HDMI vs. VGA

I have a new notebook now that I'm not sure if I'm keeping. I am using HDMI interface now. If I return the notebook and get a new one, how critical is it for the new notebook have HDMI for my 32" LCD? It's my bedroom TV.
If I use VGA cable will it cut it? Is VGA quality better than S-Video? I've nevered used before so I don't know. If I use VGA I would need another cable for audio too, right?
I'm not really anal about quality, it doesn't have to be the best, but it should be great.

 

VGA is definitely superior to S-Video. You will need a separate cable for audio if you use VGA.

HDMI and DVI are the same in quality, FYI. (I know you didn't mention DVI)
HDMI has the ability of encrypted transfers, and built in digital audio streaming (compressed and uncompressed).

At the moment, VGA is still the de facto standard for outputting a notebook display.

 

Newer versions of DVI (DVI Dual link) and HDMI (1.4) support up to 2560x1600, older versions (single link DVI) and VGA support up to 1920x1200, so for any cable a TV is fine

 

VGA is analog so it will be more susceptible to RF interference than HDMI, which is digital.

 

Don't use S-Video. I believe it only supports resolutions of 680 x 480, which, stretched over a 32" display, is very poor indeed. The easiest, best and simplest option would be to use VGA. If your notebook and TV both have DVI, use that.

HDMI cables are considerably more expensive than VGA cables. While you do have the benefits of a digital interface and an all-in-one sound and video solution, very few notebooks have a HDMI interface, and it's not worth it. You probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference between using VGA and HDMI.

So VGA is the way to go in my opinion, together with a 3.5mm Line In/Out cable to carry audio to the TV, or a 3.5mm to an RCA audio cable. If you have the benefit of S/PDIF or Coaxial interfaces on your notebook and TV/Speakers use those.