Hi all,
I am in the market for a laptop.
I will primarily be using it for writing assignments, surfing the net and watching movies etc. I will pretty much be using it for everything except gaming.
I am looking to spend between $1000 - $1500.
Any recommendations? I have never owned a laptop and don't really know where to start!
Thanks in advance!
Thanks for the post.
Is there a significant difference between the Air and the Pro? Which is better?
You do not need to spend this much.
If you do not require gaming or graphics work, a simple $300-$500 will do.
Save the remaining money and buy yourself a new computer in the future.
Keep in mind how quickly technology loses value and depreciates.
I work on a $300 laptop and do everything but gaming and graphics-intensive work on it.
Definitely fine for Microsoft work, surfing the net, movies, music.
Also keep in mind, that you pay a substantial premium for the word Apple.
This a hundred times over.
Pro is more powerful and a bit larger. Air is an ultrabook, meaning its very thin and light. For what you want an ultrabook will do just fine. Dell XPS 13 and Macbook Air are probably the best available.
Furthermore, depends if you want the latest models or an older model. I've just upgraded from an older model XPS 13 (to an alienware 13 - not an ultrabook) which still works fine for general tasks and use. I'll be lucky to get $600 for it (paid $1300 for it 3 years ago), so you could probably get a pretty good deal if you don't mind going that route.
Of course you don't have to get an ultrabook, though they are far the most portable which is important to many people.
writing assignments, surfing the net and watching movies
You really don't need the Pro for all of this.
Not sure how much has changed, but my 2012 one overheats when watching videos! the fan spins like crazy.
Yeah, I'd suggest an Air too. Some of the reasons:
- reliable;
- Apple laptops have the best trackpads in the business;
- easy to carry because of thinness and weight (I've lugged mine in a messenger bag around many an airport and city);
- dual bootable into OS X or Windows (or you can run Windows under OS X in Parallels or VMWare Fusion);
- ridiculously good resale value if looked after – even the original-shape 2008 1st and 2nd gen Airs can still fetch far above what they deserve in the used market, considering their short battery lives and awful sluggish hard drives. I ebayed my late 2008 Air in late 2012 for $550, a shockingly high price; people are still spending about $350 (occasionally $500) for the same model. They shouldn't – but they do.
If you don't mind buying used, then one strategy could be to buy a 2012-onwards Air on OCAU/Mactalk/etc for a low price; then sell it on eBay in 3 years or so and get most of your money back.
Yeah some at work do this. You do have to buy a separate windows license then though. For work it is OK as we have plenty of spare keys, but for home it is another consideration.
I find the mac site pretty misleading too looking at the models. Initially you look and think "those prices aren't too bad" but then you see they are way way more when you want something reasonable, and each minor upgrade is incredibly expensive.
Macbook Air 13 is the choice. 12 hour battery life, high build quality, fast as you'll ever need, and a slim chance to get viruses or malware. Get a 256gb and it will fit in the middle of your budget. JB has 10% off this weekend, go get one. /thread closed.
Everything above will feel like a donkey pulled cart compared to the Asus UX303LN.
Can you post a deal for this laptop that is within OP's budget?
Macbook Air 13". Right in your budget sweet spot and a very well balanced, fast laptop. Shame about the bezel and mid rez screen.
Or if you want a touch screen and fruit free experience, and don't care about disk performance, weight, battery life, or looks, this Dell is a bargain, and built to a very high standard.
agree that dell is a bargain. Its business grade quality.
Hmmm, I might digress a little and recommend you something nobody brought up, Surface Pro series.
I think typing on the type cover with the Surface Pro on lap is weird, so it might put you off a bit. Lack of USB ports (only 1 USB 3.0) does get in a way a bit, but you can get a USB hub. Lack of ethernet port can be annoying as well (you can get USB hubs that support Ethernet to USB connection).
Despite all that, I personally think the investment I made on it (SP1) was a damn good one. The stylus function allows you to write notes on PDFs, or onenote with PDF printed onto it. I personally found that to be better than just typing (this might be because I do both psych and econ, which means I need to write equations and connotations, chemical names or sometimes writing notes in point form on a graph). MS has one of the best services I've experienced so far in Australia. SP1 is fairly light for a laptop and SP3 is lighter than SP1. So depending on whether you are going to use the stylus function, SP3 might be a decent option for you.
