Which is the better deal?

I need to buy a laptop that is as close to a desktop replacement as possible, but I don't want to spend more than $1,400. I will be using the computer for storing photos and downloading music as well as word processing and web surfing. I would like one that sends faxes as well. I'm thinking of buying either the Toshiba A-45 or A-25. Both are listed on the link below.
Considering what I will be using it for, would it really make a difference by splurging on the more expensive model or should I just go with the cheaper one?

http://www.costco.com/frameset.asp?trg=subcat%2Easp&catid=84&subid=1674&hierid=1675&log=&NavTop=

 

hi writestuff,
If your planning on viewing and editing photos, I would get a system with a powerful video chip and a higher resolution display than the $1399 one in the link, especially if this is a desktop replacement system. The Trident graphic controller with shared video memory is pretty slooow. Another thing to consider is if you will need long battery life... the pentium 4 is going to mean about 1.5 hours of battery life at most. If running for a long time on batteries is important to you, look into the Pentium M processor; an M @ 1.5Ghz will perform like a P4@ about 2.2Ghz and can give you battery life of 5-7 hours depending on the system. One other thing to think about when working with large files like photos and audio is to have not only a large hard drive, but a fast one as well. This one has an 80GB drive, but it is a very slow 4200 rpm and that will really bog everything down. My system (IBM R40, 2897gau) came with a 60GB drive that was 4200 rpm and I just replaced it with a 7200 rpm 60GB and man it feels like going from a 486 to P4, the increase in performance is incredible.

I guess what I'm saying is to be careful, to get prices on some of these systems low, they really cut corners on the things most people overlook.

good luck
Jack

 

I guess, I never did answer which of the two were the better deal. I would go with the cheaper A45, it has the better graphic controller and the better Intel chipset. The HDD is only a 60, but it will take awhile to fill it, besides you could take the $300 you save and get a 7200rpm 60GB HDD for $200, then you will have smokin fast data transfers.

Jack

 

Thanks Jack

 

For your needs, there's really no reason to buy the more expensive unit. Also remember that Costco has a 6 month return policy, so you're covered if you don't like your decision.

Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com