I'm graduating Friday (from high school) and need a laptop for college. I know basically what I need/want, but I don't know a good laptop in that area to get, and most places don't allow easy comparisons, so some suggestions would be good.
Price range: $2,000 and below (maybe a few hundred over $2,000, but not much)
Hard Drive Size: At least 40 GB, more is better
Processor: Fast as I can get, nothing under 2.2 Ghz
RAM: At least 512 MB, more if possible
I was looking at a few Toshiba models, the newest they've got (though the processor isn't fast enough - the M4 Tablet one) and their Satellite A75-S211. The Satellite seems more likely, but I've read a lot of reviews complaining of static electricity issues and the touchpad being odd.
Any suggestions would be really helpful, and I'd be particularly greatful. One thing though (since my parents are buying this for me), no Sonys or Compaqs - my dad has worked with these before and doesn't like either, but any other brands are fine. Thanks all. 
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Not sure on a good notebook...suggestions?
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Other than they meet my specifications...is there any other reason you suggest those? Although, you don't need to expand on the Compaq - I already said I wouldn't be getting anything from them.
They're thin and light, and they have more than enough power packed into them.
I'm typing on my month old Fujitsu now. I wouldn't trade it for any other brand after shopping for 2 months and getting a lot of feedback from the forums here.
I paid $1800 from Fujitsu direct. Don't worry about the processor...there is no performance difference from 1.6 to 2.8 unless you are running huge multiple applications like programmers do. I have the Lifebook s6231, with 1.7 proc, 768 MB Ram, 80 GB HD, 13.3 crystal display, 4.5 hr battery life legit, 3 USB ports, Centrino (works really well), full size keyboard, and no more than 4.5 lbs...really light and thin. Shipped on time and great customer service.
I would take a serious look at this one before Ibm, Sony, Dell, and other thin and lights. It has all that you would need.
Good luck.
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