>>> Official Black Friday LAPTOP Discussion Thread <<< [Archive]

Brad

8-21-2007, 10:00 PM

This is the official thread for Black Friday related discussion of laptops, regardless of if the items are actually in ads or not.

This post will be updated with information about laptops that appear in Black Friday ads as they are released.

As this thread will likely get very long, if you are responding to a specific question or comment, please quote that post to keep the thread easy to follow.

If you are looking for a deal before Black Friday on a specific laptop, post in our Deal Finder Service board and others can help you out.

Threads posted about laptops in the Black Friday Discussion forum will likely be merged into this forum, so to help out the admins and mods, please keep all discussion in this thread.

Brad

8-21-2007, 10:00 PM

COMPARISON CHART: http://forums.gottadeal.com/showthread.php?t=90413

jbalicki10

9-5-2007, 10:22 AM

tbaby08

9-5-2007, 10:51 AM

bigjimslade

9-5-2007, 12:41 PM

Hi you guys! I'm really new to this Black Friday stuff, and I've been saving my money since the beginning of this summer, so far I have about $400 in savings. I'm going to college next year so I really need a laptop! I'm asking, how much did laptops average on Black Friday last year??

Welcome to the community! Last year laptops went from $350.00 to around $700.00. Keep in mind that the laptops with the lower price has the least options meaning less memory/RAM. So you may want to put more RAM into your budget as well as the extended warranty protection plan. Good luck!

bigjimslade

9-5-2007, 12:45 PM

I'm visiting my parents for thanksgiving and will be doing some christmas shopping afterwards. Appleton, WI is much smaller than Chicago but they have some of the same stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, and Walmart. Is anyone from that area? If I wanted to get a laptop for my parents for christmas, should I be expecting the same type of long lines as in Chicago where my chances of a laptop are slim and none? What should my expectations be?

Thanks in advance,

Welcome to the community! While I am not in your area if you cant find anyone here that lives in the area I would call the local store you want to shop at and ask them what the lines have been like in years past. I would say for myself if you really want the laptop I would count on camping out.

Marcster

9-5-2007, 12:52 PM

Welcome to the community! Last year laptops went from $350.00 to around $700.00. Keep in mind that the laptops with the lower price has the least options meaning less memory/RAM. So you may want to put more RAM into your budget as well as the extended warranty protection plan. Good luck!

Right! You really need to keep the specks in mind when comparing the different laptops offered on BF (or anytime for that matter). Don't compare apples to oranges and don't buy a Celeron if you really need a Core2Duo...

freesia39

9-5-2007, 2:10 PM

you may want to look around at the ads now - there have been some decent laptop deals that can be found throughout the year.

also check with your future college to see if they have discount programs - although i've found the discounts haven't been as fantabulous as the ones you can find here.

westpac

9-5-2007, 2:28 PM

tbaby08

9-5-2007, 3:03 PM

Thanks you guys! I've been looking at budget laptops, I just wanna do the basic stuff- download music, surf the internet, view pictures stuff, and a big storage(somewhere between 80gigs & up) .. I'm willing to spend over $500 but nothing over $1000, so I was looking forward to seeing what Black Friday has to offer

zinnbball

9-5-2007, 5:00 PM

I have seen dual core, 1024K memory and 120 gig hard drive for 500 - 550, quite a bit lately. Around christmas, it MAY be a little cheaper, but this gives you a target. This is basically the specs my daughter took to college this year, and it does all she wants and more....

stationchief

9-5-2007, 5:15 PM

Laptops are expected to range from about $200-300 (Celeron/Sempron processor, 512MB memory, 60-80GB hard drive) to about your $1000 limit (for the dual-core processors, 1-2 GB memory, and 80+ hard drive). Basically, take the current specials stores are having and compare prices and specs to what you're looking for. BF will have similar specs on laptops for a bit cheaper than the current price tags.

And since you're new, be prepared for what it may take to get the laptop you want. The cheaper < $300 laptops and the more popular ones usually only go to the first few dozen people in a line of possible hundreds, or thousands in larger neighborhoods, at Best Buy's BF sale. Red up on what to expect on BF and plan well ahead.

And welcome to the experience of your life! The first BF you take part in is always the most memorable. :D

stationchief

9-5-2007, 5:21 PM

Was An Acer Laptop 512k memory 80 Gig Hard Drive Yesterday At The Georgetown Texas Wal Mart For $398.00 Not on Sale Regular Price. Found A Link --Tried To Post. Would Not Take As I have not been here long enough for this site to allow me to post a link it said to avoid spam. The Link said that each WalMart Got 20 Acer Laptops at $398 each. This Was Orginally Posted 9 July 07. Some WalMarts Still Have Them. Go To Google and Plug In Acer 398 Walmart

Mel Jones, Central Texas

Here, lemme help: Acer Aspire 3680 (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5969095). Currently online it says it's $428, but I've seen it at our local store for the $398 price tag. There's also the Everex NC1502 (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5673667)online for $398.

And welcome to the community, Mel Jones of Central Texas. :D

TheLegend

9-6-2007, 6:35 AM

Last month the wife picked up a Toshiba with a Centrino Dual Core (not sure which model), 2048MB RAM, 200GB hard drive, wireless, 1.3MP web camera built into the lid, DVD/CD burner and Windows Vista Home Premium for about $750 at Best Buy.

It originally went for over $900 but was being replaced by a newer model.

jarerice

9-6-2007, 10:52 PM

what is best for everyday internet and picture use?

Marcster

9-6-2007, 11:02 PM

what is best for everyday internet and picture use?

Do you edit video at all? If so, how often.

whynot0224

9-7-2007, 12:38 AM

I'm visiting my parents for thanksgiving and will be doing some christmas shopping afterwards. Appleton, WI is much smaller than Chicago but they have some of the same stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, and Walmart. Is anyone from that area? If I wanted to get a laptop for my parents for christmas, should I be expecting the same type of long lines as in Chicago where my chances of a laptop are slim and none? What should my expectations be?

Thanks in advance,Hey! I'm from Appleton also...well, I live and go to school in Milwaukee, but my parents live there.

The lines are probably the same. Last year was my first year "camping out" and waiting in line for Black Friday. I went to the Best Buy at the Fox River Mall, thinking I went early enough at 1:00AM, but by the time I got there, there was a pretty good size crowd already of at least 200 people.

disneynutangie

9-7-2007, 12:54 AM

I'm visiting my parents for thanksgiving and will be doing some christmas shopping afterwards. Appleton, WI is much smaller than Chicago but they have some of the same stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, and Walmart. Is anyone from that area? If I wanted to get a laptop for my parents for christmas, should I be expecting the same type of long lines as in Chicago where my chances of a laptop are slim and none? What should my expectations be?

Thanks in advance,

I have been to Appleton, WI for the Black Friday sales and you will need to get there early as in line Thanksgiving. No it's not as big as Chicago by no means. Appleton reminds me of the size of my hometown.

disneynutangie

9-7-2007, 12:58 AM

stationchief

9-7-2007, 3:38 AM

what is best for everyday internet and picture use?

Just about anything on the market today. Just about all of 'em brand new come with half a gig of memory, WiFi, and a big enough hard drive to store a ton of photos. All depends on what you plan on doing with it AFTER that. You need to think if that's all you plan on doing with it for as long as you have it, as it's very difficult to upgrade anything besides the memory and maybe the drives. The cheaper ones won't make for very good video editing/creating/burning for your home movie DVDs (believe me, I've tried) and they're fair for gaming but not for the gaming enthusiast.

One more question like this and I might be forced to make a BF laptop FAQs. :razz:

stationchief

9-7-2007, 3:41 AM

The cheap one for $298.00 last year at Best Buy has worked out great for my 8 year old. I think the cheapest are great deals for the younger kids wanting laptops. I would like one for myself this year. Not big into specs but I would like it to have a dvd/cd burner so I can use the dvd part for my digital photos while on vacation.

Alot of 'em will come with a CD burner/DVD reader nowdays. But I'd recommend a flash drive to store all your vacation photos instead. You get more storage than a CD for a fairly decent price. And don't forget the USB media card reader to transfer 'em over.

jbalicki10

9-7-2007, 9:27 AM

Marcster

9-7-2007, 9:46 AM

Maybe, I am better off looking online for the laptop and getting one refurbished from tiger direct? I am looking to spend less than 400.

Actually, there have been quite a few Acers offered by the big box stores for like $398 after $150 in rebates. That's been going on for months... Just keep your eyes peeled and look for the Sunday circulars.

stationchief

9-7-2007, 5:48 PM

Thank you for your replies and for creating this thread!!!!

If there are 200 people in line at 1am, I think my chances of getting are slim and none. I can deal with waiting in line from midnight onward but I am visiting my parents and don't want to wait in line right after we eat some bird. I should visit with them for awhile...

Maybe, I am better off looking online for the laptop and getting one refurbished from tiger direct? I am looking to spend less than 400.

Hmm ... tummy full of turkey or a laptop? Decisions, decisions. :D

Right now you're lookin' at about $350-400 just for the cheapest ones out there. For example, Wal-Mart has a nice Acer for $398 everyday. As for Tiger Direct and Newegg, you're probably still lookin' at just barely crossing the $400 mark.

If you really need to keep it under that mark, then you could always spend time with the folks, have your turkey as early as possible, then soon as dinner is officially over run by a few stores and check out the lines. If the line at one is too long, go check out another. I'd say most lines at places like Best Buy would be reaching the 'no cheap laptop' mark around late afternoon, however it all depends on the neighborhood and which one you go to.

Keep an eye out for weekly specials at Wal-Mart, Best Buy, CompUSA and such. It's either that, or prepare fror a long wait on BF.

