Hey guys. I'm looking for a new laptop to replace my desktop. It's clunky and I really don't want to play games any more, I just need a computer that can do digital painting and graphics (large Photoshop documents, etc). Besides that, I just want something solid and reliable, and that's all. It would be nice to keep it under $800-900. I'm willing to go refurbished.

One thing I do want is a VGA output so I can hook up my 19" monitor.

My computer knowledge is a bit rusty. I know the basics of processors, RAM, etc, but I know it's not so basic any more. There's such a huge variety of brands and models that I'm a bit overwhelmed.

I was looking at the VAIO NR models, and they seemed solid and cheap, but I read about issues with rolling back to XP. That's something I'm certain I'll want to do. I was also looking at the HP 530 (http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3319780&CatId=17), and the Acer TravelMate 5320 (http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3481314&CatId=17).

Any suggestions, and general tips for beginner buyers, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

P.S. - I'm from Canada.

I usually recommend going here for recommendations

http://www.websner.com/index.php?opt...d=23&Itemid=45

For you it sounds like the Dell Vostro 1400 would suit your needs. I would go to the link and customize it with Windows XP and upgrade the processor to the 2.0ghz. Default for the rest of the configurations and you have a pretty nice laptop. You can also email them for help. They are very helpful. info@websner.com, and it's a free service.

I agree that if you need the laptop for digital painting and graphics, you can just get a good quality reliable one, like the HP dv2620us with AMD Turion 1.6GHz, 2GB, 250GB 14.1 inch, built-in wireless 802.11b/g, VGA output, you can have a look at the reviews for the laptop : http://www.nextag.com/hp-dv2620us/search-html I got to know the right now the price has dropped a lot, only $800 at:http://www.dealstudio.com/searchdeals.php?deal_id=73103

Thanks guys. tbarrett, I ended up going with a modified Inspiron 1520 (1.5 Core 2 Duo, 2 GB) for about $850 plus tax from the Dell Canada website. I was originally going for a good deal on the HP site but have ran into lots of problems being from Canada.

It tells me it's shipping on the 8th. I want to be going on a trip for a week or two a few days later so I hope it gets here on time.

Jogi, glad you found what you're looking for. Hope you enjoy it.