Eh, looks like this is pretty well fleshed out already, but I'll just report I've been pleased with my Compaq Presario 2175US (marketed as "2100Z"). Had it for well over a year now with no problems. Granted, I probably can't expect it to survive being dropped off a counter on a routine basis like a Thinkpad. Luckily I do not go skydiving with my laptop or stress test it under the wheels of a Mack truck.
Friend of mine lately bought one of Compaq's AMD64 offerings and likes it just fine too. I do not buy laptops often though, so the most I can say is Works For Me(tm). FWIW. Caveat emptor. Etc.
