Advice

you got an endless supply of money. walk into the nearest computer shop and tell them you want the top of the line best laptop that is not apple they have.
 
you got an endless supply of money. walk into the nearest computer shop and tell them you want the top of the line best laptop that is not apple they have.

Nothing is endless on earth. And you trust sales staff?
 
Nothing is endless on earth. And you trust sales staff?

depends if you go to a computer shop or a "box" store. top of the line laptop will cost you 1000$ a comparable apple will cost you 3000$. 500$ should be about the price range you are looking to spend for surfing the net and watching movies. 1000$ and you will be set for 2 years or so.
 
depends if you go to a computer shop or a "box" store. top of the line laptop will cost you 1000$ a comparable apple will cost you 3000$. 500$ should be about the price range you are looking to spend for surfing the net and watching movies. 1000$ and you will be set for 2 years or so.

I think I mentioned I also need it for my distant learning classes, so I need an i7 and a lot of memory
 
depends if you go to a computer shop or a "box" store. top of the line laptop will cost you 1000$ a comparable apple will cost you 3000$. 500$ should be about the price range you are looking to spend for surfing the net and watching movies. 1000$ and you will be set for 2 years or so.

Much longer for the average user/non gamer.
 
I think I mentioned I also need it for my distant learning classes, so I need an i7 and a lot of memory

1000$ will get you more than you need. a lot more than you need. been a while since i checked the websites and different stores but you will be good in around that price, just don't buy apple.
 
i upgrade every 2 years, needed or not. so i have no idea how long they last. when i am done i format, reinstall windows and give it away.

You're definitely not in that average user category (surfing the net, movies, etc) or just love new tech.
 
I use the same approach with my desktop pc and get the urge to buy some new piece every year or so.

i got a couple of external hard drives i keep everything on. there is nothing on my computer i can't flush quick and if i do crash it i ain't losing nothing i care about. except a picture of my wiener that is very flattering.
 
i got a couple of external hard drives i keep everything on. there is nothing on my computer i can't flush quick and if i do crash it i ain't losing nothing i care about. except a picture of my wiener that is very flattering.

I use a similar method but run the os from a dvd without a hard drive installed. Works well in a pinch if you're paranoid. ;)
 
I use a similar method but run the os from a dvd without a hard drive installed. Works well in a pinch if you're paranoid. ;)

i am more paranoid about what my google search will turn up lol or if i die before i can clear my search history.
 
Get an IBM ThinkPad - they have metal hinges. Limit screen size to not more than 14". Don't go for 'thin and lightweight' - 'Chunky' and 'durable' are better words for a laptop. For good portability, get a model that comes with a separate docking station.
 
i am more paranoid about what my google search will turn up lol or if i die before i can clear my search history.

Use https://startpage.com/ for those sensitive searches. Adjust the startpage settings to increase security.

With chrome use Autoclear or private mode. With firefox set Clear history (check everything) when firefox closes or private browser mode.