If you're looking for a new notebook computer Gateway has a good selection for custom built systems online as well as pre-built notebooks from your local store. We all remember the days when the black and white Gateway cow computer box was everywhere. Gateway was a household name in PCs and laptop computers. Every kid wanted to see that famous cow box under the tree for Christmas.

But Gateway has slowly lost popularity over the years and became more of a business computer manufacturer. When a business notebook is what you need, Gateway has really delivered with their E-100M. Here's what PC Magazine said about the system in December 2006:

"The E-100M is still one of the most reasonably priced ultraportables on the market, and you get more for your money this time around, with the processor upgrade and extra RAM."

Back in the days of the Gateway, Micron, and Dell wars, Gateway lost market share to Dell because of their lack of customer support. But Gateway has learned from its mistakes and now is competitive in technical support with any computer manufacturer out there. They even offer a 3 year technical support, parts, and factory labor included in even their entry level laptops.

The Gateway notebook computer is now a top recommendation for home and home office users by PC Magazine, PC World, and the New York Times. Gateway is making a comeback with a strong, stable system at very competitive prices.

One of the main advantages Gateway has over Dell is the option for people buying a Gateway notebook computer to custom build one online or to go to their local store and pick up a pre-built notebook by Gateway. This adds convenience for people who need something right away, or who don't want to pay extra for shipping. Gateway notebook computers are now sold across the U.S. at Best Buy, Circuit City, and Office Max.

If you decide to custom build your notebook computer Gateway gives you options for the base system and then allows you to customize everything from the pre-installed Microsoft or McAfee software to the processor down to the type of CD/DVD drive. They have all the options and brand name parts available like Dell.

Gateway even offers special financing plans for their notebook computers. This can be helpful considering Gateway notebooks range from $500 to $3000. Gateway runs specials and discounts on their website regularly incentivizing customers to buy online. And, when most shoppers purchase a notebook computer, they want to buy peripherals like portable printers, an external wireless mouse, wireless keyboard, memory sticks, carrying cases and other laptop compatible items. Gateway now offers these items while you're building your notebook.

Gateway has truly thought of everything when it comes to buying a notebook computer. And instead of reinventing the wheel, Gateway has learned from past mistakes and competitors successes to create a fully featured home and business computer line of products. They have positioned themselves to be as strong a competitor as any notebook computer manufacturer.