HP-Compaq tried too hard to cut cost... expecially notebook computer, quality is not as good as before.

Asus looks good. but somehow has some small problems... although not big problem... but sometimes very annoying.

Acer, i haven't seen or use it.. don't know.

for your price range... take a look at Sony GRT and Dell 8500 (D800) or 600M (D600) 600 is P-M. runs cooler. "D-series" has alloy case and build stronger. usually like 2-3000 dollors difference.

for more reliable system. it is better to buy 2 identical ram. don't mix one with another... (from my experience only, other people may have different opinion)