The sub £400 laptop Bargain Thread....

[Paul]

That Vostro is now £411 + anything else as cheap?

No it's not....


Total excl. VAT VAT Rate Total incl. VAT
Sub-total £249.00 17.50 % £292.58
Total Delivery Charge £51.06 17.50 % £60.00
Delivery Charge Discount -£51.06 17.50 % -£60.00
View Details View Details
Total Price £249.00 £292.58


£292.58 inc delivery and Vat....

[powder]

You have to go to small business - then go to shop by evalue code and enter 101-N0615108

[powder]

If you get the Home Basic version of Vista, then want to in place upgrade later anybody know how much it costs?

[compa]

I went thr'o the configuration pages and selected XP Pro and it added a further £50 Xp is installed and they provide a upgrade to Vista home the crafty people used to provide Vista installed and a downgrade to XP for £10 I think.

I Got on the phone and they knocked £20 off Total £339 delivered.

Also took the option off having the 2Gb ram in one slot rather than 2x1Gb 2 slots
so as it can be upgraded easier.

[Just]

Any thoughts on this Asus - looks like a really good spec for the money;

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139075

[shy1807]

Any thoughts on this Asus - looks like a really good spec for the money;

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139075

It sure does!!! Anyone care to comment?

[Nom]

Any thoughts on this Asus - looks like a really good spec for the money;

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139075
That's an AWESOME deal !

It meets the sub-£400 criteria (Dual Core and 2GB) - but with a whole host of free extras :

2 Year Warranty, HDMI, eSATA, 17" Screen, 250GB Drive

Only two caveats - the video card is no good for gaming, and the size and weight make it a deskbound machine. If that's what you need, you won't find better for the price.

[Just]

Only two caveats - the video card is no good for gaming

What about for SD video editing - would that be an issue?

[1966]

Just a quick resurrection of this thread. The Dell (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3) small business section has a cracking laptop for £292.58 delivered. The code is N0615108. Please be aware that ordering from this section could effect your consumer rights.

Vostro 1510
Intel® Core 2 Duo Processor T5670 (1.8 GHz, 2 MB L2 Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
Genuine Windows® Vista Home Basic with Service Pack 1 - English
2048MB (2x1024) 667MHz DDR2 Dual Channel
Intel Integrated Graphics Media Accelerator X3100
160GB (5400rpm) SATA Hard Drive


This is now £263.32 delivered with the BG1D23XVTRVZ14 voucher, which seems a great price, though is a pain for me as mine is being delivered today at the higher price!

[carlito8]

This is now £263.32 delivered with the BG1D23XVTRVZ14 voucher, which seems a great price, though is a pain for me as mine is being delivered today at the higher price!

It's an excellent price, can't understand why more people haven't commented in here, I'm going to go for one later this afternoon with Vista Home Premium :)

[Art Vanderlay]

My parents are going to go for one of those Vostros too - excellent spec for the price

[Samiad]

Missed the 10% code but ordered anyway - can someone tell me if a small business user can reject the EULA of the Vista license to recoup some costs?

[Nom]

What about for SD video editing - would that be an issue?
You don't need any special video card requirements for video editing or photographic work - even the most basic of today's onboard graphics will suit you just fine :thumbs:

[tredders]

The Vostro I ordered for my folks arrived yesterday - I only ordered it on Saturday and it was a special build (I added extra ram etc). Great service.

It's a really nice laptop, too. Screen is excellent, and it feels like a well put together machine.

Thanks to the original poster :thumbs:

Mark.

[KennyVader]

Just had a play with my Vostro 1510 ordered on the 10% off deal on Friday ... seriously impressed for the money. fab screen on it (I went for the highest resolution WUXGA or whatever they call it), also like how light and thin it is. Love the way the slot-load DVD drive grabs the discs :)

[Samiad]

Got the Vostro 1510 that I ordered on 16th - but it's one of the affected models (well, I only heard about this problem after searching the web) that has the entire bottom row of keys misaligned (e.g. the 'V' key registers a 'C' input!).

Have contacted Dell to see how they will fix it - anyone else unlucky like me?

Other than that I am massively impressed with the laptop for the price.

[powder]

I got affected by this with one I bought for a client. Probably did the same as you, started typing and thought that can't be right so googled the model number and found they'd made a right ballsup on this model.

They'll offer to send you the bits to fix it along with the bios update, but you can choose to have an engineer come out instead

[Art Vanderlay]

There is a thread about the Vostro keyboard issue over in the Computing forum

http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=511435

[Bravoman]

Looking to buy a laptop for my daughter to use in Uni this year. Seen this at Play (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=2&url=http://www.play.com/PC/PCs/4-/3477734/Acer-Aspire-7520-Turion-64-TK55-1-8GHz-1GB-80GB-17-WXGA+-DVD-SM-Vista-Home-Premium-Laptop-Notebook/Product.html) Does this seem good value/spec etc and advise on best place to upgrade the memory please :thumbs:

[Bravoman]

Just had a look at the Dell Site (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3) And the Vostro small business PC's look like good value, would they be better than the Acer in my earlier post?

