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[encephalon]

1. What are the specs of your VAIO?

2. Have you checked the temperatures, while gaming? Run HWMonitor in the background to see where they max.

Component: Intel® Core™ i5-2450M processor (2.50GHz / 3.10GHz with Turbo Boost)
Component: 6GB (4GB fixed onboard + 2GB removable) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
Component: Genuine Windows® 7 Professional 64-bit
Component: AMD Radeon™ HD 6630M (1GB) hybrid graphics with Intel® Wireless Display technology
Component: 500GB (7200rpm) hard drive

Google search is suggesting it's a problem with the bold.

No, I haven't. Should I just check minecraft specifically?

 

[malingenie]

No laptop for 500-700 can play Witcher 2; that game is one of the most graphifically demanding games to date. To have a chance at playing Witcher 2, look for a laptop with GT 650m or of higher performance. I doubt that kind of graphics will reach 30fps on 1080p though. You will need to invest much more than ~$600. Try looking at those Sager notebooks with GT 670/675. They will cost between $1100-1500 depending on model and customization. Other than that, you're better off with a desktop. Why do you need a new laptop?

My desktop just isnt getting that much use, am thinking i would use a laptop more since i can use it in the bed and couch. Thanks for the reality check,though, i guess i have to make some decisions on what i really need.

 

[K.Jack]

I preordered the Asus G75 from Amazon a few days ago for $1,451.03, but today I noticed a new Sager notebook called the Clevo W150ER.
Sager: http://www.xoticpc.com/sager-np6165-clevo-w150er-p-4344.html
Asus: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007MW73C2/?tag=neogaf0e-20

For $1451.03, ASUS G G75VW-AS71 comes with:
- 17.3" FHD (1920*1080) (Glossy)
- Intel Core i7-3610QM (2.3GHz)
- Nvidia GTX 660M 2G GDDR5 w/ Optimus
- 16GB DDR3
- Seagate Momentus XT 750 GB 7200RPM
- DL DVD±RW/CD-RW
- Backlit Keyboard
- 8.7 pounds (without power adapter)

For $1059.00, Clevo W150ER will come with:
- 15.6" (1920*1080) Matte 95% Color Gamut Display
- 3rd Gen Quad Ivy Bridge (when it comes out)
- Nvidia Geforce GT 650M 1.0GB GDDR5 w/ Optimus
- 8GB DDR3 1600MHz
- 720GB 7200RPM
- DL DVD±RW/CD-RW
- Weighs 6.17lbs (without power adapter)

I'm wondering whether I should cancel my order from Amazon to get this Sager notebook. It costs $400 less, after student discount ($1048.41), weighs 2 lbs less and comes with a Matte Display. If I go the Sager route, then I'll get a SSD to store Windows into. I may not get as much graphical performance from 650M compared to 660M, but I heard the difference is minimal. I know I'm comparing a 15" to a 17", but I really need a laptop soon and Amazon only have the Asus 17" model available. My school already provided me a copy of Windows 7 Pro 64 bit, so that's money saved for OS.

What do you guys think?

Well you do present a compelling argument. That 95% color gamut LCD is really the most tempting component, for me. The B156HW01 v.4 is the best non-IPS panel you can get in the 15.6" form factor. I have its big brother the B17HW01 V.4 (which is a 90% gamut panel), in my 17" Sager, and it's simply stunning.

If you don't mind the other losses you take when moving from 17" to 15", I think the Sager will make you happy.

Component: Intel® Core™ i5-2450M processor (2.50GHz / 3.10GHz with Turbo Boost)
Component: 6GB (4GB fixed onboard + 2GB removable) DDR3-SDRAM-1333
Component: Genuine Windows® 7 Professional 64-bit
Component: AMD Radeon™ HD 6630M (1GB) hybrid graphics with Intel® Wireless Display technology
Component: 500GB (7200rpm) hard drive

Google search is suggesting it's a problem with the bold.

No, I haven't. Should I just check minecraft specifically?

Just make sure you're using the latest available GPU drivers, and test your temps, regardless of what game you're playing, but yeah Minecraft first.

My desktop just isnt getting that much use, am thinking i would use a laptop more since i can use it in the bed and couch. Thanks for the reality check,though, i guess i have to make some decisions on what i really need.

Just wait until the new-gen of GPUs is completely out. The 7750M and GT 640M may come in a few machines near your price range.

