Question:
hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
Which one would you prefer and why? I'm stumped i narrowed it down to there two becuase of the wxsga+ matte screen which i really want, and they both have an awesome GPU. Both come with 1 gig of ram and a 2ghz dual core processor for around 1600, now which is better and why?
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
Hp, no contest. Its hp's business line of notebooks, made from magnesium/aluminium alloy, shock mounted hard drive. Its smaller and thinner than the hel80, and lets face it far more attractive.
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
hp definately, can i ask where you're buying from? i wanted to get one but i live in the uk and the nc8430 is way overpriced here
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
I'm either going 2 get it from Page Computers and they have it for $1570 w/ shipping or from cost central for $1614. I appreciate the inputs thx..
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
hp definately, can i ask where you're buying from? i wanted to get one but i live in the uk and the nc8430 is way overpriced here
Get it from http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk
or http://www.shoplaptop.co.uk
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
Deals are your friend ;)
Go to student deals on laptopsdirect and the fourth one has the
HP NC8430 1.66ghz dual core, 1gb, 100gb
3 year collect + return warranty
cheapo mouse
for just 800 notes
You could always upgrade ram later. Shame that this deal means the slowest dual core but beggars can't be choosers
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
I love both. When I configured an nc8430 on HP's website with the same specs as my HEL80 (see signature), it was quite a bit more expensive.
And the HEL80 has Aluminimum lid and keyboard trim...not a plastic alloy.
Not to detract from the nc8430 of course. I think both are spectacular 15.4" systems.
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
This comes from comparing specs and reviews, rather than 'hands-on' experience, so take it with a grain of salt. That said, and assuming the info I've collected is accurate, I'd say:
HEL-80:
-Pros:
nVidia GPU (important only if you're planning to run Linux)
Available as 'barebones', if you're into DIY
Prism technology screen may be a bit better
- Cons:
Many people not impressed with the looks
Some 'incomplete' implementations (IOMP, IR receiver)
No SmartCard reader
GPU reportedly factory underclocked
nc8430:
- Pros:
Perhaps slightly better build quality
Somewhat longer battery life reported
Lightscribe drive available
- Cons:
No integrated webcam
No TV tuner option available
No multi memory card reader
No ExpressCard slot
Most of these difference are, IMO, minor, cosmetic, or limited to special and often esoteric uses. You really can't go wrong with either machine, at the right price.
That said, I'm personally more interested in the flexibility of potentially running Linux, using my digital camera memory cards directly, having an ExpressCard slot for future compatibility, and maybe playing with the TV tuner. So my vote's for the HEL80.
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
Apologies a typo above
Only £800?! :eek:
Yes, value for money really is worth a bump imo. Which means you could get the above system with 2gb ram for £900!
Answer:
Re: hp nc8430 vs. Hel80
You can get my config for under 1,550 USD (with tax and ship). My opinion is, if they are around the same price, I would take the NC8430 no contest. If the HEL80 is alot cheaper then 1,550, I would take the HEL80. I got my machine for 1,416.
No, the NC8430 is going to better build quality and looks then the Compal. Thinner and smaller as well. You also get a much better graphics card in the X1600 over the very-underclocked 7600. Security wise, the HP's features kill any machine I have worked with. HP Protect Tools intergates passwords, fingerprints, smartcard and the intertegraded security chip into a easy to understand program. Fingerprints from anything to password storage, to BIOS, to windows login.
Everyone also forgets that the HP has a docking station with Express Card, DVI, more USB and a card reader. So if needed, they can be added onto the NC8430.
I very much doubt that linux wouldn't work as well, as HP have been working with linux, and is certified as Linux-compatible by Novell. In talking with experts, I am told it works great with linux. (http://linux-laptop.net/hosted/suse-...q-nc8430.html). Email Ian with any questions about linux, he was very helpful in getting linux ready to run on mine.