Thanks

[Zub]

Looking to buy a laptop for my daughter to use in Uni this year. Seen this at Play (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=2&url=http://www.play.com/PC/PCs/4-/3477734/Acer-Aspire-7520-Turion-64-TK55-1-8GHz-1GB-80GB-17-WXGA+-DVD-SM-Vista-Home-Premium-Laptop-Notebook/Product.html) Does this seem good value/spec etc and advise on best place to upgrade the memory please :thumbs:

Does she need the 17" screen? Not very portable if planning to take to lectures etc.

[Nom]

Looking to buy a laptop for my daughter to use in Uni this year. Seen this at Play (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=2&url=http://www.play.com/PC/PCs/4-/3477734/Acer-Aspire-7520-Turion-64-TK55-1-8GHz-1GB-80GB-17-WXGA+-DVD-SM-Vista-Home-Premium-Laptop-Notebook/Product.html) Does this seem good value/spec etc and advise on best place to upgrade the memory please :thumbs:
It's a good price - but being a 17" model it will be ginormous and heavy. No good if she wants to carry it to lectures !
But obviously if it's just going to live on a desk, then a larger screen is better.

Memory upgrades should always come from Crucial (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=38) - they're guaranteed compatible, and come with a no-quibble lifetime warranty.

Morgan (Direct Link (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=64&url=http://www.morgancomputers.co.uk/shop/detail.asp?ProductID=4184&CategoryID=11&SubCategoryID=364) is a great price for a high-spec 17" machine (Core2Duo, nVidia 7600). Don't worry about the "factory reconditioned" status - they're as good as new. I think they are actually 2GB machines - but if it really does come with 1GB, then an extra stick is £15.26 from Crucial (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=38&url=http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/partspecs.aspx?IMODULE=CT12864AA53E)

[Nom]

It doesn't quite make it under the £400 limit - but Morgan Computers (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=64) have a 12" Toshiba Tablet in at the moment - Morgan (Direct Link) (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=64&url=http://www.morgancomputers.co.uk/shop/detail.asp?ProductID=4825&CategoryID=11&SubCategoryID=363) - for a mere £430 ! Again, don't worry about the "factory rework" - they're as good as new. You'll need a memory upgrade to go with it, for £31 from Crucial (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=38&url=http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/partspecs.aspx?IMODULE=CT25664AC667)

[Bravoman]

Thanks for the replies. I hadn't thought of the weight factor with the 17" monitor. Good point! Will look for a smaller option. Think the Vostro is my favourite. Any other suggestions will be gratefully received...

[Bravoman]

How about this one from Novatech (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=285&url=http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/specpage.html?NNB-656&v=1)

[Just]

I got the Vostro 1510 during the 10% plus sale price offer a few weeks back - awesome laptop! The screen is plenty big enough and very sharp. Vista Premium is great and the machine as a whole just flys. I have found nothing lacking on it yet.

[Bravoman]

I got the Vostro 1510 during the 10% plus sale price offer a few weeks back - awesome laptop! The screen is plenty big enough and very sharp. Vista Premium is great and the machine as a whole just flys. I have found nothing lacking on it yet.

Wish I had got one when the offer was on :thumbs:

[Just]

It will likely be back if you hold - seems Dell regularly have a sale item on all the time.

[KennyVader]

Wish I had got one when the offer was on :thumbs:

The free shipping on laptops over £299 (saves £60) is still on until 9 July though.

[Samiad]

I opted to replace the faulty Dell Vostro 1510 myself - almost broke the plastic tab at the top of the unit (with the cd player controls) as it really flexes when you pry it out. Thankfully it eventually popped out and the replacement keyboard is now in place.

Now I have a backup keyboard for any future button repairs :)

[Bravoman]

It will likely be back if you hold - seems Dell regularly have a sale item on all the time.

Thanks. I will keep an eye on them, don't need it until September anyway.

I looked at the free shipping offer but the VAT puts the machine up over £300 and there seems to be plenty of reasonable spec machines around for the £300 mark :thumbs:

[Nom]

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139076/show_product_overview

Core2Duo, 2GB, 160GB, 12", 1.9Kg, 2 Year Warranty, HDMI Output, Internal Webcam, £399 :thumbs:

[Bravoman]

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139076/show_product_overview

Core2Duo, 2GB, 160GB, 12", 1.9Kg, 2 Year Warranty, HDMI Output, Internal Webcam, £399 :thumbs:
Nice, but only a 12" display. How about this with an extra !gb of RAM http://www.ebuyer.com/product/143364# :thumbs:

[KennyVader]

Nice, but only a 12" display. How about this with an extra !gb of RAM http://www.ebuyer.com/product/143364# :thumbs:

celery processor

[Bravoman]

celery processor

Guess thats not good then :( Actually looking at the BP Bankrupt Laptop thread, seem to be some good ones there as long as they aren't too bashed around?