 

[nicoga3000]

Hey LaptopGAF. Got a question.

My brother is trying to get rid of his almost new Asus G73. I've offered to buy it from him, but I want to know what you all think of the specs/power of it before I get an offer together for him. I don't use laptops much EVER, and it wouldn't be for much gaming (maybe a little bit here and there, but my desktop does that for me).

Here's the newegg link

Here's a quick summary of the important stuff:

Model: G73JH-BST7
OS: Will be a clean Win7 64 install
RAM: 6GB DDR3
HD: 640GB @ 5400rpm
GFX: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870
VRam: 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
CPU: Intel Core i7 (740QM(1.73GHz))
Screen: 1600 x 900 (17.3")

Any thoughts?

 

[threetri333]

No more than $400. My reasons are that everything about that laptop, besides the GPU, are horrendous; low resolution on 17" glossy display, very slow hard drive, and outdated CPU by 2 generations when Ivy Bridge comes out.

Why do you need a laptop?

Hey LaptopGAF. Got a question.

My brother is trying to get rid of his almost new Asus G73. I've offered to buy it from him, but I want to know what you all think of the specs/power of it before I get an offer together for him. I don't use laptops much EVER, and it wouldn't be for much gaming (maybe a little bit here and there, but my desktop does that for me).

Here's the newegg link

Here's a quick summary of the important stuff:

Model: G73JH-BST7
OS: Will be a clean Win7 64 install
RAM: 6GB DDR3
HD: 640GB @ 5400rpm
GFX: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870
VRam: 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
CPU: Intel Core i7 (740QM(1.73GHz))
Screen: 1600 x 900 (17.3")

Any thoughts?

 

[nicoga3000]

No more than $400. Why do you need a laptop?

It would be for portable basic Steam games, running Game Maker or XNA, and running AutoCAD, Matlab, and Staad.Pro for work.

E: Staad.Pro is slightly system intensive for the larger models I work with. CAD and Matlab aren't too bad (CAD for the 3D stuff I reference, but the 2D drawings aren't much of an issue).

 

[K.Jack]

Hey LaptopGAF. Got a question.

My brother is trying to get rid of his almost new Asus G73. I've offered to buy it from him, but I want to know what you all think of the specs/power of it before I get an offer together for him. I don't use laptops much EVER, and it wouldn't be for much gaming (maybe a little bit here and there, but my desktop does that for me).

Here's the newegg link

Here's a quick summary of the important stuff:

Model: G73JH-BST7
OS: Will be a clean Win7 64 install
RAM: 6GB DDR3
HD: 640GB @ 5400rpm
GFX: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870
VRam: 1GB GDDR5 VRAM
CPU: Intel Core i7 (740QM(1.73GHz))
Screen: 1600 x 900 (17.3")

Any thoughts?

That is definitely a high quality buy. With the 5870M you get 3x the graphics power of any machine you can currently attain in the $500-$800 price range.

It's worth $600, easily.

 

[ipukespiders]

Just wanted to partially answer my own question about games that control suitably with keyboard/trackpad and discovered that sonic and sea all-stars racing is (for me) easier to control with the keyboard than on my htpc with 360 controller.
I can actually win races now, woo!

 

[alr1ght]

What temp should I be idling at? My laptop (Asus K53SV) is idling at 68C, then proceeds to hard shutdown while playing certain games. This thing is only a few months old and I'd rather take care of the problem now, then wait and make it worse.

 

[99%]

Idle 68? Wtf?

Are you in some tropical climate?

 

[alr1ght]

no, it's 78F here. :|

 

[99%]

I dont know what that means

 

[Spiderjericho]

I've seen proof that a Taiwanese tester has one of the latest revision test machines, with the 35W i7-3612QM quad core installed. They even tested out the extreme 3920XM, but that one got pretty hot under load.

It's still important for me to say that we're not yet 100% that Clevo will ship with quads, even though they plug in and work.

Hey, just saw your posts. I see on the xotic website that they have quad-core processors with the system now, but they're the 2xxx Sandy Bridge processors.

I'll wait until May to see how well a performance increase the Ivy Bridge processors provide and if they can fit it in there. Hopefully, it gives good temps. Don't want a space heater or loud fans.

The specs I want are

16 GB RAM
Quad-Core Ivy Bridge
500 Seagate Hybrid
BluRay/DVD+RW Burner
Fingerprint Reader
Bluetooth 3.0 (or 4 whatever the recent is)

The Nvidia 650GT you say is comparable to the 560?

