Hello everyone! I'm planning to replace my laptop computer and at the same time develop more computer skills, trying some things I haven't done before.
I'm debating between two ASUS models, very similar in specifications (i7 processor, 8 GB RAM, same video processor, etc.). The first I looked at (which is, overall, a nicer laptop and includes an optical drive which I still find valuable) has a 1 TB HDD 5400 rpm. I tried to upgrade it to a 7200 rpm but that would also force me to buy it from a seller that has has it a higher price. Overall it would be around $1,050. This is the safe, comfortable option.
The second one comes with a 256 SSD plus internal expansion space for a 7mm HDD. If I buy this one, I would also buy a 1 TB internal HDD and install it myself, plus an external CD/DVD drive. This is the "high risk, maybe high reward" option:
- Overall cost would be around $930, actually freeing some cash to get the MS Office license.
- I will have a SSD, which is becoming the standard, so I can feel good about myself having cutting edge technology. Besides, my work laptop has a SSD and I can tell the difference in speed/reliability is vast.
- It will force me to open the laptop to install the internal HDD (yes, voiding the guarantee in the process), learn to manage 2 hard drives efficiently, create partitions, etc. Everything comes down to me being able to install the HDD easily following youtube videos. Do you think this is too risky?
I want the computer for the usual office stuff, installing and learning Ubuntu, and processing some heavy files for data analytics. I'm not a gamer at all but I have a Steam account and some games that would be nice to play (and that I don't play because my laptop overheats/freezes). Any input would be greatly appreciated