would love some advice on laptop purchase

Framed10

Hi I currently have an Acer Aspire for last 4-5 years.
the memory on it is just about full (i know i can probably free up some or buy some more) but the main thing is that the power supply to it is really annoying me now.
i have to have it plugged into charger all the time and have to wiggle the connection around at back to get some charge and then hold in that same position so as to not loose power. basically not disturb the connection at back even the slighest

anyway i think its time i upgraded but theres so many new advances to the technology that I cant decide whats best to buy.

I have been thinking of a Toshiba, from what Ive read around they seem robust.
My budget I guess would be about €700 and could maybe stretch to 800 if needed

What i need on it would be:
- A decent battery, the longer the better if possible. this will allow me use it in work without the charger
- My screen is currently 14.1, small I know so id like not to go too much above 15" if possible. but dont want a netbook
- Id like to get processor that is good/up to date at the moment, Im lost with all the new types
- I mainly use it for work hooked to a data projector sometimes,
Internet, downloading and playing alot of music, id use photoshop and webx5 design software on it the odd time
- I like to stream matches live from the net on it a good bit, use skype also.
- I assume things like blutooth, cardreaders and 3 USB ports would be standard on most laptops now

I saw these two on laptopsdirect.co.uk but not entirely sure if they fit my requirements? they maybe also just over my budget with this website with the exchange rate

http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Toshiba_Satellite_Pro_L500-1RJ_-_Core_2_Duo_P8700_2.53_GHz_-_15.6_TFT_PSLS4E-01L009EN/version.asp

http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Toshiba_Tecra_A10-1HN_Laptop_PTSB1E-03V03KEN/version.asp

Id appreciate some advice and suggestions from those more expert than I, I bought my current laptop based on some info here a few years back and I it turned out to be a good choice.

TheAmateur

Well, specs-wise, out of the two you posted, the first one is better. But you're right about the exchange rate at the moment, it puts both laptops above €800 (€881 and €884). Also, they're both over 14.1". I'm going to recommend something on the other end of scale; the 13.3" Asus U30Jc-A1
It's got one of the new Core i processors and it switches between dedicated and integrated graphics depending on the task (one of these new "power and good battery life" technlogies, called NVIDIA Optimus), which gives it an impressive battery life claim (up to 9.5 hours, but I'd say it will give more like 7-8 hours in real-life average use). On the website I linked to (they ship internationally but they only accept wire transfers), it comes to €831 with shipping etc. Of course, then there's customs...

euroeuro

i would suggest that your new laptop also has a HDMI output...its great for using your hd tv(assuming you have one) as a monitor and watching movies from your pc...toshiba, in my opinion are the best all round buy. good luck!

bryaner

Toshiba are top machines

Framed10

TheAmateur wrote: »

Well, specs-wise, out of the two you posted, the first one is better. But you're right about the exchange rate at the moment, it puts both laptops above €800 (€881 and €884). Also, they're both over 14.1". I'm going to recommend something on the other end of scale; the 13.3" Asus U30Jc-A1
It's got one of the new Core i processors and it switches between dedicated and integrated graphics depending on the task (one of these new "power and good battery life" technlogies, called NVIDIA Optimus), which gives it an impressive battery life claim (up to 9.5 hours, but I'd say it will give more like 7-8 hours in real-life average use). On the website I linked to (they ship internationally but they only accept wire transfers), it comes to €831 with shipping etc. Of course, then there's customs...

thanks for the advice, I dont know too much about Asus as a make and their quality.
that battery life sounds good. Im not tied to 14.1" screen. Im flexible...suppose I just dont want a big think Ive to carry around.
Do any of Toshiba or Acer laptops have the new core i processors (NVIDIA) and that would tick the other boxes? As I said Im open to suggestions.

Also Im going to the States in July and have been considering ordering one online (delivering it to a friends house in US)..Not sure what best website would be to order from though.

Id also consider buying one instore when Im over, if had I had it chosen in advance.
I just need to be sure about the warranty I get though.

blondie20

just a warning regarding warranty. most sellers try to sell you additional warranty on top of the standart 1 yr collect and return for anything between 200-400 euro. given that if a problem was to arise with the hardware it normally happens within the few weeks you would probably be better off putting this money towards upgrading to a new machine in 2-3 years.

Framed10

just wondered if ASUS have an irish/european base for repairs?

Im considering the ASUS U30JC, purchasing it online from the US or while Im over there in July. I dont see it available this side from the Irish/Uk companies

what do people think of the warranty outlined here?
http://www.btotech.com/_e/13_Asus_La...s_U30Jc_A1.htm

would it be sufficient for me if purchasing in the US and bringing back to Ireland?

Tenger

Framed10 wrote: »

Also Im going to the States in July and have been considering ordering one online

Id also consider buying one instore when Im over, if had I had it chosen in advance.

Most laptops should come with a 1 year manufacturers warranty which SHOULD be valid worldwide,it is a portable device afterall.

US stores will try to sell you extra cover. I know BestBuy push for their GeekSquad cover which I have seen adds $200 to a $800 laptop for 2 year cover. Also be aware of the sales tax in the US, in CHicago it adds 10.75% onto the quoted price. In addition you will then need a plau adaptor for the power lead,not a big problem I know but it is an extra thing to remember to carry with you.

If going to NYC look at J&R for laptops.