Highly Desirable
Hugely Different
Hardto Define
High Definition
Horribly Distorted

Hi Pete,

I recommend going to Dell's site and configuring one to see what
options there are for video.  I doubt anything changed.  The HD
adjective is probably marketing, unless they mean UWXGA(+?) vs SWXGA,
in which case I think most people would prefer the SWXGA.

I don't know if this is the right time to buy one of the new Inspirons
-- depends on your ability and desire to wait and whether cost is a
factor.  Definitely check out the Lenovos -- right now they are
discounted and a 3 year depot warranty is less than the Dell's.  The
Levonos have much better build quality, although web reviews have
indicated a downturn in service.  Certainly can't be worse than Dell's
though, and Lenovo indicates a short turnaround time to fix or replace
a notebook under warranty just as Dells do.

The reason I wouldn't buy now is that the incentive on the coupon
sites (www.couponmountain.com) of $350 is less than the recent $450.
Although the Dells often have good Smart Value options, most coupons
can't apply towards them.

The new Dell Inspirons and XPS 13" start with a 1.5Ghz Core 2 Duo,
which is a step back from the recent 1.8Ghz.  Santa Rosa, which I
don't know too much about, might compensate for some of the loss.
Otherwise you're paying more now for a slower processor than before
with a faster processor.

Also check out the Latitudes.  If you're OK with the size of a 15" (or
15.4") screen, the D520 had an excellent discount recently.  Many
people seem to prefer them over the Inspiron.  One nice feature is the
modular bay battery.  Personally I like the Latitude 630's 14.1" size
because I have to carry my notebook around with me often.

Good luck with your purchase decision.