[Nom]

Nice, but only a 12" display...
Er, that's it's main selling point !

Smaller and lighter full-spec laptops normally cost plenty - but this one is almost the same cost as a fullsize.

[Bravoman]

Er, that's it's main selling point !



Not for me though, it's a present for my daughter, don't want to wreck her eyesight :lol: My girlfriend has a small laptop (13" I think) and it's an awful thing IMHO to use with such a small screen :(

[zenza]

Not for me though, it's a present for my daughter, don't want to wreck her eyesight :lol: My girlfriend has a small laptop (13" I think) and it's an awful thing IMHO to use with such a small screen :(

I would disagree. I have a Dell XPS 13' laptop and for me it is the perfect size for a laptop, not too big and not too small.

[Bravoman]

I would disagree. I have a Dell XPS 13' laptop and for me it is the perfect size for a laptop, not too big and not too small.

So size does matter then :lol::thumbs::lol:

[Jimlad]

anyone seen any good dell discount offers going?

[KennyVader]

I think there's a good chance of offers later this week as they sent out "quarter-end is coming" bargains-ahoy emails to corporate customers last week.

[stephen]

What are the latest deals? I've found this one:

Dabs.com (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=40&url=http://www.dabs.com/ProductView.aspx?Quicklinx=548F&CategorySelectedId=11105)

But I'm not sure about the celery processor. It will only be used for internet access and maintaing an itunes library.

[MR.COATES]

I was hunting around for a sub £300 laptop for my Mother-in-law and found this one:

Ei System 1201 @ Currys (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=5&url=http://www.currys.co.uk/martprd/store/cur_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1596413870.1218047323@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccgfadeekiijdhkcflgceggdhhmdgmh.0&page=Product&fm=1&sm=0&tm=0&sku=335068&category_oid=)

£279.99

# Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T2370
# (1.73 GHz, 533 MHz FSB, 1 MB Cache)
# Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium
# 1 GB Memory
# 120 GB Hard Drive
# 13.3" Screen
# DVD SuperMulti Drive
# 4 USB Connections
# Wireless Enabled

I was so impressed whilst setting it up for her that I popped out and got one for myself!

Seems a silly price. Have ordered an extra 1gb of RAM for the spare slot from Play.com (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=2&url=http://www.play.com/PC/PCs/4-/931259/Computer-Memory-1GB-PC5300-DDR2-667Mhz-200pin-SODIMM/Product.html) for £12.99

Ridiculous spec for less than £295 including the extra RAM.

[Nom]

What are the latest deals? I've found this one:

Dabs.com (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=40&url=http://www.dabs.com/ProductView.aspx?Quicklinx=548F&CategorySelectedId=11105)

But I'm not sure about the celery processor. It will only be used for internet access and maintaing an itunes library.
It's a false economy to buy a single-core processor machine today. Spend a couple of extra tens of pounds for something with a dual-core chip !

[richieuk]

Fujitsu Siemens 12" Esprimo Mobile U9200 Core 2 Duo T5450 £520 @ ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139124) with £150 cashback from Fujitsu (http://www.fsccashback2you.co.uk/)

[KennyVader]

Looks like Dell have dropped their standard delivery charge from £60.00 to £15.00? That's what's coming up on all the quotes I've done today. Anyone else noticed that or know if it's a short or long term offer?

edit: may only be Vostro laptops? Not sure

[stephen]

Thanks Mr. Coates, that one looks much better. Has it got a DVD writer? I'm nore sure what supermulti means.

[Bravoman]

I was hunting around for a sub £300 laptop for my Mother-in-law and found this one:

Ei System 1201 @ Currys (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=5&url=http://www.currys.co.uk/martprd/store/cur_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1596413870.1218047323@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccgfadeekiijdhkcflgceggdhhmdgmh.0&page=Product&fm=1&sm=0&tm=0&sku=335068&category_oid=)

£279.99

# Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T2370
# (1.73 GHz, 533 MHz FSB, 1 MB Cache)
# Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium
# 1 GB Memory
# 120 GB Hard Drive
# 13.3" Screen
# DVD SuperMulti Drive
# 4 USB Connections
# Wireless Enabled

I was so impressed whilst setting it up for her that I popped out and got one for myself!

Seems a silly price. Have ordered an extra 1gb of RAM for the spare slot from Play.com (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=2&url=http://www.play.com/PC/PCs/4-/931259/Computer-Memory-1GB-PC5300-DDR2-667Mhz-200pin-SODIMM/Product.html) for £12.99

Ridiculous spec for less than £295 including the extra RAM.

My local Tesco had a similar spec machiine for about £278! And a
Dell (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3) for £339

[MaleStrom]

I notice that Bargain Crazy (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=31) have added a couple of half decent laptops to their website - note that they can be found under "new additions", and there are further ones under "computing" tabs.
The Toshiba L40 for £299 seems a bit of a bargain, and thought there was a no VAT discount code floating about somewhere on here?

