Cheaper Dell notebooks?

WhiskeyPapa · 01-18-2003, 05:44 AM

I really like Dell, I have been using their computers at work for many years. I have had several Dell notebooks as my primary work computer. However, I have always used the "top of the line" Dell notebooks (hey, it wasn't my money anyway...)

Well, now I may need to purchase my own notebook for a side project. I will be running Dreamweaver MX and Visual Studio. Now that I am confronted with shelling out my own cash, I'm starting to reconsider the "top of the line"...

I can get a nicely equipped Inspiron 2650 for $908 after rebate. A similarly configured Inspiron 8200 would be $1389 after rebate. I know and like the 8200 (that's is my current work computer) but saving $481 is very appealing.

My question: Is the 2650 really worth almost $500 less? Would I notice that $500 difference in the performance?

Capricornholio · 01-18-2003, 06:25 AM

I think the only big difference with the models are the type of video adapters available. The 2650 only comes only with a Radeon w/ 16megs of dedicated memory, where as the 8200 comes with 32megs stock and can be configured with the near top o' line Radeon 9000 with 64megs. Also 8200 comes with larger screen.

Jeffbx · 01-20-2003, 05:57 AM

The Latitude line is generally more rugged than the Inspirons. Rather than going up a model in the Inspiron line, I'd suggest switching to a similar model Latitude. The Latitudes are the 'business' line of machines, and are built to take a little more abuse than the Inspirons.

Also, whatever you get, it's worth the extra $$ to upgrade your warranty to include the 'complete care' package... this covers against accidental damage, including things like dropping it down the stairs or running over it with your car.

01-18-2003, 05:44 AM	#1
WhiskeyPapa Rear Admiral Upper Half Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: 45° 11' 35" North Latitude, 95° 8' 37" West Longitude Posts: 3,427	Cheaper Dell notebooks? I really like Dell, I have been using their computers at work for many years. I have had several Dell notebooks as my primary work computer. However, I have always used the "top of the line" Dell notebooks (hey, it wasn't my money anyway...) Well, now I may need to purchase my own notebook for a side project. I will be running Dreamweaver MX and Visual Studio. Now that I am confronted with shelling out my own cash, I'm starting to reconsider the "top of the line"... I can get a nicely equipped Inspiron 2650 for $908 after rebate. A similarly configured Inspiron 8200 would be $1389 after rebate. I know and like the 8200 (that's is my current work computer) but saving $481 is very appealing. My question: Is the 2650 really worth almost $500 less? Would I notice that $500 difference in the performance? __________________

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01-18-2003, 06:25 AM	#2
Capricornholio Lieutenant Junior Grade Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: NJ Posts: 179	I think the only big difference with the models are the type of video adapters available. The 2650 only comes only with a Radeon w/ 16megs of dedicated memory, where as the 8200 comes with 32megs stock and can be configured with the near top o' line Radeon 9000 with 64megs. Also 8200 comes with larger screen.

01-20-2003, 05:57 AM	#3
Jeffbx Fleet Admiral Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Michigan Posts: 9,390	The Latitude line is generally more rugged than the Inspirons. Rather than going up a model in the Inspiron line, I'd suggest switching to a similar model Latitude. The Latitudes are the 'business' line of machines, and are built to take a little more abuse than the Inspirons. Also, whatever you get, it's worth the extra $$ to upgrade your warranty to include the 'complete care' package... this covers against accidental damage, including things like dropping it down the stairs or running over it with your car.

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