Laptop for Engineering Course

Greenmachine

Hey guys looking at getting a new laptop. I am starting an engineering course in september. I have done a little bit of homework and have some ideas already. I have used a friends lenova before which I really liked so if I could get the right one for the money I would be delighted. I see lots of people mentioning save on laptops.co.uk so I have started my search there.
Budget is to include software. Will most likely get that on software4students.ie , Just wondering what the best bet there is. Microsoft office University or Microsoft professional plus. €15 saving there but for office 2007. (was sure it was 2010 last time I looked)

Expect I will be using AutoCad and Solidworks myself. Not sure what the story will be with Vat. I know Amazon prices change to accomodate Irish Vat. Will my final price change on laptops.co.uk
Don't see myself using it for games other than a few flash games. Will be using it for studying, preparing Docs, using office applications, downloads and streaming video. Would to willing to sacrifice HD space etc for a better processor. Can always add a bigger drive.

Budget € 500-600
CPU Intel i3+ Sandy bridge/ AMD? not sure what AMD are comparable at this point.
Battery 5hr+
Screen 15.6 (Seen smaller screen and don't see myself using them for my work)
HD 7200rpm+
USB3 Would be a plus


Here are some of the rigs I am considering but looking for other suggestions

Not sure on exchange rate or reliablilty of Packard bell, but one I am considering.

http://www.saveonlaptops.co.uk/Packard_Bell_EasyNote_TS11_1170752.html#DetailTop

Brand I know, Smaller HD, but later i5 I think
http://www.saveonlaptops.co.uk/Lenovo_G580_1256836.html

What what do you guys think is the lenova the one to get.

Jarren

There is also Lenovo Z series to consider

http://www.laptopsdirect.ie/Lenovo_Z580_Windows_7_Laptop__M81E2UK/version.asp#maindesc

Greenmachine

Jarren wrote: »

There is also Lenovo Z series to consider

http://www.laptopsdirect.ie/Lenovo_Z580_Windows_7_Laptop__M81E2UK/version.asp#maindesc

Already €100 over budget and that's before I buy office.

Jarren

The website was updated, when I posted the link it read 575 Euros.

Torqay

With a budget of up to 600 Euro I'd certainly buy an Ivy Bridge Core i5 rather than a Sandy Bridge Core i3.

The Lenovo is a nice deal, if you want better 3D rendering capability, this Acer comes with a GT 630M GPU for only 30 Euro more, delivery is free.