Question:
HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
Thanks in advance for your help, experts. I appreciate your opinions.
I was looking at the HP dv2000t but have only heard mixed reviews. I want a no-frills machine that's going to last! Important to me: Intel Core Duo processor, 1GB RAM, 2 or 3 year warranty. I'd like for it to be fairly light, so I can travel with it without breaking my back. I intend to have it for the next three years for sure. Also considering the Dell Inspiron e1505, Sager, and low-end PowerNotebooks machines. I'm also open to all suggestions.
1) What is your budget? $1000, give or take
2) What size notebook would you prefer?
b. Thin and Light; 13" - 14" screen
c. Mainstream; 15" - 16" screen
3) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook? Word processing, communication, video viewing, music storage
4) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk? A little of both
5) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games? No
6) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?No real preference
7) How many hours of battery life do you need? 2-3
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person? Don't mind
9) Please select your country's flag as a post icon and tell us what country are you buying this in?USA
13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?Yes
14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?Need within next three weeks. Want to keep for at least three years.
15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 120GB?40-60 is plenty
16) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD-ROM, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-RW drive?DVD-RW
Here is how I customized the HP dv2000t, for about $1,300 including tax and shipping. It's a little more than I want to spend--I'd probably consider bumping down the processor. Dell prices seem to be just about the same. What are your thoughts?
Genuine Windows XP Professional
Intel(R) Core(TM) Duo processor T2400 (1.83 GHz)
14.1" WXGA BrightView Widescreen (1280x800)
128MB NVIDIA(R) GeForce(R) Go 7200
HP IMPRINT Finish + Microphone + Webcam
1.0GB DDR2 SDRAM (2x512MB)
60 GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive
FREE Upgrade: 8X DVD+/-R/RW w/Double Layer Support
Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection
6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
Microsoft(R) Works/Money
HP Mobile Remote Control
3-year HP Express Repair Extended Service Plan
HP Deskjet F380 All-in-One
Thanks so much!
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
Specifically what other models are you looking at?
I don't think you need the printer, as that will just add to the price. Also, going down to the T2300 wouldn't be a bad idea if you save enough to do it. Also consider going 1x1GB RAM if possible.
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
Hi Chris,
Thanks very much for your consideration!
The printer is free with rebate.
Downgrading the processor to the 1.60GHZ would save me about $175. There is a difference in the "front side bus speed" (667-553MHZ), although I'm not quite sure if that is something with which I should be concerned. Is there really a discernible difference between 1.60 and 1.83 GHZ, for my basic needs?
Other models specifically: Not really sure. PowerPro P 2:14, Sager 5460/6630? What do you suggest?
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
How much above $1000 are you comfortable with?
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
Ack, I'd say even $1,300 is pushing my limit, especially knowing I can get a decent machine for around $1,000...
Thanks again!
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
The Dell Latitude D620 is a solid machine, it would fit your needs:
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
The HP dv2000t is one of the better options in that price range. I also like the SAGER NP5460, but that only comes with integrated graphics and a Pentium M.
I would think the Dell e1505 would come out under $1000 with similar specs though.
EDIT: And yes, like Chaz says: the Dell D620 is another great choice.
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
yeah. i'd go with the d620, or d820 if you're going to be using it mainstream.. or you could check out the lenovo n100
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
Thanks for all the great suggestions! Any word on the PowerPro P 2:14?
Answer:
Re: HP/Dell/Sager...? Help!
The HP dv2000t is one of the better options in that price range. I also like the SAGER NP5460, but that only comes with integrated graphics and a Pentium M.
Yes and no. The NP5460 does have integrated graphics, but you can get it with Core Duo.
You can configure one at powernotebooks.com for just over $1200 shipped, with specs comparable to the dv2000t in the original post (including 3 year warranty). That's abiout what you'd pay for a Latitude D620.