Sorry about the typo, it should be 'Aspire' but I didn't notice it until too late.We got this machine at a discount because Vista wouldn't boot. No problem, because the intent was to put linux on it and use it for a traveling machine. We tried a number of linux distributions including running from live CDs, ultimately settling on slackware -- the only one that would start and run reliably. The wifi chipset is considered to be linux friendly, but it required a LOT of tinkering over a week to get it running. Still haven't got sound working, but probably will sooner or later. Only important if we want to watch movies on the road, an unlikely happenstance.It has a glossy screen, which is highly undesirable if you plan on using it outside. Difficult to find matte screens, though, so this is no worse than any other laptop.The machine itself has lots of nice features -- which are probably shared by a lot of other laptop machines. I would like to see a more robust connection to the AC power cable -- it's only a matter of time before something breaks. This, unfortunately, seems to be the standard of the industry. People have been making detachable power cords for generations now -- why is this so difficult?The battery only seems to hold an hour's worth of charge, a distinct disadvantage. Remains to be seen if that will improve with time.

bashley

Pasadena, CA

This  is the Acer 5520 laptop. This is a great computer for the cost. It has many of the standard computer features plus some bells and whistles. Included are webcam, Cd burner, built in speakers, nice and easy to use volume controls.A soft touch keyboard, This comes with Windows vista home pentium. The  software is easy to use. It also comes with a  60 day trial of Microsoft Office 2007. Great color and graphics as well. There is a nice wide screen so you can see everything. A great buy for just 545.00 (plus tax) This is ideal  for the student or home PC user.

lora777

Kokomo, IN

This computer is absolute junk! We bought it because it was inexpensive but thank goodness we sprung for the extended warranty!!! The computer has had so many issues! The harddrive failed within 6 months. The geek squad said that it always fails in this computer and was designed to only last a few months. Well, it's now failed twice in less than 2 years.  Beyond that, the mouse is ultra sensitive and causes your typing to jump and skip all over the place. The only way to fix it is to shut the mouse down while you are typing. It's super inconvenient and makes working on the laptop so frustrating.  The battery is very short lasting. It dies almost immediately. Another one of those  problems that the geek squad claimed was by design. Why make a computer if your intent is to make it crappy??? Oh yeah, that's right. Planned obsolescence. This computer is garbage. Save your money and buy a better Dell or HP.

santaboy

Minneapolis, MN

This was the first lap top I purchased, and foolishly bought it just because it was on sale. I have had so many problems with it...sometimes the keys stick..the hinge came loose, and then had to send it out to the acer company to get it fixed because the motherboard came loose from something. It took weeks to get it back..but a plus is when you call their company, they are very friendly, maybe that is just to make up for a worthless product. Yes, I have learned just dont buy things because they are on sale, after all you get what you pay for. Oh, by the way, the sound on it is really bad.

rainbowkt182

Des Moines, IA