RgrRbbt

Hi folks,

I'm looking to buy a laptop as a supplement to my current Dell desktop, and I'm looking to spend up to about $1.5-2k for it. I know there are a ton of good Dell deals here, but from talking to current owners, it sounds like IBM makes sturdier, more dependable (and lighter) laptops. Can anyone recommend where to go to look for good deals on a nice IBM laptop, for example a well-equiped T40/41 machine?

Thanks a lot!

Jeffbx

Look for promotions/sales from these sites:

http://www.cdw.com
http://www.insight.com
http://www.buy.com

Or, give IBM a call (1-888-SHOP-IBM x7000), tell them you're a small business owner & you're trying to decide between a T41 and a Latitude D800. They'll usually bump the price down if you mention Dell.

If you don't mind a refurb, try http://www.ebay.com/ibm

tupacboy

honestly... dell is better... espescially since they have that full care thing... i mean basically anything can happen to your laptop and they'll fix it... minus theft... that's just awesome....

RgrRbbt

well, my understanding is that dell's reliability has slipped, so you're less likely to need repairs on a ibm laptop in the first place, which is preferrable to me. they also feel more sturdily built.

milkchug

I've been looking for a T41 and I've noticed that Ecost actualyl has some pretty decent prices but they run out pretty quick on these bad boys.

And Yes, I agree 100% I've had a Thinkpad in the past 701c and a Dell and the Dell just doesn't match up.

Jeffbx

I use and buy both on a very regular basis, and this is what I've found -

Dell Latitudes are cheaper & just as reliable as IBM in the short term (like the first 3 years). After that, the IBM will outlast the Dell up to 5 years or so.

However, Dell service is MUCH easier to deal with. I'd say out of 50 service calls, I'll have trouble with maybe 1 Dell call, and probably have issues with 20 of the IBM calls. I have the same coverage on both machines (3 year, next day on site). Dell will actually show up on site the next day & fix the problem.

IBM will have parts on backorder, the warranty info won't be in their system, they'll send a guy out to look at the system, decide he needs more parts, and leave without fixing it, etc.

So, yeah, IBM has a slight edge on reliability, but by far you get better service from Dell.

tupacboy

well my whole thing is... i dont' keep my computers past 3 years regardless... so with the complete care package dell offers.... its perfect... i really don't have to worry about my laptop

RgrRbbt

well, you make a convincing argument...so, do you know of how to get good deals on latitudes? apex mostly seems to list inspiron deals.

thanks!

Jeffbx

Just keep an eye out for Dell's Small Business coupons, or have a look at the refurbs at Dell.