new laptop, should i get a dual core processor?

[blueindian]

i'm going to order a new compaq latop. the dual core processor will run me about 200 extra, is it worth it? how does that impact battery life?

[brainsmile]

nah

[_=DeltaForce=_]

In benchmarks, it seemed pretty good but I would still wait and get it when its cheaper...

[clutchy]

I find laptops hard to multi-task on, making the DC chip irrelevant for me. If it works for you go for it.

[Dem0072]

Dont dual core & screw compaq get a decent one... HP is at least decent.

[Jeffbx]

No to the dual core, and look at the Thinkpad T series. The T60 was just released, so look for deals on the T42 or T43. Best machines on the market today, IMHO. Just make sure you don't get one with the XGA screen (1024x768).

[blueindian]

No to the dual core, and look at the Thinkpad T series. The T60 was just released, so look for deals on the T42 or T43. Best machines on the market today, IMHO. Just make sure you don't get one with the XGA screen (1024x768).

what screen do i want?

one of the things that attracts me to the compaq is that the display is outstanding. when you look at the screen while it's off, it's like a mirror. when it's on, the image is very bright and crisp and you can view it from all angles with no distortion.

[Jeffbx]

As pretty as they are, Compaq reliability isn't that great. If you do decide to go with them, see if you can upgrade to an on-site warranty from Compaq - definately NOT from a retail store (BestBuy, CompUSA, etc.) I've seen many horror stories of people shipping their machines off for service only to wait several weeks for it to be returned in the same condition that they shipped it.

For the Thinkpad T series, you want the SXGA+ screen (1400x1050 resolution). It comes on a 14.1" or a 15" screen. The 14.1" is a very small & lightweight machine - the 15" is obviously a bigger screen, but the overall machine is heavier, and resolution is the same as the 14.1. The T series is an excellent machine for travel & general business use.

What are you going to be using your new machine for?

[blueindian]

As pretty as they are, Compaq reliability isn't that great. If you do decide to go with them, see if you can upgrade to an on-site warranty from Compaq - definately NOT from a retail store (BestBuy, CompUSA, etc.) I've seen many horror stories of people shipping their machines off for service only to wait several weeks for it to be returned in the same condition that they shipped it.

For the Thinkpad T series, you want the SXGA+ screen (1400x1050 resolution). It comes on a 14.1" or a 15" screen. The 14.1" is a very small & lightweight machine - the 15" is obviously a bigger screen, but the overall machine is heavier, and resolution is the same as the 14.1. The T series is an excellent machine for travel & general business use.

What are you going to be using your new machine for?

office apps, web, pda syc, watching movies, burning cds.

[Jeffbx]

Then yeah, the T series would be a good choice for you. The only thing lacking on that is a wide screen for the movie watching.

If cost is a concern (Thinkpads are not cheap) - maybe have a look at the Dell Inspiron E1505.

[blueindian]

Then yeah, the T series would be a good choice for you. The only thing lacking on that is a wide screen for the movie watching.

If cost is a concern (Thinkpads are not cheap) - maybe have a look at the Dell Inspiron E1505.

cost is a concern, need to keep it under 1k. widescreen is a requirement because of the way i work with some applications.

i'm a little sour on dell, did you see my other thread? i may go out to some of the big box stores this weekend and look at other brands.

I was just looking at Consumer Reports and they essentially rate all the laptops brands the same in terms of reliability based on survey results. the numbers ranged from 15 to 19 with a lower number being better, but indicated that differences of less than 3 points were inconsequential.