should i buy a laptop or a desktop for this school year?





I am going to be a senior this year in high school. I currently have a Toshiba laptop and it’s about three years old…still runs real nice for a well-worn computer, but it’s too behind the times for me. Basically, I want to get an updated, not TOO expensive computer (roughly around 0-650 is what I want to spend) that will play specifically The Sims 3. I’d also want it for normal stuff like holding word documents and photos and whatnot, but mainly I just like to use the internet at play the Sims. I am going to go to Best Buy…and I want to know, should I get a desktop, or a laptop? And what specific things should I look for?

Should I buy this laptop?

Here are the specs on the laptop im considering it is Gateway Model: MD 7309u

- Intel Pentium processor T4200
- Features an 800MHz frontside bus, 1MB L2 cache and 2.0GHz processor speed.
- 3GB DDR2 memory
- For multitasking power, expandable to 4GB.
- Multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW drive with double-layer support
- Records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media. Also supports DVD-RAM.
- 15.6" LCD high-definition widescreen display
- With Ultrabright technology and 1366 x 768 resolution showcases movies and games in rich clarity.
- 250GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 rpm)
- For ample storage space and fast read/write times.
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M
- With Intel Dynamic Video Memory technology and up to 1759MB total graphics memory. High-definition audio support. HDMI interface for connecting HD peripherals.
- Illuminated multimedia touch control buttons
- Keep your favorite media accessible at the touch of a button.
- Built-in high-definition webcam with microphone
- Makes it easy to chat with and send video mail to family and friends.
- Multi-in-1 digital media reader
- Supports Secure Digital, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, MultiMediaCard and xD-Picture Card formats.
- 4 high-speed USB 2.0 ports
- For fast digital video, audio and data transfer.
- Built-in high-speed wireless LAN (802.11b/g/n)
- Lets you wirelessly connect to the Internet on the go.
- Built-in 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector
- Along with a V.92-ready 56 Kbps modem for easy wired Internet connectivity.
- Weighs 6.5 lbs. and measures just 1.7" thin

I am looking for a laptop mostly used for school and email, editing pictures and I also will be downloading music on it (which i know puts me at risk for some viruses). So I’d buy the norton anti-virus for the next years(is this sufficient enough for my protection). I plan on having it for 4-5 years at least!, I plan on getting the best buy Black-tie warranty for another 0. It is on sale for 9 at best buy. Please tell me any suggestions or pointers you have! or other reccomendations. I’ve never thought as gateway as being a good brand, so i am really unsure, but i also don’t know a whole lot about computers. Is the 4gb of ram worth the extra money? or is 3gb plenty of room for me, and my computer still not be slow after a few years?

Thank you =]
Yeah, im not a gamer at all, unless the occasional pogo counts!

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