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Seeking Tech Savvy...

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By (user no longer on site) OP     over a year ago

Calling all tech fans, geeks and whizz kids. I decided to get a new laptop, mine had certainly seen better days. I used it for very basic stuff, office, browsing, storage etc. On a bit of a whim, two feet first as always , I got a Microsoft Surface Pro X as liked the idea of using as laptop and tablet. Haven't had chance to set it up yet as been busy, but have read quite a few mixed ratings.

When it comes to PC, laptops, tablets, what do you generally go for? Anyone on here got the mentioned piece of kit mentioned? Is it any good, and east to use? Or have I maybe purchased an expensive paperweight?

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By *rDiscretionXXXMan  over a year ago

Gilfach

Laptop for me. I like big screens, and no one does 18" tablets. I used to be desktop only but laptops are now powerful enough, and much more flexible.

I hate Microsoft with a passion, so I won't comment on your Surface because I'm biased. I wish you luck with it.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

Depends on needs

if your not looking to game

They your best bet is the second hand game laptops and pc market

1060-1080 gpus there’s a ton off acre nitros at like the £300 mark

they being sold off as modern games are starting to get more demanding the older hardware just can’t keep up

But perfect for a none gamer

As it was one’s a £800-1200 depending on specs

At entry level prices you get all the bells and wisles off a top spec laptop at entry level prices

And will still put perfom 99% off buget specs

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By (user no longer on site) OP     over a year ago

I was surprised at the screen size of this, 13" is big enough for me... the screen I mean

I don't mind any negative comments on the product, each to their own when comes to these things. What is it you currently have?

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

I’ve worked with every computer you can think off, name it I’ve used it, from Amsterdam to zOS Mainframes (I once did an a-z of operating systems I’ve used, including the hard letters q x y and z). And I tell you anyone who shows a particular preference so strongly for one that they’ll call all the others shit, is a moron.

If it works for you, it’s fine. Computers are commodity items these days, not esoteric things (same with phones). Basically pick a budget, choose a size, pick a colour. It’s that simple. If it does what you want, it’s good.

I personally have a preference for Apple, because I used to work heavily with Unix systems, and u see the good OS X is Unix and I love it, but if a Max isn’t fit you for whatever reason (cost, image, anything) then cool, get a Windows laptop, get a Chromebook, use your phone, recycle an older laptop with Linux, it really doesn’t matter as long as you know how to use it for the things you want to do, but really think about that before you buy one.

Want a big screen? How about a massive laptop, or a tiny laptop and a monitor, an iPad and screen mirror to your TV, so many options and ways to skin cats.

Just, as with messaging in Fab, discriminate positively, go for what you really want, don’t work on the basis of discounting stuff that you assume is shit on the surface and then choose from what’s left over.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I’ve worked with every computer you can think off, name it I’ve used it, from Amsterdam to zOS Mainframes (I once did an a-z of operating systems I’ve used, including the hard letters q x y and z). And I tell you anyone who shows a particular preference so strongly for one that they’ll call all the others shit, is a moron.

If it works for you, it’s fine. Computers are commodity items these days, not esoteric things (same with phones). Basically pick a budget, choose a size, pick a colour. It’s that simple. If it does what you want, it’s good.

I personally have a preference for Apple, because I used to work heavily with Unix systems, and u see the good OS X is Unix and I love it, but if a Max isn’t fit you for whatever reason (cost, image, anything) then cool, get a Windows laptop, get a Chromebook, use your phone, recycle an older laptop with Linux, it really doesn’t matter as long as you know how to use it for the things you want to do, but really think about that before you buy one.

Want a big screen? How about a massive laptop, or a tiny laptop and a monitor, an iPad and screen mirror to your TV, so many options and ways to skin cats.

Just, as with messaging in Fab, discriminate positively, go for what you really want, don’t work on the basis of discounting stuff that you assume is shit on the surface and then choose from what’s left over."

I can name one you not the mythical Nokia N9

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

Great typo for Amstrad

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By *agneto.Man  over a year ago

Bham

I prefer a MacBook, I don't like a laptop too big, it's literally right in front of my face using it and for mobility the 13inch screen is perfect for me.

