<p>Okay I've been looking and searching through these threads and I can't seem to decide on the brand of laptop that I want. Here's what I'm looking for:</p>
<p>I want to be able to watch TV (maybe even in HD) on my computer
I sometimes play the sims
Otherwise I surf the internet/type papers etc.
I want a 14"+ screen
I need lots of RAM
Reasonably priced
I want it to be pretty!</p>
<p>I have an iMac and an HP so I am used to both operating systems. I've been looking at ThinkPads, but to be honest I just can't get over the looks (yes I am superficial). So would an IdeaPad be okay? I try to avoid Dell because they're quirky and their customer service sucks. My HP breaks - a lot. I've gone through 3 or 4 hard drives, 2 computer bodies, you name it. So basically what I'm asking: which is the best looking laptop that I can get that's made well and that won't completely break the bank? It won't kill me to spend $1500. I will if I have to, but why spend the money if I don't have to?</p>
<p>My S was very unhappy with his Sony Vaio, which is one of the reasons D didn’t look at them when she purchased her machine 18 months after him. His machine started having mechanical problems a little more than a year after he purchased it. After two+ years, he was so irritated with it, he junked it in favor of a netook. </p>
<p>D got a HP which converts to a wacom tablet with sylus, which she’s very happy with. It’s especially good for artists, as it allows people to draw on the tablet & then goes directly into the computer. It also is pretty good at converting handrwitten notes into typed notes. Screen size is smaller than 14" but D likes it because the laptop is nice & light. So far, she has no complaints.</p>
<p>^Yes. Build quality on the VAIOs is generally very good, which is part of the reason for the price. Definitely better overall than HP, Toshiba, and Dell. There are always the occasional defective products of course, as post #4 demonstrates. The 14" model, I believe, starts in the $700s, which is well within the OP’s price range.</p>
<p>Well, if ALL they’re buying for is looks, that’s just plain stupid, but I see nothing wrong with wanting a laptop that’s both beautiful (or at least nice looking) and functional.</p>
<p>Well I’m not buying JUST for looks. I would just rather have a well functioning AND nice looking laptop. Which is why I just can’t take the thinkpad plunge. The other well made laptop I hear about is the macbook - but I just don’t like the 13.3" screen, and I’d really rather not pay $2,000 (MBP) for a laptop with a lot of features that I honestly just won’t use. And I’ve heard some iffy things about the vaio…might look more into lenovo and dell</p>
<p>The problem with asking others for opinions on laptop appearance is that looks are entirely subjective. I personally love the harsh lines and sharp edges of a Thinkpad.</p>
<p>I see what you mean. Well, with your budget, I have to agree with Colbs. I think the studio xps 16 is sexy, especially the features. I would have gotten one myself but it’s a bit out of my price range. I think Dell is still having one of their oh so lovely sales right now too.</p>
<p>I think you have a bad perception on Dells. Sure, the home laptops (Inspiron) suck, but check out some of the refurbished business notebooks they are selling at Dell Outlet. You can find yourself a nice Latitude which packs serious punch and quality, and I think they are having a sale right now as well</p>
<p>Consider buying something else…I’ve had a Sony Vaio for about 3 years now and I don’t like it at all…it used to be really good at the beginning, but the “good” doesn’t last for too long. I recommend you get another laptop if you’re gonna use it for more than 2+ years.</p>
<p>I can’t decide b/w pink sony viao CS series and macbook(more attracting w/ edu deal)
those two are my favorites so far
they are so pretty and i’m sure they function well too…
except i hear some negative stores on both lol</p>
<p>cannot decide! i’t mainly about $$ and window v. mac
oh and my college’s program w/ mac
apparently it has nice program w/ 3yrs warranty, discount and good a/s </p>
<p>i’ve looked at both Dell and Toshiba but i think they are ugly
and I used HP before, it’s horrible never ever going to buy a notebook from this company</p>
<p>it’s funny cuz what i’m looking for is exactly what OP listed other than Sims lol</p>