 

[kameha5th]

Okay GAF, I am DESPERATE.

Alienware M11x-- MINT CONDITION

Processor 1.3 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300 ULV
Memory 4GB; 1,066MHz DDR3
Hard drive 500GB 7,200rpm
Chipset Mobile Intel GM45 Express
Graphics Nvidia GeForce GT 335M + Intel GMA 4500MHD
Operating System Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
Dimensions (WD) 11.3 inches x 9.2 inches
Height 1.3 inches
Screen size (diagonal) 11.6 inches
System weight / Weight with AC adapter 4.5 / 5.3 pounds

I found a seller for this baby all in all for $575. Comes with everything, including orig. box, mouse, and actual laptop.

(Seller originally wanted to sell it for $650, but I said no)

Is it worth buying it?

Gonna meet this guy tomorrow at the Medical Center tomorrow @ Houston, TX.

Thanks for the inputs bros!

 

[kagete]

Others might disagree but I would say NO. It's 3 years old and that exact spec model was on sale for around $550 brand new at both Dell (online) and Staples (in-store) last year.

If you absolutely need something in that size then save just a bit more to go Clevo. You will at least get a modern CPU and GPU

If you're just looking for the cheapest gaming capable laptop around $600 then just look for the cheapest i5/GT540 or i5/GT630 laptop from either Acer or Asus or Lenovo that you can find online. A few great examples were already listed in this thread earlier.

 

[SteveWD40]

I would agree with the above, the M11x really came into it's own with the r3 but that model is a little too long in the tooth, you might have to look hard but you will find something good with an i3 or i5 for similar money.

Unless he will take much less for it, he seems to think he is selling a macbook at that asking price for 3 year old tech...

 

[K.Jack]

Count me in the group which says NO WAY.

The aged GT 335M makes that model worth $350, at best.

At $575, the new 11.6" beauty from Clevo is only ~$300 more, and you quadruple the graphics power and CPU processing.

What temp should I be idling at? My laptop (Asus K53SV) is idling at 68C, then proceeds to hard shutdown while playing certain games. This thing is only a few months old and I'd rather take care of the problem now, then wait and make it worse.

Which component is idling at 68C?

 

[Bentendo]

Alright... can someone help me here?

My laptop broke recently, and I would probably be willing to fix it for a measly price but I really want a computer that can play more up to date games fluidly without any hiccups. I was thinking about buying a desktop computer, but the only ones I've been satisfied with were ones that I would personally have to build and I don't have the expertise to do something like that. Besides, I like the comfort of a laptop.

So, realizing that I live at my parent's home (almost rent free), have a job and quite a bit of money saved up, what would be one of the best laptops to purchase for gaming? I'd be willing to spend up to around $1,200 (maybe $1,500), but the lower you can go the better. I know that desktops can last you for YEARS before you need to upgrade... how long will my laptop last before newer games won't be compatible on it (and by compatible I mean playable on lowest possible settings... graphics aren't that important to me). These things may not be easy to calculate but a rough estimate would be appreciated.

I'd love a laptop that could fluidly play Skyrim, Witcher 2 and other graphically outstanding games. PLEASE help me find one that would fit my needs!

 

[threetri333]

If you have your own copy of Windows, go for Sager NP6165
http://www.xoticpc.com/sager-np6165-clevo-w150er-p-4344.html

Wait for the Ivy Bridge Processors, upgrade display to Matte 95% Color Gamut, and upgrade HDD to 750GB 7200rpm. This should cost $1059.00. If you need more performance, add in a 128/256GB SSD and store your OS in there.

This is my dream laptop.

Alright... can someone help me here?

My laptop broke recently, and I would probably be willing to fix it for a measly price but I really want a computer that can play more up to date games fluidly without any hiccups. I was thinking about buying a desktop computer, but the only ones I've been satisfied with were ones that I would personally have to build and I don't have the expertise to do something like that. Besides, I like the comfort of a laptop.

So, realizing that I live at my parent's home (almost rent free), have a job and quite a bit of money saved up, what would be one of the best laptops to purchase for gaming? I'd be willing to spend up to around $1,200 (maybe $1,500), but the lower you can go the better. I know that desktops can last you for YEARS before you need to upgrade... how long will my laptop last before newer games won't be compatible on it (and by compatible I mean playable on lowest possible settings... graphics aren't that important to me). These things may not be easy to calculate but a rough estimate would be appreciated.

