One of the worst things as a freelancer is when your computer dies unexpectedly. That's what mine decided to do late last night.
Technically, it's not dead-dead, which I'm grateful for because it means I can pull all my data off of it still. But the hinge on the laptop broke, and the way it broke, it popped the bezel around the screen partway off when I tried to open the computer. Fortunately, I saw what was happening in time, and we were able to see inside through the broken bezel well enough to finagle it open. I put a clip on the corner with the broken bezel, to hold everything together and also to remind me NOT to try to close the computer again (I already tried once, out of habit).
But it does mean I need to get a new computer ASAP, because I depend so heavily on my computer, and because I don't want to wait until it is dead-dead. I could work on my Surface Go, but it wasn't really purchased for the purpose of running my writing business, and I don't think it would hold up well under the increased demands.
A writer's computer is such an important choice because it does have to hold up to so much. I've found writing is hardest on my keyboard, as I've worn out several during my career as a writer. This is the first time I've ever had a hinge break on me, but I'm not entirely surprised, given how much I open and close my laptop. (Plus, after my research last night it appears that hinges breaking is a common Lenovo problem, probably due to weak hinges or poor hinge design.)
So last night I did some online laptop shopping, trying to decide what to get this time. Another Lenovo was my first choice initially, as I've had this computer for 3.5 years and have been overall very happy with it. I did change my mind once it started looking like broken hinges are a common Lenovo issue, and not always covered by warranty, since Lenovo blames the user for opening and closing the computer too much. (Never mind that that's what a laptop is for!) I am a little concerned about the likelihood of that happening again, and potentially sooner, as I do like my computers to last me at least 3 years.
Ultimately I decided to go with another Surface. I really liked my old Surface, even though it eventually died due to overheating issues from a malfunctioning fan. But I liked the weight, size, and especially the fact that the keyboard was a separate piece and easily replaceable, since heavy keyboard use is the usual way that I kill laptops.
My new computer will be here tomorrow morning, and then I'll set it up, make sure I like it, and start the annoying process of transferring everything over. The type pad will arrive a day or two behind the rest, so for now I'll be using a different Bluetooth keyboard, and switch over as soon as the new one comes.
It's a big change to go back to a Surface as my main computer, after using the Lenovo for 3.5 years, but I'm looking forward to it. I have liked my Lenovo, and I don't necessarily need the new Surface for its travel capabilities since I do have the Surface Go for that, but I'm hoping it'll be a better machine for me in the long run than another Lenovo.
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