What does the Fox say?

[blybrook PE]

I think its a goner:

 

[kevo_55]

Fox:

What is the word on Chromebooks? Are they worth it or am I better off just buying a laptop.

For this thing, I am just looking at using it to surf the web and some minor spreadsheet work.

 

[csb]

 

[Dexman PE PMP]

 

[knight1fox3]

I'll grab a few more photos once its cooled, can you work your magic?

Fox:

What is the word on Chromebooks? Are they worth it or am I better off just buying a laptop.

For this thing, I am just looking at using it to surf the web and some minor spreadsheet work.

I hate to answer a question with a question, but have you actually tried one of them out yet? It would be best to see how you like the feel of Google's OS. If you're comfortable with it, then yes some of the newest version C.B.'s out there are work very will for just Internet and email. However, now you start throwing the newest versions of Office at it, it may start to stumble. And I'm actually not sure what the compatibility of MS Office to Google's OS. I assume it probably works but may have "issues". Also, depending on the price, you can get a pretty slick standard laptop for $500 or less these days. With a decent amount of memory and an i5 CPU too. Which is pretty good IMO. I'd always opt for the full-blown PC vs. a slimmed down version for more "future-proofing" and versatility. If you do go the Chromebook route, I'd be interested to know how it works for you.

The ASUS Transformer might be another option for you. I just recommended one of these to a friend not too long ago. I like that it can double as a tablet too. Super compact and good hardware specs not to mention a full version of Windows 8.1 (i.e. not RT). Also, with the docking keyboard, it can also be used for word processing among other things because you can connect it (via the HDMI output) to full-size monitor to get some real work done. You also don't find many tablets with a full-size USB port. At the time my co-worker purchased it ($299), it also came bundled with a full version of MS Office ($200 value). VERY tough to beat that kind of price point IMO. Just another option for you to consider.

 

[blybrook PE]

I'll grab a few more photos once its cooled, can you work your magic?

This is the response I expected. I figured it was a lost cause...

 

[Dexman PE PMP]

Don't worry, he gave me the same response to my computer and mine wasn't recently on fire...

Then he charged me for his time...

 

[blybrook PE]

I already know what my bill is going to be. A growler of ale from the local brewery.

 

[knight1fox3]

Don't worry, he gave me the same response to my computer and mine wasn't recently on fire...

Then he charged me for his time...

LOL. But I have a technical report to defend my assessment.

And for the record, I only charged install time for the new hardware/software. I didn't charge all the time I spent doing my own diagnostics in addition to coordinating with my HDD recovery vendor. And don't forget about the "free" time on the phone with MS to reactivate the license key.

How's she running anyway?

 

[blybrook PE]

I will say this though, iff'n ya want the growler, you may have to meet me near Denver when I'm that way in October. I don't know the next time I'm going to be midwest bound. Unless it travels back with company through MSP next summer.

 

[knight1fox3]

I will say this though, iff'n ya want the growler, you may have to meet me near Denver when I'm that way in October. I don't know the next time I'm going to be midwest bound. Unless it travels back with company through MSP next summer.

That would be pretty sweet. There was talk of an Alaska trip at some point just not sure how soon. But you can bet if that happens we'll be sure to split one. :beerchug:

 

[Dexman PE PMP]

Don't worry, he gave me the same response to my computer and mine wasn't recently on fire...

Then he charged me for his time...

LOL. But I have a technical report to defend my assessment.

And for the record, I only charged install time for the new hardware/software. I didn't charge all the time I spent doing my own diagnostics in addition to coordinating with my HDD recovery vendor. And don't forget about the "free" time on the phone with MS to reactivate the license key.

How's she running anyway?

Like a champ. Managed to get all of my basic software reinstalled. I'm not putting Minecraft back on it. Way too much malware with that horrible game.

Although, I will have to say the screensaver paired up with the wallpaper was pretty funny. Watching rainbow bubbles bounce around Bumblebee & Optimus is classic.

 

[matt267 PE]

What does the fox say about mint.com? Security is my concern. I don't always trust the internet with finance.

 

[knight1fox3]

I like to keep finances local. But I hear mint is really good. I use Excel. Lot of good macros out there.

 

[matt267 PE]

I agree with keeping finances local. Hell, I might go old school and print statements and receipts and keep them in an analog folder.

 

[knight1fox3]

Well my credit union has the capabilty to export statements to Excel. =)

 

[engineergurl]

I agree with keeping finances local. Hell, I might go old school and print statements and receipts and keep them in an analog folder.

now who's killing trees?

 

[YMZ PE]

I like Mint. You can only view your accounts through Mint, you can't make transactions. Still, it's more risky than keeping finances local or analog, but the convenience of one website to track my cash and investments means I actually stay on top of my budget.

 

[matt267 PE]

I agree with keeping finances local. Hell, I might go old school and print statements and receipts and keep them in an analog folder.

now who's killing trees?

the trees were already dead.

 

[kevo_55]

Fox, you make some good points on the Chromebook.

Still, I do use Google's Quick Office on my phone and currently have no issues. Of course I am not running macros or anything too complicated.

I'm still going to do some research, but I'll keep you posted.