Computer Question for the pros...?

Question

I am a freelance graphic designer in the market for a new laptop. This is my situation:

I cannot afford a mac. I want one BAD, but can't spend what I don't have. My budget is around $1100.

I am looking for a good laptop with a 17" screen, enough RAM and a good processor to handle multiple files (biggest being 200 mb)in multiple programs simultaneously. I use Adobe Suites CS2 more than anything else on my computer and I usually have photoshop, illustrator and indesign open all the time with a file or two files open in each.

I need advice on what kind of laptop to get. Enough RAM, good processor, and EXCELLENT Graphics card.

Any insight is appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Joe

Thank you all for you help. I don't know who's answer is best, so I'll leave it up to the people to vote. Thanks again!

Answer 1

Have you looked at Apple refurbished?
"Apple Certified Refurbished products are pre-owned Apple products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process prior to being offered for sale. All Apple Certified Refurbished products are covered by Apple's One-Year Limited Warranty. For extended coverage, you have the option of purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan with your Apple Certified Refurbished product. "

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/6524002/wo/FPtZDh426ATB2FRqjjQ1MHv1skc/1.0.0.21.1.0.8.7.1.0.1.1

Answer 2

You do not need a "monster" of computer to work with CS2.
Look for any core 2 duo with 2 gb of ram. this is the best processor on the market at this time.
Any laptop with these specs will have a nice video card.
Try to get something that does not say "shared video memory" and you will be fine.
that means it has a dedicated video card.
anyway i think $1100 could be a little low for such a machine with a 17 inch monitor.

Look on Dell's, HP's Compaq ... may be a toshiba. Avoid Acer ..

good luck

Answer 3

If all the programs you mentioned are Windows, they won't run on a Mac natively.

Stick with a Windows (not Vista) laptop. Acer has some great buys on the Source / Radio Shack site. The one with the AMD 64 processor is a great buy at $800 Canadian.

I bought an Acer laptop (XP) last year and it has been great. Mine has a 15.4" wide screen, 1280X800 pixels, and it feels bigger than a 17" CRT display.

17" laptops are likely our of your price range.

Answer 4

Your budget is going to limit you. You wouldn't think it but Walmart has a good laptop. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5585518
Acer has consistently produced very good laptops. This is 17" with a fast processor, large drive and a GB of memory, shared. AMD Turion. It should do the job.

Answer 5

Toshiba Satellite series

Answer 6

you can get better price for desktop computer..
(much better)

or you can buy second hand laptop..

Answer 7

Toshiba has all you are looking for!