EliteABombAZ

9-7-2007, 7:38 PM

Fry's Electronics usually puts out a good laptop deal on Friday.

stationchief

9-7-2007, 7:48 PM

Fry's Electronics usually puts out a good laptop deal on Friday.

Yes they do. Think they also had the under $100 desktop as well. It's unfortunate they're not in every town. Here in AZ we got two. Lucky us, huh? ;)

Best Buy, CompUSA, and Circuit City are a few of the popular others that have some good cheap laptop deals. Wal-Mart used to but they changed their tactics to a pre-blitz day laptop sale last year.

freesia39

9-8-2007, 1:29 AM

Yes they do. Think they also had the under $100 desktop as well. It's unfortunate they're not in every town. Here in AZ we got two. Lucky us, huh? ;)

we have a gazillion and a half in CA. hehe. i worked at fry's during part of my senior year in high school and then that summer.

but the discount at circuit city is probably the best... although with fry's they have so much random stuff from random suppliers it could be cheaper.

222deal

9-13-2007, 8:59 AM

Last week Best Buy had a Toshiba laptop for $349. It had 80gb, 512mb ram, 15.4" screen, dvd burner and a 1.6 Celeron processor. Not great specs but if you are looking for a laptop just to web surf or for a kid, the price is right. Toshiba makes good laptops and for less than $50 you can always go back and add more ram.

I picked one up for my niece who wanted one for school. The best part is no lines. Just walked in around noon on Sunday and was out fifteen minutes later with a new laptop for $368 after tax.

stationchief

9-13-2007, 11:36 AM

tdanette

9-13-2007, 5:47 PM

\

That's the thing that makes me even more excited about the cheap laptop deals for BF. There's lots of great deals goin' on now. So, if they're that good now, imagine what they're gonna have on BF!

I'm wondering if there really will be any "great" laptops deals on BF considering all the low prices now and considering how last year went. WM put theirs out like the week before and had nothing for BF. I'm putting my hopes online for laptaps on BF, although BB or CC will probably have something. I really want to get one for the kids' big present this year.

stationchief

9-15-2007, 2:44 PM

I'm wondering if there really will be any "great" laptops deals on BF considering all the low prices now and considering how last year went. WM put theirs out like the week before and had nothing for BF. I'm putting my hopes online for laptaps on BF, although BB or CC will probably have something. I really want to get one for the kids' big present this year.

Wal-Mart really took a gamble last year having that cheap laptop sale early. Depending on how you look at it, you'll determine if it paid off or not. There'll definately be plenty from Best Buy, Circuit City, and CompUSA.

artie852

9-17-2007, 5:52 PM

hmmmm I hope Best buy does not use 512ram laptops again as doorbusters. THe laptops with windows vista need min 512RAM just to run the vista operating system.

stationchief

9-17-2007, 6:33 PM

hmmmm I hope Best buy does not use 512ram laptops again as doorbusters. THe laptops with windows vista need min 512RAM just to run the vista operating system.

Most likely they will for the cheap doorbuster laptops. They'll have others that's more Vista capable. However the cheap one everyone will be in front of the line for will most likely be something that's the current bottom of technology, like a Celeron/Sempron single-core processor, 512 MB RAM, 60 GB hard drive, CD burner/DVD reader combo. I'm in complete agreement that it's barely enough for a Vista-based computer, even if it's just the Home edition. But as a laptop for me it's OK cuz I can just install XP. ;)

Brad

9-17-2007, 6:34 PM

LadyIzShy

9-18-2007, 6:23 AM

I seen the one BB had this week. Wasn't as good as I was hoping for with that price. I agree that if they are THAT low now they will go lower for BF. The laptop is the ONLY iten I am waiting for this year. I will get that and then probably hit another store like WM to get the other things I want. Can hardly wait for teh BB and WM ads. Gonna end up missing turkey dinner but life does go on.

jackpotladi

9-18-2007, 8:38 AM

artie852

9-18-2007, 9:02 AM

Hi fellow BF shoppers. One good thing about getting your laptop on BF,is all the xtra goodies and /or free services that the stores throw in if you buy during those very early hours. Can someone recommend the min. specs my hubby would need on a laptop that would let him view & listen to his talk radio online? That's basically the most impt. criteria for him. Also,anyone know who makes the so-called,durable,strongbook type that withstands spills or drops,as he's very clumsy? Thanks in advance, Annette

If your husband needs a laptop just for listening to the radio he can get a inexpensive laptop spec: 512RAM, 60-80 Gig hard drive, CD burner and Windows Vista. Panasonic makes strong, durable laptops called tough books.

Panasonic website
http://www.panasonic.com/business/toughbook/business-rugged-computers.asp

Marcster

9-18-2007, 9:30 AM

If your husband needs a laptop just for listening to the radio he can get a inexpensive laptop spec: 512RAM, 60-80 Gig hard drive, CD burner and Windows Vista. Panasonic makes strong, durable laptops called tough books.

Panasonic website
http://www.panasonic.com/business/toughbook/business-rugged-computers.asp

I would recommend at least 1GB of RAM for Vista Home Basic -- 2 GB of RAM for Home Premium.

jackpotladi

9-19-2007, 12:29 PM

Thanks so much! Annette

stationchief

9-19-2007, 2:58 PM

Hi fellow BF shoppers. One good thing about getting your laptop on BF,is all the xtra goodies and /or free services that the stores throw in if you buy during those very early hours.

Really? :confused: I hadn't noticed many 'free' services or goodies handed out. You can 'buy' extended warranties and such, but not much in free extras.

Can someone recommend the min. specs my hubby would need on a laptop that would let him view & listen to his talk radio online? That's basically the most impt. criteria for him.

Typically, even the cheaper ones should be able to do that over the internet, but I'd recommend the previous mention of upgrading to at least a total of 1GB of RAM memory. :yup: Vista is a resource pig.

What's his radio talk show? Maybe we can call in and say hi and Brad can do a GottaDeal promo stunt? :D

Also,anyone know who makes the so-called,durable,strongbook type that withstands spills or drops,as he's very clumsy? Thanks in advance, Annette

Yes, we hubbies are very clumsy, aren't we? :cheesy:

wx4svr

9-19-2007, 7:24 PM

nirvana4all

9-19-2007, 8:25 PM

Really? :confused: I hadn't noticed many 'free' services or goodies handed out. You can 'buy' extended warranties and such, but not much in free extras.

:

I am guessing she means the free software (tax cut, quicken, etc) and hardware (1GB jump drive, 10 pack cd, etc) that are free w/ mail in rebate normally at the same time.

jellybean051901

9-20-2007, 3:43 AM

If there are 200 people in line at 1am, I think my chances of getting are slim and none. I can deal with waiting in line from midnight onward but I am visiting my parents and don't want to wait in line right after we eat some bird. I should visit with them for awhile...

Maybe, I am better off looking online for the laptop and getting one refurbished from tiger direct? I am looking to spend less than 400.

LAst year WM had the early sale on laptops sometime around the beginning of Nov or something. Keep on eye on the sale papers and you might catch a sale like that.

Marcster

9-20-2007, 7:49 AM

Does anyone know if Apple does BF, or any kind of discounts? I've got a shiny new Apple Store near my house that is just calling my name... "Line up... EARLY" :rolleyes: Who knows. Do you know? That would make me :cheesy: .

Apple has never participated in BF sales before. Apple is notorious for not having sales period.

wx4svr

9-20-2007, 2:54 PM

Apple has never participated in BF sales before. Apple is notorious for not having sales period.

Dang! That's not what I wanted to hear... :cry2: maybe they'll be nice and do something this year. That would be cool. :holiday16

jackpotladi

9-23-2007, 11:05 AM

Really? :confused: I hadn't noticed many 'free' services or goodies handed out. You can 'buy' extended warranties and such, but not much in free extras.

Typically, even the cheaper ones should be able to do that over the internet, but I'd recommend the previous mention of upgrading to at least a total of 1GB of RAM memory. :yup: Vista is a resource pig.

What's his radio talk show? Maybe we can call in and say hi and Brad can do a GottaDeal promo stunt? :D

Yes, we hubbies are very clumsy, aren't we? :cheesy:
Hi, There were lots of free software, free Vista upgrade, free PC services & giftcards. Hubby listens to Glenn Beck, Hannity,etc. etc. We're moving to Panama next yr. & won't be able to get his radio shows unless he listens online. lol, yes my hubby is very clumsy, I think it's a "man thing" lol

freesia39

9-23-2007, 2:43 PM

Dang! That's not what I wanted to hear... :cry2: maybe they'll be nice and do something this year. That would be cool. :holiday16

very doubtful. they are very protective of their price points and don't make exceptions for black friday. people buy it at regular price already.

Dust N Bones

9-24-2007, 1:24 AM

I would recommend at least 1GB of RAM for Vista Home Basic -- 2 GB of RAM for Home Premium.

:gdpoint:
The general rule with windows operating systems has always been to at least double microsofts minimum recommendation for RAM.

nedsw33

9-26-2007, 2:00 PM

Also,anyone know who makes the so-called,durable,strongbook type that withstands spills or drops,as he's very clumsy? Thanks in advance, Annette

I know Panasonic makes the Toughbook. They have the commercial with the people walking around in different professions dropping their notebook and spilling stuff on it.

frobgiant

9-26-2007, 3:28 PM

If anyone is looking fr a good Laptop for cheap Bestbuy has one now for $449 its a Compaq Dual Core, with Vista home premium, 1024 MB RAM, 80 GB HD, Read and write dual layer DVD CD drive,

caramel

9-27-2007, 1:04 PM

Fry's Electronics usually puts out a good laptop deal on Friday.

