Got this for my spouse for web surfing as a replacement laptop due to price and specs. We had a pretty bad first week with this laptop due to Windows 8, with some frustrating errors that I had to research online and fix. The major issue was The Blue Screen of Death/random rebooting. Felt like returning it, no questions asked, but was too upset. Anyway, also had some security issues with Internet Explorer (picked up intrusive software "helpers" even with Windows 8 default firewall and defender), so using Firefox now, with MalwareBytes and CC Cleaner. There was a frustrating two weeks of dealing with Windows 8's layout and "hidden" features that were so easy to find in previous versions. Be sure to uninstall the bloatedware and useless "apps".Runs fine now for watching videos, blogging, picture editing, spreadsheets, Yahoo messenger, and Facebook. No more critical or fatal errors. However, moving files around/renaming files is slower than a standard Windows 7 duo core desktop from 2010.
I don't care for Windows 8 (I didn't care for Windows 7), but most non-techies use it at work and at home so I get forced into it. The main issue for me with Windows 8 is that it pretends it has a layout like a tablet or smart phone, and focuses on social media. So all of the file management and PC settings are out of place and "in the background". Microsoft has made an operating system that has been "dumbed down", but as soon as you perform searches for help online you will see that thousands of people have issues and questions with this operating system.
As far as the actual Gateway laptop, the speakers aren't that powerful, and the keyboard layout is frustrating, especially the fact that you have to hit Function Key (bottom left) and a function number (F2) to rename instead of just F2. Can only be changed in BIOS, which is something a casual user should never have to think about.
The screen is good, as is boot-up time.
Your mileage will vary, of course, but I couldn't recommend this product due to my personal experience. I expect a new laptop to work fine out of the box for a casual user (my spouse) and not require technical help on Day 1.
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