Used Or Cheaper Laptop In Bangkok

[JoeNoi]

I am looking for a cheap but dependable laptop for my husband. I would prefer the system be all in Thai. He doesn't need anything extrememly fast or with a big memory. He would use it mainly for word processing and reading news on the internet.

Does anyone have any reccomendations? We wouldn't mind a used system if it was relaible. Would it be better to buy the Thai software and install it on a system in the U.S., we could by it in the U.S.? If that is the case does anyone know where we could get a cheap windows and microsoft office including microsoft money package?

We will be in Bangkok for a couple days at the end of this week if anyone has a reccomendation for a store there.

Thank you in advance.

Noi

[dave_boo]

If you want EVERYTHING in Thai, you're probably going to have to find a Thai version of MS Windows in LOS. I'd make doubly sure that it is a genuine copy to prevent headaches. The other option is to install a Linux distro. With the exception of the "money package" (I'm unsure of what you're talking about....a financial organiser) something like LinuxTLE should fit the bill--there are financial organisers under Linux, but they're no where near the polish of the products available for Windows.

I would purchase a cheap branded laptop in Thailand itself. The BigC (think Super Walmart) offer operating system free models that are fairly inexpensive.

[JoeNoi]

If you want EVERYTHING in Thai, you're probably going to have to find a Thai version of MS Windows in LOS. I'd make doubly sure that it is a genuine copy to prevent headaches. The other option is to install a Linux distro. With the exception of the "money package" (I'm unsure of what you're talking about....a financial organiser) something like LinuxTLE should fit the bill--there are financial organisers under Linux, but they're no where near the polish of the products available for Windows.

I would purchase a cheap branded laptop in Thailand itself. The BigC (think Super Walmart) offer operating system free models that are fairly inexpensive.

Thank you so much for your reply, unfortunately I am not sure what LOS means, could you please explain? Thank you.

Money is just a program... a financial organizer by Microsoft.

I guess I am pretty computer illterate. If we bought a system here and it needed repair parts should be available in the U.S. right?

Thanks again.

[dave_boo]

If you want EVERYTHING in Thai, you're probably going to have to find a Thai version of MS Windows in LOS. I'd make doubly sure that it is a genuine copy to prevent headaches. The other option is to install a Linux distro. With the exception of the "money package" (I'm unsure of what you're talking about....a financial organiser) something like LinuxTLE should fit the bill--there are financial organisers under Linux, but they're no where near the polish of the products available for Windows.

I would purchase a cheap branded laptop in Thailand itself. The BigC (think Super Walmart) offer operating system free models that are fairly inexpensive.

Thank you so much for your reply, unfortunately I am not sure what LOS means, could you please explain? Thank you.

Money is just a program... a financial organizer by Microsoft.

I guess I am pretty computer illterate. If we bought a system here and it needed repair parts should be available in the U.S. right?

Thanks again.

LOS=Land Of Smiles...the nickname for Thailand.

A similar "Money" programme for Linux is called "GnuCash". I do NOT know if it is in Thai, but I doubt you'll be able to find Microsoft Money in Thai either. Here's a picture of GnuCash:

I'm sorry if it feels like I'm skirting your question about Microsoft products, but to be honest, I'm not sure where you can get a genuine version. However, referring to my previous post, you can download the LinuxTLE for FREE without any worries as far as legalities is concerned. Also, since Linux is built upon a more secure base and has fewer users (so it's lest tempting of a target), the internet nasties such as trojans, worms, virus, etc. simply aren't there. Heard about Conflicker? If you run Linux you don't have to worry about it. If you truly are computer illiterate, that's the best way to get into Linux or OSX or any alternative to Windows. If you bring baggage into you experience learning any operating system is going to be a PITA--trust me, although I've used Windows in the past, in fact I am forced to use one at work, I can not understand Vista although XP isn't too bad.

Your best bet as far as international warranty would be to get say an Acer or Dell. Acers are available in LOS and should be servicable in the US. Dell has international support available.

If you were insistent on purchasing a new machine, I would recommend Dell. You can browse their website for ideas of what fits your budget. Check the box on the side that says "Linux" to sort out various Linux laptops. The problem with that is the lack of a Thai keyboard, the fact that it seems you want to have it in LOS (shipping might not get it to you on time), and you'll have to install either the language package for Ubuntu (which is on Dell's Linux machines) or the full LinuxTLE.

[JoeNoi]

Thank you very much this is very helpful information.

[bigbadbobbolton]

Thank you very much this is very helpful information.

Mouse Group 4th Floor Pantip Plaza is a good starting place. There are dozens and dozens of computer stores at Pantip and software galore. Linux is good but if you are used to Windows then forget it just buy Windows. You can buy genuine Windows software in Pantip or at IT Mall too (I bought a genuine copy of XP Pro just a couple of weeks ago).

You can get good deals in the US, Dell factory outlet for example. If you do this then just buy the Thai keyboard and Windows here.

Microsoft Money is also available here but if you want a good place to look for software online then try www.tucows.com lots of good freeware, shareware, etc

[spacefruit]

All excellent advice. I would buy a brand new laptop aimed at Thai market from a Thai seller. It will be the most suitable for a Thai. (Sorry if I seem to be stating the obvious). They all seem cheaper than I can believe possible at the moment. Second hand is not really worth it.

If you are software neutral go with which ever friend is going to help you. XP Has many more people with knowledge. Linux is a more exclusive club, but if you have a good friend who likes Linux, i would be tempted. Go with the system that it will be easier to get help with.

As has been said here, make sure the software is legitimate - the shop will help you put almost anything on.

Pantip is crazy, frenetic and you have to pass through the scrum of porn films, but it does have everything. Fortune town is calmer and people are friendly. There are others but I have no knowledge of them. (I go to Pantip, and head upstairs one floor straightaway)

Happy Hunting.