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Buying a Laptop: The current Generation

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Comments

  • #1702
    Bambaata
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,112 ✭✭✭Bambaata


    I really like the swift 3, mine seems very quiet. Ive never really noticed the fan. I have it 2 years now. Got it on Amazon warehouse for a great price. IT was the i5-7200U 8GB RAM, 256 SSD version. Still getting a full day battery from it too


  • #1703
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Bambaata wrote: »
    After UPS lost a Lenovo S540 3 weeks ago ive finally been approved for refund and am back to drawing board on laptops!

    I'm toying with the following, id watch movies/TV, use a cycling training platform (Zwift), use for college assignments and generally browse web. I want a 15.6 as we already have a 14 Acer Swift 3 that can be used for travelling. Id like aluminium rather than plastic. Love it on the Acer we have.

    Inspiron 15 - 7580 i7 8565U, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce MX250 2GB GDDR5 €730 (Dell outlet store Scratch & Dent)
    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/outlet/ProductDescription?cfID=3D794ACADFEEA790319899FA9CA5EF39&invID=278762&cyid=7&pid=3&c=IE&l=en&rid=EMEA&prdid=inspiron-15-7580-laptop&seg=DFH

    Lenovo S540 i5-8265U, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Intel UHD Graphics 620 - €720
    https://www.lenovo.com/ie/en/laptops/ideapad/s-series/Lenovo-IdeaPad-S540-15IWL/p/88IPS501191

    Lenovo L340 i5-8265U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce MX230 GDDR5 2GB - €750
    https://www.lenovo.com/ie/en/laptops/ideapad/l-series/Lenovo-IdeaPad-L340-15IWL/p/88IPL301158

    Anyone any thoughts or suggestions. The Lenovos don't support Thunderbird 3 whereas Dell does from what I gather. Dell also allows charging over USB. Am just a bit wary of the Dell being an outlet laptop and also prefer full sue of keyboard with numeric pad, not that its used much!

    dell 15 7000 series the best option out of those


  • #1704
    Bambaata
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,112 ✭✭✭Bambaata


    Thanks guys, currently haggling for student discount with their online rep ;-)


  • #1705
    Decoda
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 981 ✭✭✭Decoda


    Looking for a laptop for a college student, mostly for light course work but he also wants to run games through his Steam account. Would the following be ok? Or any recommendations for alternatives?

    Thanks for reading

    D.

    https://www.lenovo.com/ie/en/laptops/ideapad/500-series/Ideapad-530S-15-Intel/p/88IP50S0986

    (Edit - the price for this laptop has now gone up by 200e, it was e589 when I linked it. budget would be up to e600)


  • #1706
    longgonesilver
    Registered Users Posts: 734 ✭✭✭longgonesilver


    The students considering Lenovo laptops should check unidays for discount. It was 20% last month, might allow you to buy something better/newer.


  • #1707
    BOHtox
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,314 ✭✭✭BOHtox


    Question,

    Is SSD significantly better than HDD? I'm looking for a new laptop but won't be using it for much more than a bit of work (Excel and word and whatnot), general use such as social media, booking holidays or buying tickets etc and the odd game like Football Manager.

    Will SSD load these games quicker or will the laptop start quicker? Do I really not need it for my usage.


    Looking for a HP (Last laptop was HP and although it only lasted around 3 years I liked the functionality, UI, keyboard etc). 400 quid or so budget. Although I'm open to suggestions.

    Cheers


  • #1708
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    A traditional HDD completely bogs down a system these days. Installing W10 on an SSD is a complete transformation. Using a 2nd drive as a HDD for game/file storage is OK, it's not the worst experience, in general you won't notice much difference if your files are stored on a HDD vs an SSD. Games do load slower than SSD but for the likes of Football Manager etc the difference is nominal. But installing W10 on an SSD I class as essential these days.

    W10 works a lot more operations under the hood these days. On traditional HDDs you'll experience I/O interrupts, where the HDD is running near/at capacity to read/write data and stalls other processes to prioritize essential read/write work. On even the cheapest SSD, these interruptions are non existant.


  • #1709
    Irishcrx
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,861 ✭✭✭Irishcrx


    Get an SSD you would be mental not to , I upgraded a HDD to an SSD a few weeks ago and it's like a new machine.


