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Are gateway brand laptops good quality computers?

Here are the specs on the laptop im considering it is 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 $180. It is on sale for $399 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? Thank you =]

Public Comments

1. This is very good, I have an MD2614u myself and love it. Norton won't do though. Get Kaspersky but not from Best Buy. For some reason, BB has it 50 dollars more expensive than online retailers (probably because of the 3 user license). When you buy the 4gb of ram, buy a matching set and throw out both sticks of stock RAM, because identical RAM runs better together. 3gb is plenty of room though. Overall this is a very good laptop. And for vista, keep it. It is very well matched with this line of computers.
2. The Gateway of today is not like the Gateway a few years ago Their Customer service and support sucks Acer computers took over Gateway about 2 years ago but kept the GATEWAY name I'm surprised the sales team at your BEST BUY store didn't try to steer you away from Gateway products as they do in my neck of the woods due to the many complaints they are getting since the ACER take over