In market for new laptop... advice?

[ip]

I'm starting to look at my first laptop. I will need it to run some pretty heavy graphics software (CT scans) but I definitely want a light-weight system that isn't a pain to lug around. I would need a DVD/CD-RW drive and I'd like wireless internet ability for airports, etc.

I also have a desktop so this will not be my main computer.

Any tips on which make/model to check out or avoid? Any thoughts on Best Buy's VPR Matrix systems?

TIA.

 

[ScrapSilicon]

IBM for the following reasons...

I will need it to run some pretty heavy graphics software (CT scans) but I definitely want a light-weight system that isn't a pain to lug around.

 

[YahoKa]

Well if you can afford the premium for a super-portable, you could look at high end IBM's or Dells. If you don't want to spend a few arms and a legs on your laptop, try a sager (but not as light! Especially the ultra high end one anandtech just reviewed!)

Look at http://www.sagerforums.com for more info....

 

[OldSpooky]

The VPR Matrix is nice, but it has a mushy keyboard and the bottom gets super hot. If you can wait til March, the new Intel Centrino platform will be out, and with it a whole ton of slimmer notebooks that run fast and cool.

 

[DSTA]

Well, if there's no "windows only" software involved, I'd say 12" Apple Powerbook G4 (or even an iBook). Hard to beat the Apple prices for super portables...

 

[Darien]

Originally posted by: DSTA
Well, if there's no "windows only" software involved, I'd say 12" Apple Powerbook G4 (or even an iBook). Hard to beat the Apple prices for super portables...

I'm going to have to agree with this one.



I'd go IBM or Apple. Personally, Apple

 

[ip]

Originally posted by: OldSpooky
The VPR Matrix is nice, but it has a mushy keyboard and the bottom gets super hot. If you can wait til March, the new Intel Centrino platform will be out, and with it a whole ton of slimmer notebooks that run fast and cool.

Yes, actually I can wait until March. What is the scoop with the Centrino? Will it blow my budget of up to $2500 *MAX*?

I'd consider an Apple but I'm not sure I want to start fussing with different OS's, considering my desktop is XP and I'll probably want a wireless network.

Thanks for the tips guys.

 

[DSTA]

I'd consider an Apple but I'm not sure I want to start fussing with different OS's, considering my desktop is XP and I'll probably want a wireless network.

Not to talk you into anything, but the networking between OS X and XP should be no problem. If you don't want to deal with using (and getting used to) different OSes, I'd agree that waiting for Banias is a good idea (if only to pick up some trusty P3 mobile hardware that might be going cheap due to being phased out).