I was recently asked by a friend, whose several year old XPS just bit the dust, to find a good laptop within a budget of ~$1,000. His preferences are a larger screen size (think 17.3"), keypad (pretty much standard with laptops of that size), and power over battery life. So, basically, he wants a more of a DTR than a mobile laptop. He doesn't play many games, but does run different programs which could benefit from a faster CPU and perhaps a bit more RAM (the programs do not make use of extra cores, though).
I started with NewEgg and noted several machines which fit his criteria, and then went on to see if I could find any other good deals on other computer websites. I eventually came across this one: http://www.xoticpc.com/sager-np7110-built-clevo-b7110m-p-2854.html?wconfigure=yes (which comes to ~$1032 when configured with a Core i5 560, GT 425m w/ Optimus, 4GB RAM, 500GB 7200rpm HD, and 17.3" 1920x1080 screen). As far as I can tell, it's actually a decent deal when compared to the specs of similarly priced machines elsewhere. However, I know nothing about the customer service quality of Sager or the quality of their machines.
So, I was wondering if any of you have had personal experience (or know of someone who has) with Sager laptops, and whether or not you would recommend them. I am also open to any other laptops and deals you would recommend.
Thanks!