Worth upgrading CPU, RAM, and HDD or buy new?

I have a Sony VAIO VGN-FS640W and would like some input on whether if it's worth upgrading or better off replacing it.

Parts I have in mind for the upgrade:
1. Intel Pentium 730 --> Intel Pentium 780
2. 80GB2 4200rpm Ultra ATA --> Sasmung 160GB HM160HC
3. 512MB PC-2700 333MHz DDR (256MB x 2) --> 1GB PC-2700 (1024MB x 1)
Does anyone know if the ram upgrade is suppoe to be (1024MB x1) or (512MB x2)?

What are your thoughts?

Thanks.

 

I would say it's not worth upgrading as that is a rather old laptop.

 

You're talking about investing around $300 into that machine.

Do some shopping to see what $500 buys you for a new machine.

 

I wouldn't even bother, it's still a single core cpu.

This is just an example, not a recommendation, but this is $419 it would blow away even your upgraded system.

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=5543238&CatId=4935

 

No its too old and not worth it... even a $200 buck Hp system would own this.. time to buy a new laptop...

 

I must agree with the people who say its not worth upgrading.

If you were to switch one component - then maybe, but by replacing the CPU, RAM and HDD you are pretty much replacing more than half of the computer - replace the mainboard and you possibly have the essentials for one to work

So do shop around for a new computer besides getting a new machine you would also get Win7 which is more stable and secure than XP or 2000 or whatever you run

 

I disagree with all of the above posts. Upgrading the CPU is definitely not worth it, but the FS is otherwise a capable machine that can run Windows 7. Upgrading the RAM and HD are both cheap upgrades that are made even less expensive when you sell the old parts, and they will deliver tangible performance gains.

I myself am running Windows 7 on an IBM ThinkPad T42 (specs below) and the machine runs perfectly aside from having no gaming capability. Despite having 2GB of RAM, only 675MB is in use. A dual-core CPU is not a must, though it does improve multi-tasking.

 

Yeah if its not DDR2, its pretty much toast, IMHO. That machine must be pushing 3-4 years old now.

 

What is that supposed to mean? Prices for DDR PC2700 aren't as cheap as they used to be, but even here in Canada a 1GB module wouldn't cost much.

 

He means your laptop is a slow piece of crap, Bog!!! :laugh:







Just kidding man.

But @OP. That machine is seriously old. If you are ok with an upgraded old machine, then a $500 dollar machine will easily last you another gawd knows how many years.

 

I don't think I would trade my T42 for a modern machine, even if it were for free. I find the ThinkPad to be far superior in terms of mobility, durability, reliability, keyboard quality, and design.

In fact, the only area where the T42 is slightly lacking is the CPU department, but it still runs along with Windows 7 just fine.

 

Thanks for your input everyone!
I will hold off and save up for a new one!