what is better a laptop or a computer?and what are some good brands?

Question

i will only use it for reports and just surfing the web. but still which is bette to have.oh and something with vista.

Answer 1

both desktops & laptops can run vista, but if depends on how it will connect to the net. Naturally, laptops have all networking built in, ethernet and a modem, and you have the advantage of it being portable. You may get scared off from a laptop because they usually have lower processor stats, but laptops (centrino) manage their cpu power more efficently then the brute-force of a desktop.

Answer 2

All depends on what you want to do with the computer. If you don't need it to be portable, and if space isn't an issue a PC is usually always a better value for the money and they are cheaper and easier to upgrade later on. Dell is a pretty good computer if you are going with a laptop, or a PC. I use Dells at home and at work. The nice thing about Dell, or Gateway is that you can order them with the features that are most important to you, and usually with the software that you need. Beware that unless you order it as an extra most of the computers only come with trial versions of Microsoft Office. If you go with Dell don't be taken in with the offer of a "so-called" free printer. If they will give you a discount for not taking one of their printers with the computer you are better off buying a HP printer. With the Dell printers you have to go back to them for the ink.

Answer 3

As a long-time typist, I find a desktop computer to be right for me. I have a laptop - but it is "my toy." Typing on it is a pain.

I have seen where they are now coming out with what looks like a laptop, with an additional stand-alone keyboard and mouse, and a stand to hold the laptop. It is pricey, but serves both purposes.

As for brand, you can get a lemon at any time. I'd go with a reputable dealer who offers good support. Based on my experience, I'd go with Dell and/or HP.

You might want to think about Vista. If you have previously had experience with Windows, it will take a little relearning. Vista came with my laptop. It takes a few minutes to find where things have been moved. Microsoft is supporting WinXP (non-technical) for another 5 years, but if you want some information on Vista -- be my guest.

MS Vista – Pros and Cons
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=272182


AIM
http://www.aim.com/help_faq/starting_out/getstarted.adp?aolp=

Examine the various versions of Vista
Source: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/editions/default.mspx

Can your computer be upgraded to Vista?

Whether your PC can be updated depends on when you purchased your computer.
Here are some general rules of thumb to get you started.
If your PC was purchased between Oct. 26, 2006 and Mar. 15, 2007 then you are eligible for the FREE Express Upgrade to Windows Vista.**
If your PC isn't "Windows Vista Capable*" use the Microsoft Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor to get a recommendation for the edition of Windows Vista that is right for you.
If your PC is more than 1 year old - check first with the Microsoft Windows Vista Advisor Tool.
The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor will help you to determine if your Windows XP-based PC can run Windows Vista.

Microsoft Windows Vista Advisor Tool
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/buyorupgrade/upgradeadvisor.mspx

Link to Vista versions and their capabilities: http://hpshopping.edgesuite.net/www.shopping.hp.com/shopping/html/popup/vista_features.html?aoid=39158


Compatibility with older programs

There is no trouble loading earlier versions of MS Office such as Office 2003 on computers running the Vista operating system.

On the downside, there are vexing compatibility issues because Microsoft added so many bells and whistles to Office 2007 that they can be contained only in a new file type such as .docx in Word.

Unfortunately, .docx files cannot be read by the earlier versions of Office, so Microsoft offers a compatibility pack that can be downloaded to let Office 2000/XP/2003 view Office 2007 documents but with a number of features of 2007 absent.

Go to www.support.microsoft.com and use the search term “Office 2007 compatibility.”

Source: jcoates@ tribune.com (a writer for the Chicago Tribune)

Answer 4

Laptop by far. It is portable, takes up a small amount of space and has no wires to connect. Top two selling brands are Dell and HP. They all come with Vista now. Check with Dell and HP for configurations. I recommend 2GBs of RAM and a dedicated Vid card. Intel core 2 duo is the top CPU.

Answer 5

A laptop is a computer, but I think you mean a desktop when you say computer. A laptop is better than a desktop because it's portable and convenient. I would highly recommend a Toshiba Satellite M65-S9092.

Answer 6

I personally like Laptops better, and I would recommend you going with an HP. They are really good computers.

Answer 7

IT DEPENDS IF YOU WANT MOBILITY, OR NOT. THEY MAKE CHEAP LAPTOPS THAT ARE EXTREMELY GOOD, AS WELL AS DESKTOPS. I WOULD GO FOR A LAPTOP PERSONALLY.