Picking computers

Something that I am respected for by my friends, I guess is the best way to put it, is my taste in computers. I am always looking for cutting-edge technology. When it came time to get a new computer, I knew all of the available options and what out of those options I wanted. Fast processor, good screen, dedicated graphics card, a solid amount of RAM, etc, etc. I picked a very nice computer at a very reasonable price. My friends all liked my choice and looked into computers like mine.

I've had several people approach me and ask me what kind of computer to buy. I'm currently helping one person find a laptop for college and another that will play games well, but not break his bank account. It's all in looking at what someone needs; someone who just wants to browse the web doesn't need an i7 processor with 12 GB of RAM and 1 TB of hard drive memory. However, you don't want to skimp out on a cheapie i3 processor which isn't too much better than going with any other duo-core. The middle of the road processor is the i5, which is what I see most people need. I went for the i7 because I needed my computer to be fast enough to be able to run some heavy-duty engineering programs with no problem. The basic requirements that I believe all people looking for college should have are:
-i5 processor (or better, depending on the major)
-4 GB of RAM (It's hard to find anything less than that any more. For gamers, 6, 8, or 12 will be better.)
-An art history or a math major doesn't need a dedicated graphics card, whereas someone who will play more games or run intensive programs will. Beware on this one - always look to see if the graphics card is integrated with the processor (the Intel "i" line has integrated graphics cards with their processors). If you need a dedicated one, make sure your computer has one.
-Windows 7 of any kind will do. Don't get Vista, and XP is getting outdated. It's hard to find programs for it.
-A decent size. 15" is a good size. It's a little on the heavier side if you are going to be carrying it up hills. 13" is acceptable as it reduces weight, but be prepared to pay more for it. Computer companies know that students look for smaller laptops. Two computers with the same specs but different screen sizes will have different prices; the 13" will be more expensive than the 15".
-Webcams are nice to be able to chat with Mom and Dad at home, given that they have a laptop with one.
-Something that mine doesn't have, a fingerprint scanner. These nifty devices are cool because if someone sees that the laptop has a fingerprint scanner, they're going to be less likely to steal it, as it adds more security to your computer.

These tips are all given that you are buying a PC. Macs are a whole different story.