  • #1710
    Bambaata
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,112 ✭✭✭Bambaata


    glasso wrote: »
    dell 15 7000 series the best option out of those

    Thanks for the input. Got the Dell for 585 after pushing for student discount. Loving it so far :D


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  • #1711
    tinner777
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,543 ✭✭✭tinner777


    Have money :)

    this any good;

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/outlet/ProductDescription?cfID=25BDC71E9D2F82AA3FD3C46DBCD9D8F1&invID=285969&cyid=7&pid=3&c=IE&l=en&rid=EMEA&prdid=inspiron-15-3585-laptop&seg=DFH


  • #1712
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    tinner777 wrote: »
    Have money :)

    this any good;

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/outlet/ProductDescription?cfID=25BDC71E9D2F82AA3FD3C46DBCD9D8F1&invID=285969&cyid=7&pid=3&c=IE&l=en&rid=EMEA&prdid=inspiron-15-3585-laptop&seg=DFH

    Primary use?


  • #1713
    tinner777
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,543 ✭✭✭tinner777


    young fella at home, youtube, some internet games etc


  • #1714
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    tinner777 wrote: »
    young fella at home, youtube, some internet games etc

    Sorry, might be just me, dont see price on that dell laptop. Whats the price and/or whats your budget?


  • #1715
    tinner777
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,543 ✭✭✭tinner777


    Inspiron-15-3585-Laptop.jpeg
    Inspiron 15 - 3585 Laptop
    €431.12

    3 in stock

    Scratch and Dent
    OrderId: OR484A82C2
    PROCESSOR: AMD Ryzen(TM) 5 2500U (4 Core, 2.0 Ghz, 6MB Cache, 15W)
    SOFTWARE: Windows 64 Bit
    OS: Windows 64 Bit
    256GB PCIe M.2 NVMe Class 35 Solid State Drive Hard Drive
    8GB (2X4GB) 2666MHz DDR4 Non ECC MEMORY
    15.6 inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti Glare LED Backlit Display LCD
    AMD Radeon Vega Graphics GRAPHICS
    42 Battery Size
    ADAPTER :45W AC Adapter
    BATTERY :3 Cell, 42 WHr Battery
    COLOR :Black LCD Back Cov
    Internal UK Irish Non Backlit Keyboard
    Dell Outlet Inspiron 15 - 3585 Laptop
    StandardShippingFREE
    Outlet Price€431.12


  • #1716
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    Not bad, but you can get an identical spec'd HP laptop new for the same price here. I recommended it here on another thread. Does the job for most tasks and light gaming.


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  • #1717
    BOHtox
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,314 ✭✭✭BOHtox


    Right think I finally found one. €409. SSD memory, 256gb of it which is loads for what I do. No disk drive but I can buy one of them. 15.6" screen but not too heavy. In Argos so I can collect it tonight or whenever and not wait for delivery. Thoughts?

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/1353402/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7COffice%252C%2BPCs%2Band%2Bphones%7C14418968/c_2/3%7Ccat_50000560%7CLaptops%7C50000564/Trail/searchtext%3ELAPTOP.htm


  • #1718
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    BOHtox wrote: »
    Right think I finally found one. €409. SSD memory, 256gb of it which is loads for what I do. No disk drive but I can buy one of them. 15.6" screen but not too heavy. In Argos so I can collect it tonight or whenever and not wait for delivery. Thoughts?

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/1353402/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7COffice%252C%2BPCs%2Band%2Bphones%7C14418968/c_2/3%7Ccat_50000560%7CLaptops%7C50000564/Trail/searchtext%3ELAPTOP.htm

    It's a dog slow processor and only 4GB RAM. That 4GB RAM is soldered on so if you've want to upgrade you'd probably only add another 4GB in. 37W/h battery too sounds poor for battery life.

    If you're just doing the basics its fine but I personally would not recommend it.


  • #1719
    garv123
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,576 ✭✭✭garv123


    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/lenovo-ideapad-s340-14-amd-ryzen-3-laptop-128-gb-ssd-grey-10193268-pdt.html

    What would the above be like?

    Or anyone recommend something sub €400 for herself, main use will be MS Office and Internet usage.

