Need to buy a laptop for school (Programming/Linux use only)

[Viperoni]

So I need (or rather, it would be much more convenient for me if I had) a laptop for school. It would only be used for programming (either in C, or java (using Eclipse) or some other language), MS Word, I'd definetely run Linux on it.... that's about it. Nothing like a desktop replacement or multimedia whiz machine.

So here are my choices (prices in $CAD):

IBM T23 (from a local store) - P3 1.0, 256mb, 20gb, 14.1" screen, used but in excellent condition, $550/90day warranty or $700/3yr warranty

Another IBM T23 - P3 1.13, 128mb, 30gb, 14.1" screen, DVD-rom.

Compaq M210S - Sempron 2800+, 256mb, 40gb, 15.0" screen, $700/1yr warranty

Dell Inspiron 2200 - Celeron 1.5, 256mb, 60gb, 15.0" screen, $750/1yr warranty or $880/3yr warranty

I guess my question is, should I go with one of the IBM's even though they're older and used, but easy to obtain parts for (plus I could fix it myself), or grab a brand new laptop. I just find it tough to spend money on a used laptop when new ones are just a little more... but on the other hand.... IBM's are pretty good.

Any thoughts?

 

[bearxor]

I think I would go for the M210S, unless you wanted to upgrade the 2200 to a PentiumM processor, which at that point I would go with it.

I would stay away from the T23, simply because it is a P3. If you can afford to get something newer, like a Pm or AXP, then go for it.

 

[Azndude2190]

yeah get the Compaq M210S...the sempron is alot better than the celeron

 

[Viperoni]

Any idea of the quality of those Compaq laptops?