Advice on notebook components

Hey everyone. I'm preparing to buy a laptop for college and I had some questions. If both processors are core2duos with 4mb L2 cache and 800mhz FSB, is there really any noticeable difference between a 2.2GHZ and 2.4GHZ chip? I'm thinking no, but I figured I should check with you guys. If so, is it worth an extra $100 for the 2.4GHZ processor? Also, I know I can later buy external upgrades but can I buy an internal upgrade for the HD and disc drive on my notebook? Also, is it pratical to upgrade a CPU in a notebook? Does a larger screen result in decreased battery life and does a 17inch Screen make for a laptop that is a pain to carry around? Last, but certainly not least, would you recommend a configuration with the 2.2GHZ processor and a 250GB 7200RPM HD or a 2.4GHZ processor and a 320GB 5400rpm HD?

I knew I forgot something. This is important. HP offers dual hard drives for their larger HD's and claims that dual hard drives are better. Why would that be? Thanks again.

 

Unless you're doing some heavy duty number crunching, you probably won't notice any loss of speed with the slower CPU.

Upgrading the HD is possible, but I find it a PITA to transfer all your files and software. Start with a bigger size than you think you'll need. The CPU can be upgraded if you're not afraid to open up your laptop, but probably not worth it to go from 2.2 to 2.4 GHz.

Yes, larger screen = less battery life & harder to carry around.

Personally, I'd go with a larger, slower HD vs smaller & faster. The faster HDs are faster because they spin faster, meaning higher power consumption & less battery life. Your choice should be based on what you intend to use the laptop for.

Dual hard drives better? I don't know about that one, you'll have added weight, power consumption and heat.

 

e-bayer1277, welcome to the forum. You have a lot of valid questions, but I suggest you make a search on those topics, as most of those have already been answered or discussed extensively.

I will however tell you this:

For 99% of users there is not a noticeable difference with a 200 MHz faster processor in modern systems.

Upgrading a CPU can be fairly easy, but it very much depends on the notebook and how upgrade-friendly it is. In some notebooks it is close to impossible.

The hard drive question again depends on the situation. It depends on your needs. A faster smaller drive is no good, if you i.e. need to rip a lot of movies and store them on the hard drive.
If we only discuss speed: Most notebook drives today with 5400 RPM or above are fast enough for the average user. While 4200 RPM drives are generally struggling a bit with HDD intensive applications. Windows Vista and 4200 RPM drives can be an annoying combination as well.

A notebook with a 17" screen is heavy by default compared to notebooks with smaller size screens. Most people find them to be too heavy for frequent transport, while some think it is manageable with a backpack. For frequent travelers like myself, I prefer ultraportables under or around 3 lbs. You will probably not be able to find a 17" notebook which weighs less than 6 lbs.

You are asking a lot of questions which are very much up to the individual and the specific notebook. There are no clear answers unless you provide more concrete details. Hence, first of all make a search as mentioned. If you are still in doubt, provide details about your budget and your needs, such as what you will be using it for, what your expectations are in terms of battery life are, etc. This way people will be able to give you much more useful advice.