    Dont need anything fancy,

    4gb probably loads?
    128gb storage should be plenty
    Good battery life.
    14 or 16 screen size
    Doesn't need a disk drive


  • #1720
    Donegal Storm
    Registered Users Posts: 2,023 ✭✭✭Donegal Storm


    Anyone know where I might find a HP Spectre x360 with 10th Gen CPU for sale in Ireland? Have checked all the usual sites but can only find last year's model with 8th Gen and thicker bezels.

    Basically my old laptop has packed it in and I'm looking for a good quality replacement. Loking for a good all round device, I work in software so need something beefy and with good usability and build quality but also looking for something comfortable to use for lazing on the couch or in bed and light and portable. The Spectre seems to tick every one of those boxes..


  • #1721
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Hi all,

    Wondering if anyone could advise on these two laptops currently in Curry's:

    Lenovo Idea Pad S340 for €479
    HP Pavilion ce3501sa for €579

    Both have 8GB RAM, SSD drive and Intel Core i5 processor. It will be an everyday use laptop and not for gaming, though with occasional streaming of movies/TV etc. I'd rather buy in-store as I have One4All vouchers to use.

    The guy in the store was pointing me towards the HP model, saying he felt it was the most suitable for what I'm looking for. But I'm wondering if the difference is worth the extra €100? The HP one does have more storage (512 GB vs 256 GB, plus 32 of Intel Optane; not entirely sure what that is tbh!) and I gather that battery life can be an issue with Lenovo and is possibly better with HP. However having googled more on HP it seems that a good few people have issues with their laptops being quite noisy, with more than one mention of the fan sounding like a "jet engine" - is this really a common issue with HP or just a few outliers?

    My current laptop is an Acer Aspire E15 which I've had almost 5 years, mostly had positive experiences with it but I can't find currently find an Acer within my budget that has everything I'm looking for.


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  • #1722
    AlmightyCushion
    Moderators, Education Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 35,100 Mod ✭✭✭✭AlmightyCushion


    You can't really google a brand to get an idea of an individual laptop. Some HPs will have really loud fans (especially older laptops that needed better cooling) but this one more than likely won't as the processor is relatively low power. Battery life should be similar on both. Personally, I'd go with the HP for the better screen (IPS vs TN) and the extra storage (For my use 256GBs can be a bit too limiting).


  • #1723
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Thanks AlmightyCushion, take your point about the model being more relevant than the brand when it comes to noise, just that with this particular model I'm looking at it seems like it has been an issue for some:

    https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Notebook-Hardware-and-Upgrade-Questions/HP-Pavilion-14-ce3501sa-Fan-Noise-unbearable-for-brand-new/td-p/7312781
    https://www.reevoo.com/p/hp-pavilion-14-ce3501sa-14-intel-core-i5-laptop-512-gb-ssd
    https://forums.overclockers.co.uk/threads/looking-for-advice-on-intel-i5-1035g1-processor.18870329/

    Maybe these are all exceptional cases and many people have bought it and not had any problems with noise, I'm guess I'm just trying to work out how likely it is to be an issue before taking the plunge.

    Also thanks for highlighting the display difference, I hadn't really paid too much attention to that bit.


  • #1724
    Cherrycola
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,378 ✭✭✭Cherrycola


    Can anyone give me their thoughts on this?

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-15s-fq1505na-15-6-laptop-intel-core-i5-256-gb-silver-10198289-pdt.html

    Haven’t a clue what I should be looking for or avoiding(I’m upgrading from a 10yr old HP notebook! Lol)
    I’ll be using it mainly for printing edible images, editing images in PowerPoint, small business book keeping and general home computing/ internet browsing etc(no gaming)

    Any suggestions as to what I should be looking for? Budget is €500, but I’m happy to get something cheaper if it does what I need it to do. Don’t want to spend €500 if a €300 one does the same job.


  • #1725
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Cherrycola wrote: »
    Can anyone give me their thoughts on this?