Are you talking an average Friday or Black Friday specifically??

I am in desperate need of a laptop again this year. Last year I got help from this board about my cousin needing a new laptop and this year it's my turn. Mine was stolen when I was on a business trip in Chicago a few months ago :(

JenT1292

9-27-2007, 1:08 PM

I've been watching the sales on some of the Acer's mentioned earlier. Does anyone have one, or have any opinions on if they are good or bad?

Marcster

9-27-2007, 1:15 PM

Hi, There were lots of free software, free Vista upgrade, free PC services & giftcards. Hubby listens to Glenn Beck, Hannity,etc. etc. We're moving to Panama next yr. & won't be able to get his radio shows unless he listens online. lol, yes my hubby is very clumsy, I think it's a "man thing" lol

Until recently, I had been using a 1.2Ghz laptop with 512 MB of RAM for listening to radio broadcasts over the 'net and watching online movies through Netflix. It did fine. I listen to Hannity and Rush Limbaugh too. :)

If you are going with a laptop running Vista, just stick with at least 1GB of RAM for Vista Basic and 2GB for Home Premium.

You'll be fine. However, those Toughbooks are extremely expensive. Like twice the price of a standard laptop. It might pay him to be more careful, or ask you to move it from room to room for him, LOL!

stationchief

9-27-2007, 1:15 PM

Are you talking an average Friday or Black Friday specifically??

Fry's Electronics has some good deals every weekend as well as one of the better desktop and laptop deals on BF. Most weekend deals have rebates, unfortunately. :(

I am in desperate need of a laptop again this year. Last year I got help from this board about my cousin needing a new laptop and this year it's my turn. Mine was stolen when I was on a business trip in Chicago a few months ago :(

Very sorry to hear that. :no: Did you purchase some sort of extended warranty with it it? Some have theft protection.

caramel

9-28-2007, 10:29 AM

Thanks for the info on Frys. I used to read their newspaper ad in every weekend but I haven't read the paper in so long. I didn't purchase a warranty unfortunately :( Stupid TSA rules where you have to take out your laptop so they can inspect it. By the time I put my shoes back on I couldn't find my laptop. They claimed to not know where it went. I personally think they assumed that it was someone else's. Sigh.

akcyr

9-28-2007, 11:19 AM

We purchased one of the $250 Toshiba Laptops last BF for the in-laws. It is a very nice laptop for easy use(web surfing, Im'ing) light office work. They love it! This year I am hoping to get another cheap one.

caramel

9-28-2007, 5:06 PM

jackpotladi

9-30-2007, 7:36 PM

Until recently, I had been using a 1.2Ghz laptop with 512 MB of RAM for listening to radio broadcasts over the 'net and watching online movies through Netflix. It did fine. I listen to Hannity and Rush Limbaugh too. :)

If you are going with a laptop running Vista, just stick with at least 1GB of RAM for Vista Basic and 2GB for Home Premium.

You'll be fine. However, those Toughbooks are extremely expensive. Like twice the price of a standard laptop. It might pay him to be more careful, or ask you to move it from room to room for him, LOL!

Thanks! Yes, I figured those toughbooks would be expensive. Maybe I better buy 2 of the cheapies & hide one of them until he breaks the first one. :>)

akcyr

10-1-2007, 1:48 PM

Was that the one from Best Buy? I'm glad that they were able to enjoy it.

Yes, it was the one from Best Buy. We also bought the $189 e-machines for the sister in law. We did camp out early but we got everything we wanted. This year we are going to actually buy stuff for ourselves.

ladakn99

10-2-2007, 8:43 PM

i got the $599 acer from last year at CC

Turion X2 TL-50 AMD Processor
1GB Ram
120GB Hard Drive
DVD burner
Webcam

it was on sale for about $749 mid octover, so if you see something in that price range, my guess is thats what your going to see at that $599 pricepoint

i upgraded the PC so it has Office 2007 and Vista Ultimate, and some other software

it works flawlessly

(im gonna sell it for $600 on craigslist and upgrade on BF)

caramel

10-3-2007, 10:15 AM

Yes, it was the one from Best Buy. We also bought the $189 e-machines for the sister in law. We did camp out early but we got everything we wanted. This year we are going to actually buy stuff for ourselves.

I bet! Well I hope they do another deal like that this year. But I've never been lucky enough to actually get a good spot. Not when there are people that line up since Monday!

ov3rload

10-16-2007, 7:16 PM

What is the best laptop for $500 or less? I started Black Friday shopping at 15 years old, which was 2 years ago and now since I have a job, I actually have money to spend :D !!! Okay, so i need a laptop for college. I need it for internet use, homework, and chatting. I live in San Francisco, and I was wondering where has the best deals with the greatest chance of getting the laptop. I always start at CompUSA cause they open at midnight, but is it better to wait at around 11-12pm at BB for the Doorbusters? Or any other store?

nirvana4all

10-17-2007, 5:55 PM

WE really need to see all the ads to even begin to answer this question if you are asking about it for BF.

bschmiess

10-17-2007, 7:24 PM

caramel

10-19-2007, 11:55 AM

HEY YOU GUYS! I just wanted to update everyone on my laptop situation. A few weeks ago I mentioned that my laptop was stolen this summer while I was at LaGuardia Airport. Well this morning as I am walking out of the house to drive to work I see a nice little sealed brown box that says TOSHIBA on it. That's right ladies...my husband replaced my laptop and it's not even Christmas yet! I think he may have been persuaded by all my talk about camping out at Best Buy to get a good deal on laptops. Thank goodness my for my husband's laziness!!!!

I haven't opened it up yet since I was already running late but I will tell you ALL about it as soon as I get home from work! I was actually tempted to take the box with me and lock my office door to install it while I'm at work but I nixed the idea! :blush:

maritza68

10-19-2007, 2:39 PM

I want a laptop for the following reasons:

To surf the net
digital scrapbooking
Maybe to hold pictures but mostly my pictures are stored in my Zune.

What would you recommend for me? And you in your opinion I shouldn't pay no more than X amount? Thanks

dissident

10-19-2007, 5:30 PM

I wouldn't recommend Windows Vista at all for a laptop. I use it on my desktop and I love it, but it's a gaming rig with 4 GB of ram and a dual/soon to be quad core processor. For any cheap laptop that you'd get on black friday you should try to install XP on it if you can.

My ze2308wm from 2005 is still working fine with xp installed.... many of the cheapy $200-300 lappys have similar specs today...

TheLegend

10-20-2007, 5:57 AM

StealthTM

10-21-2007, 1:20 PM

Biggest drawback with Vista is it's a memory hog. But that's been the case with every new OS generation Microsoft has introduced since Win 3.1. With every new release came a larger RAM requirement because of all the new "features" they crammed into them.

It knows how to use the memory a LOT better then XP, so even though it's a memory hog
it manages it a LOT better. It's really not that bad.

Hellocommonsense

10-21-2007, 6:42 PM

Just about anything on the market today. Just about all of 'em brand new come with half a gig of memory, WiFi, and a big enough hard drive to store a ton of photos. All depends on what you plan on doing with it AFTER that. You need to think if that's all you plan on doing with it for as long as you have it, as it's very difficult to upgrade anything besides the memory and maybe the drives. The cheaper ones won't make for very good video editing/creating/burning for your home movie DVDs (believe me, I've tried) and they're fair for gaming but not for the gaming enthusiast.

One more question like this and I might be forced to make a BF laptop FAQs. :razz:

Please write a laptop FAQ......Thanks.

4realshopaholic

10-21-2007, 8:52 PM

I am in nursingl school and I could really use a laptop i have alot of notes that i could be typing in class instead of writing them I leave in Hampton roads usally goe to walmart on black friday I dont know about this year I am still mad at them for not having a layaway! but i'm thinking they are gonna have the best and cheapest deals this year on laptop! Is there anyone else from hampton roads Va who knows somewhere cheaper or anyone with suggestions from anywhere!

MDWKurt70

10-21-2007, 11:05 PM

I actually got 2 compaq presarios last year, one for me, one for my younger brother, but they were the Celeron M, 512MB, 80GB hard drives for $399 each. I actually bought them the Sunday after Thanksgiving, they came with free Mail In upgrades to Vista basic. I got them at the Jordan Creek Best Buy at like 4:30 in the afternoon. We called ahead and then rushed right out after I got off the phone. I was shocked they had that many in stock. My brother still has his, I sold mine and got about the same earlier this year with Vista.
If i had to do it again, i'd buy the Compaq Intel Dual Core with 1Gig Memory and 120GB hard drive for just $50 more. Just goes to show sometimes patience pays.;)

herculesmomma

10-24-2007, 7:34 PM

If anyone is looking fr a good Laptop for cheap Bestbuy has one now for $449 its a Compaq Dual Core, with Vista home premium, 1024 MB RAM, 80 GB HD, Read and write dual layer DVD CD drive,

I actually picked up this laptop about 2 weeks ago. But it has 120 GB HD. It's running Vista fine with the 1GB Ram. But I'm mostly a web surfer and just run programs like quicken and such. It runs pretty quick, so no complaints there. It seemed like a decent price at the time (about $475 with tax), especially with my laptop and desktop both dying on me in the same week!

But I must say, I don't particularly like Vista as I've had to download updates for Vista in order to get Quicken and family tree maker to work on it. So I'm still debating about loading XP on it.

fisheric

10-29-2007, 3:43 AM

does any have an idea or even a hunch if theres gonna be any xp laptop deals? I really hate vista and I dont see the need to pay the extra software cost just to have a brand new laptop be crippled with 2 gig of ram. 2 gig of ram in an xp system is as much as you will ever need.