I'd love a laptop that could fluidly play Skyrim, Witcher 2 and other graphically outstanding games. PLEASE help me find one that would fit my needs!

 

[Bentendo]

If you have your own copy of Windows, go for Sager NP6165
http://www.xoticpc.com/sager-np6165-clevo-w150er-p-4344.html

Wait for the Ivy Bridge Processors, upgrade display to Matte 95% Color Gamut, and upgrade HDD to 750GB 7200rpm. This should cost $1059.00. If you need more performance, add in a 128/256GB SSD and store your OS in there.

This is my dream laptop.

Okay... I can't believe I'm saying this but that looks like a pretty good laptop.

I don't know much about computers though so I do have a FEW questions:

1. How long do I have to wait before Ivy Bridge Processors? How much more will the laptop be because of it and what will it do differently?
2. What is the color gamut thingy?
3. When you say more performance, do you mean my games will actually perform better if I do the SSD thing and store my OS in there? What is an SSD and how to I store my OS there (again, kinda new to this). Is this external or internal? :<

AND FINALLY!!!!

4. Will this be able to play Skyrim on... medium settings? How about higher than that?

 

[hteng]

man i wonder if Dell will sell those 7970m or 680ms seperately or as an upgrade for m18x m17xr3 users... wishful thinking though, maybe once it's out we'll see tons of 6990ms getting thrown out

 

[Bentendo]

I have a question. I've been looking at the differences between the different Sager laptops. Can you tell me what the major differences between these two would be:

VIDEO CARDS:

1. nVIDIA GeForce GT 650M (1.0GB) w/ Optimus
2. nVIDIA GeForce GTX 670M (1.5GB) w/ Optimus
3. nVidia GeForce GTX 675M (2GB) w/Optimus

Basically, what will a better card do for me?

PROCESSOR:

2nd Generation Intel® Core i5-2450M (Support 3rd Gen. Intel)
2nd Generation Intel® Core i7-2670QM (Support 3rd Gen. Intel)

Same as above. is it worth it to spend more for an i7? Will I be able to play games at higher settings?

Right now I'm debating between the following Sagers:

Sager NP6175
Sager NP9130
Sager NP9150

What would you personally do?

 

[alr1ght]

Which component is idling at 68C?

My CPU temp. It was at 68C, but seems much better now after a reboot. It's hovering around 48C-52C, GPU is around 40C (although it shouldn't be in use with Optimus) during normal web browsing now. I haven't played any games since then, so I don't know how hot it gets in order to prompt a shutdown.

 

[K.Jack]

FYI, Intel's Ivy Bridge NDA ends early next week, so Alienware and many others will finally begin making announcements after it ends.

We will find out Alienware's full lineup, with all spec and release details, by the end of the week.

I have a question. I've been looking at the differences between the different Sager laptops. Can you tell me what the major differences between these two would be:

VIDEO CARDS:

1. nVIDIA GeForce GT 650M (1.0GB) w/ Optimus
2. nVIDIA GeForce GTX 670M (1.5GB) w/ Optimus
3. nVidia GeForce GTX 675M (2GB) w/Optimus

Basically, what will a better card do for me?

PROCESSOR:

2nd Generation Intel® Core i5-2450M (Support 3rd Gen. Intel)
2nd Generation Intel® Core i7-2670QM (Support 3rd Gen. Intel)

Same as above. is it worth it to spend more for an i7? Will I be able to play games at higher settings?

Right now I'm debating between the following Sagers:

Sager NP6175
Sager NP9130
Sager NP9150

What would you personally do?

Honestly it's better to just set your max budget, then spend wisely as close as you can to that figure.

Prioritize GPU over everything.

The NP9150 with i7-2670QM and GTX 675M is just over $1400. I like that buy. But next week that CPU option will become the i7-3610QM.

My CPU temp. It was at 68C, but seems much better now after a reboot. It's hovering around 48C-52C, GPU is around 40C (although it shouldn't be in use with Optimus) during normal web browsing now. I haven't played any games since then, so I don't know how hot it gets in order to prompt a shutdown.

Run HWMonitor while you game, then alt-tab out after a few minutes to check the max temps. Expect that either the CPU or GPU is going over 100C, for it to do a safety shut down.

