2510p offer, is this a good value?

Hope I am posting this in the right place, it is relevant to two topics and I wasn't sure so I posted in both. My apologies if I am wrong
I am a student on the hunt for a new laptop to replace my Compaq nc4000.


1) What is your budget?
I would like to stay under 1500$

2) What size notebook would you prefer?
Ultraportable; 12" screen or less

3) Please select your country's flag as a post icon and tell us what country are you buying this in.
I will be buying in the USA or Canada, price being the determining factor.

4) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
I have no preference though I would prefer a brand that offers an international warranty (even for an additional fee) as I do not live in the states.

5) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
Most of my usage will include office style applications, internet surfing and light image editing. I do not require gaming capabilities as I prefer to maintain high portability and battery life.

6) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
Taking it with me to university and back every day.

8) How many hours of battery life do you need?
Battery life is essential to me. I do not want to have to carry the electrical adapter. I would prefer around 6 hours but am willing to compromise on 5.

9) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
No, I do not mind.

10) What OS do you prefer? Windows (XP or Vista), Mac OS, Linux, etc.
I have no real preference but I might prefer a lighter system over Vista depending on the laptop's ability to run it smoothly.

12) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
I would prefer matte but it's not a deal breaker.

13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
Not very important if it's a good deal.

14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?
I will be buying in about 3 weeks. I would like it to last for at least 3 years.

15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 500GB?
Anything over 60 is OK. I am willing to compromise on space for better speed.

16) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a CDRW/DVD-ROM, DVD Burner or Blu-Ray drive?
Not essential but will be nice to have a DVD burner.


I will be visiting the USA soon and am planning on getting the laptop then (it is much much cheaper than it is here). Alternatively, I was able to get this offer for a Compaq 2510p through my dad's workplace:

Condition: New
* Intel Core 2 Duo U7600 1.20GHz Ultra Low Voltage processor
* Memory: 1GB DDR2 SDRAM,
* Hard Drive: 80GB 5400RPM
(They insist that the 2510p will arrive with an 80gb 5400rpm HDD even though it is not listed as an option on HP's website. Does this sound reasonable?)
* Graphics: Intel GMA X3100
* Wireless: Intel 802.11a/b/g/n,
* Power: 6-cell (55 WHr)
* Warranty: 3-year international warranty.
Price: 974$

In local prices this constitutes an amazing deal (although I will want to add some RAM). As I am not familiar with the US market I am not sure if this is good value there as well or if I am better off buying when I get there. I checked through the HP website and it still seems to be good value but perhaps their prices do not reflect the market? Can anyone recommend reliable online stores to compare prices with?

Also, based on my needs, I am wondering if there are other options that will be similarly priced?

Thank you for any help and time you offer