I know you know quite a bit about computer crap. I've been looking into buying a new lap-top computer eventually. I'm very attracted to the Alienware computers, despite their price, but I don't know whether I should go with one of those or a more main-stream brand like Dell or HP. Right now, I'm using a Sony Vaio, and I like it, but I don't know if I want to stay with that brand, either. Any advice about which is better?

I just looked at this but it shows Vista.

I need help choosing something. I don't want to spend a fortune, I need basic, nothing fancy. I don't need mega graphics. I want extra RAM, no Vista, XP only.

Suggestions?

I forgot to add this:

Dell Inspiron 1501 Notebook

I just looked at this but it shows Vista.

I need help choosing something. I don't want to spend a fortune, I need basic, nothing fancy. I don't need mega graphics. I want extra RAM, no Vista, XP only.

Suggestions?

Yeah, their laptops only seem to come with Vista. Some of their desktops, though, can be customized with XP. I think it's the XPS desktops that can be, but they are probably more expensive than what you're looking for.

So where do I find what I want?

So where do I find what I want?

Absolutely no clue. I've looked at Gateway, Dell, HP, and Sony over the last several days, and they all seem to come standard with Vista. Sucks.

Wasa when I clicked continue to customize the one you picked it gave me an option to customize it with either Vista or XP.

Wasa when I clicked continue to customize the one you picked it gave me an option to customize it with either Vista or XP.

Oh great!

Do you know anything about computers? Can you just finish customizing that puppy for me? :) :eek:

I also hate the Mac, but I love the HP notebook. Nice, very nice.

Cindy

Here's the page with all their computers that have XP available.

I just called Dell, they are just as horrible as the last time I got a computer. I can't stand Dell. I couldn't get a straight answer out of the guy.

The $499 Notebook is $800, that's with minimal everything, no service contracts, nothing.

I just don't trust Dell, I had such a horrible time with my PC I swore I'd never buy from them again. The customer service is horrible, everything was awful.

I expected to pay around $800 so the price isn't an issue at all. I just hate Dell and I was burned so bad last time I can't bring myself to deal with them again. I think I'll keep looking around.

To be honest, I think I'd prefer to not have a laptop vs. going with them again. After my conversation with the sales guy, it just confirmed all my experiences from last time.

I have always shelled out the extra money and gone to a private computer business and sat down face to face with a real live person so I could explain what I wanted and have any questions I wanted answered right there in front of me.

It will cost extra but there is no headache and if something goes wrong you can go down and talk to a person, not a voice on the phone or a automated message. IMHO it is well worth the money for that alone.

Plus I am sure you can get a discount, they are all computer nerds in those places (most of the time) just wear a low cut shirt and bat your eyes at them!!!

I have always shelled out the extra money and gone to a private computer business and sat down face to face with a real live person so I could explain what I wanted and have any questions I wanted answered right there in front of me.

It will cost extra but there is no headache and if something goes wrong you can go down and talk to a person, not a voice on the phone or a automated message. IMHO it is well worth the money for that alone.

Plus I am sure you can get a discount, they are all computer nerds in those places (most of the time) just wear a low cut shirt and bat your eyes at them!!!

I wouldn't mind doing that in the least. I'm really not as concerned with price as I am quality and follow up care for the 'puter.

My problem is that I haven't found anyone that has been in business a year or better that does this. If they aren't in business in a year when I need them, what good are they to me?

Another bandster who lives in the Phoenix area is going to take me shopping Wednesday for computers. Hopefully she can help, I'm a total dolt when it comes to computers.

well, best of luck! You may also think about checking out the big box stores like circuit city or best buy and order a custom made laptop through there.

D....

Can I get a non-Vista laptop there?

We are going to Fry's on Wednesday.

I am not sure but it never hurts to ask, right?