Acer Aspire 2025WLMi vs. a configured HP zt3000

Hey peoples,

What do you think would be good to get between these two laptops:
The Acer Aspire 2025WLMI or a configurable HP zt3000.

The thing is I will be working on media production like music, graphics, video, along with essays and office tools. Also I'm hoping to use the laptop in live DJ performances. So I need a fast and stable system. The Acer looks right nice with sturdy build quality. I've also seen the Aspire 2003 get better benchmark scores on CNET, and I figure the 2025 will be similar. However, the HP zt3000 is configurable so I can get better specs at about the same price. The main issue I have with the Aspire is that it's only got a 4200rpm HD. Even though I'll be getting an external 7200rpm HD in any case, I'd still like a fast onboard HD. I also like the feel of the HP Keyboard over the Aspire (due to the Arcade thing the Aspire has).

Here is a run down of the specs in order of importance.

Acer Aspire 2025WLMi:
1.8Ghz, PM (Dothan 745)
512 Ram (2 x 256)
80 GB HD (4200rpm?)(wish it were faster - main issue with the Aspire)
15.4" WXGA Screen
128 mb Video Memory
DVD +/- RW

HPzt3000 Configured:
1.8 Ghz PM (Dothan 745)
512 Ram (1 x 512) (a definite plus)
60 GB HD (5400rpm) (I'd rather have faster then larger)
15.4" WSXGA Screen (another plus - but I could go either way)
64 mb video (highest they offer - But thats cool for me)
DVDRW

See the HP zt3000 offers exactly the specs I need, But I just wonder about performance and build quality. That's why I'm still considering the Acer Aspire 2025 which seems to have good build and performance.

What do you guys think about all that. Any experience with these laptops? And what would you rather rate your purchase on, the right specs, or better build, and performance rating on CNET?

Please let me know.
It is greatly appreciated.
I've been researching these things for quite a while, but its hard to tell without first hand experience.

I look forward to your responses.
Peace,
-Js

 

I have the zt3000 listed in my signature. I've had it for about 15 days now and I have to say that I love it. It seems very fast and comparable to the performance of my desktop machine (Athlon XP 2800 Barton). I liked the customizability and I would never get anything buy a WSXGA+ widescreen, but that's just a preference. HP shopping is pretty quick although I did have some issues with my order the first time. The build quality feels pretty good, much better than some of the one's I've looked at. I would highly recommend it, but it does have a few problems with the wired network card under high stress, that's just something to consider. Otherwise, I love this machine.

-Kyle

HP Pavilion zt3000 series customized NB
- Intel® Pentium® M 1.6 GHz
- Microsoft® Windows® XP Home
- 512MB DDR SDRAM (1x512MB)
- 40 GB 4200 RPM Hard Drive
- DVD/CDRW Combo Drive
- Intel® Pro Wireless 2200 802.11b/g & Bluetooth
- 15.4" WVA WSXGA+ (1680x1050)
- 64MB ATI Mobility Radeon(tm) 9200
- Microsoft® Works/Money
- 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
- hpshopping in-box envelope

 

Hey Kyle, thanks for the relpy.

So what is the issue with the network card all about?
Also, I was wondering if websites look alright on the WSXGA screen.
For most everything else, like photoshop, and media apps, I think I would like the extra screen space. But I also work on websites, and I want to make sure I can test them out alright on that kind of screen.

Please let me know what your experience is with that.
It is greatly appreciated.
Peace,
-Js

 

I have the Aspire 2001 And from compating pictures from x1000 forums and my acer, the two computers you mentioned seems related. (made by Compal)

the 2025 does have a better graphics chip ati 9700 i believe. If its the same as the 2001(03), i think it has a "slot loading CD drive" similar to the apple powerbooks, as opose to the tray drive fot the zt3000. As far as the HD, everyone who wants a faster HD just buys a 7200rpm for $200 or so and is easy to install internally on both notebooks you mention

The WXGA and WSXGA depends on personal preference. I prefer XGA,WXGA in 15inch screens and lower. Easy for my eyes working hours and hours.

 

Ok, basically the network issue has to do with using the network card mainly with Bit Torrent or eMule, but I had overall problems using it for everything. Basically, after using the network for random amounts of time, it just stops being usable, but still knows whether the cable is attached or not. I only use wireless now and I will buy a PC Card 10/100 for large transfers. It's pretty minor to me now, even though I was pissed at first.

I love my WSXGA+ screen! It's perfect for viewing websites and everything that I've done. I am only 18 though, but my eyesight is not that great either. I am a lover of high res, so maybe you should try out some higher ones on your computer at home. If your eyesight is not great or you are in serious doubt, you can just get the WSXGA+, but I have had no problems reading text and have loved every second on this machine.

-Kyle

HP Pavilion zt3000 series customized NB
- Intel® Pentium® M 1.6 GHz
- Microsoft® Windows® XP Home
- 512MB DDR SDRAM (1x512MB)
- 40 GB 4200 RPM Hard Drive
- DVD/CDRW Combo Drive
- Intel® Pro Wireless 2200 802.11b/g & Bluetooth
- 15.4" WVA WSXGA+ (1680x1050)
- 64MB ATI Mobility Radeon(tm) 9200
- Microsoft® Works/Money
- 8 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
- hpshopping in-box envelope

 

Thanks for the advice so far guys.

I was about set on the zt3000, but one thing I noticed worries me about it. I noticed a post on here and the specs on HP's site saying the zt3000 has a front side bus of only 266mhz vs. the 400mhz thats about standard for PM laptops these days. That may be why it gets a lower benchmark then the Acer in the CNET tests. The nc6000 however is listed on the HP site to have 400mhz front bus speed. But it costs more. Basically I found out that instead of the DVDRW, I could get 1G of RAM on the zt3000. I wouldn't be able to do that on the nc6000. So what would be better, 400mhz front side bus, or 1G of RAM?

My friend who does media, and audio production told me to make sure it has a good front bus speed. Should this be a major concern for me?Does anyone here have any experience on how well these laptops perform for media apps?

What should I consider in my purchase?
Please let me know what you think.
I appreciate all the advice.
Peace,
-Js

 

Okay so the guy at the HP sales center says, the PM 1.8 has 400mhz bus speed. I don't know why they list it as the front bus speed for all models. But I think thats the speed if you get the celeron configuration.

So now it really comes down to a build and quality issue.
I mean the Acer looks and feels solid, and seems to run cool and quiet. However without the extra specs that the HP can come with.

Quality build and performance is important to me as I'm hoping to get some serious use out of this laptop, and take it out for live gigs.
I also would like it to run quietly because I'm hoping to do some recording with it.

So does anyone have any experience with the HP or Acer with regards to build quality and running quietly?
Would the HP be able to handle all that, or should I sacrifice the extra specs for the Acer?

Please let me know.
Advice is greatly appreciated.
Peace,
-Js