<p>Any advice on buying a computer for an incoming Freshman through the TAP program? Should we focus on a light laptop that is easy to carry between classes or do students usually leave their computers in their dorm rooms? We have used Windows based computers to date but have no problem switching to Apple computers if they are more useful at Duke. Any advice would be appreciated.</p>
<p>TAP computers are a little overpriced but the warranty and support is first rate and will come in handy if your computer ever breaks down while in college (count on it). If money is no problem and you don't mind the limited selection, then by all means, go ahead and get the TAP computer. </p>
<p>As for screen size, I'd recommend something not too tiny (12in) and not too big (17in). Most people I know opt for a ~14-15in. screen. That way you aren't straining your eyes to read the screen and the computer is still portable enough to bring along every once in a while. If you are going the Mac route, then the 13.3in Macbook is a good idea in terms of portability and size. </p>
<p>Most of my friends usually leave their computers in their dorms unless they absolutely need it for classnotes or library work. That said, I bring my small computer with me almost everywhere (I have a 12in.), so weight could be a factor there.</p>
<p>what laptop do you have?</p>
<p>I bought an HP Pavilion dv5000 at the beginning of freshmen year, it broke after 6 months so HP gave me a dv6000. They are both 15.4in. They were a little heavy for toting around so I bought a Lenovo/IBM X61 this past year for taking notes in class. I leave the bigger one in the room and bring the small one with me.</p>