Question:
BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
I am just starting out in architecture and need a laptop that will be with me for at least 3 to four years. I need something that will be able to handle anything that i will throw at it. I can get the xps m1710, how i want it and with the protection i need, at around 700 dollars cheaper than originally price do to school affiliation.. should i just get it? or is there another option for me.....thanks for your responses.
1) What is your budget?
3,000 to 3,700....
2) What size notebook would you prefer?
d. Desktop Replacement; 17"+ screen
3) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
Cad programs (maya, 3dmax, autocad)
Gaming
Internet
Word, Excel
4) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
taking different places, but not on long commutes.
5) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
the latest games.....
6) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
i am leaning towards the xps m1710 because their warranty, if this things breaks and i am out of warranty i am screwed. and because i can get it cheaper through school.
7) How many hours of battery life do you need?
2 hours, it will probably be plugged in most of the time.
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
no
9) Please select your country's flag as a post icon and tell us what country are you buying this in?
U.S.A
Screen Specifics
10) Would you prefer standard or widescreen?
standard
11) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
c. UXGA - 1600x1200 - Very small text and graphics icons, you can fit lots of stuff on the screen.
12) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
not sure about this one
Build Quality and Design
13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
not really, the durabitliy factor is important.
14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?
buying it in about a month or two, need it to last a couple of years
Notebook Components
15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 160GB?
100 to 160
16) Do you need an optical drive?
yes DVD-CD/RW
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
If you dont mind carrying around such a heavy laptop, then, yeah, go for the XPS 1710. If you want a more portable laptop that can play the latest games, consider the 15.4 inch Asus G1, the 14 inch Asus A8Js and W3J, and the 14 inch Compal HGL30.
The 15.4 inch Asus S96J and Compal HEL80, as well as the HP nc8430, are also worth considering.
The Alienware Area 51 m5550 is also another 15.4 inch option.
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
I agree with jetstar.....the asus choices are good (g1 for a more tunning look, a8js for more professional look) pretty much the same except the g1 has some special features, quite cool actually. With that budget, definitely take a look at the alienware m5550, its a good piece.
For 17" go for the Asus G2 (pretty much the same but sucks since it hasnt much resolution) or check the customisable Sony Vaio's....they generally do the trick, have good performances if ur willing to sacrifice a bit of VRAM.
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
If you want something with that kind of power, look up the Sager NP5760. That is the most monstrous and capable computer in terms of power for the price. You can get all of the performance of the XPS but for often much cheaper, however the XPS will probably be lower due to your discount.
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
thanks for all your responses, i will more than likely jump on the xps the question now is do i buy it now or after christmas? when will the best price be avaiable, i know that is a hard question.
also is there a big difference between these two processors, when specing the xps
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T7600 (2.33GHz, 4MB L2 Cache, 667 MHz FSB)
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T7600G (2.33GHz, 4MB L2 Cache, 667 MHz FSB)
is that extra G really worth an extra 275 bucks??
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
If you can wait until Q1/Q2 07, Intel will release the 800Mhz FSB Core 2 Duo mobile processors. As of right now, the current 667Mhz processors aren't nearly has fast as the desktop version (Conroe). By then, prices for the processors you mentioned will probably be lower too. For such a high-end and high price tag, maybe it'll be worth while...
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
The G version is just the T7600 with an unlocked multiplier...in other words: you can overclock.
Don't worry about waiting:
1) Processors are too powerful as it is.
2) That is the most powerful mobile processor out today.
3) They are pretty close to the power of desktop CPUs today...
4) You'll continue to wait for "the next thing around the corner" and never buy one.
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
Definitely I would recommend the Clevo M570U (a.k.a. Sager 5760, Hypersonic Aviator CX7, etc.)... superior to the Dell of the same class in build quality and performance.
If you want the highest end in terms of build quality and performance, then look towards the Clevo notebooks (the highest of the high end, which are sold by Alienware, VooDoo PC, Sager, etc.).
Definitely the Clevo M570U (a.k.a. Sager 5760, Hypersonic Aviator CX7, etc.) is the best bang for the buck 17" gaming notebook for the budget of $2000+.
Reviews of this notebook:
Highlights:
- 17" WUXGA (1920 x 1200) Glassview LCD
- Intel Core 2 Duo T7600 (2.33 ghz)
- nVidia 7950 GTX 512mb DDR3 (*can choose Quadro 2500M 512mb DDR3)
- 2048mb DDR2/667 (*can be upgraded to 4 gigs DDR2)
- 100gb 7200 RPM SATA
- Intel Wireless + Bluetooth
- 8x DVD-RW Dual Layer
- Built-in TV Tuner w/ remote
- Windows XP MCE 2005 (w/ free Vista Premium coupon)
and the extras:
- Built-in 8 channel Azalia audio - SRS WOW
- Built-in 1.3megapixel camera
- 8-cell Li-Ion battery
- Audio DJ front panel (controls media, even when the notebook is not on)
:D TOTAL (from RJtech.com): $3100
This is a fully loaded gaming system with a 7950 GTX that will outperform almost every notebook. out there
The build quality and performance is superior to other notebooks in its class.
For info on resellers that sell this notebook, read this:
(it took me 3 full days to put together, and im still updating it)
Hope this helps,
-Gophn
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
my concern with the clevo/sager brands is the warranty and the ease of me exchanging, returning, anything if i ever need too.
Answer:
Re: BUDGET $3,000 TO 3,700 should i go for an xps m1710??
if you want to answer those fears/concerns, call PowerNotebooks (ask for Donald), call FlawlessComputers, call XoticPC (ask for Justin).
these guys are some of the best in the industry, they wont try and sell you anything, they should be able to answer all of your questions in-depth.
Read my ... it shows all ratings (Better Busines Bureau & resellerratings.com) and warranty for each reseller... some of which outrates Dell's service and warranty support.