Question:
mid-range Gaming System
Hi all. Thanks in advance for any advice.
1) What is your budget?
This would be a gift from my wife who really wants to get me something nice. I realize the sweet spot for cost/benefit is $1500 - 2000, but we could go a little higher than that.
2) What size notebook would you prefer?
I play a lot of games, including WoW, so I really need a 15"+. I play today on a 15" and it seems fine but wouldn't mind bigger.
3) What tasks will you be performing with the notebook?
Gaming mostly.
4) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places or leaving it on your desk?
I will travel with it on business trips - meaning I will be lugging 2 around with me. I've done that already with a three year old Thinkpad R40 and it hasn't been a problem, but I'd hate for this to be worse.
5) Will you be playing games on it; if so, which games?
WoW is probably the most intense one. Also Madden and some RTS games.
6) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
Prefer no Dell. They hosed me a long time ago and I've not given them a dime since. If Dell was absolutely the right choice you could convince me to consider their debt paid (after 4 PC purchases where they were not considered).
7) How many hours of battery life do you need?
Normally I will be using with a cord.
8) Do you mind buying online without seeing the notebook in person?
Don't prefer that but could live with it.
9) Please select your country's flag as a post icon and tell us what country are you buying this in?
USA
Screen Specifics
10) Would you prefer standard or widescreen?
Widescreen
11) From the choices below, what screen resolutions would you prefer?
Widescreen
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.
12) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen?
Something non-reflective and bright would be best. The place I play at home has a huge window by it and sometimes it is a real struggle for me to see much now.
Build Quality and Design
13) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you?
I am willing the be the better looking between me and my laptop and I'm not that good looking.
14) When are you buying this laptop and how long do you want this laptop to last?
I could pull the trigger anytime. I'd like it to last 2-3 years.
Notebook Components
15) How much hard drive space do you want; 40GB to 160GB?
80+ GB, preferable 100+. I only have 40gb now and have gotten by but I expect I will need considerably more.
16) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD-ROM, DVD-CD/RW or DVD-RW drive?
DVD RW would be best.
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
Compal HEL80 would be best. 15.4" with one of the best matte (non glossy) wsxga+ screens, and an Nvidia 7600 card. It could probably be had for less than $1500 as well!
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
I'll second that. The Compal HEL80 is a soild and great performance 15.4" notebook for you budget and needs.
Check it out at Powernotebooks.com and XoticPC.com
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
I'd recommend checking out the Compal HEL80, which has a matte WSXGA+ screen as an upgrade. Also the HP nc8430 and Thinkpad z61m.
The Asus z96j and G1 are also nice options, but their WSXGA+ screens are glossy.
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
The Compal HEL80 is a beautiful machine, take a look at our reviews:
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
With 2000$ budgets, here are some good deals:
Asus G1 for 1800$, +/- 4200 3d05 marks, GF7700
Asus Z92T for 1400-1500$ +/- 3900 3d05 marks, GF 7600
Asus Z96J for 1400-1500$ +/- 3900 3d05 marks, X1600
Acer TM 8210 for 1900$ 4400 3d05 marks, X1600
Acer Aspire 5112 (like mine) 1300$ +/- 2500 3d05 marks , X1600 128mb
Toshiba gaming notebook < 1.999U$$, 7xxx 3d05 marks, 17"
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
I like the G1 slightly better then the HEL80 for price/performance ratio. But if your wife doesn't like the flashy lights then go hel80 :)
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
The Compal HEL80 really does seem to meet your requirements very well. Its WSXGA+ matte screen is truly a wonderful screen. There is a link to my review after four months with my HEL80 in my signature.
The HP nc8430 is also worth a look.
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
choose G1... just cover those lights when playing :) and have a nice lighting so that you won't have any problems regarding glare.
or choose the nc8430 if you want something in business class :) has matte screen
Answer:
Re: mid-range Gaming System
The ASUS G1 rules all in gaming department under 2000 USD. The best bang for your buck. Just go to the ASUS forum, and you will see.