Help w/ Gateway M250x

Hi, was looking for some help purchasing the Gateway M250x. For the price, its the first laptop i've seen that has just about everything i need, however, I do have a few questions regarding specific specs. I will primarily be using the laptop for web browsing, music, watching dvd's and some Excel spreadsheet work.

1. Is there an advantage to getting the 512MB 533MHz DDR2 SDRAM (2-256MB modules) vs. the 1-512MB unless you are planning on upgrading later to 1024NB?

2. For $30, is it worth it to go for the 60GB 5400rpm Ultra ATA hard drive vs. the 40GB 4200? I think the 40GB is enough space for what I will need, but what about the 5400 vs. the 4200?

3. How much faster/better is the Integrated 8x Multi-Format Double Layer DVD Writer (DVD±R/±RW/CD-RW) vs. the Integrated 24x/10x/24x CD-RW / 8x DVD combo?

4. And finally, what is advatage to the 14" Ultrabright Widescreen XGA TFT Active Matrix (1280 x 768 max. resolution) vs. the 14" Widescreen XGA TFT Active Matrix (1280 x 768 max. resolution)? The resolution is the same, so what is the "ultrabright" feature?

Much thanks for anyone who can help out. -T

 

1. The advantage to having two 256MB RAM modules as opposed to 1 512MB module is the activation of dual-channel. The performance difference is negligible, however, nd the 1x512MB would give you the option of upgrading later.

2. It is most definately worth the $30. Not only are you getting 33% more storage space, but the drive will access 50-100% faster. The difference between 4200 and 5400RPM is significant.

3. The two drives listed burn and read CDs and read DVDs at the same speed, but the MFDL DVD±RW drive can write all types of DVD media, giving it much more flexibilty.

4. Ultrabright refers to the glossy coating on the screen. It's mostly a matter of personal preference; perhaps you should visit a Best Buy or Circuit City and compare the two types (glossy and matte - ask a sales guy if you can't tell youself, though it should be obvious - you can see yourself in a glossy screen since they're highly reflective) before making your decision.