[ale] [Slightly OT] Laptop Recommendations/Warnings

[jdp at algoloma.com (JD)]

On 05/12/2011 07:27 PM, David Tomaschik wrote:
> All,
> 
> I'm beginning to think about my next laptop -- my 2007-era System76 is
> down to under 1 hour battery life, and the screen occasionally
> flickers.  Ideally, I'm hoping to get away at the ~$700 price point,
> but it's looking like that's impossible for what I'm looking for.  My
> desires are:
> 
> - Battery life for conferences (6+ hours would be ideal, 4+ is a must)
> - 4GB+ RAM
> - Full size keyboard
> - 13-15" screen
> - HDMI/VGA out
> - Core i3/i5
> - eSATA would be nice, but not a must
> 
> Recommendations or models/brands to avoid are appreciated.
> 

I have ZERO idea about battery life, but Dell has 38% off coupons for
new systems sometimes.

XPS 15
Latitude E5540
Inspiron 1558
HP Envy, but I never found it for less than $1200 after all the coupons.

Get the 9 cell battery, but I doubt you'll get 5 hours.

Anyway, after you find the model and config you like, start watching
slickdeals for that 38% off coupon. It comes up about every 4 months.