Question:
I'm confused..
Need some advice please. I want a laptop that has MXM (upgradeable to DX10 GPU), but problem is, I wouldn't see myself being happy with it unless it's a Sony or Apple. I had thought about getting a desktop, but from what I understand, portability is a definite plus for university. Because of having to work to make ends meet (tuition and bills), I don't think I'd be able to afford a computer within a 3-4 year period. Meaning, 64-bit is of utmost importance. About the weight, as long as it's not over 7-pounds (7.5 max for 17"), I'm okay with it. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
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For those looking for a filled-in WTB FAQ:
1) What is your budget?
$2300 Canadian
2) What size notebook would you prefer?
b. Thin and Light; 13" - 14" screen
c. Mainstream; 15" - 16" screen
d. Desktop Replacement; 17"+ screen
3) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
Slight gaming (adventure mostly), though I'd like to be "prepared" for new games that might spur my interest.
4) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
Don't know. Depends on which major I choose for university I guess. Thinking about either Economics, Psychology, or Criminology.
5) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
Yes. As I said, it'll mostly be adventure games. I do play othe occasional FPS (Swat 4 for example) from time to time.
6) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
Prefer: Sony and Apple because of their solid build and unique design.
Don't prefer: Acer and Toshiba because of mediocre build qualtiy.
7) How many hours of battery life do you need?
3 hours min.
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
If it doesn't come out to be a cheaply molded piece of plastic, I guess I don't mind. ;)
Screen Specifics
10) Would you prefer standard or widescreen?
Both are good, though I like standard a tad over widescreen.
11) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
Standard
b. SXGA - 1400x1050 - Compromise resolution between XGA and UXGA.
c. UXGA - 1600x1200 - Very small text and graphics icons, you can fit lots of stuff on the screen. (17" only)
Widescreen
d. WXGA or WXGA+ - 1280x768/800 or 1440x900; Wider viewing version of XGA, good for movie viewing or spreadsheets.
e. WSXGA+ - 1680x1050; Wider viewing version of SXGA, good for movie viewing or spreadsheets.
f. WUXGA - 1920x1200; Wider viewing version of UXGA, good for movie viewing or spreadsheets. (17" only)
12) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
Prefer matte but I could settle with glossy.
Build Quality and Design
13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
Really important. I'm one of those types who chooses stylishness over performance you see.
14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?
3-4 years?
Notebook Components
15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 160GB?
80GB+
16) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD-ROM, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-RW drive?
DVD-RW
Answer:
Re: I'm confused..
I don't think that you have to worry about DX10 it's too early, probably such GPUs will be available in the middle of the next year...
Upgradeable GPUs - Do Not rely on that...
Answer:
Re: I'm confused..
I don't think that you have to worry about DX10 it's too early, probably such GPUs will be available in the middle of the next year...
Upgradeable GPUs - Do Not rely on that...
Why so? Is there going to be a new socket type for DX10 GPUs? Is this a good reason to get a desktop over laptop?
Answer:
Re: I'm confused..
Come on guys.. at least attempt to help pls?
Answer:
Re: I'm confused..
mxm notebooks are very, very rare. you would have to look at alienware if that is what you want. i can't really think of any other brand that sells notebooks as mxm. you could consider the asus a8j. it doesn't use mxm, but has a gpu that can *technically* be upgraded. don't know if you will be able to upgrade to dx10 though.