Computers & Networking

[LazyFlutist]

I've been looking around for laptops this past month, and with the new models out, it was hard to choose my top four! I don't really know what I will buy yet, so I'm here for some help between different brands. I've narrowed it down to:

Toshiba L505-S6946

Asus K50IJ-RX05

HP dv4-1225dx

Asus U81A-RBBDRD05 (Even though it is backordered)

Because they have the specifications I'm looking for (and in my budget), I don't really know what brand is better or more reliable. I don't want to buy the wrong laptop and regret my decision. I've owned HP desktops and they've been great, but I've heard otherwise for laptops. Can anyone help me?

[LazyFlutist]

Also, I guess this is another question I'm wondering about: What processor is better? I know AMD heats up after a while, but I'm stumped about the Intel. There's Intel Centrino and Intel Pentium, but I have no idea what is better! Can someone help me there, too?

[Kid101]

I think that you should go with Toshiba L505-S6946 or HP dv4-1225dx. Either one could last

long and they have the best specs. Out of the two, I might go with Toshiba L505-S6946.

[Falco]

Processor wise, AMD do get a little hot but they aren't bad for most people's use so don't let that deter you.  The Pentium would be like a step down from the AMD Turion and the Core 2 would be like a step up form the AMD Turion.  Centrino is basically just a cool way of saying the the Core processor has a battery saving mode in it.

[Drew-Intel]

hey flutist. welcome to the forums.

of the models that you're considering, i'd recommend focusing on the toshiba L505-S6946. the notebook features intel centrino processor technology, and this will be helpful for you at school for a couple strong reasons.

first, the core 2 duo processor will give you great performance for whatever application you may be using, and it has superb multitaslking power for keeping your computer fast while you have multiple programs running (which, if you're like me, includes mozilla firefox, microsoft word, apple itunes, and google picasa).

second, the centrino platform is designed to manage battery life to keep you cable-free for long periods of time. in my experience, having a notebook with good battery life at school was extremely helpful. i could casually find a seat anywhere in a lecture hall while a good number of fellow classmates with notebooks would be in a mad dash to grab the seats near AC outlets so that they could make it through class.

if you're interested in reading a bit more about centrino technology, check out the intel centrino page: http://bit.ly/2Uzn9G

[Nokia]

Actually, Centrino means a bundle of components. It's a combination of the processor, wireless card, and chipset. It does indeed deliver better battery life, but that is just one of the advantages.