What kind of computer do I need? (laptop, desktop, RAM)

[Whyte Byrd]

Need to buy a computer/laptop to use for online school where I have to also use discs. What should I look for in a computer besides a disc drive? Would a Mac be better? I don't even know the right questions to ask when I go in to look.

[Asheville Native]

Online classes will need broadband connection, you will need a provider, modem, router, and if you choose a laptop, wireless.

Anything will come with a CD/DVD drive, probably a model that will burn CD's or DVD's, but I cannot imagine that you will have to burn anything as part of an assignment. Everything will have USB ports for thumb drives the most common storage/transport for students if they can't be uploaded.

What software will the courses require? That will be course dependent, from needing nothing more than word processor, spreadsheet, and a PDF viewer, to web design programs, data base programs, etc. Does the school provide, offer discounted student purchase, and for what platform?

Your instructor can provide you with specifics, that is who you need to ask.

[Jukesgrrl]

You also might want to consider a built-in webcam (doesn't up the price much). If you are going to school online you might have times you need to communicate face-to-face with your instructors or fellow students. Skype and other meeting programs are free and easy to download.

[dkf747]

Some Macs you have to buy the drive separately. Nothing wrong with that, I'm just pointing that out.

[Star691]

Also advisable to look for a namebrand computer that has a good warranty. Getting an older used PC is not advised because some of the parts may not work after it is used regularly in a short amount of time.

[K-Luv]

Originally Posted by Whyte Byrd

Need to buy a computer/laptop to use for online school where I have to also use discs. What should I look for in a computer besides a disc drive? Would a Mac be better? I don't even know the right questions to ask when I go in to look.

This would be better served in the Colleges and Universities sub-forum as this question has come up from time to time.

Your school/program/course should list the basic requirements for on-line courses, but my guess is that most computers released in the last few years would be sufficient. You do not need anything fancy, just a decent processor (does not need to be stupid fast/powerful, but should have at least two cores), a decent video card (doesn't have to be HD), hard drive space (around 10 free gigs or so), connection speed (basically, anything faster than dial-up), and 2 gigs of RAM should be more than enough.

A Mac would be overkill, unless you want to use it for other purposes that can take advantage of what it offers. Otherwise, just stick to a basic, low-to-mid range PC with stock configuration and you should be fine.

Also, your school probably has a "computer store"....more than likely with Dell and/or HP and Apple with discount pricing. Apple's Education Pricing is a joke at only $100 off, but HP and Dell give better deals, and you can get a decent laptop or desktop for $400 or less.

[Whyte Byrd]

Thanks to all. One more question; I'm looking at Best Buy right now at some refurbished. Would you buy a refurbished laptop?

[mensaguy]

Originally Posted by Whyte Byrd

Thanks to all. One more question; I'm looking at Best Buy right now at some refurbished. Would you buy a refurbished laptop?

Look somewhere else. Nobody on this forum ever recommends buying at Best Buy, and that would go triple for a refurb. I would equate that with sending money orders to Nigerian bankers.

[Asheville Native]

Originally Posted by mensaguy

Look somewhere else. Nobody on this forum ever recommends buying at Best Buy, and that would go triple for a refurb. I would equate that with sending money orders to Nigerian bankers.

I'll second all of this. Don't let Best Buy and the Geek squad get their hooks into you, they will sell you services and features you don't need.

[MrRational]

Buy new and with the most features you can afford beyond those you need.
Check with the bookstore at the Uni. They almost always have the best deals.

hth