Toshiba L40 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=31&url=http://www.bargaincrazy.com/epages/BargainCrazy.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BargainCrazy/Products/F040140N)
Satellite L40-14N
Part Number : PSL48E-01E008EN
Key Features: Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core Processor T2310
Genuine Windows® Vista® Home Premium Edition
DVD Super Multi (Double Layer) drive
1,024 (512 + 512) MB DDR2 RAM (667 MHz)
15.4 " WXGA TFT display 1,280 x 800 Processor
clock speed : 1.46 GHz
Front Side Bus : 533 MHz
2nd level cache : 1 MB
maximum expandability : 2,048 MB
technology : DDR2 RAM (667 MHz)
Hard disk capacity : 120 GB
certification : S.M.A.R.T.
DVD Super Multi drive (Double Layer) compatibility : CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-R(DL), DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R(DL), DVD+RW, DVD-RAM
maximum speed: Read: 24x CD-ROM, 8x DVD-ROM/ Write: 24x CD-R, 4x CD-RW, 10x HS CD-RW, 10x US CD-RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-R (Double Layer), 4x DVD-RW, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+R (Double Layer), 4x DVD+RW, 5x DVD-RAM
Display size: 15.4 "
type: WXGA TFT display
internal resolution: 1,280 x 800
Graphics adapter manufacturer : Intel®
type: Intel® GMA X3100
memory: up to 358 MB total available graphics memory with 2 GB system memory
memory type : shared
Max External Video Modes Max Resolution: 1,920 x 1,440
Max Refresh Rate: 85 Hz
Non-interlaced resolution with max refresh rate : 1,600 x 1,200 Interfaces: 1 x DC-in, 1 x external monitor, 1 x RJ-11, 1 x RJ-45, 1 x external microphone, 1 x headphone (stereo), 3 (Rear 2, Right 1) x USB 2.0
Expansion 2 x memory slots (1 to configure)
1 x ExpressCard slot
Wireless communication Compliancy: Wi-Fi®
Network Support: 802.11b/g
Wireless Technology: Wireless LAN
Wired communication topology: international V.92 modem
speed: 56 Kbps data and 14.4 Kbps fax
topology: Ethernet LAN
speed 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
Sound system supported audio format : 24-bit stereo
speakers: built-in stereo speakers
manufacturer: Toshiba Bass Enhanced Sound System
Physical dimensions: W x D x H : 365 x 269.5 x 36.8 mm
weight: starting at 2.80 kg
Bundled hardware: AC adaptor

[MR.COATES]

Thanks Mr. Coates, that one looks much better. Has it got a DVD writer? I'm nore sure what supermulti means.

Apparently yes (it prompted me to make my recovery DVD's anyway so I'd say that's a fairly big thumbs up).

Under 'My Computer' it says it's a DVD RW drive too.

[MR.COATES]

My local Tesco had a similar spec machiine for about £278! And a
Dell (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3) for £339
That's got Vista Basic and a Celery processor.

[stephen]

Do they have a recovery partition on thehard drive?If so how much is available in the main partition?

[MR.COATES]

It does on this one, (1.5gig)

[stephen]

She gone for the Ei systems 1201 and bought one today from PC World (it was the same price as that listed on the currys website) I'm pretty impressed with it and it's perfect for what she wants to do with it. I spent ages trying to get the wireless network adapter to work, until I realised that you just need to it switch on with the keyboard (Fn + F10)

[MR.COATES]

I spent ages trying to get the wireless network adapter to work, until I realised that you just need to it switch on with the keyboard (Fn + F10)

:lol: me too!

I'll let you know how I get on with the extra 1gig of RAM as I think it'll put the icing on the cake.

....or not....

UPDATE:

Turns out that my glimpse into the memory bay led up a stray path. At a glance it looks like there is a space/slot under the existing memory. However, it seems that the socket doesn't accommodate another card.

Sooo, the new one is on eBay and I've ordered a 2gig card to replace the installed 1gig one (which will also end up on eBay). Totally my fault but then it is the first time I've ever had a laptop so I'm putting it down to a newbie error....

[simonmac]

Bump, any cheapies out there at the moment?! Looking to get one as a Xmas present, doesnt need to be top spec as its only browsing/email/iTunes/MSN and a bit of Word, ideally sub £300?!

EDIT and not a Netbook, would like a 14/15" screen, is this too much of an ask?!

[dvdphile]

Bump, any cheapies out there at the moment?! Looking to get one as a Xmas present, doesnt need to be top spec as its only browsing/email/iTunes/MSN and a bit of Word, ideally sub £300?!

EDIT and not a Netbook, would like a 14/15" screen, is this too much of an ask?!