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-15s-fq1505na-15-6-laptop-intel-core-i5-256-gb-silver-10198289-pdt.html

    Haven’t a clue what I should be looking for or avoiding(I’m upgrading from a 10yr old HP notebook! Lol)
    I’ll be using it mainly for printing edible images, editing images in PowerPoint, small business book keeping and general home computing/ internet browsing etc(no gaming)

    Any suggestions as to what I should be looking for? Budget is €500, but I’m happy to get something cheaper if it does what I need it to do. Don’t want to spend €500 if a €300 one does the same job.

    fine except you should buy another 4gb or ram on Amazon to bring it up to 8gb


  • #1726
    RayCon
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,873 ✭✭✭RayCon


    Any thoughts on this :



    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/dell-inspiron-15-3000-15-6-intel-pentium-gold-laptop-128-gb-ssd-white-10194652-pdt.html


    For 13yr daughter. Mostly internet browsing, Youtube, Netflix online games such as Roblox etc.

    Or compared with this :

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-15-db0521sa-15-6-amd-a6-laptop-1-tb-hdd-grey-10180991-pdt.html


  • #1727
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    RayCon wrote: »
    Any thoughts on this :



    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/dell-inspiron-15-3000-15-6-intel-pentium-gold-laptop-128-gb-ssd-white-10194652-pdt.html


    For 13yr daughter. Mostly internet browsing, Youtube, Netflix online games such as Roblox etc.

    Or compared with this :

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-15-db0521sa-15-6-amd-a6-laptop-1-tb-hdd-grey-10180991-pdt.html

    first one. cpu in 2nd one is pretty cack.

    again maybe down the line do a cheap upgrade to 8gb of ram (simple to do - just clicks in)


  • #1728
    RayCon
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,873 ✭✭✭RayCon


    Thanks glasso


  • #1729
    run_Forrest_run
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    Can someone tell me why this seems cheap compared to other machines of less spec:
    I'm looking forward a machine for software development, running some VMs, maybe dual bootable with Ubuntu etc. Is the processor an older model or something?


    https://www.komplett.ie/lenovo-ideapad-l340-15api-81lw005qmh/80053980/product


  • #1730
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    run_Forrest_run wrote: »
    Can someone tell me why this seems cheap compared to other machines of less spec:
    I'm looking forward a machine for software development, running some VMs, maybe dual bootable with Ubuntu etc. Is the processor an older model or something?


    https://www.komplett.ie/lenovo-ideapad-l340-15api-81lw005qmh/80053980/product

    cpu is perfectly fine and capable 4-core unit and only came out in q2 2019 so is not old. there are cpus just launching from AMD that are garnering a lot of interest (will be in more expensive laptops. amd 4000 series) so the older model - but still very good, will be less attractive.

    it's a competent cpu and the integrated graphics are good compared to the intels. it will run your needs fine albeit the intels of a comparative segment are a little stronger on the pure cpu side. e.g. intel i7 u chips

    the included 16gb ram is also good value for the price.

    the only downsides are it's a plastic monolith over 2kg so not very portable but if that's not a concern it's fine

    the full hd screen is also TN tech as opposed to IPS (better viewing angles and more accurate colours) but again should be fine.

    decent deal imo.


  • #1731
    run_Forrest_run
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    thanks Glasso, knew you'd be around to answer ;)

    Size and weight isn't an issue as portability isn't too important for me. However I didn't notice the screen, I'd prefer an IPS.


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  • #1732
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    IPS screens in the mainstream manufacturers have started going back to appearing in mostly their more expensive laptops only. also IPS screens are not always brilliant - quality varies.

    they used to be in more of the more affordable models a year ago but not so much anymore.

    just so you know that it won't be as easy to get an IPS in your price range.

    read reviews of the unit - see if they mention the screen as really bad or not.


  • #1733
    run_Forrest_run
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    Lots of negative feedback on komplett, I'll look elsewhere.


  • #1734
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    run_Forrest_run wrote: »
    Lots of negative feedback on komplett, I'll look elsewhere.

    thought that they were ok

    laptopsdirect seem to be one to avoid usually.


  • #1735
    run_Forrest_run
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    glasso wrote: »
    thought that they were ok

    laptopsdirect seem to be one to avoid usually.

    it's been a long time since I used Komplett, there were fine then but I've heard some bad reports since. I suppose it's hard to tell, yeah laptopsdirect just looks too much like SportsDirect to trust them :D


  • #1736
    run_Forrest_run
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    16Gb RAM, 15.6" and a decent sized SSD for 799, Glasso your opinion please??

