I need a new computer because my current one sucks. I am thinking about switching to a notebook, but I am worried that it will be too slow. I have tried both of my sisters' notebooks which are faster and more expensive than my desktop, but neither of them seem any faster than mine, and neither can play a DVD smoothly. I might get into gaming a little, so the last thing I want to do is buy a new computer and find out it cant run a game. BUT, I dont want to pay $4000 for the latest in everything. So I'm asking you guys to help me pick out what I need... notebook or desktop, what kind of graphics card, how fast, how much space, etc.

Pros:
Desktop-less costly, faster,
Notebook- mobile, not stuck on my desk

Cons:
Desktop- stuck on my desk
Notebook- more $$$, slower

 

I had the same issues. I went with whats called a "DeskNote" from ECS.

It uses desktop processor and ram, so its pretty much as fast as the equivelent system in a desktop (other than hard drive speed). Price is reasonable too. Bit more than a regular desktop, but maybe only by a couple hundred. It has to be plugged in at all times, but you *can* buy a battery for it if you wish (i didn't bother, I just wanted something I could sit down on the sofa with, and I'm never that far from a plug-in).

I got this back in March (so prices should be lower now).

P4 2.4 Ghz
512MB DDR-ram
15 inch lcd screen
cd-rw/dvd combo drive
64mb ddr video card (SiS unfortunately, but still plays games very, very well - Unreal Tournament completely maxed settings runs very smooth for example).
40 gb hard drive
built in ethernet, 56k, firewire, infrared, tv-out, etc...

$999 US.

So i'm sure it could be had for cheaper now.

 

Major pro with laptop: Can bring into a coffee shop and there, you scope on chicks

 

Also, I already have a nice monitor- can I order a computer from dell and skip the monitor?

Or for that matter- should I even buy from dell?

 

If you want to, but I find just going to a local computer shop and having them build you a tower will end up being just as cheap as Dell, if not cheaper.

 

Get a notebook with wireless roadrunner.

 

I've got 2 computers, about to get a third, a nice notebook. That wireless stuff is cool!

 

I have both a desktop and a laptop. After my shitty 1.2 AMD started to slow down (overheating), I started using my 1 ghz Pentium III laptop. My laptop now is way faster than my desktop and I can do everything on my laptop that I do on my desktop. The 1 ghz is plenty fast, but you can now definitely get faster laptops for way cheaper. I got mine for $1400 a long time ago from Dell. It's also nice to just lay back and get in a comfortable position with the notebook on your lap.

I use my laptop 99% of the time. I only use my desktop for games. My laptop monitor is 15", so it's plenty big.

Also, I used to build my own computers, but it really is too much of a hassle now since big computer corporations make fine computers at the same price. You also get their customer service and warranty.

 

Get a Notebook!
The best.

 

Jeez- you guys suck! Just a few minutes ago I had decided to get a desktop, then I checked this thread again and you have me second-guessing myself!

Will a notebook be noticeably slower than a desktop when it comes to gaming?