This looks quite good:

Tesco laptop (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79&url=http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-6256.aspx)

GAry

[rwniel]

Fujitsu Siemens Esprimo Mobile V5535 (Intel Celeron 570 2.26 GHz Processor, 1gb ram, 160gb hard drive, 15.4" screen, Vista Home Basic) £299.98 from Ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/150335).

Robert

[powder]

That Tesco laptop is a good deal for the £££s. 2.2Ghz Core2Duo, 2Gb RAm and 160Gb hard drive. So long as you don't want it for gaming or want a builtin webcam that's about as good as i think you will get for £350

Just a shame it comes with Vista ;)

[colinc]

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/149335

spec is excellent for the money

[Dear Mr Echo]

This looks quite good:

Tesco laptop (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79&url=http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-6256.aspx)

GAry

Cheers - have gone for one of these.

[Nom]

This looks quite good:

Tesco laptop (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79&url=http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-6256.aspx)

GAry
THat's a fairly good spec for the money - meets the DualCore/2GB/NotVistaBasic criteria :thumbs:

Fujitsu Siemens Esprimo Mobile V5535 (Intel Celeron 570 2.26 GHz Processor, 1gb ram, 160gb hard drive, 15.4" screen, Vista Home Basic) £299.98 from Ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/150335).
That's a terrible machine :) Single Core, 1GB, Vista Home Basic. Bleurgh.
There are any number of better machines for just a few pounds more !

[rwniel]

Yeah, there are obviously better value machines - you can see how they've kept the price down (Celeron processor for example). But if you're looking for laptop under £300 there isn't a lot of choice if you want a 15" screen model apart from perhaps reconditioned/second hand ones. It's otherwise worth spending a bit more if you can. :)

Robert

[Monkey_Boy]

Another good Tesco (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79&url=http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-2834.aspx) deal. I'm torn now between this one and the AMD one on Ebuyers site.

[newjohn]

Another good Tesco (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=79&url=http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.204-2834.aspx) deal. I'm torn now between this one and the AMD one on Ebuyers site.

The Tesco (HP60) is shown as out of stock but the Ebuyers product 149335 (HP6735s) looks good. Seems to have all the bells and whistles that my son wants, any advice most welcome.

[Nom]

The Tesco (HP60) is shown as out of stock but the Ebuyers product 149335 (HP6735s) looks good. Seems to have all the bells and whistles that my son wants, any advice most welcome.
It won't play games - if your son wants to do this, you'll need to spend somewhere around £500 for something with an ATI Radeon 3650 (or better), or a nVidia 8600/9600 (or better).

[rwniel]

I spoke too soon. :)

BargainCrazy (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=31&url=http://www.bargaincrazy.com/epages/BargainCrazy.sf/secyPk4oCqlK5o/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BargainCrazy/Products/F0180011/SubProducts/F018001101D) have the AcerAspire 5710. The specification is; Intel Core 2 Duo T5500 (1.66GHz) Processor, 1gb RAM, 80gb hard drive, 15.4" TFT Screen, Vista Home Premium. The normal price is £299.00, but with the current 10% discount code (WSAVE001BCP) it's £273.05 delivered.

The memory can be expanded very inexpensively (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=38&url=http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/listparts.aspx?model=Aspire%205710) (- an upgrade to 3gb for example would still mean it was under £300).

Robert

[Help]

I spoke too soon. :)

BargainCrazy (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=31&url=http://www.bargaincrazy.com/epages/BargainCrazy.sf/secyPk4oCqlK5o/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BargainCrazy/Products/F0180011/SubProducts/F018001101D) have the AcerAspire 5710. The specification is; Intel Core 2 Duo T5500 (1.66GHz) Processor, 1gb RAM, 80gb hard drive, 15.4" TFT Screen, Vista Home Premium. The normal price is £299.00, but with the current 10% discount code (WSAVE001BCP) it's £273.05 delivered.

The memory can be expanded very inexpensively (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=38&url=http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/listparts.aspx?model=Aspire%205710) (- an upgrade to 3gb for example would still mean it was under £300).

Robert

Is the shared graphics an issue? Not sure. Am on the lookout for a laptop for the first time.

[rwniel]

It depends what you're using it for really, plus your maximum budget - for 2d/non-gaming use it'll be fine. Budget models naturally have shared graphics as a way of keeping the cost down (- it does reduce the ram usable by the operating system and your applications - another reason why a memory upgrade is worthwhile). Obviously it doesn't have the fastest of processors, nor the biggest of hard disks but that's reflected in the price.

Robert

[Nom]

Is the shared graphics an issue? Not sure. Am on the lookout for a laptop for the first time.
The graphics are only an issue if you want to play modern games. For all other use, it doesn't matter one jot - any modern onboard video chip will cope just fine with whatever none-gaming you throw at it :thumbs:

[Help]

The graphics are only an issue if you want to play modern games. For all other use, it doesn't matter one jot - any modern onboard video chip will cope just fine with whatever none-gaming you throw at it :thumbs:

I have a couple of old games like Hidden And Dangerous 2 that I wouldn't mind playing -- do you think that would run OK?

