How future proof is this configuration?

I'm still debating whether I should keep my newly ordered laptop, consider Montevina will be released in another 3 or 4 months. Here are the specifications:
* Upgrade to Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
* Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Duo Processor T9300 (2.50 GHz, 6 MB L2 Cache, 800MHz FSB)
* 14.1" WXGA High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1280 x 800)
* 4GB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm)
* 128MB NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS
* HP Imprint Finish (Radiance) + Fingerprint Reader + Webcam + Microphone
* Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 4965AGN Network Connection
* 320GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive
* FREE Upgrade to LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-RW with Double Layer Support!!
* No TV Tuner w/remote control
* High Capacity 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
* Microsoft(R) Works 9.0
* HP Home & Home Office Store in-box envelope
How future proof is this? How long will pass before it is outdated? I am not trying to be tech-savvy. My previous HP notebook, which I spent $1500 4 years ago, was outdated in about half a year. Sad...

 

"Future proof" with what intent in mind ? gaming ?

 

Depends what are you using it for?

 

Gaming it is already outdate or at least under powered the 8400 is weak.

 

I don't think anything is ever future proof for gaming systems. I am a moderate gamer who only plays Sims 2. I also do a lot of word processing, playing video, internet browsing, and a little photoshoping. I am just asking whether this configuration will be outdated in the next 2 or 3 years, so that I won't be embarrassed to carry it around in college.

 

What configuration DOESN'T get outdated in a year ? Everything does! But the point is, right now, this config is more than decent. However I still think you'd be better off with a 8600M GPU.

 

Or... in other words, how long will it be able to maintain its value. I paid $1100 including tax. How long will pass until people pay significantly less amount of money for the same configuration I'm having right now.

 

I would be more than happy to get a 8600M. However, that would also reduce the portability of the laptop, since most laptops that have 8600M equipped are 15.4" or larger.

 

Well, it's fine then. Portability first

 

Or you could go for the 9500m Gs which is the equivalent of the gddr3 8600m Gt (i believe) which can be found in one of Asus's 14.1in laptops.

http://1toppc.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=F8SN-C1&Category_Code=
^^hows that?

 

maintain its value, as long as it useful for you it will maintain its value. How long will pass until people pay significantly less amount of money for the same configuration , 6 months max. On this issue there is absolutely nothing you can do about it so do not distress or concern about. Buying top of the line only accelerates the speed at which offered for less. My opinion on your system and price is, looks very good. No reason not to buy. I think the T9300 is the perfect mix performance/value T9500 charge to much for very little extra clocks. The GPU is fine for what you have said your needs are. The only comment I could make is DeLL Vostro 1400 likely cheaper with same config but if you like build and design of yours certainly a good buy.

 

If I were you, I'd stay away from Hp. They have horrible after-sales service. I got one 14.1" pavilion last September for my wife and had numerous problems from web-cam driver issue to speaker failure.
They could not figure out the problem with web-cam driver for months and I don't know if they did since then cause I had to install Acer driver for the web-cam which is from similar 3rd party manufacturer. And for the speaker failure, I had to send the laptop to the repair center 3 times for the same exact problem and last time it has been 1 month now and I am still waiting them to ship it back. BTW, I am not sure if they really solved the problem for now.
I am sorry to be seen cynical but this is my first hand experience with Hp and I swear not to buy any Hp products anymore and not let friends and relatives either.