Dell Inspiron or Compaq Presario?

Both are exceptionally bland and while they may last physically, they are going to be highly outdated within a few months. I would suggest something a big higher end such as a Dell Studio 15, or a Toshiba Satellite L500. Both have higher build quality, especially the Toshiba, and will last you quite a length of time. If I had to choose, I'd take the Dell, unwillingly.