Engineering computer requirements

<p>I am gonna start fall 2014 (COE).
I don't really wanna spend the amount of money on these expensive tablets that meet the requirements and would rather buy a much better laptop instead. Would anyone comment on inexpensive yet efficient companion tablets that an engineering student might get. I came across the Asus Vivotab note 8 which is approximately $350 and was wondering if there would be a better option. Also, is the 8 inch screen big enough to complete tasks without any major difficulties? One more thing: I am an international student and was wondering if I can order it online to my dorm or something like that, how does that work? Any help is highly appreciated, thanks.</p>