Slightly off topic (sorry) is there a place that sells laptops without any operating systems.
A bare-bones laptop.

thanks

ov3rload

10-30-2007, 11:24 PM

How many laptops were 400 or less OTD last year? I know Best Buys has the toshiba, but does anyone recall anywhere else that had one 400 or less OTD.

sweetheart76pa

10-30-2007, 11:50 PM

How many laptops were 400 or less OTD last year? I know Best Buys has the toshiba, but does anyone recall anywhere else that had one 400 or less OTD.

Circuit City had a Compaq for $299 after $100 rebate

Office Depot had a Toshiba for $299 after $150 in rebates (I opted for this one for my 8 year old as it was the only place with no line at midnight.)

mojaxs34

11-1-2007, 3:35 PM

does anybody know the specs on the acer that will be on sale at walmart tomorrow for $348?:confused:

jarerice

11-1-2007, 4:06 PM

does anybody know the specs on the acer that will be on sale at walmart tomorrow for $348?:confused:

I think they are listed in that thread.

jarerice

11-1-2007, 4:08 PM

does anybody know the specs on the acer that will be on sale at walmart tomorrow for $348?:confused:

here you go:

Specs for the Wal-Mart friday Laptop sale

Processor Intel® Celeron® M Processor M 530 (1,73Ghz, 1MB L2, 533 Mhz) Intel® 64

Memory 1GB (1x1GB DDRII 667)

Display 15.4" Widescreen WXGA (1280x800) Integrata 3D, Intel® 960GML, Intel® GMA X3100

HDD 80GB S-ATA 5400rpm

Optical units DVD-RW SuperMulti 8X

Sound Sistem audio stereo High-definition, MS Sound compatible; Microfon incorporat

Connectivity 802.11b/g

1 x ExpressCard™/54 slot

4 porturi USB 2.0, External display (VGA) port; Headphones/speaker/line-out port;

Microphone-in jack; Line-in jack; Ethernet (RJ-45) port; Modem (RJ-11) port; DC-in jack

Operating system MS Windows Vista™ Home Basic

Battery Lithium Ion, 6 cells

Battery life up to 2 hours

Weight 2.8Kg

Other characteristics Notebook cu design Gemstone, display CrystalBrite cu 8ms, 1 x SoDIMM liber; Acer QuicCharge™ technology (3-ore charge-in-use); Software aditional: Acer Empowering Technology (Acer ePower / ePresentation / eLock / eRecovery / eSettings / ePerformance Management); Acer GridVista™; Acer Arcade™; Acer Launch Manager; Norton AntiVirus™; Adobe® Reader®; CyberLink® PowerProducer™; NTI CD-Maker™

Warranty 1 year

scud4life

11-2-2007, 2:01 AM

Can anyone kindly recommend me a laptop that would be able to play a game like Team Fortress 2. As for specs i am just looking for stuff that would make the game run smoothly. What specs should I keep an eye out for and The cheaper the better.

bringadozen

11-2-2007, 6:08 AM

We picked up a Toshiba 2 BF's ago from Best Buy for $399. Spent another $100.00 for extra memory and the thing has been a great computer....no problems at all (knock on wood).
This year we're getting 1 for the daughter for college next year and hard to imagine, but might be cheaper than the Toshiba!

snboyken

11-2-2007, 12:26 PM

Is the Acer a pretty good buy. I was looking to get a laptop and was wondering if it would be better to go ahead and buy this one? Thoughts Please.

mystikal1

11-2-2007, 12:54 PM

Is the Acer a pretty good buy. I was looking to get a laptop and was wondering if it would be better to go ahead and buy this one? Thoughts Please.

You will get a better one on BF. I love my HP from last year @<hidden> $370.00 from BB
:yup:

mystikal1

11-2-2007, 12:56 PM

Also, my 8 year old son has the $250.00 Toshiba from BB and it is a nice one. No problems so far!

snboyken

11-2-2007, 2:36 PM

Where did you get yours on BB mystikal1.

Lisa1988

11-3-2007, 12:46 AM

Hey guys!

I'm an Au Pair from Germany and since yesterday I've never heard about a black Friday sale. I need a laptop really badly because the Computer of my hostfamily is to slow and it has a Virus ..etc..
The thing is: I really don't know much about Laptops and what it should have or not have..
I need your help!!

I would like to use the laptop for Internet (Skype, ICQ,..) Music, Pictures, Dvds, burning Cds/Dvds.. I don't really play games or use complicated Programs. I would like to spend between 400$ and 500$ for the laptop.. and it should not be to heavy or big.. the colour doesn't matter to me.
Can anybody recommend a laptop that matches my imaginations above? It would be so great if someone could help me.
The stores that are close to me are for example Best Buy, Cercuit City or Walmart..

Please let me know if you have a tip for me! ;)
Thanks,
Lisa

artie852

11-3-2007, 3:55 PM

IceQueen

11-5-2007, 7:16 AM

nirvana4all

11-5-2007, 7:52 AM

You can uninstall, you will likely need an XP install cd, and there MAY be a part or two that you will have to search long and hard for xp drivers for. Please see the Tech forum on this board for many similar threads:

http://forums.gottadeal.com/forumdisplay.php?f=16

ZeroGravity107

11-5-2007, 10:59 AM

Some of the new PCs and Laptops may be released with newer parts that only have Vista drivers, or so I'm told. I would choose XP over Vista but I'm thinking about settling for Vista and getting used to it.

jfire

11-5-2007, 11:01 AM

Make sure you get at least 2 gigs of ram, and a dual core processor, dvd burner/writer. The cheap door buster ones from last year, were glorified dvd players.

stationchief

11-5-2007, 11:16 AM

Hey guys...

On the laptop deal, I agree about the whole Vista being a memory hog thing. CAN we purchase the laptop (BF or otherwise) have the guys UN-INSTALL Vista and put XP in instead? Or are we stuck with that mess?

Most of the time with store retailers you're stuck with what comes in the box. :( Which nowdays is Vista all around. If 'ya want an XP OS, or anything other than Vista, you gotta buy a second OS installation CD and I don't think Vista can downgrade well so it's gotta be a full version. :mad: The only way around this I know of is to buy from Dell who is one of the last manufacturers that offers XP or Vista as a choice.

Check the other thread to read about other options available to 'ya if you're stuck with Vista. (OEM CDs, eBay, or just buying more memory).

Lisa1988

11-5-2007, 3:22 PM

IceQueen

11-6-2007, 7:04 AM

Most of the time with store retailers you're stuck with what comes in the box. :( Which nowdays is Vista all around. If 'ya want an XP OS, or anything other than Vista, you gotta buy a second OS installation CD and I don't think Vista can downgrade well so it's gotta be a full version. :mad: The only way around this I know of is to buy from Dell who is one of the last manufacturers that offers XP or Vista as a choice.

Check the other thread to read about other options available to 'ya if you're stuck with Vista. (OEM CDs, eBay, or just buying more memory).

I can always add more memory -- all the ones I've been looking at can be upgraded, and it's not that much for memory. Frankly, if I didn't have to use this thing for work, I wouldn't need to worry about the extra memory, so it might almost be a bonus to buy the basic computer, then buy the extra memory and bill it to my company since THAT's the difference maker between what I want for me and what I would need for work. Neither here nor there though *laugh*

Just wasn't sure if the geek squad guys or others like them could do that.

Does Dell have a BF or CyberMonday sale?

artie852

11-6-2007, 12:20 PM

Hey guys...

On the laptop deal, I agree about the whole Vista being a memory hog thing. CAN we purchase the laptop (BF or otherwise) have the guys UN-INSTALL Vista and put XP in instead? Or are we stuck with that mess?

it can be done, my gf father just bought a new laptop for her and transfered her XP desktop hard drive into laptop hardrive. now she has all her files and XP operating system on her laptop.

mystikal1

11-6-2007, 2:23 PM

Where did you get yours on BB mystikal1.

Best Buy last year:yup:

stationchief

11-6-2007, 2:51 PM

it can be done, my gf father just bought a new laptop for her and transfered her XP desktop hard drive into laptop hardrive. now she has all her files and XP operating system on her laptop.

Yes, I agree it can be done. You can take one PC's OS, and everything on the hard drive, and transfer it into another computer whether it's either desktop or laptop. But it's also very risky if you don't know exactly what you're doing.

AHEM. Class, let's begin 'PC Teknobabble 101':
See, you can't just copy the OS and everything on one PC's hard drive straight to another PC. Windows keeps track of alot of data about the computer it's originally installed in, so if alot of major specs change suddenly (different type of processor, chipset, amount of memory, yada yada) you'll confuse your OS and at the very least it'll be bogged down regardless of how fast the new PC is. Windows doesn't know exactly when it's inside a new computer. A few things need to be done with the registry, the virtual memory, and a bunch of other stuff to let Windws XP know it's in a new computer now. You can either find software that'll do that for 'ya or have someone from the BB Geek Squad or another tekkie transfer it. Also, hopefully the new hard drive in the laptop is as big or larger than the desktop PC's. 'Ya can't copy what 'ya don't have room for.

Just thought I'd chime in just in case anyone else gets any ideas about doing the same thing. ;) Thank you for your attention. :D

stationchief

11-6-2007, 3:00 PM

I can always add more memory -- all the ones I've been looking at can be upgraded, and it's not that much for memory. Frankly, if I didn't have to use this thing for work, I wouldn't need to worry about the extra memory, so it might almost be a bonus to buy the basic computer, then buy the extra memory and bill it to my company since THAT's the difference maker between what I want for me and what I would need for work. Neither here nor there though *laugh*

Wish I could buy a brand new laptop and make my company eat the bill for it. :yup:

Just wasn't sure if the geek squad guys or others like them could do that.

