Writer mic or laptop mic?

[Lora Hinch]

I am a CR student and am looking at pro writers and laptops.  I have a good desktop that I will use at home so only need a laptop that is "good enough" for jobs.  Any suggestion on laptop brands?  Also, which is preferred, a laptop mic or a writer mic?  I'm thinking used writers, possibly a Steno Fusion, and will definitely use CaseCat.  

  Gracias!         

[Lora Hinch]

Thanks for the advice. Always appreciate hearing from those in the business. I think I may go with a mic on both the laptop and writer; couldn't hurt.

Great website. Learning a lot by reading the blogs. Thank you and take care

[Keith Rowan II]

I have both.  It's always good to have a backup.  I have had the one on the laptop not be working a few times for various reasons, and the one on my writer has always worked so I've had backup each time.

[Kelli Combs (admin)]

I would use a microphone that's attached to your laptop because that is by far the best quality for sound.  I think Toshiba or Samsung are great.  I just bought an amazing Samsung for only 465 on Amazon, which is super cheap and I use it on all of my jobs.  Just so you know, I am a heavy-hitter reporter that's been in the business 26 years.  You don't have to spend tons on a laptop to get what you need in our business.  Just make sure your microphone is top quality, especially being new.