Laptop Hard Drive RPM

[donsor]

I'm looking to buy a laptop for my daughter and I have identified two models, one by HP and the other by Toshiba. Both were in the range I can afford ($650.00) The specs were comparable (processor, RAM, etc.)except that the HP model hard drive runs at 7200 RPM while that of the Toshiba runs at 5400 RPM. The Toshiba has larger screen but weighs a bit more. What model would you suggest I buy. I'm open for suggestions, other brands, better specs, but around the same price. Also would an Intel processor (dual core) be comparable to an AMD Athlon x 2. BTW my daughter works as an "engineering head hunter" and she needs a good laptop.

[nightfishing]

At that price point, I would concentrate on any specific features she wants/needs. Performance will be very similar between brands/processors/components etc.

Biggest things I look for in laptops:

1A: return policy, repair policy, warranty etc. This is a MUCH bigger feature/key for latops than desktops. If the seller doesn't offer At Home service, make certain the drop off service is available at a convenient location for her. Keep service in mind when looking at prices. It can add/remove hundreds of $$$ from the list price.

1. screen (size/type/resolution etc). Likely will have the largest impact on satisfaction with the laptop.
2. connections (video/usb/eSata etc.) If she has specific needs, make sure the machine will work for her. My biggest concern is usually number of USBs. I never have enough!
3. RAM. If this is going to be a win7 box, I would take the machine with more RAM vs. other upgrades. 2g is a minimum. 3 is good, 4 is better.

Portability/battery life may or may not be important for her.

If all else is equal, I will always take the Intels over the AMDS (in laptops) and the 7200rpm drive, but neither will likely be a key deciding point at this price point.

[nightfishing]

Also, for what it is worth, I own 6 Dell's, so if you want to infer a recommendation from that, feel free.

[glc]

Look at the Dell and Lenovo business model laptops.