Question:
HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
Well, I like HP products and I want a full-featured 15" notebook with nice bells and whistles. I have narrowed the search to two HP products, and now I have to choose between the dv5000t (tricked out) and the nc8430 (in its 688AA configuration. HP currently has a very nice promotion on the dv5000t, but nothing special on the nc8430.
Here is the comparison: As customized, both would have same 2 GB Intel duo processor, the same DVD RW optical drive, the same Intel wireless, and the same warranty. The nc8430 would have 1 GB, while the dv5000t would have 2 GB. However, the nc8430 does have a better graphics card (ATI X1600) vs. 128 MB GE Force Go 7400, better build quality, a touchpad + a stick, and a nifty set of security features. I think I can get it online from a vendor for around $1,500. Screens look about the same, and size/weight is similar.
On the other hand, the dv5000t has a nice newly designed case, and is probably about $300 less expensive direct from HP with the rebates and the free printer before 8/19. My instrinct is that the business-oriented 8430 is probably worth the extra $$, but I would really appreciate your input on this.
Thanks!!
Harry
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
....and the same warranty.
Both with three-year warranties? The nc8430 comes with a standard 3-yr.
Keep in mind that the nc8430 is a business-class machine, not a consumer-grade multimedia machine that the dv5000t is. It will be sturdier/more durable, plus has more security features.
The Radeon X1600 256MB is roughly 1.5x-2x as fast as the dv5000t's Go7400.
I'd say the nc8430 is the clear-cut winner.
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
I'd say the nc8430 is the clear-cut winner.
Seconded. Just upgrade the RAM later if you feel you need it.
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
I can fully recommend the NC8430. It's got a very good build quality while also being thin and light.
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
Thanks so much. You're right about the warranty - it is much better on the 8430. I agree with all the comments and I have decided to go for the 8430.
Now I have to find a deal. Homeskillet - can I ask you where you shopped?
Harry
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
I third the NC, it's really one of the few notebooks out there that can rival the Lenovo Thinkpad line in terms of build quality.
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
Thanks, Goren.
Answer:
Re: HP nc8430 vs. HP dv5000t - Please help me choose.
Thanks again, to all. I went ahead and ordered it today. Looks like it will be a super investment!