Though, if you are not going to use the stylus function like that, then I think others have brought up fairly decent recommendations that would suit you better, like Macbook Air, the haswell model (student discount option is available) or Dell XPS series (the one with broadwell processors).
Dell XPS 13
You missed out on the 20% off ebay tech sale.
Another vote for Mac here. If you have never used windows 8.1 it has a steep learning curve. Let the Mac vs Windows battle begin!!!
So moving to a completely different OS is actually easier than learning the next gen OS of the same series?
You can get Classic Shell for Windows 8.1 and it looks pretty close to Windows 7 (sorta).
Besides, I think Windows 8 was piece of crap in terms of UI, to an extent that my computer illiterate mother could do more than I can on it on my first go, but Windows 8.1 did improve on many aspects of it.
Yeah, I think there is a learning curve and I think MS must've been high if they expected that consumers would like going through a learning curve. but it's not as bad as moving to another OS. I got used to Windows 8.1 in around 2 days (more or less), after going through some of the shortcut key lists like Windows + S to bring the search bar out, Windows + E to open Windows Explorer etc. Frankly, I think Windows 8, even though it has a crap of a UI that made it so difficult to get used to, Windows 8.1 did improve a bit (to an extent that I call it, it's at least not steaming anymore).
The OS itself I found was working well, though I don't know whether it applies to older equipments as well, it works really really well on my PC as well. It feels alright after you get used to metro UI and I personally think within the crappy UI, it's still Windows. Control panel is there, all the programs I use works for it etc etc.
I ranted a bit, but my point is, how can moving from one OS to completely different OS be any easier than moving to a same OS family?
Easier because my parents' laptop running windows 7 died. They got a new desktop running windows 8.1 and freaked out. Unintuitive UI. (Parents are in their 60's mind you) Returned it and got a Mac a few weeks later. Haven't looked back.
Good luck OP :)
Classic shell.
Also, we are talking about an university student, who would do more than checking emails, go online, use Skype.
I apologise for the gross simplification of what your parents would do, but I think you'd see where I am trying to get to.
The programs, shortcut keys, even the simple things like how to uninstall, how to maintain (like disk defrag and stuff) the computer etc.
In my classes, I came across at least 3 different statistics programs, my undergrad degree is in science (psychology) and economics. So I ended up using 1 from business stats course I took, 1 from econometrics course I took and 1 from psychology stats course I've took. Specifically, SPSS, eviews and… not sure whether it was stata or matlab. Not only I have to find whether they are MAC compatiable, I'd probably have to learn different shortcut keys. I've seen people asking around about how to use EndNote on mac because it works differently to Windows version. It gets annoying. I use an android tablet for note taking at classes (my SP was getting serviced at the time), now I've got used to Android shortcut keys for changing languange, SHIFT+SPACE, so I end up doing that on my PC and SP, instead of using WIN+SPACE. Shortcut keys usually are important in doing work and assignments, because it shortens the time spent on formatting and editing, I, for example, use CTRL + backspace and arrow key all the time.
Don't get me wrong, I think Mac is a decent OS (or it wouldn't have survived the Windows monopoly imo, it being part of major OS at least tells me that it's a good OS). I've heard how intuitive it is and I've seen how pretty it is. In terms of my recommendations, I usually include Macbook Air in my recommendation, because of the hardware and the build quality (and how relatively cheap it is compared to its competitions). Besides, if you don't want to use Mac, you can use bootcamp.
That being said, moving from one OS to another without considering all that and just doing it because you can… I personally think there are things that people take for granted using one OS, if it's not there, then it's your loss. Windows to Windows at least contain most of those, whereas Windows to Mac… I don't really think it's that fluent. I wouldn't recommend the other way around as well, if you are used to Mac and have no problems with it, just stay using Mac.
Also, I agree with you on Windows 8 at least, in my opinion, have POS UI. My mum got a Windows 8 laptop, she got used to it. I didn't. I couldn't log on because metro UI was there and I didn't know what to do with it. That being after she logged on, I could at least do most of the things I do with Windows. i.e. Get an anti-virus, get rid of junk files that my brother created on my mum's laptop, uninstall and install programs. I would not be able to do this on Mac, at least without learning how the Mac OS functions.
Also, if you think the UI is bad (which I completely agree with), get Classic shell. UI is bad therefore I need to move to another OS? I don't know, I've already mentioned that things work different on different OS, so I think it's not a good idea, but this is all just my opinion.
