Laptop Help!

[piran21]

I wanted to get your guys' advice on choosing a laptop. Firstly it has to be from Future Shop. Got a giftcard there.

Usage:
Architecture student. So AutoCAD and other graphic programs will be used on top of typical word processing, internet, media. It'll have to last 4 years. Be relatively durable because I'll be commuting. Aesthetically pleasing.

Pricepoint:
Under $1000 advertised.

I know Core 2 Duo is the ish but I'm not sure if I'll notice the difference. Looking to go get one today so help me out.

Thanks,
Piran

[piran21]

anybody????... I like the aesthetics of the HP but I know Toshiba has a good track record... Not sure... I'm either looking at 15.4" or 17"...

[pacman99]

getting all that from FS? near impossible. Toshiba? HP? hehe. Maybe check out notebookreviews? You might get more info from there? You may need one with a dedicated video card and getting good battery life on that can be a challenge.
imo 15.4" is too large for me. The largest I've ever used is 14.1" widescreen.

[Gee]

I would sell the Gift card and use the cash to get a real notebook.

Get a T61

[piran21]

just picked this up:

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0665000FS10090037&logon=&langid=EN#

HP DV9417CA

Thoughts? PSP yay or nay? It costs $299.99 for 3 years

[macuser]

Thoughts: Very very very very very very big frown

Reasons:

Integrated graphics
Large
Heavy
Consumer laptop
Underpowered processor
Low-res display

At that screen size on a laptop, you should have AT LEAST WSXGA+ (1680x1050.) WUXGA would be preferred.

A Dell Precision would have been much better for your purposes.... or R61, or even thin-and-lights like D630 and T61. both Lenovo and Dell offer NBD onsite warranties, extendable to four years and accident coverage available.