 

[Bentendo]

FYI, Intel's Ivy Bridge NDA ends early next week, so Alienware and many others will finally begin making announcements after it ends.

We will find out Alienware's full lineup, with all spec and release details, by the end of the week.


Honestly it's better to just set your max budget, then spend wisely as close as you can to that figure.

Prioritize GPU over everything.

The NP9150 with i7-2670QM and GTX 675M is just over $1400. I like that buy. But next week that CPU option will become the i7-3610QM.

Thanks! BTW would you recommend a Matte or Glare type screen? And should I get a laptop fan. With Windows 7 and the screen it comes up to over 1,600, but that should be okay. I just got over $200 from my tax returns so that should cover it.

 

[AngmarsKing701]

So I've started looking at laptop options. With Diablo III coming out, I'm planning on ordering a laptop capable of playing it (at hopefully med-high settings). Expectation is that I'll make the order in early May.

My wife recently picked this up:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005PAK20S/?tag=neogaf0e-20

She loves it. It's right at my own budget of $900.

Bottom line: I need it for writing as well as playing the odd PC exclusive. I will continue to play most of my games on the 360 or PS3, but for games like Diablo III, Starcraft II and possibly something like Dota 2, I'd like a capable machine.

I also like the fact that the laptop above has a Blu-Ray player.

Is it my best option for $900? I would like to say that I'm gonna stay away from Lenovo. As I've mentioned on here before I have had enough issues with Lenovo laptops at work that I simply have no interest in picking one up for personal use.

 

[K.Jack]

Thanks! BTW would you recommend a Matte or Glare type screen? And should I get a laptop fan. With Windows 7 and the screen it comes up to over 1,600, but that should be okay. I just got over $200 from my tax returns so that should cover it.

Well I've seen the datasheets of the two 95% screens, and the Glossy version has an objectively higher contrast ratio. On the other hand, with Matte there's zero reflections. It's a personal thing.

So I've started looking at laptop options. With Diablo III coming out, I'm planning on ordering a laptop capable of playing it (at hopefully med-high settings). Expectation is that I'll make the order in early May.

My wife recently picked this up:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005PAK20S/?tag=neogaf0e-20

She loves it. It's right at my own budget of $900.

Bottom line: I need it for writing as well as playing the odd PC exclusive. I will continue to play most of my games on the 360 or PS3, but for games like Diablo III, Starcraft II and possibly something like Dota 2, I'd like a capable machine.

I also like the fact that the laptop above has a Blu-Ray player.

Is it my best option for $900? I would like to say that I'm gonna stay away from Lenovo. As I've mentioned on here before I have had enough issues with Lenovo laptops at work that I simply have no interest in picking one up for personal use.

In the $900 range, you're way better off with this Sager. The new generation GT 650M is well over twice the speed of the GT 540M. You also gain a decent 1080p screen, versus the mediocre 1366x768 of the Asus.

As an extra bonus, by early May, the updated Ivy Bridge processors will have been added to this machine.

 

[Banglish]

I was considering the G55, but I'm considering building my own high-end desktop in the future.
What are some of the best portable gaming laptops? (11-13 inch) I can wait for new chipset's.

 

[SteveWD40]

I was considering the G55, but I'm considering building my own high-end desktop in the future.
What are some of the best portable gaming laptops? (11-13 inch) I can wait for new chipset's.

Well right now, the m11x r3 is the only one that I know of. Most other portables are more along the ultrabook line. After the new chipsets? seems like there might be a few more (didn't an 11" one get posted earlier but it's TBC?)

You could argue the m14x as well as I hear it has a small footprint, close to 13".

 

[Kilrogg]

So my father is looking to buy a laptop with 270&#8364; worth of coupons (plus whatever money he'll need to buy it obviously), only he can't choose within a wide array of models because he can only use them in a couple of stores. He doesn't plan to play games on it, but he might need a decent processor (not the best) and possibly a graphics card depending on what kinds of software he'll be using for his job.

With that in mind, are there CPUs and GPUs he should absolutely avoid and ones which offer good value? Within a given range of CPUs (say, i3 CPUs), which are stinkers and which are winners?
Also, which brands should he avoid altogether?

I've been completely out of the loop these past few years...

 

[blackprophesy]

Well right now, the m11x r3 is the only one that I know of. Most other portables are more along the ultrabook line. After the new chipsets? seems like there might be a few more (didn't an 11" one get posted earlier but it's TBC?)

