I have narrowed my search for a laptop down to 2 Toshiba models, both for under 600 bucks. I am a college student, who needs a laptop for School, Internet, Email, Pictures, and to maybe watch Movies and burn music when I am bored. Portability is important, and so is battery life. I am hesitant to purchase, because I do now want to make the wrong decision. Any suggestions would be helpful. here are the Specs
Toshiba Model # Model: L355D-S7815
AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 dual-core processor QL-60* with 64-bit platform, HyperTransport™ and AMD PowerNow!™ technologies and improved security with Enhanced Virus Protection**
3GB PC-6400 DDR2 memory for multitasking power, expandable up to 4GB
Multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW drive with double-layer support records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media; supports DVD-RAM; also supports Labelflash direct-disc labels using compatible Labelflash media
AMD dual-core technology enables you to work or play with multiple programs without impacting performance; AMD64 technology provides simultaneous support for 32-bit and 64-bit computing
17" WXGA+ TFT-LCD widescreen display with TruBrite technology and 1440 x 900 resolution; native support for 720p content
160GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 rpm)
ATI RADEON X3100 graphics with 256MB-1406MB dynamically allocated shared graphics memory; S-video TV-out
CD/DVD launch and control buttons, including play, stop, previous track and next track
5-in-1 bridge media adapter supports Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO and xD-Picture Card
3 high-speed USB 2.0 ports for fast digital video, audio and data transfer
Built-in Atheros high-speed wireless LAN (802.11b/g); 10/100 Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector; 56 Kbps high-speed modem
Weighs 6.9 lbs. and measures 1.7" thin for portable power; lithium-ion battery and AC adapter
The Other is a Toshiba Model # L305D-S5868 AMD Turion™ X2 dual-core mobile processor RM-70* for true multicore processing; HyperTransport™ 3.0, AMD PowerNow!™ and AMD CoolCore™ technologies to extend battery life; improved security with Enhanced Virus Protection**
2GB PC6400 DDR2 SDRAM for multitasking power, expandable to 4GB
Multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW drive with double-layer support records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media; also supports DVD-RAM
15.4" WXGA widescreen display with TruBrite technology and 1280 x 800 resolution; native resolution support for 720p content
250GB SATA hard drive (5400 rpm)
ATI RADEON 3100 graphics with 256MB-894MB shared video memory
CD/DVD control buttons include play/pause, stop, previous track and next track
Built-in webcam with microphone makes it easy to chat with and send video mail to family and friends
5-in-1 bridge media adapter supports Secure Digital, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, MultiMediaCard and xD Picture Card
3 high-speed USB 2.0 ports for fast digital video, audio and data transfer
Built-in Atheros high-speed wireless LAN (802.11b/g); 10/100Base-T Ethernet LAN with RJ-45 connector; 56 kbps modem
Weighs 5.5 lbs. and measures just 1.3" thin for portable power; lithium-ion battery
The laptop will not be used for gaming..
The above laptops don’t seem rather impressing. A computer with these specifications should be good for you.
CPU – Intel Dual Core – 2.4Ghz
RAM – 2GB
OS – XP
HDD – 150GB
Video Card – A Intergrated video card will be fine if you are not going to game.
Optical Drive – 16X
Wireless Card
SD card reader (For digital cameras).
USB 2 ports.
15" LCD Screen
At least under 4KG
Shouldn’t cost too much, around $500-$700.
For power, i would go with the first one. If your wanting more portable, then the second one is better because it is smaller. Both are capable of doing the tasks that you want to do with ease.
As you are looking for photo movies music i will suggest go for mac book i know they are not cheap but they worth it.
otherwise you can go for Toshiba Model # Model: L355D-S7815
thats cheap and good option i can see here!
but remember this is one time investment and they are going to long for at least 4/6 years time.
if you are not tech guy it can last you for more than that so if looking for long term and safe and sound go for Macbook option
Ta
Only because of the battery life, I would take #2.
That being said, #1 offers the best performance. You can always buy a better battery for the first listed machine.
Good luck with your purchase and education.