Computer Awareness

Colleges and Universities A-Z Penn State
1

<p>My S and I have been working on configuring a laptop for the fall. We have been pricing out Dell computers. What we have seen is that the prices vary greatly from week to week and even day to day. We were completely astonished to find that some days computers purchased through Dell Home were significantly less expensive than the same computer priced through Penn State's residential computing site. The prices were even different when priced through the Dell members and affiliates site. However today, the best price we found was offered through the link from Penn State's residential computing. For the system my S configured, the laptop was about $300 to $400 dollars cheaper than it was on Monday. (Today we managed to get a 35% discount plus a 12% members discount plus a mail-in rebate for a savings of over $1000). We also found that some of the systems that had lower base prices charged higher prices for 'add-ons' and enhancements when you customized it. </p>

<p>So....be aware and try configuring a computer starting with various 'recommended' systems to get the best price. Also, customize various e-value code systems and use coupon codes to see if it gives you the best price. Also check out Dell Home as well as the Members link from Residential computing.</p>

2

<p>I am torn between getting a desktop or a laptop. The desktop is so attractive...getting more "bang" for your money, but the mobility with a laptop is luring as well... I am just unsure as to how much students really desire the mobility. From what I saw on tours to the dorms, it was roughly split 50/50 with respect to the number of students who had desktops vs. laptops. Thoughts?</p>

3

<p>Laptops are far more convenient albeit they cost more for what you get. Even if the student doesn't use the laptop in class (and many don't but some do), they might want to use it at the library, out on a quad, etc. and are generally are coming home on breaks, moving frequently, might want to take it on a study-abroad program, etc. They can be used while sitting on the bed so they're not stuck at a desk. For a student, a laptop is the ideal way to go.</p>