You could argue the m14x as well as I hear it has a small footprint, close to 13".

If you want the m11x you should probably get in quick too...apparently it's being discontinued. http://www.theverge.com/2012/4/19/2958555/alienware-m11x-no-2012-refresh-discontinued

 

[SteveWD40]

If you want the m11x you should probably get in quick too...apparently it's being discontinued. http://www.theverge.com/2012/4/19/2958555/alienware-m11x-no-2012-refresh-discontinued

WTF

That's a shock to me frankly, it seems to have been popular and I don't want an optical drive in my laptop.

 

[mrklaw]

My Sony VAIO does not like Minecraft. Fan increases to crazy speeds and then it crashes. But I would think this laptop should be more than capable ...

Check that your graphics properties are set to use the discrete GPU in Java, otherwise it might be using the integrated grahphics which won't be enough for minecraft.

 

[adam.chance]

My gf and I both want new laptops. Portability is high on our priorities, because we are both studying for the bar this summer and we will be bringing out computers to school and then our jobs after the bar. Portability is also important to me, because I will be commuting by bicycle and will put the laptop in my messenger bag. I game, but not a ton. I will try to play a lot of Diablo III and DotA2, but those aren't too demanding. I don't mind waiting for Ivy Bridge to roll out, but if I can get a good deal right now, that would be really nice, since I have some student loans to pay back ^_^

What is your budget? $700USD-$900USD
What country will you be buying this in? USA
What size notebook do you prefer? Thin and Light (13 - 14-inch screen)
What brands do you like or dislike? Like: Lenovo, but not picky
Would you consider a refurbished laptop? No
What are the primary tasks you need this notebook for? Web Surfing, Office and Productivity Software, Listening to Music, Graphic Intense 3D Gaming
What games will you be playing? Diablo III/Guild Wars 2/Phantasy Star Online 2/Maybe PS2 Emulation. Diablo and PSO2 are the most important, but it does not need to run on full settings. As long as it won't lag hard in heavy fights.
Where will you be using this laptop? Will be used different places
How many hours of battery life do you need? 5-8
Will you be buying online or in store? online or in store
Which OS do you prefer? Windows 7/8
List the screen resolutions that interest you: Standard Resolution (1366 x 768) High Resolution (1600 x 900)
Do you prefer a glossy or matte screen? Glossy or Matte is fine
Is the laptops design important to you? No
Approximately what date will you be buying this laptop? Around 05/11/2012
How long do you want this laptop to last? 3+ years
How much storage capacity do you need? 160 GB
Are you interested in SSD for storage? Maybe (depends on added cost, but it will be nice, since I am riding my bike and putting it in my bag)
Do you want a built-in optical drive, what type? No​

 

[AngmarsKing701]

In the $900 range, you're way better off with this Sager. The new generation GT 650M is well over twice the speed of the GT 540M. You also gain a decent 1080p screen, versus the mediocre 1366x768 of the Asus.

As an extra bonus, by early May, the updated Ivy Bridge processors will have been added to this machine.

Wow, that thing is stripped down. It doesn't even have an OS installed? Once Ivy Bridge hits, do you see any of the current models reducing in price at all? So, for instance, would I be able to get a $1k or $1100 laptop down around $900?

Edit: For instance, this one is $1200... any chance it'll come down some more?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/prime/handle-buy-box.html/ref=dp_start-bbf_1_glance

Edit 2: I am definitely considering bumping up my allowance for this machine into the $1100 range...

 

[K.Jack]

Okay, Ivy Bridge goes live next week, so unless you are dying for a machine at this instant, I recommend we wait it out until the weekend is over, to see who puts their refreshes up.

Alienware has begun announcements, but they can't mention Ivy until Monday/Tuesday. The websites are being updated as we speak, though they only list current gen CPUs, for now. Bad news is, there's no sign or word of an M11x refresh.

Asus and MSI are also preparing similar campaigns.

I was considering the G55, but I'm considering building my own high-end desktop in the future.
What are some of the best portable gaming laptops? (11-13 inch) I can wait for new chipset's.

Clevo W110ER/Sager NP6110 is on preorder, and is soon to be ruling king of portable gaming. 11.6" and packs a GT 650M and Ivy Bridge quad core CPU.