@jinxsphinx: Ironically, printing is one of the few things that I can do on Mac OS… I've learnt it because all the PC labs were taken for tutorial classes and I desperately needed to print stuff.
@AznMitch:
Pretty much the same as old windows yeah? File menu, Print. Whereas Windows 8.1 is something like settings charm, devices, printers, select your printer… If I remember correctly.
@jinxsphinx: Frankly it took me ages to figure out, because I literally thought the bar at the top wasn't for the word document I've opened, but rather something like a Windows taskbar. I was going, yeah, I should've seen that being there. To be honest, my memory on it is bit fuzzy since the uni changed the assignment submission to online based one and I got myself a tablet to read the papers in…
Also, sort of, on a metro app. That option is more for tablets though. Frankly, I only use two metro app, Drawboard PDF and Reader (since it allows split screen which works well with my work) and they are relatively simple as, drag the screen down or right click, click print symbol (though I can see that confusing people as it is something new). Though what you've said is also available as an option as well on metro apps, they are not available in the desktop programs.
On all the desktop programs, it's still the same. File, print or more simple like Ctrl+P (on word 2013 for example).
I recommend the Lenovo T series of laptops. They have pretty good build quality and I don't take good care of my T430, but it still works just fine. Not a big fan of the lack of physical buttons for the trackpad though…
ThinkPad T, X, W series all are decent business laptop lines, if I am allowed to add. Though I've heard bad things about Lenovo and their servicing policy. They also have student discounts but I think it's not that great. It's far better to get a second hand one or get it from the Lenovo Outlet (if they have any there).
I can't fault their service with my experiences so far. I've sent my T430 back for the most silly of reasons like a key making a funny clicking sound and they've obliged. They've also done things for my WiFi adaptor when it decided to not work all of a sudden. Both times they sent a courier pickup box within 24 hours and I had my laptop fixed within 3 days or so.
I got my laptop at a significantly discounted price through a friend's mother who worked at Lenovo, if you know someone who works there the employee discounts are really good.
I've heard horror stories about Lenovo, from Whirlpool for example, that's why I've mentioned this. I've heard worse stories from other places. I've heard people from other places telling others to not expect any service and prepare to fix it DIY. That being said, I have to also mention that I've heard good things about ThinkPads, how easy it is to get spare parts for it and how easy it is to open it up, how sturdy it is, etc etc.
@AznMitch: Keep in mind, it's typically those who have faults with the products who are likely to speak up as compared to those who haven't experienced any trouble.
Have been a long time user of the Thinkpad T-series lineup, fantastic laptops and whilst not built like their age old IBM tank counterparts; still durable machines.
Personally have never had a hitch with their support. Like the poster above, have complained to them about little things like the type of keyboard I recieved which was not to my liking - and they sent me a replacement without a hitch.
@professorturtle: I don't know, as I said, I've heard horror stories one after another. I think service kind of thing is usually YMMV. You can get a decent service from a place with horrendous reputation, and vice versa too. It's really hard to say which one is what you would get. Besides, I personally think it's OK to get a decent service when you were expecting a horrible one, rather than the other way around.
You can be unlucky with any brand, but there are patterns.
But here is some more objective information - I know it is US based, but may have some validity in Australia too:
http://blog.laptopmag.com/laptop-brand-ratings
On this survey Lenovo scores worse than any brand except Asus for Support.
Definitely, absolutely, surface pro. Nothing comes close.
Macbook, why? Completely change operating systems for what purpose exactly?
The answer is in the title. OP asked for a laptop recomendation. Not a tablet or hybrid.
The Surface can do some things that an e7240, Macbook Air or T440 can't do, but they are all better Windows laptops than surface plus type cover.
OP has not mentioned what operating system she/he is currently using…
This deal is good https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/189927 just call the sales number, quote the reference number and give them your details. Shipping is real fast, my stuff usually is delivered in less than a week
For a uni student - macbook air - it's light and has a long battery life. My uni student daughters both have windows desktops but macbook airs to take to uni. They have no trouble switching assignments between the two operating systems.
Probably if you are driving to uni, it doesn't matter and you could get a slightly heavier laptop, but if you are taking public transport to uni, you will definitely want the light macbook air.
