Buying a new computer
 

My computer recently broke and I've decided I'd like to go with Linux on my next one. I'm currently thinking about going with a Dell pre-installed with Ubuntu, since I don't have a ton of Linux experience. I also tend to not keep up with the latest trends with computers.

That said, I'm currently trying to decide between the Inspiron 1525 and the Studio 15 http://www.dell.com/content/topics/s...=19&l=en&s=dhs . I'm looking to spend about $800. Due to a $200 coupon I can get them with similar specs at the same price, though the Studio seems to have a much better display. Which computer would you guys go with? I'm having trouble deciding. I'm also afraid of buying now and having something new come out tomorrow, if this is possible I can wait a while before buying.

Also, if you have better recommendations for my first Linux computer, what would they be?

The Inspiron 1525 has very good reviews from these users.

http://marksitblog.blogspot.com/2008...25-review.html

http://www.dell.com/content/products...n~29~linux_3~~

The Studio 15n is probably equally as good but, as you say, it has a better screen resolution.

You cannot really go wrong with Dell laptops for Linux so get your money down!

Edit I have just found this review for the Studio 15.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2321796,00.asp

At a similar price I would definitely go for the Studio 15.

Woah, that's an open playing field question!

Don't bother waiting as every day something is updated and released so you'll never be on top of the game. Also, with $800 to spend you will be no where near top end so don't be too worried.

To be honest I'd go with a straight bang for buck approach and take the best quality screen, fastest CPU and most memory I could get for the cash. If you're not a graphic designer and not watch blu-ray you won't actually notice much difference between a standard LCD and a TruLife (or whatever it's called) one which Dell are touting.

With all Dells, my advice is "don't skimp on a 3 year NBD warranty, it's worth every penny."

Perhaps, you can build one:) It will require a lot of research to ensure compatibility (HCL section of LQ), but there will be a greater sense of achievement and you'll learn more:)
edit: plus a greater value for money

For $800 you can build a nice machine
 

I have been building my own for ten years now. Instead of getting stuck into some machine which is difficult to upgrade you could build your own and leave plenty of room for expansion. I'd suggest looking into newegg.com and checking out their barebones systems. My last build was an Asus on which I mounted my LFS. As time goes on I have added to it.

How important is processor speed gonna be with Linux? Here are the main differences between the machines at similar prices. I have 4 GB Ram in both.

Inspiron:
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T8300 (2.4GHz/800Mhz FSB/3MB cache)
No LED Display (1280 X 800)
320GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM)

Studio:
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T5850 (2.16GHz/667Mhz FSB/2MB cache)
LED Display (1920 X 1200)
250GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM)

I don't really understand the differences in the processors. The hard drives aren't a big deal to me, but the display sort of is. I'll be using the computer mainly for internet, email, word processing, etc. while I'm in graduate school. The speakers seem to be better in the studio. I'm just not sure which to get, I guess it comes down to how much of a difference there is in the processors.

Edit: Oh, and I'm unlikely to do much 3D gaming, I use my PS3 for that.

The processor you use
 

will depend on the motherboard you have. I've built mine with fast CPUs. I like my Wolfdale 3.2 ghz processor on my main workstation and I have two Xenon 3.2 ghz processors on my server.

Make sure your processor is compatible and also make sure the ram will work with the board. My work station has 8 GB of ram and the server runs on 32 GB.