I currently have a Dell Inspiron 8200 that I use for most of my computing. It works well, but is starting to show it’s age a little. I’m looking for a good x86 replacement for it, and was wondering what the SDMB would recommend.
My only hard and fast requirement is that the screen support UXGA (1600x1200) or greater resolution. A close second, although not absolutely essential, is that it must have both a pointing stick and touchpad for input.
I’m thinking of buying a ThinkPad T42P, but it’s a little expensive. I like it anyway though, primarily because it seems like IBM is the only x86 manufacturer left that still builds quality laptops. Everything else on the market seems to be made of cheap, flimsy, ugly, squeaky plastic. I have heard some negative reports on the reliability of late-model ThinkPads, but I’m not sure what to make of them.
And before anyone suggests an Apple, I just bought a 15" PowerBook this summer. I still need a PC laptop, though.
Any advice/information would be appreciated. I’m particulary interested in what people’s experiences have been with the lesser-known manufacturers, like Acer, Toshiba, and so on.