GAME'S RECOMMENDED SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

OS:Windows 98se/2000/ME/XP
PROCESSOR:Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 2Ghz
MEMORY (RAM):512MB
HARD DRIVE SPACE: 2.4GB
CD / DVD DRIVE: 4x
GRAPHICS CARD:128 MB 100% Direct 3D and DirectX8 Compatible.

[Nom]

I have a couple of old games like Hidden And Dangerous 2 that I wouldn't mind playing...
If you want to play games, I'd recommend you get a machine with a proper video card.
Three years from now, if you want to play "a couple of old games", they'll probably be titles from today. And you'll be stuffed.

Laptop video is none-upgradeable - if there's any chance whatsoever that you'll ever need gaming powers, then don't skimp on them :thumbs:

DELL will do you a nice 17" "Studio"
Intel Core 2 Duo T5800 2.0 GHz Vista Home Premium 17" Widescreen WXGA+ CCFL (1440x900) TFT with TrueLife 3072MB 320GB 256MB ATI Mobility RADEON HD 3650 8x DVD+/-RW for £579 all inclusive - DELL code N1173503 http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&oc=N1173503 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3&url=http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&oc=N1173503)

Or this 17" Samsung looks pretty good for around the same cost - http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Samsung_R700_AS07_NP-R700-AS07UK/version.asp (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=354&url=http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Samsung_R700_AS07_NP-R700-AS07UK/version.asp)

Or they've got a 15" Acer for just £450 at Laptops Direct - http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page= (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=354&url=http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page=) - graphics not quite as good as the two 17" models above, but it's obviously cheaper and more portable.

[Monkey_Boy]

That last Acer is very tempting. Intel Core 2 Duo, lots of RAM, nice size hard disk + a decent'ish graphics card with dedicated memory rather than sharing the system memory.
£50 over budget but could be £50 well spent.

[Help]

If you want to play games, I'd recommend you get a machine with a proper video card.
Three years from now, if you want to play "a couple of old games", they'll probably be titles from today. And you'll be stuffed.

Laptop video is none-upgradeable - if there's any chance whatsoever that you'll ever need gaming powers, then don't skimp on them :thumbs:

DELL will do you a nice 17" "Studio"
Intel Core 2 Duo T5800 2.0 GHz Vista Home Premium 17" Widescreen WXGA+ CCFL (1440x900) TFT with TrueLife 3072MB 320GB 256MB ATI Mobility RADEON HD 3650 8x DVD+/-RW for £579 all inclusive - DELL code N1173503 http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&oc=N1173503 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=3&url=http://configure.euro.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&oc=N1173503)

Or this 17" Samsung looks pretty good for around the same cost - http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Samsung_R700_AS07_NP-R700-AS07UK/version.asp (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=354&url=http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/Samsung_R700_AS07_NP-R700-AS07UK/version.asp)

Or they've got a 15" Acer for just £450 at Laptops Direct - http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page= (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=354&url=http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page=) - graphics not quite as good as the two 17" models above, but it's obviously cheaper and more portable.

Thank you for your advice, Nom.

[LiviLion]

This direct from hp:



Intel® Pentium® dual core processor T3200
160GB HDD
3GB RAM

is £399 on their website.



Quite a good deal IMO. The screen resolution is 1366x768 which I think is quite good for this price range as well.

Not any good for games I imagine but for a bit internet and word it looks like a solid performer.

I also feel a bit safer buying HP as they've never let me down in the past.

[Rob_Baker]

Whats the model number, linky? (to HP site note the cashback site you must have put that got ***'d!)

[LiviLion]

Whats the model number, linky? (to HP site note the cashback site you must have put that got ***'d!)

HP G60-114EA Notebook PC

Doesn't seem to be a forums affiliate so here is a direct link:

http://h41306.www4.hp.com/section?SID=62ac6941d1549dec5c79f08d0e2e5073cd7:1223&secid=97192

[Philc]

Any good Dell's going for a good price. Parents are looking for one.

[rwniel]

what sort of spec are they looking for? any particular requirements? Under £400, you could have a look at the likes of e-value code 101-N1152504. It's one of the Inspiron 1525 models; the basic specification is Intel Core 2 Duo T5800 (2.0 GHz) processor, 2GB RAM, 250GB Hard Drive, 15.4" Screen (1280 x 800), Vista Home Premium.

Robert

[Philc]

Yes was looking at 1525 for 399 on Dell deals site with the same spec. The thing that annoys me is Vista, it might not them but I just don't see the point in it, XP Pro all the way or Linux.

[rwniel]

There's e-value code 101-N1152501 with Linux (Ubuntu version 8.04) which is £299 delivered. But the spec is quite a "downgrade"; Intel Celeron 550 (2.0 GHz), 1gb RAM, 120gb hard drive, 15.4" screen. Once you change the options to match the above Inspiron 1525 you get to £439. Taking into account the lower requirements for Linux, you may be able to tweak the options a bit.

