THere is a class of notebooks considered desktop replacements
IMO any notebook with a minimum of a 15 inch screen nowadays powered
by at least pentium M-750 and above are considered desktop replacements
system.
Its likely that they have a minimum of 512 mb RAM, with multilayer DVD
burning capability , as well as reasonable graphics video memory with
wireless capability and rather not so high battery life.
I would rather spend a little extra money
for a laptop that will last me 3 - 5 years than one that is at the top
of the performance list and will last less than 3 years.
Well regarding longevity, its not about the notebook but how you take
care of it..
It can last for many years or just several months, depends upon the
person using it.
I think that a cheaper unit will have poor construction will not last
as long as good quality unit that has a higher price.
Higher priced notebooks usually have sturdy constructions asides from
more bells and whistles.
Although we cannot discount and exception to the rules
Scrimping on money for notebook purchase is not a good idea if you want
to get a unit to last long...
A penny pincher IMO should go for second hand unit instead.
But indeed,,,
One thing that discourages people from keeping notebooks more than a
few years is it becomes obsolete faster( but still usable) than the
desktop having limited option for expandability in comparison to the
normal PC you had in your desk.