2687D3U T43 worth upgrade cost over 2379DXU or 2378FVU

[BoostedA4]

I just found out my neighbor was an ex IBM employee, so now that I have the EPP discount I have a few more options.

Option 1:
T42 2378FVU
-1.7GHz
-14.1" SXGA
-64MB ATI Mobility 9600
-256 MB (would upgrade at least another 512, likely a 1GB stick)
-40GB 5400rpm HD
-1 year warranty
-$1,146.75 (before taxes + shipping)

Option 2:
T42 2379DXU
-1.7 GHz
-15" SXGA flexview (much better than the 14.1" ????)
-64 MB ATI Mobility 9600
-512 MB (would add another 512 stick)
-60GB 7200rpm
-3 year warrantu
-$1,371.75

Option 3:
T43 2687D3U
-1.86GHz
-14.1" SXGA (any different from T42 14.1" SXGA???)
-64 MB X300
-512 MB (would add another 512)
-60 GB 5400rpm
-DVD-RW (though a nice addition, I don't see myself using it at all....maybe I'd sell it for a CD-RW)
-Fingerprint reader
-3 year warranty
-$1,639.20

Now, I don't game and at least for this upcoming year (my senior year), I won't be traveling much with the notebook, but who knows what lies ahead after I graduate. I am still unsure whether 14.1" or 15" is for me, so determining that might eliminate some choices. I plan on keeping this notebook for 3 years.

What do you all feel is the best overall purchase in my position? Will prices go down anymore in the next few weeks?

[baertracks]

How are you eyes? This is probably not a problem for your young eyes, but for my aging bi-focaled eyes I found that the 15" screen makes an important difference. I recently purchased a 266897U from Bill and really like it.

The 15" screen will, however, drain your battery a bit more quickly, so if working on battery is an issue, then you might want the smaller screen. On the other hand, watching DVDs is a bit nicer on the 15" screen.

I didn't think that I would use a DVD recorder either, however now that I have it I am thinking of a number of ways that it will come in handy. I am planning to archive my data files on DVDs in addition to regular backups. I will also be able to store family photos on one DVD and then easily copy them for other family members.

Regards,
FRANK, Baertracks
Harrisonburg, VA

[mysbca]

Yes, you will have to decide between the 14" and the 15" and only you will know what's best for your position.
What is important to you - speed, diskspace, graphics, price range?
Besides not gaming, what will you use it for? Web browsing, office apps, photo editing, programming, etc?

Read this FAQ:
FAQ - T43 266846U

With EPP, you are not limited to the models listed on the EPP site.
Download the tabook.pdf to see all the models (link is in the FAQ).
Review the choices and call IBM to order the model you want.

[BoostedA4]

My uses will be Web browsing, Office Apps, no real photoediting, maybe a business/math program, and winamp/AIM. Thats about it.

About to read that FAQ....

[mysbca]

Looks like you will be very happy with the 2378FVU, just up the warranty to 3 years for $119 and add 512MB RAM. Doesn't seem like you really need an additional GB of RAM. You can save the $400 from not getting the 2667D3U for something else.

Be aware that the 2378FVU is being withdrawn in June, 2005.

[eigh]

Be aware that the 2378FVU is being withdrawn in June, 2005.

withdrawn in june?
dammit, i was contemplating buying that in august (if ibm doesnt come out with a tablet pc in may)


all i would have to do is to upgrade the ram and it would ahve been awesome.



ive heard flexview on the 2379 blows. and i doubt you need anything more than 1gb, for your general use.