Laptop for computer science course at University

[Cromulent]

I'm looking to get a laptop for a computer science course at University which I'm starting in September. I'd like to keep the cost as low as possible but I have some requirements. £800 would be really pushing my budget.

Windows 8.1.
8 to 16GB RAM (16GB preferred but 8GB would be OK at a push).
Has hardware support for virtual machines (I'll be running multiple Linux virtual machines on it via VMWare Workstation 10).
Intel CPU.
Decent graphics that would be OK for a graphics / multimedia module (probably OpenGL based but could possibly be DirectX based, I'm not sure as it is a second year module).

 

[Cromulent]

Never be afraid to call a dell rep and get discount!

So you can just call up and they'll give you a discount if you ask? I didn't know that.

Thanks for the responses. The Dell looks good. I've also been looking at a Lenovo Thinkpad which seem to have a good reputation. For £850 it seems I can get a decent machine albeit slightly over budget.

 

[Cromulent]

Yup, just tell them you've seen something similarly specced for cheaper. at the VERY least get free delivery, and a carry case! But the more you spend, the more likely it is you can bundle in a 3yr warranty, a case, and a mouse for a good price!

Ah, cool. I've been looking a Lenovo Thinkpad and so playing Dell off against them seems like a good plan. Thanks.

Speak to the university: you may well get a deal through them. You'll almost certainly be eligible for educational licenses of Windows and Office.

Hmm. I haven't had any real contact at all with Uni yet. I wouldn't even know who to speak too.