Sure they can. That's what they're there for. Just gotta make sure you have an open memory slot to begin with when you buy the laptop. You can still upgrade if all the memory slots are taken up, it's just more expensive that way.

Does Dell have a BF or CyberMonday sale?

I don't think they celebrate BF specifically, but they always have some sort of big specials goin' on right around the 4th quarter, which is right about now. :D Not too long ago there was a coupon code to get something like $200-400 off your Dell order. Dunno if it's still goin' on now. Look around GottaDeal and you'll find some Dell offers. :yup:

stationchief

11-6-2007, 3:26 PM

Hey Guys!

What do you think about this Laptop?

Acer 14.1" Aspire 4520-5803 Laptop PC w/ AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core Processor TK-53

Please let know.

(You can look it up on the Walmart-Homepage. I wanted to put in a link, but I'm not allowed to put in links in my messages, because I'm a new Member.)

Then I will :D

Walmart.com direct link:
Acer 14.1" Aspire 4520-5803 Laptop PC w/ AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core Processor TK-53 (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7812645)

And the tekkie specs from Global Acer:
Aspire® 4520 Technical specifications (http://us.acer.com/public/page9.do?sp=page4&dau34.oid=25985&UserCtxParam=0&GroupCtxParam=0&dctx1=25&CountryISOCtxParam=US&LanguageISOCtxParam=en&ctx3=-1&ctx4=United+States&crc=2949914306)

CrystalBrite 14.1" widescreen LCD
1.7 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core mobile processor TK-53
1 GB of DDR2 system memory
120 GB hard drive
SuperMulti DVD+/-RW drive with double-layer support
Built-in CrystalEye Web cam and microphone
Acer InviLink802.11b/g wireless LAN
5-in-1 digital media card reader
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium Edition
$568.00

Not a bad deal at all for a dual-core laptop, and less than $600 makes it even better. The memory should be enough for Vista, however it's not cheaply upgradable as both memory slots are taken up. The graphics are OK as well (GeForce Mobility 7000) depending whether or not it's gonna be a heavy duty/gaming/graphics machine. Time will tell depending on exactly how you're using it. But it's a great everyday laptop. If 'ya wait 'till BF someone might have something that matches that very closely for a lil' cheaper.

If you want a more supercharged up machine and need on right now, here's the next step up: Acer 15.4" Aspire 5520-5912 Laptop PC w/ AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual-Core Processor TL-58 (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7812646)
A lil' faster, bigger screen, twice the memory, and 40GB more hard drive storage for about $130 more. :D

Lisa1988

11-6-2007, 6:06 PM

Thanks so much for your answer. This helps me a lot.
I also think it's a good Laptop for me because I don't do anything with games or graphics.. I just need it for Skype, Icq, Music, etc.

I am thinking about buying it after Christmas. I can spend my Christmas-money for something that make sense then :)
Do you think it'll get cheaper after Christmas?
,
Thanks again for your answer ;)
Warm regards;
Lisa

someguynamedmat

11-6-2007, 9:45 PM

It'd be interesting to see if the retail stores decide to put out laptops with dedicated cards this year instead of integrated for their doorbuster deals. I'd love to see something with a midrange video card for some casual gaming or photoshop work.

Also if it hasn't already been mentioned- getting ram at the store may not be the best route. They may take advantage of that avenue to 'stick it too you' for getting one of those cheap lappy's. Take advantage of newegg and other online retailers after the ad has come out. Last year after the ad was released a friend of mine ordered the upgrade for his laptop, which he hadn't even gotten, but black friday rolled around, he got his laptop and that same day his memory upgrade came in. Sweet deal there. And upgrading memory is NOT hard at all. If you can twist a screwdriver, then you can install memory.

nirvana4all

11-6-2007, 10:48 PM

i agree that the above deal isnt bad, but for the same $ (549 in this case), you can get just a bit more: Toshiba's A215-s7422 at OD. It has a faster processor, 40gb more HD, a 15.4" screen.

To do it with only $50 in MIR, CC has the DV6605US HP with a slightly faster processor than the walmart deal with 40gb more HD and again a 15.4" screen all for $569.

The real non-MIR is at BB with the T-1616 8543506 at $599 with 40GB more HD space and I believe a faster processor. In this case however, I am unsure if it comes with built in wifi.

Put together, I would go for the first deal I mentioned IF you were to buy at a brick and mortar right now.

IceQueen

11-7-2007, 6:31 AM

Wish I could buy a brand new laptop and make my company eat the bill for it. :yup:

Sure they can. That's what they're there for. Just gotta make sure you have an open memory slot to begin with when you buy the laptop. You can still upgrade if all the memory slots are taken up, it's just more expensive that way.

I don't think they celebrate BF specifically, but they always have some sort of big specials goin' on right around the 4th quarter, which is right about now. :D Not too long ago there was a coupon code to get something like $200-400 off your Dell order. Dunno if it's still goin' on now. Look around GottaDeal and you'll find some Dell offers. :yup:

Thanks for the reply, Chief!! I can't make them eat the laptop (man I wish -- their fault!!) BUT I can argue and win the extra memory needed to handle their software. So at least it would be something.

Lisa1988

11-7-2007, 10:30 AM

gokalps

11-7-2007, 11:56 AM

MIR=Mail in Rebate
OD=Office Depot

snboyken

11-7-2007, 12:10 PM

How can you tell if your laptop has more memory slots available?

stationchief

11-7-2007, 12:22 PM

How can you tell if your laptop has more memory slots available?

You either look up the laptop's technical info on the manufacturer's 'official' website, or you open it up yourself and visualize what's in there. It should just be a screw you take out and a lil' plate to pop out to see what memory you have on the back of your laptop. If you attempt this, just please be sure to unplug it and take out the battery first.

scud4life

11-7-2007, 12:41 PM

To do it with only $50 in MIR, CC has the DV6605US HP with a slightly faster processor than the walmart deal with 40gb more HD and again a 15.4" screen all for $569.

Just wondering is that laptop is good or at least decent for gaming.

chaunceyb

11-7-2007, 3:15 PM

How can you tell if your laptop has more memory slots available?

Crucial's website has a utility that will help with this

latrischler

11-7-2007, 3:42 PM

stationchief

11-7-2007, 4:03 PM

Crucial's website has a utility that will help with this

That might work, but I'm a lil' shy about installing ActiveX add-ons and stuff I don't exactly know about. There's lots of freeware utilities that'll scan your memory, along with the rest of your system, and tell 'ya what type you have, how much, and in which slots.

stationchief

11-7-2007, 4:11 PM

I'm so far behind - what is dual core? I want a laptop! But not even sure what I need to do what I do on my desktop. The big thing is I use Adobe Photoshop Elements 5 for all my digi scrapping - and I use ACDSee to organize, tag and pull files from. Aparently I was told that if my laptop can't handle it it will run super slow.... I also use MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Frontpage frequently. I currently have used about 50G on my desktop HD. But as far as computer hardware and terminology, I'm in the dark. Any gurus out there that can enlighten me? ;) THANKS!

Dual-core = faster acces to your programs, and certain processor-dependent programs (graphics design, CD/DVD making/authoring) run faster.

Far as a good laptop for 'ya, it seems like even the most basic of laptops would be OK if you're able to give it a memory upgrade. They're good for MS Office and for storing/managing photos. You might want to consider either something that has a larger hard drive for your GB worth of goodies, or invest in an external hard drive to store 'em on. And upgrading Vista to at least a gig or more would probably be necessary as you seem to run alot of programs frequently and all at a time.

rickjs

11-8-2007, 11:04 PM

happysunshine28

11-8-2007, 11:29 PM

stationchief

11-9-2007, 3:22 AM

If you're lookin for a new laptop, at least try to make sure it has 2gigabytes of memory. Nowadays, 2gigs is kinda standard.

Annnyway....If there was a really cheap laptop at Best Buy, would I need a ticket or something to get it in line?

Basically, you'd need to pretty much skip thanksgiving dinner, show up as one of the first dozen in line, and wait about 12 hours for them to pass out the laptop tickets. :eyepoppin Things might differ at your local BB, but that's the trend for the past few years at popular BB stores. Usually the ultra-popular items, like dirt cheap laptops, are very limited in quantity and only go to the first few folks in line that ask for it.

Far as the standard for Vista laptops, I'd say upgrade to about a gig for basic usage, and about 2 gigs for more complex stuff. Or downgrade to XP if 'ya can.

jdbwolverines

11-9-2007, 10:42 AM

Is anyone else planning on getting a really cheap laptop and putting Linux in it? I hate Vista. Linux is great operating system that is free and takes very little system resources to run. There are versions that are becoming very user friendly too.

DramaQueenLucy

11-9-2007, 10:48 AM

Honeyb2fly

11-9-2007, 10:52 AM

DramaQueenLucy

11-9-2007, 10:55 AM

coniconi

11-9-2007, 11:25 AM

can somebody to tell me if $299 of laptop at CC is good?
Basically, just watch video , no gaming, and surfing the net.

stationchief

11-9-2007, 12:24 PM

Hello,

i'm very new to posting but I read the forums all the time, I went ahead and bit the bullet and puchased my laptop yesterday, Bestbuy had a dirt cheap display model of the Sony vaio vgncr120e. It was valued at almost 1,300 brand new and they marked it down to 809.00 because it had a tiny scratch on it. So you might want to check out bestbuy and see if they have any clearance items.

Wouldn't call it 'dirt cheap', but it's certainly a bargain. The BB stores themselves usually have clearances on display models or out-of-box items, so it's always a goood idea just to stop in and hope 'ya get lucky.

