Need help on specs for Z96J

I am in the process of purchasing an Asus Z96J with T2400 processor and I have a few questions on specs. I don't know much about computers, but have read a bit on this forum to become more familiarized with the technology. I have also posted this thread on the "what notebook should I buy" forum.

Here I go:

1) What would I be missing by purchasing s96j as opposed to z96j? Other than screen, bluetooth and camera, anything else? About a couple hundred dollars in the difference. Is it really worth going with the Z96J or would you suggest purchasing the S96J?

2) Hard drive: Looking for a 80gb 7200rpm HD. Would you suggest a Hitachi or Seagate hard drive? I read that Hitachi is louder but may be better. Is that correct? Any other comments?

3) OS: Would I be better off with Windows XP Home or Pro? Not too familiar with the difference. Pro is CDN$66 more (about US$58).

4) Memory: Considering 1024mb/SODIMM (DDR2/667mhz, Corsair, OCZ???). Should I split my RAM in 2 X 512mb or is 1 X 1gb better? I don't expect to have to increase memory for while. Just trying to see if one is better in performance. As I wrote above, I don't know much about computers.

Thanks for your help.

 

On the XP Pro vs. Home:

If you want the machine to ever join a windows domain, for instance at your work, then you NEED pro. Otherwise, I don't think it's worth the money.

 

1. s96 is Verified By Intel, which has potential issues with warranty coverage in the long term. Do a search through Paladin44 and Geared2Play's posts for Intel and you'll find more info about these issues.

2. dB under load is pretty much only if your ear is *right* next to the laptop. You won't notice any difference under normal ambient sound conditions. Seagate tends to run a bit cooler than Hitachi. Seagate would be my choice of the two (although I have a Fujitsu in mine).

3. Home is fine for most users, unless you need it for professional or school requirements. If you don't know the difference, you probably wouldn't benefit from the upgrade.

4. Manufacturer is personal choice - you will find as many opinions here on that as there are major producers. 1x 1Gb ram stick is better only if you plan to upgrade to 1.5 or 2.0Gb memory later on. Else, two 512 sticks are generally cheaper and you can get the (very modest) increase in performance from the dual-channel setup.

 

I have a notebook for work therefore would never use it. Employer would not allow be to log onto network with my personal computer. Home it is! Thanks for the other comments, greatly appreciated.

 

Another difference is the resolution. A higher resolution 1680x1050 in Z96j if you like to see a bigger range in that area. It depends on your necessary for this.
An article relate this :
http://www.hothardware.com/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=848&cid=10

Cheers