Need Help Deciding!!!

So I own a Ferrari 4005 already and I am using it to replace my desktop because I love this computer so much, plus I would rather not carry it around from class to class (not that I don't think it couldn't take it, more of like a fear of what could happen). I am looking for good cheap laptops...now I know you can get a Dell for like 649.99 but I found for another 100 bucks I can get a pretty solid laptop. I was just seeing if anyone has heard or knows anything about the following laptops (or even has better recommendations).

eMachines M6810
Athlon 64 3200+, 512MB, 60GB, DVD/CD-RW, Windows XP, 15.4" TFT
Price: around $720 or so

eMachines M6811
Mobile Athlon 64 3400+, 512MB, 80GB, CD-RW/DVD, Windows XP, 15.4" TFT
Price: around $860 or so

Averatec AV6240-EH1
Mobile Athlon 64 3000+, 512MB, 80GB, DVD±RW/CD-RW, Windows XP, 15.4" TFT
Price: around $860 or so

Averatec AV3270-EH1
Mobile Sempron 2800+, 512MB, 80GB, DVD±RW, Windows XP, 12.1" TFT
Price: Around $780 or so

I really like the Averatec's because they are light and very traveable machines it seems, but I have heard that you might as well buy a cheap laptop and a portable DVD player and you will get a better deal then them. I also know the eMachines I have owned in the past (although they were Desktops) have been pretty sturdy machines. If you have owned one of these laptops or have heard anything about them, or have any better recommendations let me know. As of right now I am leaning towards the Averatec AV3270-EH1 or the eMachine M6811. Thanks, Matt.

 

Have you thought about getting a Dell with those $750 off coupons?

 

What are the best possible specs you could get for the lowest price? And do you know where the coupon is?

 

Hi Matt,
I own an Aveatec6235 and I would stay well clear o this brand if I was you. It's a great concept but sadly so full of problems you will spend more time fixing it than actually using it. I'm returning mine and will buy a Powerbook instead.

Mats

 

How much more will a cheap laptop plus portable DVD player weigh than a lighter laptop with DVD player built in? (Plus typically you'll have a larger screen with the laptop).

 

I agree that Averatec is a brand to AVOID. I purchased one on Sept 2. I share joint custody of this notebook with FedEx.

The Averatec is poorly made and components are inferior.

The repair center cannot or will not fix them. They do a HDD wipe and send it back to you. RMA turnaround is about 3 ot 4 weeks.

Good luck with your purchase.

Susan

 

I have the 3270eh1. I have had it for a month. SO far I have seen none of the problems that others had seen. We have been using it for several hours a day. I love it. THe only issue I had was the wireless card kept disconnecting. That was fixed with a driver update.
I bought mine from Overstock.com for $656. Maybe since it is a refurbished model the problems were already corrected. There are refurbished Averatecs sold all over the net so I know there must be many problems with them. I can only say that mine has performed flawlessly so far.
It is a great value for the price. The display is bright and clear. The 80 gig drive is way more than I need since I have three desktops for storage. The 1.5 GHZ AMD runs fast and does not heat up as much as others have said it does although we only use it for the internet which is not stressing the CPU. It should not however be used on a flat surface as the fan will be blocked . I prop mine up on a book to let the air flow. It should have folding legs on the back.
The 512 ram is enough unless you have lots of programs open. I do find myself using a mouse instead of a touchpad but that has nothing to do with the Averatecs touchpad. I find the mouse easier to use.
So far I have no complaints but history shows I am in the minority although I am sure that people with complaints are more likely to post them then people with no complaints.