The surface looks quite fancy but I've never used one.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I’ve worked with every computer you can think off, name it I’ve used it, from Amsterdam to zOS Mainframes (I once did an a-z of operating systems I’ve used, including the hard letters q x y and z). And I tell you anyone who shows a particular preference so strongly for one that they’ll call all the others shit, is a moron.

If it works for you, it’s fine. Computers are commodity items these days, not esoteric things (same with phones). Basically pick a budget, choose a size, pick a colour. It’s that simple. If it does what you want, it’s good.

I personally have a preference for Apple, because I used to work heavily with Unix systems, and u see the good OS X is Unix and I love it, but if a Max isn’t fit you for whatever reason (cost, image, anything) then cool, get a Windows laptop, get a Chromebook, use your phone, recycle an older laptop with Linux, it really doesn’t matter as long as you know how to use it for the things you want to do, but really think about that before you buy one.

Want a big screen? How about a massive laptop, or a tiny laptop and a monitor, an iPad and screen mirror to your TV, so many options and ways to skin cats.

Just, as with messaging in Fab, discriminate positively, go for what you really want, don’t work on the basis of discounting stuff that you assume is shit on the surface and then choose from what’s left over.

I can name one you not the mythical Nokia N9 "

While I’ve not used that device, it runs on a MeeGo Linux based OS which is a cut and shut of elements from Debian and Fedora Linux, both of which I’ve supported professionally, one of which I was once RedHat certified for …

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I prefer a MacBook, I don't like a laptop too big, it's literally right in front of my face using it and for mobility the 13inch screen is perfect for me.

The surface looks quite fancy but I've never used one. "

I got my son a Surface for Uni, not my cup of tea but it was a great machine when used with a dock and monitor and absolutely brilliant for 5 years now. Pricey, but value for money over the time it’s been used.

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By *ighty_tightyMan  over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk


"Calling all tech fans, geeks and whizz kids. I decided to get a new laptop, mine had certainly seen better days. I used it for very basic stuff, office, browsing, storage etc. On a bit of a whim, two feet first as always , I got a Microsoft Surface Pro X as liked the idea of using as laptop and tablet. Haven't had chance to set it up yet as been busy, but have read quite a few mixed ratings.

When it comes to PC, laptops, tablets, what do you generally go for? Anyone on here got the mentioned piece of kit mentioned? Is it any good, and east to use? Or have I maybe purchased an expensive paperweight? "

I've not used a Surface for a few years and as good as it was it was expensive for what you got.

Now I'm a laptop and docking station guy. Dell fyi.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

Any of the main manufacturers.

Lenovo, Dell and HP are all pretty much the same. No issues with a Microdoft surface pro sold and configured lots to customers.

Hate Macs with a passion well anything Apple buts that's just my opinion.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I’ve worked with every computer you can think off, name it I’ve used it, from Amsterdam to zOS Mainframes (I once did an a-z of operating systems I’ve used, including the hard letters q x y and z). And I tell you anyone who shows a particular preference so strongly for one that they’ll call all the others shit, is a moron.

If it works for you, it’s fine. Computers are commodity items these days, not esoteric things (same with phones). Basically pick a budget, choose a size, pick a colour. It’s that simple. If it does what you want, it’s good.

I personally have a preference for Apple, because I used to work heavily with Unix systems, and u see the good OS X is Unix and I love it, but if a Max isn’t fit you for whatever reason (cost, image, anything) then cool, get a Windows laptop, get a Chromebook, use your phone, recycle an older laptop with Linux, it really doesn’t matter as long as you know how to use it for the things you want to do, but really think about that before you buy one.

Want a big screen? How about a massive laptop, or a tiny laptop and a monitor, an iPad and screen mirror to your TV, so many options and ways to skin cats.

Just, as with messaging in Fab, discriminate positively, go for what you really want, don’t work on the basis of discounting stuff that you assume is shit on the surface and then choose from what’s left over."

Agreed. I get asked for advice a lot about what is the 'best' computer to get and there is no right answer. It's entirely dependent on what you'll be using it for.