Great tip, and welcome to the community! :D

DanielleCT

11-9-2007, 12:33 PM

We have never owned a laptop, just have two desktops. I want to get my hubby something that he will use just to play a few games on (sims, tycoon ones). Nothing else.. what do you recommend?

I dont want to spend a fortune since its just for "play"

stationchief

11-9-2007, 12:39 PM

Just a cheap laptop heads-up, people ...

CC is notorious for rebates. If you're considering the compaq laptop for $299.99 (model #C717NR) don't forget it's got $150 in mail-in rebates. It's $449.99 out the door. If it's an instant bargain you're lookin for, maybe consider the BB Sony (#VGN-NR110E/S with the smaller 120GB hard drive, not the 120E/S with 160GB) for $399.99.

FYI: The model #VGN-NR120E/S on BB online with the bigger hard drive is used for the upgraded one along with the other hardware and software goodies for $499.99.

stationchief

11-9-2007, 12:48 PM

So, whaddaya think so far about the so-called BF 2007 'cheap' laptops? I think alot of folks are takin' advantage of other offers and non-BF sales and gtting better laptop bargains early this year. I know that about $400 is still a good deal for the laptops they're all offering, but personally I was hoping for some dirt-cheap, older outta-style laptop for much less than that without major rebates. And what happened with all those <$200-300 rumors? There's still a glimmer of hope as we're waiting for a few more ads, but we'll see.

Discuss. :yup:

DramaQueenLucy

11-9-2007, 12:49 PM

I am looking at both the Sony Laptop at Best Buy (I think I am getting the upgraded one $499.99) or the compaq at CC or maybe wait and see if there is a better deal to be found during the year...what do you computer savvy people think??

Just a cheap laptop heads-up, people ...

CC is notorious for rebates. If you're considering the compaq laptop for $299.99 (model #C717NR) don't forget it's got $150 in mail-in rebates. It's $449.99 out the door. If it's an instant bargain you're lookin for, maybe consider the BB Sony (#VGN-NR110E/S with the smaller 120GB hard drive, not the 120E/S with 160GB) for $399.99.

FYI: The model #VGN-NR120E/S on BB online with the bigger hard drive is used for the upgraded one along with the other hardware and software goodies for $499.99.

Ok so the best deal is the BB #VGN-NR120E/S with the extras??? If I am reading this right or just wait and see what else comes out or maybe something else not on BF? I am wanting to get enough memory with this laptop the one I got last year doesn't have enough for all my stuff...but that one is going to DS9 so no worries on memory for that but I need to get one that is going to have enough or find a deal on more memory....help I don't know what I am doing!!

ryansplace

11-9-2007, 12:51 PM

Hey Everyone! The last three years I have been first in line at my local BB and this year I am not so enthused with the deals, def. with the laptops. Last year I purchased the Gateway AMD Turion 64x2 laptop for 699.99. I just recently sold it in hopes of getting a new one at a great price. I was looking at the Toshiba for 799.99 and I just don't feel so impressed with it. It only has 40GB more hd space and a HD DVD player (which frankly I don't really know if i would care to have a HD Player) for 100.00 more then last year. Does anyone feel the same as me or would you say that this laptop is a good deal?? Does anyone see any other higher end laptops that are a better deal then this one?? Thanks-

Ryan

"Black Friday....The Chuck Norris of Thanksgiving"

t3hOne

11-9-2007, 1:17 PM

really not impressed with any of the laptop deals this thanksgiving so far. I bought a sony vaio a month ago for $450 and faster than what BestBuy is offering. :yawn:

EYGLE

11-9-2007, 1:27 PM

I'm visiting my parents for thanksgiving and will be doing some christmas shopping afterwards. Appleton, WI is much smaller than Chicago but they have some of the same stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, and Walmart. Is anyone from that area? If I wanted to get a laptop for my parents for christmas, should I be expecting the same type of long lines as in Chicago where my chances of a laptop are slim and none? What should my expectations be?

Thanks in advance,

You can expect lines but not like in Chicago. I live in Upper Michigan, so we go to Green Bay/Appleton to do shopping. The one thing to check is where the stores are. Oshkosh has a very nice outlet mall. Hope this is helpful.
:)

kc4braves

11-9-2007, 1:34 PM

I finally found an add with things in at that I want but it is CC. What are the chances of getting one of the $299 laptops there? I live in OK City and I have kids under 11 at home so camping out all night is out. Any suggestions? I could spend a ton of cash at CC this yer but the way the deals are set up it will be hard to buy somewhere else and price match.

KAthy

scud4life

11-9-2007, 2:25 PM

Since the BB ad has just been posted. What is the best laptop they have on sale for BF is good/decent for gaming?

nosko

11-9-2007, 2:32 PM

Since the BB ad has just been posted. What is the best laptop they have on sale for BF is good/decent for gaming?

The Toshiba for 799.99 is probably the best for gaming of the BB Black Friday laptops, mostly because of the core2duo processor and 2gb ram. Its got a 17" screen so that means the battery life wont be great. It wont play Crysis or anything like that, but it will run most games.

msluchie

11-9-2007, 3:26 PM

Is the $399 Sony at BB a good deal (I need a lap to surf the net, type up documents, burn cds, and upload pics). Is it worth camping out for?

nosko

11-9-2007, 3:49 PM

Is the $399 Sony at BB a good deal (I need a lap to surf the net, type up documents, burn cds, and upload pics). Is it worth camping out for?

I would say yes, it will easily surf the net, type docs, burn cds, and upload pictures. Only thing is you could probably get a laptop that will do that for around the same price as a non BF sale. The Sony is good brand and it has decent specs, it can do more than what you need, even some mid range gaming if you like that kind of thing.

DaFees

11-9-2007, 4:00 PM

msluchie

11-9-2007, 4:01 PM

Where could I get one from (non BF) for the price?

petoola

11-9-2007, 4:05 PM

Only thing is you could probably get a laptop that will do that for around the same price as a non BF sale.

Any idea where?

nosko

11-9-2007, 4:06 PM

Alright I see some people talking about the sony $399 lappy from BB on BF. Well I showed this to my sister-in-law and she really wants one. I know it'll handle everything she wants to (i.e. net surfing, photos (downloading them from her camera, editing them, and sharing them), music, word processing, etc.),

anyways my question is, she has children and occasionally likes to use her camera to take some videos of her kids. Could this lappy handle video editing (I know for a fact she would only do basic cropping, she would get fancy and want anything really professional.) ?

I believe if you going to do basic movie editing this will work fine, I have 3 suggestions though:

1. Movies files are generally big, meaning you might want to look into getting the 160gb hard drive.
2. Theres only 1GB of ram that comes with it, the more RAM you the smoother video editing will go, I would recommend upgrading to 2gb of memory(You may not need 2Gb but it depends completely on what you are doing with the video/what type of video it is/how long the video is.
3. The laptop doesn't come with video editing software so unless you want to use the Windows Vista movie maker you'll have to buy some too, just make sure it works with Vista before you buy it.

nosko

11-9-2007, 4:09 PM

Any idea where?

They run sales at CC and BB about once every few months(now none of these laptops are going to be on par with the Sony). Also http://www.newegg.com/ has good deals on laptops.

DaFees

11-9-2007, 4:29 PM

I believe if you going to do basic movie editing this will work fine, I have 3 suggestions though:

1. Movies files are generally big, meaning you might want to look into getting the 160gb hard drive.
2. Theres only 1GB of ram that comes with it, the more RAM you the smoother video editing will go, I would recommend upgrading to 2gb of memory(You may not need 2Gb but it depends completely on what you are doing with the video/what type of video it is/how long the video is.
3. The laptop doesn't come with video editing software so unless you want to use the Windows Vista movie maker you'll have to buy some too, just make sure it works with Vista before you buy it.

Thank you for your input, but I should say I told my sister-in-law for the extra $100 she can get the bigger hard drive plus that all-in-one printer, and I looked into and that print looks really good (not the best, but great for her). Also I told her it would be smart to go with 2GBs, and she agrees but she's uncertain at this time if she wants to upgrade, and I told her that's fine that she can upgrade when ever she wants to. Lastly I'll have to talk to her again then, but I think the built in windows movie maker is all she really need or would use.

But again thank you for your input. I believe my sister-in-law and my brother too will both be pleased by this laptop.

One small question before I go, is it the laptop or the printer that needs a usb bluetooth adapter in order to do the wireless printing feature offered by the printer (It's not that big of deal, I'm just curious)?

ghort

11-9-2007, 5:39 PM

I'm wondering if any of the laptops at BB are gaming worthy? I am a World of Worldcraft Addict and would like to get a good laptop to play it on.

Ahambone

11-9-2007, 5:41 PM

I would also like opinions on the 499$ BB model- would it be okay for light gaming (i.e. a game of Madden here and there)?

nosko

11-9-2007, 6:13 PM

I'm wondering if any of the laptops at BB are gaming worthy? I am a World of Worldcraft Addict and would like to get a good laptop to play it on.

World of warcraft will run pretty well on the $400 BB BF laptop.

nosko

11-9-2007, 6:20 PM

I would also like opinions on the 499$ BB model- would it be okay for light gaming (i.e. a game of Madden here and there)?