So my father is looking to buy a laptop with 270&#8364; worth of coupons (plus whatever money he'll need to buy it obviously), only he can't choose within a wide array of models because he can only use them in a couple of stores. He doesn't plan to play games on it, but he might need a decent processor (not the best) and possibly a graphics card depending on what kinds of software he'll be using for his job.

With that in mind, are there CPUs and GPUs he should absolutely avoid and ones which offer good value? Within a given range of CPUs (say, i3 CPUs), which are stinkers and which are winners?
Also, which brands should he avoid altogether?

I've been completely out of the loop these past few years...

What stores?

My gf and I both want new laptops. Portability is high on our priorities, because we are both studying for the bar this summer and we will be bringing out computers to school and then our jobs after the bar. Portability is also important to me, because I will be commuting by bicycle and will put the laptop in my messenger bag. I game, but not a ton. I will try to play a lot of Diablo III and DotA2, but those aren't too demanding. I don't mind waiting for Ivy Bridge to roll out, but if I can get a good deal right now, that would be really nice, since I have some student loans to pay back ^_^

See above, about waiting until next week.

But the 11.6" Clevo may interest you as well.

Wow, that thing is stripped down. It doesn't even have an OS installed? Once Ivy Bridge hits, do you see any of the current models reducing in price at all? So, for instance, would I be able to get a $1k or $1100 laptop down around $900?

Edit: For instance, this one is $1200... any chance it'll come down some more?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/prime/handle-buy-box.html/ref=dp_start-bbf_1_glance

Edit 2: I am definitely considering bumping up my allowance for this machine into the $1100 range...

Sometimes machines get price drops, but most of the time they are simply yanked and replaced with the new line.

Also, your Amazon link is broken.

 

[AngmarsKing701]

Sometimes machines get price drops, but most of the time they are simply yanked and replaced with the new line.

Also, your Amazon link is broken.

Weird. It's the ASUS Republic of Gamers G53SX-AH71 for $1200. I am definitely going to wait, because I can hold out for a couple of weeks. I want it before Diablo III drops, and I think I'm willing to edge up a little bit. I like the 1080p thought... I also like Amazon because I have Prime and an account there that allows me to pay things off without interest, etc. That's sort of why I can do this sooner rather than holding out until later.

 

[Kilrogg]

What stores?

You wouldn't know them unless you're French, but just in case: Darty and Boulanger.

 

[anddo0]

Okay, Ivy Bridge goes live next week, so unless you are dying for a machine at this instant, I recommend we wait it out until the weekend is over, to see who puts their refreshes up.

I'm on the market. So I'm excited for this.. Time to get rid of my Vaio and it's puny Nvidia 310m.

 

[K.Jack]

Weird. It's the ASUS Republic of Gamers G53SX-AH71 for $1200. I am definitely going to wait, because I can hold out for a couple of weeks. I want it before Diablo III drops, and I think I'm willing to edge up a little bit. I like the 1080p thought... I also like Amazon because I have Prime and an account there that allows me to pay things off without interest, etc. That's sort of why I can do this sooner rather than holding out until later.

Well the G75 preorder is listed at $1450, so it would shock me if the G55 didn't come out around the $1250-1300 mark. So in waiting a week or so you will get the next-gen machine at the same price.

You wouldn't know them unless you're French, but just in case: Darty and Boulanger.

My mom used to speak a bit of French, but I just need enough to navigate their respective websites, which I'm doing now.

There's a lot of prime candidates. What we need is more detail into his need? How much beyond the coupons is your father looking to spend? How much CPU and GPU power does he actually need?

This Acer has been the go to recommendation here for a while now, and it more than covers all of the bases you laid out. But is it overkill? And is it available in store?

I'm on the market. So I'm excited for this.. Time to get rid of my Vaio and it's puny Nvidia 310m.

I'm ready to finally have reason to put up a new, updated and dedicated thread. I swear we've been sitting with the same stuff for nearly 2 years.

 

[Kilrogg]

My mom used to speak a bit of French, but I just need enough to navigate their respective websites, which I'm doing now.

There's a lot of prime candidates. What we need is more detail into his need? How much beyond the coupons is your father looking to spend? How much CPU and GPU power does he actually need?

This Acer has been the go to recommendation here for a while now, and it more than covers all of the bases you laid out. But is it overkill? And is it available in store?

Thanks for the help.

