Notebook Recommendation?

[Lokan]

I'll be purchasing a new notebook computer in the coming week and was wondering what some of you might think about currently available models. I wan't to keep the price around $1,500 and though it will primarily be for school/work use, I would like the ability to play some games (even some higher end ones like EQ or even Jedi Knight, if possible).

Some basic requirements are:

1ghz Minimum
256mb minimum
DVD Drive
GeForce2go or Radeon Mobile video card
14" minimum screen.
PC Card exandability
Built in speakers

Some "extra's" that I'd like to find are..

DVD+CDRW drive
Lightweight
NIC inputs
modem card
USB ports

Brands are subjective, but I've seen and liked some of Toshiba's styling, just not sure of the "guts" and I've heard a Compaq's speakers playing a DVD and they sounded great. Any and all input, comments, etc, would be greatly appreciated! Anandtech users haven't steered me wrong in the past, which is why I always come back for more Thanks!

 

[Hulk]

I recently purchased a Compaq EVO n600c. I really like it, you might want to check that one out.

 

[bacillus]

it won't hurt to have a look at a refurbished Dell.
you may just pick up a great bargain!

 

[Lokan]

Anyone else? I've seen some Compaq's, their nice but I've never been a fan of their desktop lines. As for Dell's, my experiance with them have shown them to be expensive. I will look at both, but any other recommdations? Also, anyone know of a good notebook roundup?

 

[reicherb]

I've had nothig but problems with the Dell laptops I've worked with. I would recommend Compaq or Gateway.

 

[ElFenix]

the p4-m notebooks with ddr ram and good video rock at games compared to the p3 ones, even though they're about the same speed at everything else. there is quite a price premium, though. too bad there aren't more notebook reviews out there.

 

[Lokan]

Do Compaq computers offer a GeForce2go solution? Most of the ones I've seen on display's show SiS chipsets and while they may be adequate, they're definately not my first choice. Anyone else hear of bad Dell Laptops? For the prices they charge you would think they're some of the best.

 

[Lokan]

I've been looking around and found these two Laptops to have most of what I need. Can anyone comment personally about these brands? I've got some upsides and downsides for each, but overall I think they'd accomplish games and work functions. The Toshiba can be found at circuitcity.com and the Gateway is on their page (of course ).

$1,699.99
Toshiba Satellite Series Notebook Computer
Brand/Model: TOS 5005S504

$1499.99
Gateway® 450L