I'm not sure the specs on Madden, but i'd assume it migt run slow, really the only difference between the $399 and the $499 is the hard drive space. Only thing that could make your gaming experience better is to upgrade the RAM in the computer from 1GB to 1.5 or 2GB. But madden should run with the 1GB. Only thing is your battery life will go down quickly if your gaming.

nosko

11-9-2007, 6:22 PM

Thank you for your input, but I should say I told my sister-in-law for the extra $100 she can get the bigger hard drive plus that all-in-one printer, and I looked into and that print looks really good (not the best, but great for her). Also I told her it would be smart to go with 2GBs, and she agrees but she's uncertain at this time if she wants to upgrade, and I told her that's fine that she can upgrade when ever she wants to. Lastly I'll have to talk to her again then, but I think the built in windows movie maker is all she really need or would use.

But again thank you for your input. I believe my sister-in-law and my brother too will both be pleased by this laptop.

One small question before I go, is it the laptop or the printer that needs a usb bluetooth adapter in order to do the wireless printing feature offered by the printer (It's not that big of deal, I'm just curious)?

The adapter would be for the printer(I think) but does the sony laptop have bluetooth? If it doesn't you'd need an adapter for both.

mack222

11-9-2007, 6:24 PM

I would also like opinions on the 499$ BB model- would it be okay for light gaming (i.e. a game of Madden here and there)?

I would go with doubtful. I can't see from the ad but I'm assuming it doesn't have a dedicated video card, this means the processor has to do all the work and would lead to low frame rates for all but the simplest games. I would call the store once it gets closer to black friday and they should be able to give you the full specs.

The HP for $549 might have a dedicated graphics card. I would go with that if you can find out the info.

dad2trips

11-9-2007, 6:54 PM

Yes, it was the one from Best Buy. We also bought the $189 e-machines for the sister in law. We did camp out early but we got everything we wanted. This year we are going to actually buy stuff for ourselves.

Got the same two purchases myself. Desktop for my neighbor and laptop for my Mom. Both have worked very well for what they use them for. What time did you set up camp? I arrived at my local BB at 6 PM for the 5 AM opening. I was 20th in line. By 9 PM there were at least 100 in line and by opening maybe 1000. We have a small local store. I am considering between 1 and 3 PM this year. The $199 desktop will be a perfect gift for a long time friend and his 11 year old boy.

dad2trips

freesia39

11-9-2007, 7:31 PM

I'm wondering if any of the laptops at BB are gaming worthy? I am a World of Worldcraft Addict and would like to get a good laptop to play it on.

you can get it, but i'd add more ram.

Lisa1988

11-9-2007, 9:12 PM

H_Hancock

11-9-2007, 10:33 PM

Can somebody tell me if the Toshiba's A215-s7422 at OD comes with a built-in Wireless?
What do you think about this Laptop? Is this one better than the Acer 14.1" Aspire 4520-5803??
I hope somebody can help me with this :)

Honestly, these days is a very rare laptop that DOESN'T come with built-in wireless. I really cannot think of a single laptop that I've seen without wireless built-in in the last couple of years. Even that $250 Toshiba Best Buy had last year had wireless built-in. If that one had it at that price, you can be pretty assured that all the laptops listed this year include it.

dsheppard25

11-9-2007, 11:07 PM

PdT

11-10-2007, 12:01 AM

Where can I find specs on BB's HP laptops?

Savage Garden

11-10-2007, 6:26 AM

:smart: does somebody know if the best buy sony laptop comes with a built in webcam???

RaineeDay1

11-10-2007, 7:20 AM

Where could I get one from (non BF) for the price?

watch teh sale papers on sunday BB has been having REALLY good deals most weeks on laptops..

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 8:22 AM

ive never purchased a laptop, always just used desktop, so i have a question..

how does the ram upgrading work? is it just one slot? on the website it says the max it can use is 2 gb. So if i buy a 2gb stick thats on sale for 55 dollars at best buy, is the 1gb of ram it comes with just removed and useless to me? or multiple so i can just buy a 1 gb and add it in?

for the vaio that is.

Ram slots in laptops come in 2 flavors: 2 slots (most common) and 4 slots (less common), if this one comes with 2 slots, most likely it has 2x512mb ram sticks that will be nice paperweights after you replace them with 2 x1Gb sticks, If you are lucky and it has 4 slots, then you will have 3 gb altogether, but this is unlikely.

H_Hancock

11-10-2007, 9:38 AM

Ram slots in laptops come in 2 flavors: 2 slots (most common) and 4 slots (less common), if this one comes with 2 slots, most likely it has 2x512mb ram sticks that will be nice paperweights after you replace them with 2 x1Gb sticks, If you are lucky and it has 4 slots, then you will have 3 gb altogether, but this is unlikely.

Or you could get very lucky and find the laptop has one slot occupied with a single 1GB stick of RAM, like the doorbuster Toshiba laptop BB had two years ago. That was a nice "extra" and made upgrading the RAM quite easy.

But, it'll probably have both slots occupied, as you said, with two 512MB strips, sad to say. Of course, with the price of memory like it is right now, it may be indeed cheaper for the mfgr. to resort to single 1GB strips of memory instead of two strips.

Time will tell...... :)

debwestmi

11-10-2007, 10:18 AM

Ive always had a Desk Top, but the Processor is getting too old to bother with upgrades.
Debating on going to a Laptop for wireless purposes so I can take it room to room. I do mostly pictures, internet and Office applications. Would like to be able to burn all my documents and pics to DVD and music to CDS for the car. What should I look for and what should I avoid. I have a budget of under 1000 to work with, dont want an entry level but done want more than I need like a heavy duty gamer would want. Thanks for any suggestions. I have been watching the adds but totally lost these days :eyepoppin

gramboda

11-10-2007, 11:27 AM

Not sure if anyone responded to the original post about Appleton WI as I didnt read every post on this thread. I am from Appleton and yes, if you want the high demand items (such as laptops) from BB and CC, you will need to line up early. 2 years ago I was able to snag a laptop at BB by lining up at about 3am...this was just as the beginning of the BF Hype. Last year the lines started on Thanksgiving day. I would plan on lining up either late Thanksgiving night or early BF morning...especially if you want one of the high demand laptops. Hope this helps.

ov3rload

11-10-2007, 12:23 PM

ryansplace

11-10-2007, 3:44 PM

Or you could get very lucky and find the laptop has one slot occupied with a single 1GB stick of RAM, like the doorbuster Toshiba laptop BB had two years ago. That was a nice "extra" and made upgrading the RAM quite easy.

But, it'll probably have both slots occupied, as you said, with two 512MB strips, sad to say. Of course, with the price of memory like it is right now, it may be indeed cheaper for the mfgr. to resort to single 1GB strips of memory instead of two strips.

Time will tell...... :)

It's not probably....it does have 2 x 512 MB strips.

ryansplace

11-10-2007, 3:46 PM

:smart: does somebody know if the best buy sony laptop comes with a built in webcam???

No Webcam....Sorry.

ryansplace

11-10-2007, 3:49 PM

Full Specs. For Sony Laptop; $399.99

Processor
Type: Intel® Pentium® Dual Core processor
T2310
Speed: 1.46GHz
Front Side Bus Speed: 533MHz
L2 Cache: 1MB

Memory
Type: DDR2
Installed: 1GB (512MBx2) PC2-4200
Maximum: 2GB
Speed: 533MHz

Hard Drive
Capacity: 120GB
Speed: 5400rpm (says 4200rpm on the ad but Sony.com says 5400rpm)
Interface: Serial ATA

Expansion Slots
Multimedia Card Reader: One Memory Stick
Duo™ media with MagicGate® functionality
One Secure Digital Media (SD)
One ExpressCard® /34 Slot

Display
Screen or Display Technology: WXGA LCD
Screen Size: 15.4”
Resolution: 1280 x 800
XBRITE-ECO™ Technology: Yes

Graphics
Processor: Mobile Intel® Graphics Media
Accelerator X3100
Video RAM: 251MB Total Available Graphics
Memory
Chipset: Mobile Intel® GL960 Express Chipset
Interface: VGA Out with Smart Display Sensor

Networking/Modem
Ethernet Protocol: Fast Ethernet (RJ-45)
Ethernet Speed: 10Base-T/100Base-TX
Modem Type: Integrated V.92/V.90 Modem (RJ-
11)
Wireless LAN: Atheros IEEE Network

Dimensions
Weight: 6.2 lbs with standard battery
Measurements: 14.2” (W) x 1.2” -1.5” (H) x
10.6” (D)

Savage Garden

11-10-2007, 4:31 PM

No Webcam....Sorry.
darnn i just dreaming getting but i dont want a laptop without a built in webcam :( i guess i have to wait for staples and walmart to see if the got something better

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 6:41 PM

Anyone with experience with the laptops on sale at BB and Circuit City? I really like the Toshiba one at Circuit city, but Sony is a really good brand too. Oh, and which is better, AMD duo processor or Intel Duo processor?

Price for price, AMD x2's are better in performance than Intel Duo's. So if you pay for a $100 processor, the AMD will outperform the intel. That being said, right now Intel has high end (and expensive) processors that AMD has no competitor to and they are the best performing, but should be for how expensive they are.

For further info, check out http://www23.tomshardware.com/cpu_2007.html?modelx=33&model1=922&model2=881&chart=444 processors near the top of the page are best bang for buck, bottom of page are least bang for buck.

sunpop

11-10-2007, 9:13 PM

I'm going with the guy who said "a computer is only as smart as the person running it" . That being said, I failed "computers for dummies". but, I need a laptop. Do I have to wait until Black Friday to get a good deal? What I am looking for is one for emailing, forums, and surfing the net. no games, photos, or extras. I would like it to be a decent one, that I can purchase online. Can someone point me to a good deal on a decent laptop? I wouldn't mind spending the extra $ for a vey good one, if it was a great deal, however, I don't NEED a really good one. I would like to spend about $300, if that is possible. Thanks to anyone that can help. I just don't know what all the ram and jargon means. I just want the thing to work off my internet connection I already have, if that is possible. Please answer as if you are speaking to a computer ignorant person. Thanks.