Main deciding factor is if you intend to play games on it, and then will it be the latest games? If the answer is no then pretty much anything else will do a good job and you just need to find one with the features you are looking for.

I'm also not a fan of anything touch screen as you have fingerprints all over it!

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By (user no longer on site) OP     over a year ago


"Depends on needs

if your not looking to game

They your best bet is the second hand game laptops and pc market

1060-1080 gpus there’s a ton off acre nitros at like the £300 mark

they being sold off as modern games are starting to get more demanding the older hardware just can’t keep up

But perfect for a none gamer

As it was one’s a £800-1200 depending on specs

At entry level prices you get all the bells and wisles off a top spec laptop at entry level prices

And will still put perfom 99% off buget specs

"

The most gaming I'd do on laptop/PC would probably be solitaire but great advice, thanks

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"Any of the main manufacturers.

Lenovo, Dell and HP are all pretty much the same. No issues with a Microdoft surface pro sold and configured lots to customers.

Hate Macs with a passion well anything Apple buts that's just my opinion. "

I hate Apple as a business model but from a technical perspective I do appreciate Mac's. Although I've never owned anything Apple I am tempted to get a Mac mini to tinker around on even though I really don't need one lol

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By (user no longer on site) OP     over a year ago


"Calling all tech fans, geeks and whizz kids. I decided to get a new laptop, mine had certainly seen better days. I used it for very basic stuff, office, browsing, storage etc. On a bit of a whim, two feet first as always , I got a Microsoft Surface Pro X as liked the idea of using as laptop and tablet. Haven't had chance to set it up yet as been busy, but have read quite a few mixed ratings.

When it comes to PC, laptops, tablets, what do you generally go for? Anyone on here got the mentioned piece of kit mentioned? Is it any good, and east to use? Or have I maybe purchased an expensive paperweight?

I've not used a Surface for a few years and as good as it was it was expensive for what you got.

Now I'm a laptop and docking station guy. Dell fyi."

My old laptop was a Dell, and it was a great machine, had it for nearly 9 years

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By *rDiscretionXXXMan  over a year ago

Gilfach


"I don't mind any negative comments on the product, each to their own when comes to these things. What is it you currently have?"

I have an assortment of Dell laptops from 15" to 18". I buy Dell because they are a business brand, so I'm not paying for a colour selection or styling fripperies. Dell produce a full service manual for each of their machines, which makes repair much easier than most makes.

As I say, I hate Microsoft but I have to use Windows at work. It's got a lot better in recent years , but it still crashes randomly, and it's inconsistent and cumbersome to use. At home I use linux (OpenSuse) which is much more reliable and flexible.

As for the Surface itself, my opinion is that they're over-priced for what you get. They are well made and high quality machines, but more expensive than they need to be.

Is this your first tablet? I'd be interested to hear how you get on with it.

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By *ayden_82Man  over a year ago

corby

Been a while since I heard meego. I loved my N770 to bits! God that was a lovely device for its time using it flashbacks of my HP pocketPC. Oh the 2000s were a lovely time for technology

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

I'm a fan of the Surface Pro, I have found it to be the best of the laptop/tablet hybrids when it's comes to Windows devices.

Have you considered a chromebook? They're ideal for the basics, in addition they support the same android apps a phone and tablet would and have a much better battery life.

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By *2000ManMan  over a year ago

Worthing

Optimise Windows and turnoff/uninstall the boatware (software which is installed by default by some manufacturers...usually not needed). If you are confident, reinstall windows by downloading iso from Microsoft to be sure. Licence should auto activate. First thing I do with any kit I get in for upgrade/refurb. I'd not spend too much on a machine for basic office/internet work. An ssd makes a difference if not already one installed.

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By *rHotNottsMan  over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham

I just go for i5 lots of memory as I’m impatient , touch screen , medium size, I think all are SSD and fast boot technology now, I need drive encrypted, Lenovo Dell or Sony but only the pro models. Around about £2000. Avoid any consumer products pc world etc unless you have a very limited budget they are junk after 12 months. John Lewis have some decent models

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By *ig1gaz1Man  over a year ago

bradford

I prefer a base unit to work with or to really hammer it.

games/ downloading or other stuff

Prefer a larger screen to watch stuff on.