Maybe you could get a refund from Dell on the unused Vista by declining the EULA and then install your own Linux OS. That's something I did in the past, although I didn't get much for it (£40 for Vista Business and Microsoft Works).

Robert

[Nom]

The thing that annoys me is Vista, it might not them but I just don't see the point in it, XP Pro all the way...
Eh ?

That's just ludicrous. Given a decent machine spec (2GB, Dual Core), you'd have absolutely nothing to gain from downgrading to XP - but you'd have a whole lot to lose. I'm not quite sure how you've managed to miss Vista's new features, but there's a handy reference here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technical_features_new_to_Windows_Vista

Bandwagons. Don't you just love em :|

[KennyVader]

Eh ?

That's just ludicrous. Given a decent machine spec (2GB, Dual Core), you'd have absolutely nothing to gain from downgrading to XP

/except for a reliable and predictable wireless network stack, a file explorer that works consistently and doesn't forget views or leave empty directories behind when moving, power management with simple options in obvious places, and a proper file association management dialogue. No, nothing to gain from "downgrading" to XP at all :nuts:

[Monkey_Boy]

..............Or they've got a 15" Acer for just £450 at Laptops Direct - http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page= (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=354&url=http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/asp/versions.asp?rewrite=Acer_Aspire_5920G_Laptop_LX.AQB0X.611&pagetype=version&page=) - graphics not quite as good as the two 17" models above, but it's obviously cheaper and more portable.

I went for this at the weekend. So far so good. Everything seems to work very well on it and the graphics card has delt perfectly with every game I've thrown at it so far.
V.happy for the money.

[cmgarrod]

Any cracking deals about?

[Dogbreath]

Eh ?

That's just ludicrous. Given a decent machine spec (2GB, Dual Core), you'd have absolutely nothing to gain from downgrading to XP

Don't forget that there are still legacy applications in use that have problems running under Vista. Personally I hate the user interface, and after a few months of hating it on my laptop I loaded XP on and productivity (and laptop performance) was back to normal levels. I still can't believe they though it was a good idea to remove the UP button from Explorer.

Anyway I agree with Phil, XP or Linux over Vista any day of the week.

[statto]

Don't forget that there are still legacy applications in use that have problems running under Vista.

Not just legacy apps, legacy hardware too. Vista is great until you have a problem with something. Then it's a dog.

[punisher46]

The dell 1525 and Toshiba a300 are the one's which recomend sub £450....

Toshiba comes with a 2 year warranty from John Lewis (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=57) too

[Alan b]

Toshiba comes with a 2 year warranty from John Lewis (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=57) too

That one is showing as £467 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=57&url=http://www.johnlewis.com/230512451/Product.aspx?SearchTerm=a300) for me.

Might as well post this one in here then:

13.3" Laptop - Core Duo - 160gb hdd, 3gb Ram, Wireless N, HDMI, - £229 inc Del (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=87&url=http://www.viking-direct.co.uk/catalog/txtSearchDD.do?jopa=ijeqsnlsRe0NAYgmZNE9MmA&norefinement=true&searchTxt=MD96698)

And there is this one for £399:

FUJITSU SIEMENS AMILO PA 3553 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=37&url=http://www.comet.co.uk/shopcomet/product/483265/FUJITSU-SIEMENS-AMILO-PA-3553/tab/specification)

ujitsu Siemens 15.4" widescreen laptop featuring 3GB RAM, 320GB hard drive, Windows Vista Home Premium, built-in webcam, spill resistant keyboard and also plays Blu-Ray DVD's.

[aga2k1]

I'm looking for a cheap lop top that my sister can edit her baby video stuff on, any ideas?

[Jimlad]

I'm looking for a cheap lop top that my sister can edit her baby video stuff on, any ideas?

see the post above you!

[richieuk]

HP 6735s Laptop £390 @ Ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/152233)

AMD Turion X2 Dual Core RM-72 2.1Ghz,
4GB 800DDR2,
250GB 15.4" DVD RW LightScribe Writer,
WLAN, Webcam, Bluetooth 2.0+,
Onboard ATI Radeon HD3200
Windows Vista Home Premium

if you buy the 3 Year Collect & Return carepack (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/148459) at the same time £44 you can get £38 cashback from HP (http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/uk/en/sm/WF05a/321957-321957-64295-89315-89315-3687621.html) in January :thumbs:

[internetuser]

HP 6735s Laptop £390 @ Ebuyer (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/152233)

AMD Turion X2 Dual Core RM-72 2.1Ghz,
4GB 800DDR2,
250GB 15.4" DVD RW LightScribe Writer,
WLAN, Webcam, Bluetooth 2.0+,
Onboard ATI Radeon HD3200
Windows Vista Home Premium

I got the 6720 last year and its an excellent laptop. I may even sell it to buy the above...

[powder]

Comet (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=37) currently do a decent Core2Duo 4Gb RAM Acer laptop, 160Gb HDDm 15.6" Screen, Webcam, Vista Basic - for £388.

