If you're looking for a cheap gaming computer, I'd recommend an Acer of some kind, they're brilliant. I've heard some negative stuff about their line of laptops, but their desktops are fudge amazing- they give you a bigger bang for less buck. I got a full set from Acer- a PC with a 3ghz processor, 4GB RAM, and a mid-end graphics card, a 23" 1920x1080 LCD monitor, a keyboard with macro keys and an integrated volume adjuster (nifty but not overly complex), and a nice, responsive laser mouse- for around $500. Can run most next-gen games.

I've highly considered desktop VS. laptop, but with college quickly approaching Portability seems to be the Winrar.

A lot of people think that, but unless you really like typing your papers in the common room or something, I've never used my computer outside my room. Even so, you could easily solve that and any classroom note-taking duties with a netbook.

No one said desktop vs laptop, numb nuts, buy both. Netbook + Desktop = games + portability - a ♥♥♥♥ ton of drawbacks.

Acer laptops are garbage but their desktops are about middle of the road. Mediocrity defined.

Why yes, whitty, that is a gargantuan waste of money and an extremely stupid purchase, and you are absolutely right that you could get more bang for your buck with a different purchase. Astute observations.

No need to thank me, sir. Just doing my job.

Lol Ophanim you are the epitome of helpful. Eh at this rate I may as well build a desktop and buy a netbook seems I'll get the most out of my money and have fewer problems.

That still depends on a lot. Mainly if you travel, as in go on vacation, with your computer. If you do then it's still more convenient to have a decent laptop instead of a netbook.