Now that the rig is out of commission, most likely on a more permanent basis, yours truly is thinking hard of whether to buy a new CPU or, in the most unlikeliest of possibilities, a mobile computer (or a notebook or laptop -- your jargon preference). Now, those who know me from two years ago know that aside from trying to live a double-life as a corporate marketing stiff and a freelance writer/designer, I am not a particular fan of mobile computers -- holding on to the firm belief that a desktop is still the better option.
However, the recent developments in mobile computing has had me thinking twice, thrice and quadruple times. A friend who works for one of the leading retailers of computers in the country has remarked recently that prices of laptops have been on a steady decline but the specs of such machines have gone up. And while browsing through online PC shops (Philippine retails sites, of course), one can see that there's just about a laptop or notebook that's within your desired budget range.
As a writer-editor-copywriter, the smaller, more affordable units like the extremely popular now Asus Eee PC series will suffice. However, as someone who also deals in the arts and design, I will, of course, need a machine that can handle the heavy graphics and design requirements of brochures, posters, and yes, even annual reports and souvenir programs (not to mention flyers, streamers, book covers, etc. and etc.). I will need a machine that is maxed out in terms of memory, storage, and processing power, be it Intel or AMD taking into consideration the GHz factor.
Plus, the gamer in me will always want to be able to play quality games so a high-end separate video card will come in handy.
So, while a MacBook Pro will be out of the question, something within the P50K-P80K range is ideal. A laptop higher than P80K will probably offer the best specs for someone doing freelance design work but will most likely be impractical. A unit priced between P35K to P49K would still be ok but to get the best mileage out of the cost, an earlier release (yet power packed in features) would be the best bet.
And aside from considering a laptop over a desktop, I am also exploring the possibility of getting a unit not branded Asus. Yes, for the longest time, the best laptop IMO is an Asus -- whatever the specs. Recent online Windows-shopping has revealed that other brands are worth looking at. So, aside from the Asus line, I am also happily browsing through catalogs of IBM/Lenovo, Acer, HP Compaq and Dell.
The advantages of a mobile computer are quite obvious. Plus, the proliferation of wi-fi zones just about anywhere has made working outside of the humble abode an interesting notion and option. No longer should you be stuck on a computer chair facing a monitor when you can opt to do your freelancing, writing, blogging, surfing, or even gaming in another venue.
So, when am I getting a laptop? No idea yet. Just musing really as I still need to muster the moolah to purchase one :P
Wish ko laaannngggg!
