Help buying 64 bit

If you are in the market for buying a new notebook computer, this article might just be the place to start off at before sinking large sums of ‘bling’ (money) into the next purchase.

I decided to post this here on Channel9, because with other forums I’ve asked for help, I’ve got barely any useful response, and asking on places like IRC I either get people who can’t help or people who are in a way cynical and aren’t giving me useful advice. I know a lot of people here should be able to give me the advice I need, and I would be grateful

My situation right now is that my notebook had broken down, and for the last few months I’ve been using an old 233mhz computer and its been slow since its been running Windows 2000 (which I had reasons for installing).

I need to soon buy a new notebook. Essentially I will use it as a desktop replacement, so I’m not worried about the size or battery life. I need to move it around places, like to a library (where often I scan pictures and use Photoshop or other graphics programs), or with me when I travel, or return to my university, and maybe other places, but using it unplugged is not a concern.

I won’t be having a desktop computer in addition, so I’ve been looking at buying a notebook that will satisfy me for several years, past the debut of Longhorn and Blackcomb. Which means I first am considering getting a 64-bit processor, which limits me to certain brands, HP/Compaq and Acer. [Read the rest]