| erkybk,
I have both a 19" widescreen and my husband uses a smaller "standard" size (15"?). I bought the 19" because it has the number keypad on the side and is very convenient when I'm running CAD. That laptop tends to stay put because of the weight. It's great for visual, but every time I want to sit outside or travel, I go with my hasband's because it is SO much easier to carry around. I know it may only be a few ounces heavier but it seems to make all the difference. If it's all you're carrying, it's OK; but keep in mind that you will usually have [lenty of books with you as well. Also, I have yet to find a suitable bag for the big one.
If you're planning on using your laptop on the go, I'd recommend the smaller. Our smaller one is an ACER and think it has the best display of all the ones I've seen. It has also been completely trouble-free. The 17" is an HP and I really don't like it at all. Although I haven't had anytrouble with the performance, it just seems "cheap" and clunky. I do like the keyboard, however, and it is great for watching movies. Since you'll be doing more typing than anything. I'd go to a store where you can actually try out the keyboard.
Before you buy anything though, I'd check with your school. Some of them have special purchase arrangements with Dell, etc. where you can get a good price with all the software preloaded that you might need for your classes, usually Microsoft Office suite. |