<p>What size laptops are y'all getting? I'm torn between a 12" and a 14" (IBM Thinkpad X series and T series respectively). </p>
<p>On one hand, the 12" is smaller, lighter, and definitely more portable. On the other hand, I'm worried that it'll be a bit underpowered... thoughts?</p>
<p>Go with the 14-incher, especially if the laptop is your only computer. Late at night you will appreciate that extra bit of real estate as you are typing up the final draft of some report.</p>
<p>12 inch baby, gotta appreciate that reduction in weight and size.</p>
<p>I'm going to go 14" because I think a 12" is a little too cramped. I agree that a larger screen is definitely more important if it will be your only computer.</p>
<p>12" is fine for most things except extensive Photoshop (or other graphic) work... I've been doing much less graphic design since I got mine; it's a nuisance, really.</p>
<p>get the 14". 12" is a little too small unless you're willing to get an external monitor. i wanted a 14", but my dad picked out a 12" for me. I also wanted a thinkpad, but my dad is cheap and got an averatec. blah, i'm very frustrated with him. he doesn't consult me for anything, and i'm going to be the one using the computer.</p>
<p>15"</p>
<p>1600x1280 native resolution :)</p>
<p>15" apple powerbook</p>
<p>i'm not sure about the other computers, but as far as ibooks go, the 12"and 14" have the same resolutions, the 14" is just physically larger (and in my opinion, bulkier and rather ugly). unless you have sight issues, the 12" would probably be your best bet (in the world of ibooks).</p>
<p>^I agree with you as far as the iBook goes, but anyone interested in video editing and/or graphic design would probably be better off with a PowerBook and a supplementary monitor (the PowerBook has DVI output, whereas the iBook only supports VGA and is therefore incompatible with Apple's line of monitors). I learned this the hard way.</p>
<p>The IBM X and T series laptops can be configured for a variety of Intel processors (from 1.2G to 2.0G). It all depends on how much you want to spend. </p>
<p>"!2" vs. "14": If you've followed a lot of the laptop threads on CC, most students rarely take their laptops out of their dorm room. Unless you're looking at the IBM X 41 Tablet PC which allows you to take handwritten notes in class, you'd be better off with a 14" screen. 12" Thinkpads are lighter, more portable and great if you're going to spend time at the library/coffee shop/go outside/be with friends... If you're not going to be doing these activities, the 14" models make more sense. The screen resolution for either is 1024 x 768.</p>
<p>Once the newness wears off (and it will), it's either a 3 or 6 lb mass that you have to lug around. Many students have said that libraries have computers available so they don't bother to take their laptops. And not that many students hang out at Starbucks. Since you're going to Harvard, sitting outside with your laptop gets you a couple of months into the fall term, before it starts to snow. Add a month at the end of the spring term and spending quality time outside with your laptop is not that big a draw.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>bigger is better. Even in the case of the ibook where it is the same resolution, it makes it easier on your eyes and simply give you more to work with (and more keyboard space).</p>
<p>17" Widescreen</p>
<p>HPzd8000</p>
<p>
[quote]
^I agree with you as far as the iBook goes, but anyone interested in video editing and/or graphic design would probably be better off with a PowerBook and a supplementary monitor (the PowerBook has DVI output, whereas the iBook only supports VGA and is therefore incompatible with Apple's line of monitors). I learned this the hard way.
[/quote]
</p>
<p>Eh, I dont think its that big of a deal. No one says you need an apple monitor to do graphic design, and much of your work will be done on the G5s that your school's lab will be running, just for sheer processing power. This will be more conductive to doing quick concept work.</p>
<p>I have a 14.1" IBM T42 and it is perfect in size. I recommend it, perfect weight.</p>
<p>my laptop has a 10" screen running at 1280x768. it's not hard to read at all, simply because the quality of the display is very very good.</p>
<p>and as far as apple monitors go, they use samsung's panels, and in some cases, LG/Phillips ...;)</p>
<p>Best thing to do, IMO, is to get a small, portable, and light laptop, and then add wireless mouse/keyboard and a large digital flat panel display. You get the best of both worlds.</p>
<p>My Sony Vaio has a 13.3" widescreen. Compromise :p
I plan on taking my 17" LCD monitor with me though, I'm just hoping it connects (haven't tried it yet)</p>
<p>mines a 15" screen and i like it. it's a little bigger than my friends, but i don't mind. i perfer the larger screen for graphic design stuff.</p>
<p>I agree with the second monitor. I've bought the 12" IBM X41 tablet and then a 20 inch LCD monitor.... we'll see how I like it.</p>