This is not the old "which distribution is right" question, I promise!

For the first time ever, I'll be putting linux on my notebook computer. Actually, my work notebook. I'm only able to spare about 6 GB or so, but I'm wondering what distribution I should use. Traditionally, I've been a Gentoo fan, but I'm not sure how well that will work with 6 GB (compilation space). I could just NFS mount stuff to my desktop, but then I can only compile "big" things at home. So I was thinking of using Knoppix/Debian... but then, I don't feel Debian is kept that up to date (am I wrong?). So then I look at Fedora, but see something SO different. Slackware? Last time I used it (WAY back) it was lacking an automated way to install packages and their dependencies. (Like apt on Debian and portage on Gentoo) So I'm looking for a lightweight, laptop-friendly, fully featured distribution. Thoughts everyone?

I compiled Gentoo from Stage 1 on a 4 Gig drive with no problem. Well, no problem other than it was a slow processor, and it took a long time.

That's my thought.

I vote gentoo, but if you wanted an up to date debian, try ubuntu. I'm started using that for some non-technical people and they get around alright with it. I probably only gave them a 15minute lesson saying that this app is equal to Word, this one equals Windows Update, etc etc. If you go with Ubuntu, there is a repository for "breakmyubuntu" to get the even more up to date stuff. Those are slightly experimental, but I did that for a friend who hasn't had a problem yet.

Please Pick Gentoo