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Google Maps recommends taking I-86/I-88 once you hit Erie, PA instead of I-90. That'll save about $20 on tolls going through NY. And, it's far less traveled than I-90. Prettier, too, IMO.
I would agree with this, though just prior to Albany, NY, you have to rejoin I-90 and pay for a short stretch unless you want to get creative with two-lane roads, which I don't recommend in that area--too slow. Tolls end on I-90 in Albany, and then pick up once again outside of Albany on the Berkshire Spur, which turns into the Mass. Turnpike, if you stay on I-90. Turnpike tolls are pretty modest, IMHO, and it is definitely the fastest way across the state. However, if you want scenic you should take I-87 north from Albany to around Lake George, then head east across Vermont and New Hampshire to Maine. It is so much shorter mileage wise that it isn't much different time-wise unless you get stuck behind RVs and/or stop at one of the hundreds of diners, ice cream shops, museums, covered bridges, etc.
Hate to confuse you, but it is also very nice to go from Albany to Bennington, VT, across the state on Route 9 to Brattleboro, and then on across NH on Rt. 9 and eventually to Maine up along the coastal route.