Pretty decent spec and personally i would buy the Acer 3 year warranty pack you can get for ~£50

[Lorraine McKinney]

Lenovo 3000 N500 Pentium Dual Core at ebuyer looks a good price at £343.85

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/152652/show_product_overview
Product Description Lenovo 3000 N500 4233 - Pentium Dual Core T3200 2 GHz - 15.4" TFT
Dimensions (WxDxH) 35.9 cm x 25.7 cm x 3.7 cm
Weight 2.7 kg
Localisation English / United Kingdom
System Type Notebook
Built-in Devices Stereo speakers, wireless LAN aerial, Bluetooth aerial
Processor Intel Pentium Dual Core T3200 / 2 GHz ( Dual-Core )
Cache Memory 1 MB - L2 Cache
RAM 2 GB (installed) / 3 GB (max) - DDR2 SDRAM - 667 MHz - PC2-5300 ( 2 x 1 GB )
Card Reader 4 in 1
Hard Drive 250 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm
Optical Storage DVD-Writer - integrated
Display 15.4" TFT 1280 x 800 ( WXGA ) - 24-bit (16.7 million colours) - VibrantView
Graphics Controller Intel GMA 4500MHD
Memory Allocation Technology Dynamic Video Memory Technology 5.0
Audio Output Sound card
Telecom Fax / modem - 56 Kbps
Networking Network adapter - Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n (draft)
Wireless NIC Intel WiFi Link 5100
Notebook Camera Integrated - 1.3 Megapixel
Input Device Keyboard, touchpad
Power AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )
Battery Lithium Ion
Run Time (Up To) 3.8 hour(s)
Operating System Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
Manufacturer Warranty 1 year warranty

I have also been looking at the Samsung from another thread from Argos (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=28) priced at £399.99 and cannot decide which to puchase.
As both fall under the £400 price both seem a good buy.

[statto]

Instore at Sainsburys:

Medion Akoya E5312
AMD Turion 64 X2 TL-58 Dual Core Mobile 1.9GHz
2GB DDR2 SDRAM
15.4in screen size
Resolution 1280 x 800 pixels
250GB hard
Multiformat dual layer optical drive.
ATI Mobility Radeon Xpress 1250 based on PCI-Express technology with digital HDMI audio/video output graphics card.
Media card reader - compatible with MMC, MS/MS Pro, SD.
3 USB ports.
1 Ethernet port.
High definition sound card.
802.11b/g/draft n wireless enabled.
Windows Vista Home Premium operating system installed.
Software included: Microsoft Works 9 including Microsoft Office Home and Student trial version, Nero Burning ROM 8 Essentials and Nero Recode 3, BullGuard Internet Security (trial).
Includes carrying bag, USB notebook mouse.
2 hours 45 mins battery life.

£299 (£293.60 with VAT saving)

[zenza]

Lenovo 3000 N500 Pentium Dual Core at ebuyer looks a good price at £343.85

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/152652/show_product_overview
Product Description Lenovo 3000 N500 4233 - Pentium Dual Core T3200 2 GHz - 15.4" TFT
Dimensions (WxDxH) 35.9 cm x 25.7 cm x 3.7 cm
Weight 2.7 kg
Localisation English / United Kingdom
System Type Notebook
Built-in Devices Stereo speakers, wireless LAN aerial, Bluetooth aerial
Processor Intel Pentium Dual Core T3200 / 2 GHz ( Dual-Core )
Cache Memory 1 MB - L2 Cache
RAM 2 GB (installed) / 3 GB (max) - DDR2 SDRAM - 667 MHz - PC2-5300 ( 2 x 1 GB )
Card Reader 4 in 1
Hard Drive 250 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm
Optical Storage DVD-Writer - integrated
Display 15.4" TFT 1280 x 800 ( WXGA ) - 24-bit (16.7 million colours) - VibrantView
Graphics Controller Intel GMA 4500MHD
Memory Allocation Technology Dynamic Video Memory Technology 5.0
Audio Output Sound card
Telecom Fax / modem - 56 Kbps
Networking Network adapter - Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n (draft)
Wireless NIC Intel WiFi Link 5100
Notebook Camera Integrated - 1.3 Megapixel
Input Device Keyboard, touchpad
Power AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )
Battery Lithium Ion
Run Time (Up To) 3.8 hour(s)
Operating System Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
Manufacturer Warranty 1 year warranty

I have also been looking at the Samsung from another thread from Argos (http://www.thedvdforums.com/affiliatelink.php?localaffiliateid=28) priced at £399.99 and cannot decide which to puchase.
As both fall under the £400 price both seem a good buy.

Very good price for an excellent laptop.

[punisher46]

I know it's slightly over, but you can get a dell 1525 on dells website for £420 if you go for the £450 model but drop the hd to the 160gb freecell version.....seems like a very good deal if your not that bothered about a 250gb harddive