I'm graduating HS this coming June, and my parents have asked me to research something along the lines of a low-end laptop (I already have a very high-end desktop) for my grad present, so I thought I'd ask for information. I'm a near-expert when it comes to desktop components for Windows-based computers, but know little about laptops.

The uses will mainly be internet and office software while traveling. The most graphics-intense game it would play would probably be GTA: San Andreas on low settings, and the hardest processing would probably be non-intensive Photoshop. I also intend to, when I get my amateur radio technician's license, run some of the software suggested in the appropriate threads, but I imagine those aren't very processor- or memory-intensive.

I may, at some point, use it to experiment with Linux, but that's not a definite.

Therefore, what I'm imagining is something along the lines of a el-cheapo from Newegg. Suggestions?

Most systems are decent. I will advise against Averatec or the Compaq Presario or HP Pavillion. The low end models come apart after a while. Literally.

Quoted: Most systems are decent. I will advise against Averatec or the Compaq Presario or HP Pavillion. The low end models come apart after a while. Literally.

HP hasn't ever made good PCs, have they? And my experiences with compaqs have always been bad. Never even HEARD of Averatec until now (well, I had, I just had no idea what they did).

Also, I assume since I want to limit the price to something low, I should stay away from Alienware and Falcon Northwest.