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my next computer

October 24th, 2007 | tech

Even though my good ole’ Compaq runs fine on some days, when it comes down to it, I need a new computer. Ruled out right away were desktops…I like the ability of taking my computer to a different room or on trips from time to time.

For awhile I considered making the switch to Apple via either a MacBook or MacBook Pro. Now there are a few reasons I’m leaning against Apple. For one: internet browsers. Apple doesn’t have IE, which is the browser I usually use. I also use Firefox, Safari, and on occasion Netscape, and when I can get it to work, Opera. If getting an Apple, Safari and Firefox would be my browsers. I like Firefox, except my current computer has trouble running it sometimes, which is why I tend to stick with IE. I like the looks of Safari, but there are a couple small things that bug me. One example: when you click in the address bar the current address doesn’t highlight which would allow you to just type new address in without deleting the old one first. With Safari, I must click and drag over the address to highlight the whole thing, then type the new one in. Small issue? Yes. Picky? Yes. Another bothersome thing: it takes forever to load java based games while IE and firefox load quickly…is that Safari, or just the windows version of Safari?

The other thing about Apple is I’m a sucker for Microsoft Office stuff. These days I’m not sure what Apple has that compares with office programs…maybe they have a full Apple version…I dunno. And yes it’s true, I don’t use Office programs very frequently. But I compare it to this: I don’t ride skateboard very often anymore, but I’d still feel naked if I didn’t own one.

There are currently two computers I’m debating between, both made by Dell. First is the Dell XPS M1330. It’s small, fairly light, available with a great looking LED screen. Being an XPS it has it’s own dedicated Dell support team. It has a full size keyboard and slot CD/DVD drive. To be honest, the only thing I’m worried about is that it only has 2 USB ports in poor locations…one on each side.

The other computer is the Inspiron 1520. Many of the features are the same. It may have a slightly worse screen, but in trade off has 4 USB ports…two on the near the back right side and two in the back…better locations than the M1330. The problems with it: it’s over an inch wider than my current laptop. The other problem, it’s not one of the exclusive XPS series computers, but rather one from the general, much advertised Inspiron series. booo.

One more factor…price. Equally equipped the 1520 is roughly $500 cheaper than the M1330. The 1550 has a 256 video card available while the best only video card for the M1330 is 128. After reading reviews I’m not too worried bout that though, given that the M1330 doesn’t need the bigger card due to its smaller screen.

All in all I guess I must decide what’s more important…2 extra USB ports or a smaller overall size. And if having a “cool” looking laptop is worth an extra $500. Ugh, I hate decisions.

1 Comment

  1. matches
    October 26th, 2007 at 2:34 pm

    I have not used the Windows version of Safari. But I do know that you can double or triple click on the address to highlight the whole thing. Not as fast as an instant highlight, but I don’t mind it because I’m used to it.

    There is a full version of Microsoft Office available for the Mac. Depending on what particular programs you use, you might also take a look at iWork; it’s Apple’s answer to Office. They now have counterparts to Word (Pages), Excel (Numbers), and Powerpoint (Keynote), and you can import your Office documents as well.

    Additionally, you can take a look at Parallels or VMWare’s Fusion. Both let you install a copy of Windows within your Mac environment, which means you can continue to run your Windows copy of Office (and other software) in the instances you may need it.

    I’m obviously biased, but I love the Mac. I think there’s just a higher standard in both design and quality that I don’t feel Dell or Windows can match. It’s definitely a leap to switch, but I would almost guarantee it will provide a better experience in a the long run.

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