Cameron breaks down the question of what notebook to buy... The thing I like about this writeup is the analysis. Far too often people make lots of decisions without thinking through the variables and tradeoffs. For example, when I bought the truck I had numerous emails traded with friends about what I was trying to achieve with it (towing, carrying people, carrying gear, etc.) and what priority I put on various things (finish quality, power, etc.). This rigorous and detailed analysis is what separates the prosumers from the regular consumers... probably 75% of the time I'm a consumer... it takes more energy to be a prosumer but you end up with better products that you are much more happy about.