But at least the effort gave me a better idea of what I think I want.
Considering that I've been lugging around a 17" laptop on all of our travels for the past 7 years, anything smaller is going to be a bonus. But I don't want too small. I think something in the 13-14" range is going to be ideal.
I'm thinking something like this...
HP ProBook 13.3" Ultrabook - Windows 7 Professional 64-Bit PC with 128GB Solid State Performance Drive
The only downside that I can see to this unit is the lack of a DVD drive. We do have a portable DVD drive but it wouldn't be coming with us this trip. Oh, and another downside is that this model is already a year old and out of production! Ha...it's brand new, and it's already old. Such is life in the world of computers! Of course the other downside is the price. I'd really like to stay under $400.
But the upside of something like this for traveling is huge. It only weighs 3.3 lbs. And the battery lasts 8-10 hours and completely recharges in under two hours. Those are some pretty good benefits.
On the cheaper side of the coin are these Chromebook laptops. The big downside to them is little to no storage. And given that we like to take and work with pictures, I don't think that will do. But holy cow, for the price it's hard to go wrong. Take a look at this one, on sale today only.
Yes, this one is refurbished (which I don't really have a problem with) but for only $209 and it includes a lifetime deal with T-Mobile for 200 MB of internet use every month. The internet part of the deal is no good for us here in Canada, but just to give you an example of why I don't want to buy one up here. The deals are to be had in the U.S.. So, even without the monthly internet allowance, this is still a great deal for anybody who is simply looking to get online. Especially with a decently sized 14" screen!
So, I'm going to keep my eyes open for something in the 13-14" range that has a decent amount of storage and is lightweight with a long lasting battery.
My husband bought a ultrabook = Samsung as it has very good reviews. He has had it now for 9 months and has absolutely no regrets. He travels a lot for business and it isn't much heavier than an ipad. That was a major thing for us as he already packs around enough stuff, doesn't need the extra weight. It has a great memory - no issues at all with it and basically it is used many hours per day every day with our business.
ReplyDeleteWhat model is the one that he has...?
DeleteI just purchased the new MacBook Air (I know you're not an Apple user) because I didn't want to lug my MacBook Pro on my next trip. This new Air weighs in at 2 pounds, has a 13-inch screen and I'm falling in love with it. I've been a 'since the beginning' Apple user, other than at work, and particularly love the interface between my devices. I'm not even using my iPad anymore; it seems heavier than the Air and with an iPhone to carry in my purse, I can check anything I've sent to iCloud.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the deals to be found are in the US; have you looked into ebay or craigslist yet. I'm thinking of selling my MacBook Pro if I don't give it to a family member.
A word of caution: I'm not sure what the support is for Windows 7, if it's needed.
Your new MacBook Air sounds like a great laptop. However I have absolutely no interest in buying what I consider to be an overpriced Apple product. I know they're good...but I simply can't justify the price. Also not the least bit worried about support for Windows 7. Ruth is still using XP and it works perfectly.
DeleteBy the way, we also run both of our PC laptops (one Vista, and the other XP) without any any type of anti-virus program and have been for almost five years. How many viruses have we had? Zero. Antivirus programs have got to be the biggest scam going.
Completely agree about third party antivirus (and firewalls). It really should be up to the OS to defend against any and all vulnerabilities. That's why I was glad to see MS finally stepping up to plate and incorporating them in XP and later.
DeleteGood luck with finding the laptop of your dreams. I know you will find what's best for you.
ReplyDeleteSft x
http://349sfttoseetheworldchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/
Thanks SFT, not sure it will be the laptop of "our dreams" but I am sure it will be one that will suit our needs.
DeleteI haver a 13 inch, but it is a Macbook Pro and really love it. No viruses and it just does everything I want. A bit more money but the support is great and lots of cool features.
ReplyDeleteGood luck find a good deal, I do know they are out there.
Glad you are happy with your Macbook Pro but as we mentioned, we will not be purchasing anything from Apple. This HP computer of Kevin's has really served us well over the last 7 years and we have never had a problem with viruses so we really don't see a need to spend that extra money on an Apple product. I am pretty sure we will get a deal on whatever he decides to go with because we won't purchase it otherwise.
DeleteHow about a nice netbook and then a 1T extension drive. I just bought the extension drive and it is the size of an Iphone, light weight and cost $69. My Toshiba is a 17" but it has everything and I paid $279. I need a big screen.
ReplyDeleteI believe that he has been looking at netbooks because I have one and haven't had a problem with mine, Not sure that we need the 1T extension drive but it is worth considering at some point. Thanks for the ideas Chris.
DeleteWith your track record on bargains, I wouldn't be surprised if you find someplace to pay you to take a new laptop! ;c)
ReplyDeleteThat would be a bonus if we could find a company to do that, do you know of any?! :-p
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