How much should a laptop like this cost

[heavyiron8]

I'm not too much of a computer hardware expert. I'm currently a computer science student in college. Basically I need a laptop that cost as cheap as possible that will let me compile and run programs using IDEs such as BlueJ or JCreator, check email, have an office system (word, excel, ppt), browse internet. Just basic PC usage. No hardcore gaming or HD movies ...etc. I want to get the smallest, lightest, and cheapest, 4+ hours of battery with a decent to fast speed doing all of those that I mentioned. What will I be looking at? Thanks in advance!

 

[Harvey]

If you can use a laptop with a 15.6" screen, starting Sunday, Staples will be offering this HP G6-1B50US for $350 after $50 easy rebate. The full specs are on [URL="http://www.staples.com/HP-g6-1b60us-15.6-Laptop/product_332976"]their current product page[/URL], where it's listed for $50 more.

Staples and Office Depot have been offering various versions of this machine above, at and below $400 for weeks with various combinations of 3 - 4 GB RAM and a 320 - 500 GB HD. This one is loaded with the max configuration I've seen, which includes 4 GB RAM and a 500 GB HD. All include LED backlit screen, wireless-n and a built in webcam. The specs for battery life appear to meet your requirements.

I've seen these machines because I recommended several of them to friends when they were at the lower price point, and all who bought them have loved them.

FYI, I figure almost all entry level laptops are built in the same three or four Asian factories, and, once you're past the specific hardware and model variations, the biggest difference between machines with the same hardware is the service you get when you need it. The main reason I've been recommending HP and Compaq laptops is because they're NOT Gateway. I own a Compaq laptop, and when I've needed help for me or when I'm helping any of my friends, the first thing HP' support people ask is how they can help you. The first thing Gateway's people ask is what they can sell you, such as an extended warranty, even with brand new, in warranty machines.

Another reason I recommend this machine is that Staples is almost everywhere so there's probably one close to you. If you want to make sure you get one at this price, DON'T WAIT. Go there first thing Sunday morning. Better yet, since it's a current item, go to Staples, today, and ask if they'll let you reserve one for purchase on Sunday. If not, buy it for $50 more, and go back Sunday to ask them to price match it to the lower price.

Hope that helps.

 

[podspi]

It's weird because I also really like HP/Compaq as well, which surprise a lot of people. I've always had fantastic luck with their machines and service. Statistically they are one of the worst brands (reliability-wise), but none of those studies control for consumer makeup and behavior (people are more likely to be reckless with cheaper hardware, college kids are more likely to purchase cheap laptops and more likely to destroy laptops).

I've actually also had good luck with Gateway, but sadly that was before they were purchased by Acer and turned into a nameplate brand.