That’s a silly question. I say “build it”, with that in mind, there are reasons not to build a computer. Size being the primary reason. Recently I had a 3 part series on building a PC.

In this article I want to give you ideas on not building a PC, or more specifically what not to build. Laptops, and Tablets. Ok, there is the list. Pretty short huh.

Minimal mini computers:

NUC resting safely on it larger cousin, the full size tower.

For those that want something minimalistic but not portable, I love the Intel NUC. You need to add a SSD hard drive, RAM and your software. All else is built into a package just 4 inches by 4 inches.

I would recommend an Intel SSD or Crucial SSD hard drive  and Crucial RAM.

Laptops:

In the past I have built laptops based on my cost of parts vs. assembly. Unfortunately over the last 7 or 8 years the cost of parts is close to double what a quality one could be bought for. Notice I said quality, not cheap piece of crap.

If you want a recommendation on a laptop, here are my thoughts. Lenovo was IBM and IBM was a great product. Out of all I sold, I only have one that is a pain in the neck.

I prefer the Flex series.  I own two of the Flex series and one “plain Jane” laptop. The flex let you fold the laptop back so it can be used like a tablet. It is thicker than a tablet only.

My next choice would be the Toshiba Tecra series laptops.

I have a couple of customers who use the Microsoft Surface. I never sold one and honestly cannot give a recommendation. I do like the 2 in 1 idea and without the keyboard attached they are thinner than the Lenovo Flex.

You can get good models within specific brands, however since models change I can’t shoot you any specific ones at this time.

Tablets:

Right now I don’t have any recommendations on tablets. I had a bad experience with a ViewPad.  I do still have it and use it as a Windows 7 only device, not a dual boot.

What about Apple products? Well…

The best use for a Mac

The best way to “play” on an iPad

There you have it, short and sweet, like my beautiful bride, Nurse Nancy.

Until we meet again, have a virus free week.