What to buy...

[XF8X]

So next year in college I'm starting a computer programming course...

My current HP laptop isn't really doing it for me so I'm looking to get something new. I've been wanting a MAC for a while now but I'm not sure if I want to get a MAC and dual-boot Windows on it for my course, or buy a really nice PC, like Alienware or something... either way, I want something that will last me AT LEAST 4 years, if that's possible... Any PC or MAC suggestions are welcome. My price range would probably have to be 3500, around the cost of a Mac book Pro.

Oh and one more thing, just wondering that if I DO dual-boot windows, will a MAC be powerful enough to play the high-end games for PC? I'm guessing yes, just wanted a second opinion.

Thx.

 

[daisymtc]

I suggest you go for windows instead of MAC due to the price.
With $3500 budget. I think it would be better to build a PC desktop at $1500-1800 to run your program, then get a $400 netbook for carry around campus

BTY, don't waste money on expensive Alienware. Just not worth the money

 

[Euklid]

I suggest you go for windows instead of MAC due to the price.
With $3500 budget. I think it would be better to get a desktop at $1500-1800 to run your program, then get a $400 netbook for carry around campus.

Second that choice. Most of the computer programming people I met at
university had powerful desktops in their dorm room, and then had a laptop
as well. A laptop isn't good with ventilation, and gaming on the thing will
kill it quickly with all the heat.

I don't think any laptop will last your 4 years because an ion lithium battery
will die before that many charges. In university you will have to spend a lot
of time on battery power. You will probably have to buy at least one
replacement battery - which costs between $100 to $175.

 

[XF8X]

For some reason I never really thought about a desktop computer haha...

Thx for the input I'm gonna do some research on building a sick computer. I actually saw a cool DIY on making cool panels and stuff... This could actually be fun...