EXACT same story w/ mine (1 yr warranty, broke 5 months afterwards), although it was w/ a DV1000 (mid range I guess, ~$1k - $1.5k). I went to a dv1000 forum and in the troubleshooting/problem section most everyone had the exact same experience I did. We all had what sounds like the same problem you did (I can't remember the exact problem, it's been awhile back now), which was frustrating to say the least. I was an idiot though. I had the repair done to the tune of $300, and 1 year later the exact same problem occurred. It felt like putting a band-aid on a stab wound, knowing it's going to fall apart again.
Is this one of those "I know for a FACT" statements? Those rarely turn out well. Look, it all depends on your experience. My family has had nothing but trouble with Dell computers; thus I'm wary of Dells. You've had problems with HP, so you're biased as well. I'll leave it at that. Oh, I wasn't attacking you. Sorry if I came off like that. If you're happier with a Gateway, then so be it. Choice exists for a reason.
how are macbooks? i heard the macbook pros are pretty solid, anyone have one, or played around with one before?
I've gone through enough laptops over the years to speak somewhat knowledgeably about this, though. Yes, Dell's have had problems too, not with me personally but friends/family have had some problems with the Dell's as well. However, as I've already alluded to, the biggest offender (by far) has consistently been HP/Compaq, and I've had experience with both the expensive and the cheap models. The motherboard failing seems to be a 'common' (I would say too common, judging by the numerous online complaints I ran across when I had my problem) issue that isn't addressed. If it was a battery or something small then fine. But the motherboard failing (a short time into ownership, I might add) means you pretty much need to get a new laptop. Do you think when that happens anyone will be going back to HP/Compaq to get their next laptop? Doubtful. Nothing personal, I am just relaying my personal experience as a fair warning to those in the market for a laptop. On this forum alone there is a guy who had the same problem I did, so go figure! But you're right, other laptops have their issues too. Overall, Toshiba's seem to be the most 'reliable'. Three (cheap) laptops in my immediate family say so...
