I have been a desktop buyer from beginning. I need to get a new laptop in the next few weeks, and don’t know anything about the landscape. Please help.

Parameters:

1) Windows not mac (sorry guys, see other parameters).

2) I have been buying Dells for years. Low – mid-pack small business models, since they don’t come clunked up with software I don’t want, and have been reliable for me. I am prejudiced towards getting another Dell.

3) I will keep my Windows XP desktop for most of my business stuff. It runs all my old software, so this laptop is an extra computer. It will be nice if it could run Windows XP as well as Windows 7 (if that is possible) to be compatible with my older software.

4) The laptop will be used for the web and some light business stuff, and watching some DVDs. My needs are real simple.

5) I do not travel, so lightness and portability are not a big deal, nor is battery life. This computer will mostly be kept plugged in.

6) My eyes are getting old, so a larger screen will be helpful.

7) Most of my computers were bought from the Dell Online Clearance Outlet, and they seem to have a lot of Vostros, but there are lots of different models and I don’t know what I need.

8) My 15yo will steal it periodically (or more), so it should be able to run games decently.

Thanks for everything. I really appreciate the help.
Al

PS. Unfortunately, I haven’t been coming around here much lately. The SLC is gone to a better home with MG Burg, but we have an ML430 and E500 so I check in here periodically.

I’ve had 5 operations in the last 4 years (2 hip replacements and 3 spine). I believe I will be going back for another spine op in a month.

I’d like to be able to use the laptop in the hospital and in bed when I am recovering. I’m currently spending a lot of time in bed (and probably will continue to do so), and the laptop will save me from having to get out of bed to check email and do routine stuff. Fortunately I work at home, or I would be unemployed a long time ago.