Need imput on laptops from RE Agents, please (brokerage, exclusive, buy)

[jules07]

Hi folks, I am looking to buy a new laptop and would like some imput from agents. Currently I am not in open brokerage (I represent a developer on-site), but would like to know what works for agents who do practice open brokerage. Do you find that you are able to use a laptop exclusively, or do you need a desktop as well? Graphics capabilities - need anything special? I probably wouldn't be creating my one marketing materials, but to run virtual tours, pics off of MLS, etc. would I need anything special? Any recommendations of particular brands, Mac vs. PC, etc, etc.? Thanks in advance!

[chaz longue]

Get a laptop with a lot of RAM. Two gigabytes, if you're going to run Vista.

I'd avoid a Mac.

[2bindenver]

you would need nothing special just to run virtual tours or MLS.

I have run my business off of a laptop for 8 years. I backup regularly. I have a tablet XP Pro. I run MS office, Adobe Acrobat Professional, Publisher...

[dcris]

My wife and I share a laptop, and I've been researching getting one for myself. Features I definitely want to have are dedicated, not shared graphics, at least 1 gig RAM, DVD burner, a decent battery, which the one I am presently using is lacking, as it only lasts about an hour, and a Core 2 Duo processor.

I don't know if I should go with XP Pro as an operating system or Vista Business, though. My office network is not set up for Vista yet, but don't know if it is definitely incompatible.

Any input/suggestions/thoughts on the subject are appreciated.