Help me choose a laptop...

[BonBon]

I am seriously considering buying a laptop but I'm so out of touch with memory, speed, etc. that I need serious help!!! What do I want to look for?

Also, I have no idea whether to get a Windows or a Mac? I've always used Windows and know nothing about Macs.

If I get a Mac, can I load the Windows based software that I already own onto the Mac?

Oh, and the Mac's are so much more expensive - are they worth it? Where can I find the best price on one?

I would really appreciate any advice...suggestions...whatever you can think of to help me in my search.

Thanks so much!

[xxmxaxrxyxx]

MacBook has a boot camp that you can install Win OS onto then you can load windows apps. There is another software called Crossover where you don't have to install Wins OS but does allow you to install Windows app....i used to be Anti Mac but once i got my Macbook I can't get enough of it....that i don't even use my PC's anymore.

[Britster]

I lovelovelovelovelove my Macbook Pro! I would never go back to PC. It doesn't take that long to get used to... the only real differences are the menu (there's no start menu on the bottom, you have a "finder" etc) and the 'x' on the top of your browsers is on your left, rather than the right. Those were the only 2 main things to get used to for me.

Macs... no virus programs, no need to clear cookies or discs every day, no viruses, fast downloading times, no freezing up on you! Sooo easy and user friendly. You can get a regular Macbook for only $999 now. The 13" Pro is around $1200.

I would suggest finding an Apple store or a Best Buy where you can play with one. They're fun!

[hartygirl]

Macbook Pro! For sure!

If you really don't want a mac I have always had great Toshibas in the past!

[ARCHIE]

I'm doing the samething and I'm pretty sure I like the 15" Mac Pro laptop.
I have been to the Apple store twice and spoke to a representive regarding
them. I really love the 17" but way too much $.
It's really different than the PC's. Really different. The reason for the
Mac decision is they are located basically down the street from me if
they are needed for help, they customized it for you and give you
training on it as well. For 100.00 the first year you can have unlimited
1hr personal sessions with a consultant on how to learn anything on
the computer. I like that and it's certainly worth it.
Yes, window's 7 can be loaded into the Mac if you choose to do so.
Also I like the spy ware that comes with it, that also is already loaded in
it. The first year comes of course with a warranty then after that
I think it was $397.00 for an additional 3yrs. Expensive but I'm still
deciding, pretty sure it will the be Mac.
Good luck with your choice, I've been paying for web service for three
months and have no computer. I really need to make a decision soon.

[BonBon]

I'm really leaning towards a Mac, but I'm just not sure I can afford one right now. If I do get a Mac, can I get by with one of the less expensive ones? I mainly want it for internet, editing pictures, etc.

[ARCHIE]

Originally Posted by bonbon

I'm really leaning towards a Mac, but I'm just not sure I can afford one right now. If I do get a Mac, can I get by with one of the less expensive ones? I mainly want it for internet, editing pictures, etc.

That's basically all I want as well, however, I have had so much problems
with my PC, Dell, the money is almost worth it to know I can just
walk in the store and scream HELP. The 15" Macpro Laptop was $1,699.00
I believe, then add taxes, warranty and classes oh boy but I feel
confident knowing I can learn to get the best use out of it with lessons.
They also have their own e-mail and the built in everything is just
so tempting if your not computer literate. Much like myself.

[BaxtersMommy]

I know everyone loves the Mac's. But, I just havent been able to spend that much on a computer. I have a Toshiba that I paid 550.00 2 years ago and it is still running fast & great! (I would rather spend my money of my dawgs) hahaha

[Ellie May]

I'm a Mac-ite (lol), but I don't think you need the Pro.
Why not just get a standard one (in the white casing)?
People do seem to have problems iwth the casing breaking, but the warranty would cover it. Actually, I'd probably just get one used...

I have an HP laptoop.
Some things are okay on it, but generally not a fan...

[BellaBlue82]

I just bought a Dell 16 in. (laptop) that has the new Windows 7, which is basically a rip off of the Mac, but for way less money! I love it, it's lightning fast, and has everything on it that you might need. If you go to Dell's website, they can build it for you to whatever specifications you want in your computer.

[BonBon]

Originally Posted by ARCHIE

That's basically all I want as well, however, I have had so much problems
with my PC, Dell, the money is almost worth it to know I can just
walk in the store and scream HELP. The 15" Macpro Laptop was $1,699.00
I believe, then add taxes, warranty and classes oh boy but I feel
confident knowing I can learn to get the best use out of it with lessons.
They also have their own e-mail and the built in everything is just
so tempting if your not computer literate. Much like myself.

You sound like me, Carol. This is what I would get if I could afford it, but I just spent a bundle on the new camera (Nikon D90) that I've been wanting for the last 6 months. Maybe I should just find a very inexpensive laptop now, and then get a really good one like this with next year's tax refund. Hmmm, now there's an idea....

[BonBon]

Originally Posted by Ellie May

I'm a Mac-ite (lol), but I don't think you need the Pro.
Why not just get a standard one (in the white casing)?
People do seem to have problems iwth the casing breaking, but the warranty would cover it. Actually, I'd probably just get one used...

I have an HP laptoop.
Some things are okay on it, but generally not a fan...

I was thinking about a used one, especially since I've not heard of many people having problems with the Macs. There are a couple of stores here that sell refurbished computers, and of course there's always Amazon or Ebay to find used ones on. I hate to order something used online and have it go bad on me though.

What do I need to look for as far as minimum speed, ram, hard drive space, etc? It's been years since I bought a computer and I have no idea what the current needs are.

[BonBon]

Originally Posted by BellaBlue82

I just bought a Dell 16 in. (laptop) that has the new Windows 7, which is basically a rip off of the Mac, but for way less money! I love it, it's lightning fast, and has everything on it that you might need. If you go to Dell's website, they can build it for you to whatever specifications you want in your computer.

Windows 7 is somehow similar to a Mac? I've always had and liked Dell computers - I need to read more about this. Thanks!

[2girls]

I would highly recommend the MAC. We purchased a refurbished desk top for my Dad and it is amazing! My dad is a former PC user and was skepticle to make the change at 70 years old. He is so happy with the MAC especially the photo software. I purchased a dell last year and I'm kicking myself....so jealous of Dad and his MAC, if I only new

Good Luck!!

[MauiGirl]

As a Mac user for 20 years now, all I can say is GO MAC! Even the least expensive one will out do and out last any PC you will ever find. For your limited use, I'd bet even a MacBook would be ok, although the Pro is a little more "professional".

I'm even thinking of getting a new MacBook Pro, "just cause I want to", even though my 5+ year old Mac PowerBook still works perfectly well and does everything I need it to. I'll pass it on to my daughter if I get a new one.

Many of my hard core PC users are also converting to Mac, and all are very happy & wish they had made the switch sooner.