Dell Online Review

I just purchased an Inspiron 1720 Laptop from Dell.Com.  It's my first laptop, so I'm new to what they entail and need.  I've been pricing systems for years, and finally found the best deal I could find within my budget.  I made my purchase through the Member Purchase Program, but compared prices with the Home Purchase plan also (the one that's available to everyone).  I found many descrepancies in hardware choices and prices for the same system/same upgrades.  I had several questions and wanted to communicate with Dell via their Live Chat feature.  Under the MPP, I was never able to connect.  Although I was able to connect under the regular program, they wouldn't answer my MPP questions (told me I had to use the other section).  I figured out some of my questions on my own.  When looking for a deal, their site is hard to manuver (sp) through.  Lots of special rates but different options-some not available on all deals (again, same system).  I struggled to find more information on various system components.  Their pop-up descriptions are either vague or too detailed, or they're biased (meaning they concentrate on the best/top-of-the-line option and leave out all others).  I wasn't able to read any customer reviews, although I have in the past.  The reviews help me answer some of my concerns & misunderstanding about certain products.  So, that would've helped a great deal.  In order to read some reviews, you have to have a "Premier Account".  Although I had a Preferred Account, I wasn't allowed access to the Premier.  In order to get access, you have to call Dell for login information/permission.  That sure seems like a lot of work just to read a review.   

Another aspect about my purchase I'm unhappy with is, that I couldn't purchase the system along with additional accessories (like a laptop case), in the same cart (same purchase).  That took awhile to figure out.  I'd configure my system, add to cart, and then add an accessory...and then boom, my system disappeared (and I'd have to re-configure it all over again).

I like that I can customize a computer to my tastes.  Dell computers are top-of-the-line, and I wouldn't buy one elsewhere.  I spent $1800 on my system, and although I'm happy overall with my selection, there were a couple options I gave up to fit my budget.  I hope I made the correct sacrifices, with the limited information they gave me.