<p>Hi all, as a senior in high school I was wondering what computer I should buy, especially because I am majoring in Computer Science. Some of the essentials in the computer should be:
At least 500gb memory
At least 4 gb of RAM
A screen in between 14"-17"</p>
<p>Some of the ones I am interested in are the alienware m17x, HP envy17, and some from the Lenovo Thinkpad series, but I'm definitely open to other options. </p>
<p>Any and all feedback is helpful. Thank you!</p>
<p>It really matters what you’re looking for as long as you have good specs. Firstly, getting a Mac is possible, and a good idea if you might want to go into iOS app development. You don’t need to get a PC to major in CS anymore. Yes it’s expensive (too much for me) but Mac can run Windows and Terminal can be very powerful. For PC, I’ve had good experiences with Dells.</p>
<p>You didn’t mention processor, but I’d recommend at least an Intel i5. An i7 can provide more power but can use more power if you care about battery life. From what I know, I’d choose Intel over AMD. </p>
<p>If you plan to go into anything with graphics, I’d get a GPU with dedicated memory. It’s also good to ‘future-proof’ your computer. </p>
<p>Size is something to consider. I like 15" because it gives me good screen size and I bring my computer everywhere (I haven’t brought a binder or notebook to class in 2 years). 17" would be cumbersome for me, but might be good for you.</p>
<p>I was definitely going to get something with an Intell i7 processor and I think you’re right about the screen size as the 17" might be a bit too cumbersome for class. Any suggestions on specific models?</p>
<p>Hi, Ultrabook will be a right decision. Here is [Best</a> ultrabook for college, moderate price, bright design and wide possibilities](<a href=“http://ultrabooksreview.com/best-3-ultrabook/best-3-ultrabooks-for-student/]Best”>http://ultrabooksreview.com/best-3-ultrabook/best-3-ultrabooks-for-student/)
Hope that helped you</p>
<p>I’ve had problems running Linux on some laptops, including a ThinkPad W500 that overheated whenever it ran any Linux distro. Look around online to make sure the computer you plan to buy isn’t known for problems with Linux.</p>
<p>If you don’t use Linux already, you’ll absolutely want to start using it as much as possible on whatever computer you already use. It greatly enhances the learning experience. I can’t imagine attempting to become a software expert without being intimately familiar with the Unix environment.</p>
<p>I have owned an IBM Thinkpad during all 6 years of college(CS/CE double major), and during its time it was probably the most functional laptop that I have ever used. Now, the Thinkpads have been improved in many ways, and out of the three computers you mentioned I would definitely buy the Thinkpad. Alienware/Dell computers are generally overpriced, and HP computers are just average. Lenovo has a wide selection of laptops and ultrabooks to choose from, so the cheapest one that fits your required configuration is usually the best choice for you. 17" might be a little on the large side, but I have traveled with a 21" laptop before.</p>