My wife wanted a new laptop computer, so having good luck with Dell in the past, I configured a 14" Studio laptop that would be a major upgrade to the little ASUS netbook she is using now. The new laptop has an i5 processor, 4GB memory, a 250GB HD (small, but she doesn’t really need the space and it is 7200 rpm) a Radeon 4530 video card, the bigger battery, bluetooth, backlit keyboard, etc.
That is, it would have all that, if Dell could ever deliver it. It’s been on order for almost a month, has been delayed twice already, and has just been delayed a third time.
Here is the problem - although it will still a nice little machine, in the month we’ve been waiting for it even better machines are becoming available. In fact, I can go to the Dell site today and spec out about the same computer with the following changes: A slightly faster i5 processor, a 500 GB 7200 rpm HD, a better sound option, and a N wireless card vs a G wireless card for $25 less.
In short, the laptop I ordered one month ago is becoming obsolete while I’m waiting for it. Of course, it’ll still be a nice computer, but it’s obviously losing value.
On the other hand, if I cancel this and order the one I just configured, I have no doubt Dell will delay that one too.
So, what to do: Wait one more week for the one I ordered? Cancel that one and order the slightly better and cheaper one I just configured? Or say ‘screw it’ to Dell and buy a Sony Vaio; very similar, but only available around here from Best Buy (ugh)?