EliteABombAZ

11-10-2007, 9:24 PM

Just a little funny tidbit... FYI.

Last year, my friend and I both bought the HP laptops from Best Buy. Well... right after we got them, he was gonna upgrade to 2 gb of Ram from the original 512MB... and he said I could have his 512. We opened our ram slots... and to our surprise... his laptop came with 1 slot filled with a single 512 module and my laptop cam with the 2 slots filled with a 256 module each. And we got our laptops from the same store... in the same line... one right in front of the other. :tongue1:

mack222

11-10-2007, 9:52 PM

After looking at all the laptop deals for BF, I would have to say the best deal is the HP for $449 from Best Buy. Pay another $55 for 2GB of memory from new egg and you have a computer that can handle windows vista very well and will suit most users well into the future. A dual core AMD laptop with 2.5MB of memory and an NVIDIA graphics card is a fantastic deal for just $515. Spending anything less than that and you won't get a laptop that can run Vista smoothly with the Aero interface.

The only reason I chose the HP over the Sony Vaio for $399 is that the Vaio comes with crappy intel onboard graphics. This is really going to slow things down if you want to run the Aero interface.

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 10:17 PM

I have to agree w/ the HP over the sony statement for the reasons mack gave. Have not looked over the laptops and ads well enough to say mote than that at the moment.

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:21 PM

o.k.....as I stated I'm computer dumb, so what is Aero interface, and do I need to run it, what ever it is? just always thought Sony brand was better, but I'm listening, for I know nothing. Also what is intel onboard graphics? and do I care about those? Can I buy either of these items right now? I looked at curcuit city and they are giving out free stuff with the purchase of any laptop. I want to buy it online cuz I live nowhere near any stores (in the hills) So, thanks for the info. but I need a lil more help, please. mostly that Aero thing.

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 10:27 PM

You dont need to run aero, it is a new "pretty picture" option on your desktop that only microsoft vista has. It is nice though, but of no real need or use.

Sony is no better a PC really than HP, so look at the options of each individual computer.

Onboard graphics means that it is built right in to the main hardware of the laptop, and without fail means it is slower, less able than a discrete, or added in graphics card.

YOu could probably buy each of these right now, but not at this exact savings.

Aero: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/features/experiences/aero.mspx

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:29 PM

I guess I'm trying to say---> I want to buy now, don't know how to "upgrade" just want to buy it and have it work.Someone told me I also need something called a router, is that true? and does it matter what brand or kind of router I get? Thanks in advance for help. I take it this Sony $399 is like in the store only on the day after turkey day? If I could but it now, and the Aero thingy doesn't matter to me, I would. Let me know what that thing is, please and why I would care about it. thanks

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 10:32 PM

click the link I provieded and get the description right from microsoft itself. as far as router, do you have dsl or cable internet at home?

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:35 PM

o.k. than hp it is, I don't care, really.
the poster above said $449 at best buy. can I get that now? or have to wait? I guess I can go look at the best buy web site, but last time i looked, did not see prices like that, maybe they hide them? Thanks.

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:36 PM

somethin called ethernet, with a plug from the internet provider, i paid for high speed

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 10:37 PM

You will get new ads tomorrow morning in the paper, check BB, CC, OD & staples and you will likely see some, ask us about them and we will give better answers and it will be on ones you can get right away at that price.

$399 is BF only.

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 10:38 PM

somethin called ethernet, with a plug from the internet provider, i paid for high speed

Okay, does this plug right into the back of your computer after it comes out of the wall, or does it plug into some type of box first?

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:43 PM

a black box. I think it is dsl like you said. I will have to "go to town" 45 miles to get a paper in the morning! but, it may be worth the drive eh? thank you

sunpop

11-10-2007, 10:45 PM

o.k. I will get the paper tomorrow, and look at the adds, then ask you tomorrow. thanks for your help tonight. sunpop

nirvana4all

11-10-2007, 11:15 PM

no prob. You will need to tell me/us what the maker and model of the black box is and if it has any antanae sticking out of it. This will tell us if it has wireless abilities. If it does, you dont need a router. See ya tomorrow.

iffer23

11-10-2007, 11:35 PM

o.k. I will get the paper tomorrow, and look at the adds, then ask you tomorrow. thanks for your help tonight. sunpop

FYI - You should be able to see your local ads on the stores' websites tomorrow, rather than driving so far. :)

acis516

11-11-2007, 1:10 AM

I am trying to find either one of the 2. i don't know if i have seen an external dvdr on sale for BF, but am looking. any help would be greatly appreciated. also, which is the better way to go?

Aaron

11-11-2007, 1:23 AM

An external hard drive would be better if you need to access and change the data all the time because it wouldn't require you to burn another DVD. Below are two items from the Best Buy Black Friday list:

http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/Item/2617
http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/Item/2461

Let us know if you have any more questions! :)

acis516

11-11-2007, 1:28 AM

why such a minimal price difference between those 2? Also, I really wouldn't be changing information. I want it for pictures,music, and videos. backup copies of everything.

Aaron

11-11-2007, 1:47 AM

This is what the prices will be on Black Friday:

Western Digital 160GB Portable USB 2.0 Hard Drive - $69.99
Western Digital MyBook 500GB External USB 2.0 Hard Drive - $99.99

The only reason for a price difference is because one is (1) smaller than the other (2) one is made to be portable and one is not. I personally have the 500GB MyBook and it works just fine. You plug it up to your computer and it shows up as the J:\ drive and you just move stuff to it.

One thing to keep in mine when you bring up the topic of "backing up" things. The external hard drive can crash just as much as your main internal hard drive, so DVD's would be just as good or better than a external HDD, you just wouldn't be able to change data on the CD without reburning a CD.

:)

acis516

11-11-2007, 1:56 AM

i think the external HDD is the way i wll go. wife would kill me if i lose all of the family pics. any deals out there?

ryansplace

11-11-2007, 2:14 AM

darnn i just dreaming getting but i dont want a laptop without a built in webcam :( i guess i have to wait for staples and walmart to see if the got something better

Check out the HP's in the Circuit City ad. I think i remember their being some with a webcam. Or you could get the $629.99 HP from BB that has a webcam if you want to spend that much....

queenofshopping

11-11-2007, 3:42 AM

i'm getting the WD 160GB portable hard drive...i don't need to back up my whole system, just need some extra storage space

RaineeDay1

11-11-2007, 5:44 AM

I bought that Acer laptop for teh daughter for Christmas. She wants to play sims and sims 2. I doubt the HD will support it but if I buy her the external HD can she play them from there?

latrischler

11-11-2007, 8:40 AM

Is the $399 Sony from BB that much cheaper than normal price? Anyway I can look up the regular cost? Is it really worth camping out in the freezing cold for 12+ hours??? I have little kids, so it would be no easy feat. LOL

dtdoda

11-11-2007, 8:56 AM

RaineeDay1

11-11-2007, 9:03 AM

what do you all think of the 349 laptop at staples? Is it worth returning the acer I bought the teenlet and waiting in line for over night at staples?

racerfan

11-11-2007, 10:07 AM

Hi I have a question. I am looking to get a laptop and I can't pick between teh following. I like one at CC for $729 in this weeks ad. It is the Toshiba 15.4 #A215-S7444. It is an AMD Turion 64x2 TL-58 (200G HD). BB I think has it for $699 model # A215-S7437 (I would then get Reward Zone points)There is also one on BF at BB the Gateway for $629 # T-1620-8596405 also a Turion 64x2 (250G HD a5 .4 screen) Which one is more recomended? I also saw one that is an Toshiba Intel Centrino Duo Processor for $799 on BF(this one as a 160G HD and a 17" screen) All of the above have 2g ddr. I see at CC on BF there is a HP with 2g memory 160g HD for $549 it is a AMD Athlon. What is the difference between the Intel Centrino and AMD Turion and AMD Athlon. Should I just go to CC or BB today ad p/u one of the ones they have on sale or wait fro BF. Thanks for any help you could give me. The computer I have now is fading fast.

Bruiser1

11-11-2007, 10:45 AM

I wish we would see something like this for less then $500.00

http://www.staples.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/StaplesProductDisplay?&storeId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10051&partNumber=715082&cm_mmc=Pricegrabber-_-Shopping-_-Technology%3ENotebook_Computers-_-715082-AS7720-6155&srccode=cii_5784816&cpncode=11-37519329-2

nirvana4all

11-11-2007, 12:01 PM

You normally want to use the external hard drive for things that you dont need to have real quick access (pictures, songs, etc) and to install games on your hard drive. That being said, Sims is not a "hardcore" game that is super-taxing, and putting that game on the external drive to free up space should not be a problem. If it is for any other reason than to free up space, putting it external vs internal does not make a difference.

My external is a 500gb. Half is a backup image of my internal, the other half is pictures, songs, etc that if I lose I would be sad, but that is it.

nirvana4all

11-11-2007, 12:09 PM

Hi I have a question. What is the difference between the Intel Centrino and AMD Turion and AMD Athlon. Should I just go to CC or BB today ad p/u one of the ones they have on sale or wait fro BF. Thanks for any help you could give me. The computer I have now is fading fast.

An AMD Athlon, Turion or an Intel Core Duo will all treat you just fine. Often you will get the same level of performance for just a little cheaper buying AMD. Any of the three though will take care of the above average user, let alone the average user. Differnece is just the same as Nike and Addidas. Both work just fine, Nike just advertises and marks up more in MOST cases.

nirvana4all

11-11-2007, 12:12 PM