As an alternative to what seems to be everyone suggesting Mac - I bought one of these for my girlfriend to take to uni and use at home for assignments etc.
http://www.lg.com/au/computers/lg-13Z940-AT7WA
Has SSD so won't feel horrible, enough RAM, etc. It's not a budget laptop so will perform well, and it's 1080p which I felt was important, because I knew she'd inevitably use it to watch movies/TV shows/anime. It's also lightweight and slim, much like the Macbook Airs (disclaimer: haven't been around a Macbook in a few years).
I got mine from Scorptec which was the cheapest at the time (mid-last year). Good luck.
google dell factory outlet
I was just about to mention this
i was about to suggest: bing dell factory outlet.
Surprised no one has suggested the new MacBook. It isn't cheap but would suit the needs of the OP nicely.
If you are a student you'd qualify for the discount bringing it to about $1600 I believe. I am assuming given you aren't going to be gaming you have a gaming PC?
Anyway if that is too expensive definitely the Macbook Air. Make sure you upgrade the RAM to 8GB though.
Please do not get a macbook. Terrible value for money.
Asus UltraBooks. You need to also take into account whether weight will affect the decision for you.
One of the Dell Latitudes from the deal that was posted a couple of days ago. Difference does exist between consumer grade and business grade notebooks.
Surface Pro 3?
They asked for a laptop recommendation not a tablet.
It is a ultra portable laptop. Fully fledged Windows 8.1.
I might go full nerd on this one.
It's a hybrid that can act as both tablet and laptop. I personally see SP line more as a laptop than a tablet (in terms of Android/Apple tablets).
If you go in further, I sort of see it as a successor of Tablet PC that MS wanted to push.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Tablet_PC
A PC that uses stylus input, something like ThinkPad x200t, for example. So I personally think it's unfair to call Surface Pro a tablet (since tablet nowadays more or less refer to the definition that Apple and Google set with ARM CPU). Also, if you go in further, technically MS tablet PCs falls under laptop as well, as a subcategory of laptops.
I personally use my Surface Pro more as a laptop (used to play LOL on it even), it does everything, other than little bit of awkwardness when I use it on lap, I would be able to do on a laptop.
Agreed, but if it's just for light use I'd recommend waiting for the Surface 3 to come out in about 2 weeks.
At least in Australia, I think SP3 is better valued, because SP3s are being discounted at the moment whereas Surface 3 just got released (So you'd need to pay full RRP).
If Surface 3 gets discounted, I think I might get it (because it's light and uses MicroUSB to charge, in other words, as a sub-laptop sort of thing, something that I wanted to do with the Android tablet I got). At this price, I think it's squashed between Baytrail tablets and the Surface Pro 1,2 (If you can get them 2nd hand or get refurbished one) and 3.
If you're going to be doing word documents and don't need it to be lightweight, consider getting a 15" screen with a full sized keyboard rather than the small laptops people people are recommending.
If your on oz bargain and u want to buy a laptop to surf the net and do assignments and watch movies and u want to spent 1k to 1.5k…. Go buy a Mac air.
It's a great laptop, thin but pricey
But for what you want to do, just get a 500 -700 buck laptop from say msy or dicksmith
Sure it's not as nice, but does the same job and you save 50 percent!
Another vote for 2015 XPS 13. I'm using mine for those activities (and also a little bit of graphic design) and it's been great - especially with battery life and weight. I got the mid-spec model which, after 15% discount, was a little over $1.5k. I could have probably gotten a 13" Macbook Air for a similar or cheaper price on sale, but I'm not great with Mac OS.
Hey guys what is the cheapest option for
Good CPU, good GPU, good screen 4k? the rest is not that important.
Desktop, 30hz 4k screen for visualisations, 60hz 1080 for UI.
Thanks I have a good desktop, any suggestion for a cheap good laptop.
I highly recommend purchasing an Apple Macbook Air or Pro. Looking at your budget, the base model 13" Air would probably be the sweet spot.
Excellent keyboard and trackpad for doing assignments, Fast SSD for performance and a reasonable quality display.
I have owned several MacBooks and I always recommend to friends and family.
They are reliable, quality machines running a clean operating system with excellent warranty support from Apple.
You may be paying a slight premium over comparable Windows ultrabooks but I think its worth it for the reliability and quality of the Macbook range.
If you don't like the Mac OS, then I would consider the Dell XPS 13, the latest model. Excellent specifications and a perfect size for commuting.