@archer all of that sounds netbook capable with the exception of light processing of photos, video and audio
does this mean photoshop?
no netbook is going to run final cut pro or sony whatever
no budget priced laptop is going to run those programs either.
you would need a real graphics card for that.
netbooks and budget laptops are similar in functionality, the full size gives you more HDD space and a bigger screen.
real performance gains come from a better processor and graphics card.
Ubuntu is a lighter, leaner OS, but it is linux so you are going to lose compatibility, the whatever device you buy at target isn’t going to work out of the box, maybe not at all. for example…
itunes-not available for linux- try songbird instead (works with ipods)a
internet explorer-not available for linux- use Firefox instead (you really should be already)
ect. so i guess narrowing down what programs you absolutely HAVE to HAVE would be a big part of deciding.
XP is 8 years old and it sucks (imho) but it is compatible with everything
I guess you need to decide
netbook or laptop
weigh cost, performance, price
and then you need to decide OS
Ubuntu or xp if you go with netbook (some netbooks can run Windows 7 but its not much more stable than hackintosh at this point, not recomended for someone who just wants a machine that works all the time 8-P)
weigh compatibility, price, and how tech savvy you are.
but please dont buy an acer unless you are just looking to save money.