Lenovo G400 Intel Dual Core - T2080 1.73 GHz, 512MB RAM

Compaq V3617TU Intel Dual Core - T2330 1.6GHz, 1GB RAM (NOTE: standard is only 512MB but shops throw in another 512MB free)

Caveat:
1. I'm probably comparing apples and oranges here. Though they are at about the same price range, they are configured differently.
2. I did not do a scientific test, this notes are just about my perception while using the system.
3. There are more software installed on the Lenovo G400. The Compaq 3617TU has an updated windows XP.

Performance
The Compaq seems more responsive while I am browsing pictures and while running software programs. Not sure if this is due to a better processor or because the Compaq has more RAM than the Lenovo G400.

Ports
The HP website lists the 3617TU as having a built in card reader. But when you go to the stores, it doesn't have one. This is misleading to the consumers. You can actually get a cheap card reader at computer shops, but another problem you'll have is the limitted number of USB ports. The 3617TU only has 2 USB ports. Most of today's gadgets use USB. A typical techno person has a digital camera, a mobile phone, MP3 player, printer and optical mouse. All devices plug in via USB. So 2 USB ports is very limitting and even further limitted by the lack of card reader. On the plus side, the 3617TU has a S-video port. You can use your TV as a second display.

The Lenovo G400 has 4 USB ports. But no S-video port.

Both machines doesn't have blue tooth, audio-in, infrared, serial and parallel ports.

Temperature
The Lenovo G400 seem to run hotter than the Compaq V3617TU.

Build quality
The Lenovo has a better build quality than the Compaq. Compaq's keyboard keys are not level. Some are higher than the one next to it. The CD drive seems so flimsy. The keys and CD drive of the Lenovo is a lot better.

Support
The tech guy of HP is a lot better than the tech guy of Lenovo. They HP guy gave us the correct drivers for machine and even updated the windows XP installed. The Lenovo guy is not customer friendly and even gave the wrong set of drivers for windows XP.

Others
The Compaq V3617TU has better display processor and speakers than the Lenovo G400. The speaker though seems irrelevant since the sound is so weak anyway on a laptop. If you want quality audio, plug it in to an audio amplifier or use good quality earphones.

My Verdict
If you want build quality go for the Lenovo G400. If you want better performance, go for the Compaq V3617TU.

/rom