Just remember that 1280x1024 is not compatible with your screen's aspect ratio (5:4 vs 4:3), resulting in oval circles.. May not make a difference if you don't do graphics design.
1280x960 is in the right aspect for a 4:3 CRT.
Note: TFT panels with 1280x1024 native resolution will naturally supply you with round circles because the panels are in the correct 5:4 aspect ratio.