I was always under the impression that Acer was not the best brand (friends have had reliability issues with them, but granted, that was in the past). What's the word on Acer?

Other than that, it does seem very good. My only gripe is the truly awful screen resolution. My netbook is 11,6" wide (that's 4" less than this one!) and it's the same resolution. What about the actual screen quality (especially the colors)? Is it any good? Also, is it durable? What about the keyboard?

The problem is that my father himself doesn't really know what he's going to need. A decent CPU is a given, but that's pretty much as detailed as I can go. His boss/partner hasn't been able to go into much detail as far as CPU/GPU requirements are concerned for the software his company uses. We should get a more accurate picture once he gives us the specs of his own laptop.

At any rate I wouldn't be surprised if it is overkill, but I get the sense that the price/quality ratio is good enough that it's not important if it's a little too much, right?

 

[AngmarsKing701]

Well the G75 preorder is listed at $1450, so it would shock me if the G55 didn't come out around the $1250-1300 mark. So in waiting a week or so you will get the next-gen machine at the same price.

Okay I'm definitely going to wait. $1250-$1300 is probably too high. I guess we'll see what comes around by May 5th or so. I'd really like to keep it around $1100 max (orig budget was $900 but I feel I can stretch it a little bit).

 

[Sutanreyu]

I can't overstate how awesome this laptop is for the price: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005UUSI1S/?tag=neogaf0e-20

The "used" ones come for under $700, and they're pretty much like-new.

i7 2670QM
6GM of RAM
GeForce GT 540m
640GB HDD

It's got an i7 2670QM, which is basically equivalent to a 2500K for a desktop. The GeForce GT 540 isn't the greatest, but it can easily play games comfortably on medium/high. I've been playing CS:GO on it at around 60fps, maxed, with 2xMSAA and FXAA (<3 Source engine). The laptop itself is pretty slick. Runs really cool and looks clean. One of the best purchases I've made in a long time.

 

[twinturbo2]

I was thinking about getting that new Samsung gaming notebook, but now, I may see what this ASUS G75 has under the hood.

Are there multiple configurations of the G75? I would like one with two 750GB hard drives, if possible. Does it have Blu-ray? This might be a deciding factor for me.

 

[Bentendo]

Would you recommend I use the optical bay for an SSD to store the OS in? Is it worth the money and if so, what size of SSD is sufficient enough? Would a 60GB Intel 520 Series Solid State Drive (SSD2 Serial-ATA III) work?

 

[adam.chance]

See above, about waiting until next week. . .


I'm ready to finally have reason to put up a new, updated and dedicated thread. I swear we've been sitting with the same stuff for nearly 2 years.

Awesome. I can't wait to check out the new thread for some consolidated information.

 

[kameha5th]

Okay guys here we go.

ALIENWARE M14X For $800

- i5 2430M 2.4Ghz (3.0Ghz Turbo)
- 14" 1600x900 Resolution (Upgraded from 1366x786!!)
- 4GB DDR3 1333Mhz RAM
- 500GB 7,200RPM Hard Drive
- Nvidia GeForce GT555 1.5GB w/ Optimus Technology
- 8x Supermulti CD DVD Reader/Burner
- WiFi Intel N Wireless
- 1 Year Warranty (Expires December 2012)
- 6.45 lb

Good deal?

 

[Banglish]

Well right now, the m11x r3 is the only one that I know of. Most other portables are more along the ultrabook line. After the new chipsets? seems like there might be a few more (didn't an 11" one get posted earlier but it's TBC?)

You could argue the m14x as well as I hear it has a small footprint, close to 13".

m14 looks good thanks for the heads up

 

[kagete]

Okay guys here we go.

ALIENWARE M14X For $800



Good deal?

Errr is this used? If used, there are better deals out there I think. I hope you're not in too much of a hurry as it's almost a certainty that a lot of retailers will be putting up existing models on sale once newer spec machines come out starting in May. Diablo 3 won't be out till the 15th anyway so that should give us all an extra 2 weeks.

If you have $800 to buy used, go up to $900-1K to buy the 15.6" Clevo150ER, starting next week when there will be more CPU options to choose from.

You get a better screen, newer/cooler GPU, and if you can wait for next week or so a newer/cooler CPU as well. Plus your PC won't look like an alienware .

 

[Lkr]

Okay guys here we go.

ALIENWARE M14X For $800



Good deal?

not really, i got an i7 HP dv6 for $900 last June :x