
Originally Posted by
archnacorda
If it's mobility that you are after, then a 12.1" LCD is really ideal. I currently use an IBM/Lenovo X60s with a 12.1" screen and I find it perfect for my needs (ACad, Office, Photos and Powerpoint presentations). The X60s has no built-in optical drive, only an external one, but I find this configuration better since their is no sensitive optical sensor to worry about, thus contributing more to the unit's mobility factor.
The X60s has been discontinued, I got mine early 2008. but Lenovo has new models with similar specs. Go for an 8cell battery. It will give you a 6 hour usage. Don't get Vista. Just opt for XP Pro and wait for Windows 7.
I also have an HP MiniNote. It has a great screen and keyboard and looks good but is an underperformer compared to EEE1000H/HE. It only has an 80G HD and a battery with a 2 hour life. The battery really sucks because one would expect to use a Notebook in a coffee shop to last for 3-4 hours. I use the HP Mini for office editing when I am travelling on overnighters or when I need to wait for the kids in a mall. I bring my X60s along for serious work.
I use my desktop for the more serious tasks. I consider my laptops to complement my computer tasks and not as my primary working tool.
You have a lot of choices with your Php40,000.00 budget. I suggest you take a look at the tried and trusted brands first - Dell and Lenovo. There are models available at the Php30,000.00 bracket. Many have told me that Asus and HP are better for indoor work. When I told them that I need to use my laptop outdoors and within a construction site, I was advised to get a Dell or a Lenovo because these are more resistant against dust. So far, I haven't had any problems. BTW, my previous laptop was a Dell Inspiron 4100 PIII model and it never gave me a problem and was very sturdy. It is still being used now by my daughter as a desktop.
The others who commented are right. Bottom line is - how will you use it and where will you use it. A big factor of my choice for the X60s was that it had a HD protector software bundled with the ThinkPad package. Ask around about this software. It's a great tool if you usually put your laptop on standby mode and lug it around. Ask about battery life. A true "mobile" laptop should last for at least 4 hours. If you work outdoors then test the unit against and behind glare. The Lenovo non-glossy screen is perfect for outdoor work under extreme glare but the downside is the limited viewing angle. It's a compromise I have learned to live with. For indoor use, the glossy screen would be fine.
Other factors to consider are elementary. A 160 HD should be minimum. Upgrade it to at least 4G RAM. And if you have any money left, invest it in a high capacity external HD for backing up files. 3 USB ports is minimum as well as firewire ports.
Of course, invest in a good water resistant laptop bag and consider a well padded sleeve for additional protection.