reason) so most established brands are goers.

Anyone got experience of buying laptops from the states?
Rough idea of cost?

Thanks for any info/feedback

Alanstrainor

Expect to pay roughly 25% Vat and customs duty on top of what ever laptops you bring in to Ireland from the states. I can't allow discussion of how to evade tax as it's quite obviously illegal.