Ok, I need a laptop. My desktop is shot and I'm getting ready to move out and start college. I need a good laptop that will last me a long time. I really like the macbooks and they seem like better computers all around. However, all my games are pc and I've never really had any problems with my dad's dell laptop. I'm not sure which I should get, so your input would be greatly appreciated.

xphelper

Some college courses require the use of specifc software that may/may not run on a MAC so I would get a "green light" from the college before purchasing one. In fact, my nephew enrolled in a college recently and they provided him with specifc (minimum) requirements for a laptop.

Sitwonade

If you buy a MacBook you can run both OS X and Windows XP on it at the same time so it will still be able to play all your games and run your Windows apps.
Apple - Mac OS X Leopard - Features - Boot Camp

ScottGem

As noted the new MACs use an Intel chip so can run Windows and Mac OS in a dual boot setting.

BUT Macs are much more pricey, plus the extra expense of buying a copy of Windows.

I disagree that MACs are overall better than Windows based machines. They do have some advantages, but at a cost.

You should check with your school. The school bookstore often has PCs at discounts for students.

kp2171

completely agree to talk to the school to see if they have special deals.

you can most likely get some great savings on software... and often some price breaks on systems.

btw, what is your major or general area of interest?

templelane

Depends what course you do, whether you want something to write essays on or if you are going into a more technical course.

I really regret not getting a mac for what I do now. All the freeware is written for Unix and Linux machines and is difficult/ impossible to run on a PC.

I agree with check with the college, but also check with other students. The 'party line' isn't always the best.

Also check whether the institution has any cheap computer deals/ extra bursaries for buying a laptop. You'd be surprised what you can find if you go looking.

Mr_am

Close your eyes and go for MAC.

KeepItSimpleStupid

Macs can be purchased with the Windows operating system preloaded. No Mac OS.
You'll end up with one of the fastest PC's around. Tests have shown that Windows running on Mac hardware runs much faster.

Dual boot is apparently possible as well as emulation (Parallels). It might be difficult accessing files on the other OS partition with some configurations.

Support may be pricey.

Hardware is surpurb. Battery life will be a lot better. The Macbook Air, says up to 5 hours. Not the 1 hour I usually get on a PC.

ScottGem

You must have an older PC. I got 2-3 hours on my old Thinkpad T42 and my new T61 gives me over 5 hours on the extended battery. Most laptops made inthe last 2-3 years will give 2-3 hours on a 6 cell battery and double that on a 12 cell.

Curlyben

Even my "Beast" XPS M1710 lasts 3 hours on battery.
The Air, while pretty, is lacking in alot of the most basic connectivity and data storage.
NO DVD drive or ethernet.
Now if you are looking for an Ultra light then the new Toshiba R500 is awesome.
Toshiba Portégé R500 slimline laptop | Register Hardware