<p>I know that we are supposed to receive information on the Student Computer Initiative in June, but I see that last year's students had the option of purchasing either an Apple Macbook, Apple Macbook Pro, Dell Latitude D620, or Dell Latitude D820. Now, I know that Apple is reliable, but is Dell? I've had many of my friends who know a lot about computers tell me not to purchase a Dell. However, I plan on getting a certificate in finance, which is basically business-oriented and I have heard that getting an Apple is not ideal for business majors and business operations. I still want to get a laptop through Princeton, though, because I heard it's a lot less money than getting it through the companies themselves, plus it comes with many of the programs needed at Princeton. </p>
<p>I had an overly difficult time with computer decisions last year -- I wanted to get an SCI Apple because of its sleek look and the typical assertions that it doesn't get viruses, but I wanted a Dell because that's what I was more used to, and they are cheaper. I ended up getting an SCI Dell Latitude d820, and I think that I made the right choice. Apples are pretty, but aside from the widgets, I prefer Dell's quirks (close window button the right corner, design of taskbar/quick links/system tray on the bottom, start menu, browsing). Also, my friends are mainly Dell gurus and I get a lot of my programs, etc from them. Finally, having to use the apple key instead of the control key really tripped me up (does it bother any one else??).</p>
<p>If you aren't particularly computer-friendly and only use them when you need to, I'd say go for a Mac; they have a very attractive design. Otherwise, I still think the Dell is more convenient. While I still like playing with the laptops at the Apple store or using the webcam on my friends Macbook, I'm glad that I use a Dell on a daily basis. I also thought that most people on campus would have Macs, judging from the facebook discussions and CC boards before getting to campus, but I think that the Dells are actually at a much higher proportion. Among people I know, I think that the number of Macs and the number of Dells being taken to OIT is split pretty evenly as well. (OIT is the Office of Information Technology, also shorthand for the place at Frist where you bring your laptop if you have problems with it) </p>
<p>Another note: SCI is not necessarily cheaper. A lot of people also have Dell Inspiron e1505's which were far cheaper than the Latitudes. However, it makes getting your computer fixed much easier at OIT, and its really nice to have the security that no matter what happens to your laptop, you have complete coverage (unless its stolen or you hit it with a hammer).</p>
<p>Dell Dxxx series are business notebooks, so they have better build quality than the consumer series, which explains why Dell D620 are more expensive than Inspirons. Apples are expensive. I believe SCI sells them for 1800+. You can get one with educational discount on the Apple website for 1800. Similarly, Dell laptops can come out cheaper if you use all the Dell coupons they offer from time to time. But with SCI you get peace of mind that you can get your laptop fixed quickly and configured properly and ready to go. </p>
<p>As to which one to buy, I would suggest Dell. These are business laptops so they are no filmsy, cheap Dell laptops that you often think of. Plus, a lot of softwares are PC-compatible but not necessarily Mac-compatible. What is the benefit of a Mac? Thin, light, security, nice design, a different OS system. But if you don't care much for looks, you would want a PC.</p>
<p>Make sure you consider the pricing carefully before purchasing from SCI since you might be able to configure one cheaper (and if you can get at-home warranty service, then there is really no point in purchasing from SCI)</p>
<p>Dell gets a really bad rap for laptop quality, but they're a lot better than they used to be. While Apple's build quality is obviously superb, the higher price makes a trade off you have to consider. Don't be at too wary about going with Dell though - you're unlikely to be too disappointed.</p>
<p>If you're purchasing from SCI, you won't be choosing options, and the operating system will be set. However, if it is Windows XP, you can always choose to update to Vista for free through SCI.</p>
<p>There's no good reason to run XP on a Mac unless you have an unhealthy obsession with Macs.</p>
<p>Mac hardware isn't that amazing for its price (it's good, but expensive as hell to go along with that); the only real draw for Macs is MacOS, which is a very good operating system. To use XP on a Mac kind of defeats the purpose of having a Mac - unless your friend is just dual booting in order to use XP for things the Mac can't do (games, etc.).</p>
<p>However, to answer your question - yes, it is viable. I don't think it would slow down the computer to be dual-booting, but I'm not totally sure on the performance differences between MacOS and XP.</p>
<p>I agree -- There isn't much of a reason to run XP on a Mac, since the usual perks of a Mac (less viruses, user interface, etc) won't be applicable anymore. I know some people who boot Windows on their Mac to use certain programs they only have for Windows though.</p>
<p>SCI computers are fixed, you don't personalize their features. You get two Dell options and two Mac options, and all the specs (memory, hard drive, features such as bluetooth, etc) are predetermined. Last year, they offered the Latitude d620/Latitude d820 for Dell, and the Macbook/Macbook Pro for Apple. The Dell ones came with a free memory stick though :)</p>
<p>I believe the Dell options were about 1000 and 1500 (14" and 15.4") and I believe the models are the Latitude d630 and d830 (if those are wrong, then its just the equivalent of the new d620 and d820).</p>
<p>I'm international, so I can't really order my notebook till I arrive on campus in September. If any of you have got your Dells (Latitude D830) from SCI shipped to your place already, could you tell me what the Windows Experience Index (VISTA) is, for the configuration SCI gives?</p>
<p>You'll have to click on the start "orb", type "performance" in the search bar, and then click on the "Performance tools" (I can't remember the exact name)... it'll give you a rating for your system efficiency. I think the maximum possible is a 5.9.</p>
<p>I know it differs according to wat software you've installed, but a rough idea would do for me. Thanks.</p>