Best computer for general programming?

[LeviTheDegu]

Alrighty,
So I'm in a market for a fairly portable computer. Initially I was looking at android tablets (Transformer/prime in particular) but I program and code in several languages (Java being one of them) I was wondering, does anyone have a recommended laptop/netbook/notebook/tablet that they suggest for programming? PHP JAVA and maybe C are my primary concerns for compatibility but I'd also like easy compatability. The Transformer tablet is a huge favor because of the attachable keyboard; however, the potential lack of java support is frightening.

 

[Tag.]

First of all, I wouldn't use a tablet or netbook for programming. You need something with a mouse, keyboard, and ample screen.

Next it depends on whether you have to test the coding you are producing. If you are working on games, you'll need something able to easily run the game, so you'll have to look for a decent graphics card. If you are only doing web or basic application work, then you don't need much.

Lastly can you honestly say you would like to move around while working or do you sit down at a desk/table and crunch for long periods. If you are doing this for work and do a lot of running around, I'd go laptop. If you don't mind being stationary, I think desktops have to upper hand over the rest - they are generally built better, run better, and are easier to upgrade or swap parts if needed. Of well taken care of they last a lot longer too.

I've had one ragtag gaming desktop last me for near 10 years with relatively few problems the first 8. On the other hand I bought a big name gaming laptop with all the bells and whistles and it began to have major issues within the first year. Laptops are really meant for light duty work even if they are advertised for gaming and multimedia IMO.

 

[reflex99]

budget?

 

[LeviTheDegu]

First of all, I wouldn't use a tablet or netbook for programming. You need something with a mouse, keyboard, and ample screen.

Next it depends on whether you have to test the coding you are producing. If you are working on games, you'll need something able to easily run the game, so you'll have to look for a decent graphics card. If you are only doing web or basic application work, then you don't need much.

Lastly can you honestly say you would like to move around while working or do you sit down at a desk/table and crunch for long periods. If you are doing this for work and do a lot of running around, I'd go laptop. If you don't mind being stationary, I think desktops have to upper hand over the rest - they are generally built better, run better, and are easier to upgrade or swap parts if needed. Of well taken care of they last a lot longer too.

I've had one ragtag gaming desktop last me for near 10 years with relatively few problems the first 8. On the other hand I bought a big name gaming laptop with all the bells and whistles and it began to have major issues within the first year. Laptops are really meant for light duty work even if they are advertised for gaming and multimedia IMO.

I suppose I can better clarify ..

I spend most of the time doing lightweight programming for tool style application. Nothing game ranked. System tools or business tools mostly. a lightweight machine can do the work. I'd want to test the material out natively on my machine. When I say "move around" I more-so mean mobile device I can use on the go (lightweight) tablets meet this need, touchpad -> mouse isn't a concern although I would strongly prefer a keyboard.

Budget is as cheap as possible for a light machine that is quality and will do the work.

edit: also I'd prefer a faster machine. I can sacrifice having to do large compiles on another machine if I can have fast access/editing ability.

 

[Tag.]

You definitely don't want a tablet or netbook then. I'd go for a middle of the road laptop, something with solid wireless and reliability rating.