<p>Which is better, a Macbook or a similarly priced dell for basic needs ?(homework, word processing, email, web surfing, an occasional game or two (but not too much))</p>
<p>i'm usually an adament mac supporter, but if that's all you're using it for i'd say dell just because it's way cheaper.</p>
<p>Dells are arguably the most cost-efficient notebook computer, especially after coupons and discounts.</p>
<p>If a macbook and similar dell (we're talking things like both are thin and lights or both ultraportables... can't compare ultraportables to huge multimedia laptops) were selling for the same price, the Dell will have a better configuration.</p>
<p>Macbooks are encased in aluminum, Dells are encased in either plastic, plastic/carbon fiber, or magnesium/aluminum. I'd stick with Dell just because of its lower price, but go with the Latitude or the XPS series, I'd stay away from their Inspirons. It's a bigger bang for your buck.</p>
<p>But to answer your questions, neither is better. The tasks that you listed are only "basic needs," so even a low-end system is adequate. In fact, you could even get a used laptop that was THE system to have 2 years ago for ~700 bucks that could fulfill those tasks and possibly more.</p>
<p>Actually, MacBook Pro models have aluminum cases, Macbooks are made with polycarbonate plastic: </p>
<p>In another thread, I posted the following link:</p>
<p>While it's for the AMD processor series, it has a great tasks symbols chart that shows what tasks can be accomplished with which processor. You can easily substitute the Intel family for their AMD equivalents to see what will work for you.</p>
<p>As for "Dell vs Mac", I'll let others flame each other. I'm going to get my "meds" and crank up the air...</p>
<p>Go with the one you are used to... It seems you won't need a mac if you are only doing 'basic' things with them... it seems you won't even need a NEW one (get 700 one like someone said) because it'll work just fine for you. I'm taking my 2 year old computer with me but it still runs heavy programs (photoshop) and works fine for me.</p>
<p>Go with mac. Case Closed.</p>
<p>^ no.</p>
<p>10char</p>
<p>i would put macs in the same category as starbucks, (most) sushi, and hybrid automobiles. all good products, but also all overpriced. and often overrated. i have always believed that most people who are very into their macs support the mac cause so fervently only becuase it is cool/ hip/ "in" to be a mac-person. many girls buy them merely becuase of how they look. </p>
<p>i own both, yet still maintain that windows is no harder to use than the mac OS; the only real advantage to a mac is that there are virtually no viruses associated with its operating system.</p>
<p>I got a Dell.</p>
<p>Right now - Go with a Dell</p>
<p>A Year or two from now with Vista and Leopard out, and with the next MacBook Pros better built for dual booting and etc - MacBook Pro. Talk about a Super PC. It'd be worth the value by then.</p>
<p>Of course, thats really too much power for what you're looking to do. But for anyone wanting the most out of their laptop, it'll become one of the best options.</p>
<p>they're making a leopard? haha it just doesn't sound as cool as tiger.</p>
<p>I got a dell, and I had money to spend. Simply put the bang for the buck is bigger.</p>
<p>And inspirons are fine, just go with the "e" series over the "b" series.</p>
<p>I care nothing for the plastic casing with a 4 year accidental damage policy. Which last time I heard, beats apple's $200 3 year parts warranty.</p>
<p>If you're getting a macbok pro, wait 3 weeks, it'll have a better processor by then</p>
<p>yeah it sucks that apple doesn't cover accidental damages.</p>
<p>I just got a Dell for University and I am quite please. Its the best for school because of it LOW cost. Its great for someone who isn't a crazy gamer or programmer.
Have you ever thought of a desktop? I actually recommend a desktop to someone who does not plan to take notes in class. Its much better.</p>
<p>What can I expect to pay for a Dell with the basic necessities?</p>
<p>I paid $500 for my Dell. I only need it for basic uses, so I saw no point to buy something expensive.</p>
<p>I paid $1500 all told, and that was after huge discounts, for an inspiron :D</p>
<p>i can't deal with macs enless they run windows.</p>
<p>If you are getting a desktop, it'll be quite cheap (even a new one) like 400-600 i would guess. I would check out the dell website and pick the simplest one.</p>
<p>For laptops, i do not know... not experienced in that area.</p>
<p>Currently, the Macbook is a good $600 cheaper than the similarly configured Inspiron E1405. With the black casing, it's $400 cheaper. That's a big difference to me.</p>
<p>however, a bottom specced computer will run you no more than $700. And don't bring a desktop to college, you'll be chained to your desk and hate it, plus they're a huge pain to move. You won't be able to escape your room if you just need to get out and do work somewhere else. The extra money for a laptop is worth it.</p>