Laptop Recommendations

At the beginning of this year, I have been setting aside $20/mo for a new laptop, I bought my current lappie for $100 used. Well I have hit $100. I do not need a new computer, what I need is a large screen (my eyes are not doing well as I get older), I want a large HD, and as powerful a processor I can get, Lots of RAM for CAD work, Whatever I get I will not just run out and buy it, so Month by Month I will keep adding to my lap fund. HP at Walmart looks fairly decent. So in preparation for that golden day, I am asking for advice what to look for and what to avoid.

 

We really cannot recommend anything now because (1) we don't know what will be out there when you are ready to buy. (2) We don't know what your budget will be. (3) We don't know what size monitor you want. (4) We don't know what type video interface your notebook supports.

So to start, what video interfaces does your notebook support? You can tell by looking at the graphics ports. Typically, notebooks support D-Sub (the old analog VGA) and a digital output, usually HDMI or DisplayPort. Older notebooks may use DVI but if not sure, tell us the brand and exact model number of your notebook and we can probably help you out with that.

Here's an image showing the common graphics ports.

In the meantime, it should be noted that almost all TVs made in recent years support computer input using one or more of those same ports - most commonly HDMI. So you may only need a cable.

 

I need a portable computer, I have a desktop in the living room. Bedroom space is restricted. My current lappie is getting pretty long in the tooth. Keyboard doesn't work, battery slot is shot. I am interested in anybody else's bad experience. If I were more mobile I would buy used again. So I'm asking for input as to what not to do as well as what to do.

 

Now I'm confused. Are you going to be lugging around a large screen monitor too, along with this portable computer?

And reading your opening post again, you said,

That sounds like you want a new computer but you also said,

 

I am trying to rejoin something called Dallas Maker Space. Having my computer there would be handy, before I had to spend full time in a wheelchair, I wouldn't think twice about it. I have had to sell my car. I also can't make the flea markets like I used to. 3 years ago I had a brain bleed, a hemorrhagic stroke, It kills slightly over4 out 5 people but I survived (lucky me) interacting with people on forums like this is one way I stay sane. Asking questions never hurts (unless the answer itself is painful). I was at a Walmart the other day and saw several in the $200-250 price range I wouldn't mind at all owning. If you know a source I might buy online please PM me, must respect the forum rules after all. I am a moderator on All About Circuits, which also uses XenForo, Right after the stroke my cognition was severely damaged, I am happy to say that for the most part I am back. Learning is still an issue, but isn't it always for Senior types? I live in Dallas, TX. Nice to meet you @Digerati .

I am also a people person, and will talk your ears off if you let me. I assume that you are from the land of Oz from your name?

 

Nice to meet you too and am sorry to hear about your troubles but happy to hear you are doing much better. I'm no spring chicken either and "working" the forums is how I stay current (more or less) on today's computing technologies.

LOL - No. I got the nickname "Digerati" years ago from my colonel. The general fat fingered his password too many times and locked himself out of his computer. Plus he accidentally deleted a very important report he was editing. I was the network manager at the time and was able to unlock his access and reset his password, then recover his document. The general was really happy which made the colonel grateful putting me in good graces with both the colonel and the general - all for 2 minutes easy work (but I sure didn't tell them that! ).

Anyway, so I'm still a bit confused over what you are looking for. Are you looking just to get a new monitor? If so, then you still need to make sure your notebook has the necessary video ports for the new monitor. All notebooks are able to support external monitors but they don't all have the same type ports.

 

I am sure Digerati can help on suitable laptops.- Prices low enough may be harder to find for a new larger screen laptop.
I think this link may help you to look at some, and consider any, or similar that seems viable
https://www.lptps.com/best-laptops-under-250
I think it best to let you follow Digerati's advice , rather than adding confusion- Two many cooks could spoil the meal.....

 

Actually, I am not a fan of notebooks (they should never sit on your lap or other soft surfaces so I try to say "notebook"). I only use one when mobility is unavoidable. They are proprietary which is never good for the consumer. My notebook is coming up on 10 years old and I don't have any urge to replace it any time soon.

I will give up my PC, full sized keyboard and mouse, two 24" monitors, and surround sound speaker systems only after my body is cremated.

 

I am just barely within distance of getting a new computer any time soon, so this thread is a bit premature. One thing I have learned over time, patience pays in the long run. Don't be in a hurry to buy.