Need Input on Dell Laptop before I buy Today

[Fun Guy]

I'm buying a Dell 600M and the incentive expires today. Please help me with a couple of questions.

The available displays are 14.1" @ 1024x768, and 14.1" @ 1400x1050.

Q1: Is the 1400x1050 too small to see on a 14.1" display?

Also, the difference between 1-Year Mail-In Service only, and 2 Years of On-Site + Complete Care (dropping, spilling, electrical surge, etc) is almost $250.

Q2: Is the difference worth it do you think?

 

[Matthias99]

1) My gf's 600M has the 1024x768 display, and it's definitely "big". I don't think 1400x1050 would be too small, although it's a matter of taste.

2) IMHO, yes (at least the CompleteCare package). You should always get accidental damage coverage with a laptop if you can afford it. I think onsite service is a waste, since I can do part replacements and upgrades myself -- but for someone without any technical skills, it's probably worth it.

 

[imported_dualblade]

i'm going against the tide here but i really like my 600m with the 1024x768 display. i had an older dell with a 15" 1600x1200 and at the time i thought it was good. after using my current machine, i'm really a fan of lower resolutions as they're much easier on the eyes. i use 1024x768 on my 19" at home as well so take that as you will. it's not that i have bad eyesight - i actually have excellent eyesight but just don't like looking at small text.

 

[3chordcharlie]

1400 should be okay - you should make a trip to a computer store and try some out though, it's really not a decision you can 'rethink' later.

 

[imported_raybay]

You aren't ready to buy. With Dell, there is always a better deal later either a better price or a better set of components. It is all programmed in. Wait until you read the Dell catalog they will send you. They discuss the monitors. They have a list you should go through to be sure you get the correct components. This is a good machine, but there are many configuration decisions to make.

 

[Eug]

IMO, 1400x1050 makes everything too small, and 1024x768 makes everything too big, on a 14" screen.

Both are OK, but I'd prefer a resolution in between for a 14" screen.

The best thing you can do is go to a store and try out some of those screens.

 

[Fun Guy]

Well, for someone who wasn't ready to buy, I did okay....I ordered the machine today.

Went to CompUSA and saw 1400x1050 on a 14" screen - yuck. WAY too small. I went with 1024x768. Had I been able to go with a 15" screen, however, 1400x1050 would have worked out. I saw a 15" with that resolution and it was fine.

I managed to get 1 YR with Complete Care and that was all I wanted and needed. Worked out fine.

Thanks for all your help.