I have an hp pavilion ze4800 laptop with Windows XP. Which would be a better choice (or does it matter at all) for optimum performance? Right now I have both installed and the thing just isn't running as fast as it used to. When I've tried to uninstall IE--I can't.
Any recommendations? Thanks in advance :)

Firstly you CANNOT uninstall IE as it is an integral part of windows.
That being said it doesn't mean you need to use it.

Firefox is certainly the current browser of choice, mostly due to it's inherent security and available extensions.

Hmmmm... I see. Thanks :D

A poor running machine would benefit from some maintenance, pointers here: https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/computers-beginners/frequently-ask-questions-about-computers-233870.html