The choice of a computer (either desktop or a laptop) these days is somewhat confusing and subject to personal choice on the purpose of the computer. Before you read any further it is important to note that I was once a Windows user but became a Mac convert many years later. I have been a Mac user ever since.
So, when we decided we needed another laptop, a secondary unit, we were focused purely on price with a small amount of focus on the computer operationally.
Therefore, with a little searching on the internet and then a stop off in a few stores, I reluctantly realised that to meet my price objective I was “stuck” in the world of Windows and non-Apple brand laptops. The reality is though, you never should get stuck on a brand, it is not worth the extra money and you can miss out on so many other great things (I recently posted a comment on the Kindle and if I “stuck” to Apple I would have missed out on a great product).
In the end I purchased an emachines E525, with 2GB RAM, 15.6″ display, 160GB Hard Drive, super Multi DL drive and a multi-in-1 card reader. The manufacturer of this unit is Acer. I have not had a single issue with this unit and I would recommend it to anyone.
Installed on the laptop was Windows 7. I wasn’t particularly wanting a laptop with Windows 7, it was just an added bonus. Here is the kicker, Windows 7 is very good. So here are my key observations on Windows 7:
- The laptop came installed with Windows 7 and when I first switched it on the installation (establishment) process was simple, easy and extremely quick;
- For the perennial Windows user the desktop and the toolbar all look the same, so it is very familiar;
- Similar to Mac OS X the tool bar allows you to show applications and it is clear when an application is open or closed, and extremely easy to open a specific window and get a preview of what is one the application screen (if you have multiple open);
- Applications install easily and the whole interface feels more connected rather than a series of separated processes. It is clear there has been inspiration found from the Mac OS in this release;
- The incorporation of gadgets as standard and appearing on the desktop – well all I can say is about time;
- The responsiveness is fantastic (hard to tell how much is the PC specs though) and it just feels easily and better to use; and
- Finally, I have only seen the blue-screen of death once.
Well, I guess note everything has been improved but at least it is much better.
Cheers