Laptop/ tablet is only used when im traveling or house sitting.

Ive watched a fair few new films while traveling by train.

Never mind being asked if other travelers could watch the film with us

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By *rHotNottsMan  over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham


"Any of the main manufacturers.

Lenovo, Dell and HP are all pretty much the same. No issues with a Microdoft surface pro sold and configured lots to customers.

Hate Macs with a passion well anything Apple buts that's just my opinion. "

HP used to be good but since the Compaq thing outsourced support to India they are no good anymore. I would not by HP anymore.

I would love to transition to a Mac as Apple are far superior in so many wars - performance, UX, Support , but for business use it’s just not practical the amount of controls and adaptions would be too much

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By (user no longer on site) OP     over a year ago


"I don't mind any negative comments on the product, each to their own when comes to these things. What is it you currently have?

I have an assortment of Dell laptops from 15" to 18". I buy Dell because they are a business brand, so I'm not paying for a colour selection or styling fripperies. Dell produce a full service manual for each of their machines, which makes repair much easier than most makes.

As I say, I hate Microsoft but I have to use Windows at work. It's got a lot better in recent years , but it still crashes randomly, and it's inconsistent and cumbersome to use. At home I use linux (OpenSuse) which is much more reliable and flexible.

As for the Surface itself, my opinion is that they're over-priced for what you get. They are well made and high quality machines, but more expensive than they need to be.

Is this your first tablet? I'd be interested to hear how you get on with it."

I agree they are maybe overpriced (I got a good deal and probs wouldn't of paid full price). Yes this is my first tablet, my other half has an iPad, but I dislike Apple, again this is one of those personal preference. I'll certainly keep you updated, only managed to get all installations and updates done about an hour ago, not enough hours in the day

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"Calling all tech fans, geeks and whizz kids. I decided to get a new laptop, mine had certainly seen better days. I used it for very basic stuff, office, browsing, storage etc. On a bit of a whim, two feet first as always , I got a Microsoft Surface Pro X as liked the idea of using as laptop and tablet. Haven't had chance to set it up yet as been busy, but have read quite a few mixed ratings.

When it comes to PC, laptops, tablets, what do you generally go for? Anyone on here got the mentioned piece of kit mentioned? Is it any good, and east to use? Or have I maybe purchased an expensive paperweight? "

I dont really use computers but my staff do, we have microsoft surface studio's & a couple of dell latitudes for on the job workshop working.

We were on apple 'imac' last year but they were utter crap. No one in the office liked them also had so many issues with them.

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By *rDiscretionXXXMan  over a year ago

Gilfach


"... only managed to get all installations and updates done about an hour ago ..."

You've just reminded me of one of the things that used to really annoy me about Windows, the fact that it updates at random times and forces you to reboot and wait 20 minutes while it sorts itself out.

With Linux the updates happen in the background and unless you tick the 'tell me about it' option you wouldn't even know it was happening.

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By *ynecplCouple  over a year ago

Newcastle upon Tyne

Laptop for me, large screen and good graphics for my photography.

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By *UGGYBEAR2015Man  over a year ago

BRIDPORT

I have an Acer, does that make me the equivalent of the kid at school in the Marks and Sparks plimsolls.

It does the simple things I do and hasn’t been any trouble.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

I have a Hewlett Packard Pavilion. Not sure of the specs now but it is a few years old and seen me through 2 degrees and 3 diplomas.

Still going strong though I have to touch type because the letters have worn off the keys

It's got Windows 10 installed and still use it for work. Not planning on getting it gone just yet

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By *JB1954Man  over a year ago

Reading

I have used windows and macs. Yes depends on what you need device to do. The one thing so far I have not seen mentioned is about virus etc. I never had a problem on apple products. Windows etc , even using their inbuilt virus , some got thru . My new laptop is an HP. But use Kaspersky antivirus etc.

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