I want a laptop for mostly programming needs. The only two requirements are 14.1' screen and Core2Duo. I found numerous laptop models in mumbai's electronic market at lamingtone road. I found following models in my budget range:
1.Acer 4520/5920/4720/4710
2.Lenovo G410
I plan to install Linux and FreeBSD on it, hence would prefer Intel wireless and intel graphics. Is anybody using Linux on Acer laptops? Is it true that Acer laptops have very short battery life of around 1.5hrs? I want the battery life to be atleast 2-3 hrs. Which other models fit my requirement?
-Omkar.
yet another linux user eh ? Welcome aboard.
here are some things I need to tell you to clear some doubts:
1. Intel graphics are not fully linux supporting. Take their GMAX3x00 series for example. None of them have proper linux drivers. Ask one of our members, The_Devil_Himself. He has onboard GMAX3000 and struggles with games on ubuntu.
2. AMD is not half bad for budget range. Infact, AMD64 architecture processors were supported in linux long before intel came out with 64 bit stuff.(don't worry, its still x86-64)
3. Currently, nVidia graphics will suit you well as they have maximum support on linux. They may not have FOSS drivers, but their available manufacturer's drivers rock.
4. ATi drivers are slowly improving. As a marketing exercise, AMD is deciding to go pro OSS. So they are releasing better linux drivers.
5. Compaq is a good choice if you need budget laptops. They may sometimes come with Vista, but you can always attempt to get a refund, and even then, they are VFM. And many of their budget books have nVidia 7 series onboard, or Intel GMA x3100 onboard.
6. Acer laptops often have outdated i945 chipsets. They may have the best processors and a good VFM combo, but you are still stuck with GMA950(which does have linux native drivers). But GMA 950 is ooooooold. But still, you might find acer's 20k laptop intresting, as it suits all your needs.
7. If battery backup is not good, get yourself an extra battery pack if it fits in your budget.
8. Please mention your budget in the first place.