Should I buy this laptop?
Here are the specs on the laptop im considering it is Gateway Model: MD 7309u
- Intel Pentium processor T4200
- Features an 800MHz frontside bus, 1MB L2 cache and 2.0GHz processor speed.
- 3GB DDR2 memory
- For multitasking power, expandable to 4GB.
- Multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW drive with double-layer support
- Records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media. Also supports DVD-RAM.
- 15.6" LCD high-definition widescreen display
- With Ultrabright technology and 1366 x 768 resolution showcases movies and games in rich clarity.
- 250GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 rpm)
- For ample storage space and fast read/write times.
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M
- With Intel Dynamic Video Memory technology and up to 1759MB total graphics memory. High-definition audio support. HDMI interface for connecting HD peripherals.
- Illuminated multimedia touch control buttons
- Keep your favorite media accessible at the touch of a button.
- Built-in high-definition webcam with microphone
- Makes it easy to chat with and send video mail to family and friends.
- Multi-in-1 digital media reader
- Supports Secure Digital, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, MultiMediaCard and xD-Picture Card formats.
- 4 high-speed USB 2.0 ports
- For fast digital video, audio and data transfer.
- Built-in high-speed wireless LAN (802.11b/g/n)
- Lets you wirelessly connect to the Internet on the go.
- Built-in 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector
- Along with a V.92-ready 56 Kbps modem for easy wired Internet connectivity.
- Weighs 6.5 lbs. and measures just 1.7" thin
I am looking for a laptop mostly used for school and email, editing pictures and I also will be downloading music on it (which i know puts me at risk for some viruses). So I’d buy the norton anti-virus for the next years(is this sufficient enough for my protection). I plan on having it for 4-5 years at least!, I plan on getting the best buy Black-tie warranty for another 0. It is on sale for 9 at best buy. Please tell me any suggestions or pointers you have! or other reccomendations. I’ve never thought as gateway as being a good brand, so i am really unsure, but i also don’t know a whole lot about computers. Is the 4gb of ram worth the extra money? or is 3gb plenty of room for me, and my computer still not be slow after a few years?
Thank you =]
Yeah, im not a gamer at all, unless the occasional pogo counts!
Tagged with: 56 kbps • ample storage space • ata hard drive • best buy • cd rw drive • control buttons • dvd r dl media • dynamic video memory • dynamic video memory technology • frontside bus • gateway model • graphics media • graphics memory • intel graphics media accelerator • intel pentium processor • internet connectivity • model md • secure digital memory • serial ata hard drive • video mail
Filed under: virus tool
Gateway is a great brand, and I do think this is a really good computer for the price/your needs. Also I would not pay for the Norton anti virus, Use AVG it is free and works a LOT better. As for the RAM I would go with the 4gb as you may want/need it in the future.
For what you say you want it for, this is an excellent system for $399.
However, if you expect it to last 4-5 years, you’re asking too much. It is possible, but most systems these days will last 1-2 years max. But it all depends on what you want to do. If you stay with what you said, you can probably make it work but you can forget playing the latest games in the future. This is especially true with a notebook computer where the graphics card is integrated.
If you EVER expect to be able to run any graphics intensive software, this system probably won’t work for you. Better to go top of the line, graphics-wise if that’s the case.
Also, don’t buy the extended warranty. It’s pure profit for the company. If the computer doesn’t break down within the first 30 days due to manufacturing defects, it probably never will. Just be aware of the return policy and take the standard policy. Ask if you don’t know what it is..