My New Gateway NV53 Laptop From TigerDirect.ca

Over the last few years (about 5) I’ve purchased about 2 laptops, and in most cases when I’ve upgraded I’ve given the laptop to my son and sold his off (or gave it away). Typically when I buy a new computer, I don’t go for the latest and greatest since speed isn’t critical for me but what is important is memory and hard drive storage (not as important as it used to be).

I use the laptop more for a desktop replacement but not would not necessarily purchase something equivalent to a desktop. Combined with a 2nd 21″ LCD monitor I’ve got my set-up perfect for what I do.

My latest “find” is a Gateway NV53 from TigerDirect which features Multi-Gesture ToucPad, something called MyBackup (who backs 500gb or 1tb drives???), 16:9 HD LCD, CardReader and HDMI output (sweet).

Other features are an AMD Athalon II X2 M300 processor, 15.6″ HD LCD, 500 GB HDD and 4 GB Memory. Also features a DVD Super Multi DL Drive, and Webcam.

You can see the full specs on the official Gateway site.

Unfortunately they no longer have this specific model available. It sold out pretty quick, especially when you consider you can have a great laptop for just under $400.00 CDN.

Now I’ve never used Gateway in the past, and haven’t done any reading on it so wasn’t sure what to expect. All I remember about Gateway is that they used to sell ugly laptops and they would compete hard with Dell. I ordered the laptop as it had a 30-day return policy on it, so figured I’m safe with taking a chance.

I ordered the Gateway laptop and received it within 10 days because I had ordered on a Thursday/Friday and there was a long weekend in between. Reviews I had read on the laptop said that many came scratched (lid/screen) or that the webcam didn’t work or other minor problems. Mine had none (knock on virtual wood).

I was surprised at the look of the laptop. Nice color (lid), sharp LCD and it wasn’t as thick as my old TOSHIBA laptop. So far, Gateway had scored a few points.

The other thing that I really liked on this laptop is that is truly supports an external monitor.  Most laptops I’ve owned support an external monitor, but I could never get the true resolution or color – in fact the 2nd monitor was more of a hindrance in the past.  Not so with this one – it supports the monitor perfectly!  The colors are rich, the display is clear and sharp.

The 500gb HD is great but with external storage so cheap (you can get 1tb or 2tb for under $150.00) storage space isn’t an issue.  As I used this as a desktop, I’m perfectly fine to use external storage.  The other key factor that attracted me to this laptop is that FOUR (count’em 4) USB ports.  I threw on a USB octopus and added another 5 ports instantly.

The keyboard is OK, I don’t like chicklet keys but I don’t use the keyboard on the laptop and instead use a Logitech laptop stand with built-in keyboard.  The keyboard (on the laptop) also has a keypad.  Something you don’t see on a lot of laptops.  I didn’t purchase the wireless version of the laptop stand, but am happy with the one that I have ().

Things I didn’t like – all the “bonus” software on the laptop. I deleted most of that first. Shared video memory – the video card is 256mb dedicated, and can use up to 1.5gb of main memory, so far no issues with it.

I bought this as a “refurb” unit and so far have been very happy with it. It’s about 6-months old, but for the price (UNDER $400.00) it gives me the power, and speed that I need in a laptop without spending more than I need to. In fact, each laptop that I’ve purchased over the years has always been just one step behind.

While many may scoff at purchasing an older model of a laptop – you should seriously think about it as it does allow you to stay current (as current as can be) without spending a lot of money on the latest and greatest. Unless you are a gamer, you don’t really need to spend $2,000.00 on a laptop.

The sweet thing, when I upgrade in a few years time I’ll still be able to sell this laptop for at least 50% of the purchase price (as I’ve done with older machines I’ve had).