Laptop Advice - Too Many Options -Dell, Lenovo? - Budget $1,000

LJethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 14:01
Last edited 16/08/2025 - 14:37 by 1 other user

Hi all, I've been casually looking at a new laptop for a couple of months and the more I look the more confused I get.

Want I want. 14 or 15 inch. Windows (I know Macs are good, but I just don't want to go there), fingerprint scanner (very handy for auto filling in forms etc), good battery life and not slow. It's really only for pretty basic stuff so most modern processors should be fine (I think lol). I want to stick as close to $1000 as possible.

Anyway, I was looking at the following two:

Dell 14 plus.
Lenovo

What's everyone's thoughts?

Thanks

Computing Computer Laptop

Comments

  • bluemyself on 16/08/2025 - 14:27

    Regarding fingerprint scanner on Lenovo, my last 3 laptops have been Lenovo. I can't remember if I had the issue on my first Lenovo, but the last two, including the one I'm using now (which cost >$5k), has had issues. What happens is I'm able to log in using finger print fine over the first one or two months, but then the success rate drops. It would start to take more than one attempt to login. And then it'd reach a point where I'd have to re-add my fingerprints. Not sure if it's a Lenovo thing, or maybe my fingers, but that's just been my experience.

    • Jethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 15:24

      Good to know. I love the finger print sensor. So ggood when you can scan your finger and all the info gets automatically filled in.

      • freefall101 on 16/08/2025 - 15:28
        +1

        Is it just using Windows Hello? Should be able to use the camera instead of your fingerprint if so.

        • Jethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 17:21

          Im not sure what its using. It works when purchasing stuff or filling out forms . Just scan my finger and all the info gets entered automatically.

  • viewfinder on 16/08/2025 - 16:19
    +1

    With that budget and if you don't need it NEW, perhaps look at the Lenovo refurbished devices that might be which might be good value? https://www.lenovo.com/au/outlet/en/laptops/?visibleDatas=17…

    • Jethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 17:26

      I thought about that but I'd prefer new just for some extra piece of mind. I called Lenovo twice to ask about refurbished and they were very vague on condition of the laptops. Honestly when they heard me asking about refurbished they had zero interest in helping me or giving any information.

  • bargaino on 16/08/2025 - 18:07

    $1000 on a laptop is like $20k on a car.

    Why scrimp and compromise on a new one, when you can get everything you want, with cash left over for add-ons, by buying a used near-new model?
    I would not say that for phones, but the market is awash with A-grade ex-corporate laptops.

    • Jethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 18:24

      Thats easy if you know what you are looking for . Processors, battery size, battery run times, screen quality. Its a complete head f**k.

      • bargaino on 16/08/2025 - 18:33

        Fair point. That is how I feel when people ask about a new bicycle on a budget - 2nd hand is great if you know exactly what you are getting.
        But I think it is easier with laptops. You can more easily get info online and compare. more so now with AI.

        • Jethro1 on 16/08/2025 - 18:55

          its just annoying that performance changes so much between different brands even when using the same processors. 2 laptops with the same internals can have hours of difference in battery life and perform vastly different. It's easy to see why people buys Macs. Much less choice and easier. However, I have an android phone and like how andoid and windows work together. I know there is work arounds, but thats just more work i don't want to do

    • movieman on 26/08/2025 - 23:35

      Any particular laptops that you suggest?

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