    The processor might be my only concern..main use is work related/programming etc. No gaming, no heavy demand on graphics or 3D etc.


  • #1737
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    run_Forrest_run wrote: »
    16Gb RAM, 15.6" and a decent sized SSD for 799, Glasso your opinion please??

    The processor might be my only concern..main use is work related/programming etc. No gaming, no heavy demand on graphics or 3D etc.

    seems decent enough

    cpu is recent and plenty strong.

    comprehensive review is positive

    https://laptopmedia.com/review/lenovo-thinkbook-15-review-something-that-provides-a-great-value/

    if you want a 15.6 inch screen probably an ok option

    altho screen quality sRGB not great but again unless you are a professional photographer unlikely to make a difference

    https://www.notebookcheck.net/Lenovo-ThinkBook-15-A-budget-Comet-Lake-office-laptop-that-falls-short-of-expectations.453021.0.html


  • #1738
    tom23
    Registered Users Posts: 1,382 ✭✭✭tom23


    Hi All,

    Got gifted some all4 vouchers and am looking to spend on a Laptop for the house. Work and browsing. I have about 550 to spend. Have fired my brain trying to decide which one is best all around. I am limited to PCWORD/CURRYS, ARGOS AND Littlewoods.ie as they seem to be only ones that except the gift vouchers.

    I am looking for a 14/15" with a preference for a 15". The screen is really important to me. I want FHD with as bright as possible. SSD and 8 gig of ram essential.

    Any personnel recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. Have looked at these below.

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-pavilion-14-ce2503sa-14-intel-core-i3-laptop-256-gb-ssd-mauve-10193423-pdt.html

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/acer-swift-1-sf114-32-14-intel-pentium-laptop-256-gb-ssd-silver-10193945-pdt.html

    https://www.currys.ie/ieen/computing/laptops/laptops/lenovo-ideapad-s340-14-laptop-intel-core-i5-256-gb-ssd-blue-10199553-pdt.html

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/8794215/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7COffice%2C+PCs+and+phones%7C14418968/c_2/3%7Ccat_50000560%7CLaptops%7C50000564.htm

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/3068984/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7COffice%2C+PCs+and+phones%7C14418968/c_2/3%7Ccat_50000560%7CLaptops%7C50000564.htm


  • #1739
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    i'd go for this one

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/3068984/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7COffice%2C+PCs+and+phones%7C14418968/c_2/3%7Ccat_50000560%7CLaptops%7C50000564.htm

    good cpu and better integrated graphics than the intels.

    can't say what the screen is like.

    check reviews online.

    you're not going to get the most amazing screen in this segment of the mkt.


  • #1740
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    bur this is cheaper and has a better and lighter design

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/9396461/Trail/searchtext%3ERYZEN+5.htm

    same ryzen 5 4-core cpu

    go for this one instead


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  • #1741
    tom23
    Registered Users Posts: 1,382 ✭✭✭tom23


    glasso wrote: »
    bur this is cheaper and has a better and lighter design

    https://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/9396461/Trail/searchtext%3ERYZEN+5.htm

    same ryzen 5 4-core cpu

    go for this one instead

    Hi Glasso,

    Glad you responded! Yeah that looks like a decent piece of kit for the money. I watched the review on LON.TV over on YouTube and he gives it a thumbs up for in context of the budget etc. When I was asking about the screen, a lot of the laptops on display in PCWORLD their screens always seem washed out... now it could be the lightning in the shop. I had looked at a couple of the touch screen HP Pavilions but the lamination is to reflective.

    On the ASUS at least there is scope to add a SATA SSD as extra storage. I think I will go for this model.

    Thanks for the reply!


  • #1742
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    tom23 wrote: »
    Hi Glasso,

    Glad you responded! Yeah that looks like a decent piece of kit for the money. I watched the review on LON.TV over on YouTube and he gives it a thumbs up for in context of the budget etc. When I was asking about the screen, a lot of the laptops on display in PCWORLD their screens always seem washed out... now it could be the lightning in the shop. I had looked at a couple of the touch screen HP Pavilions but the lamination is to reflective.

    On the ASUS at least there is scope to add a SATA SSD as extra storage. I think I will go for this model.

    Thanks for the reply!

    and he (lon) says that it's an IPS display - if true then that's a good feature for the price.

    there are some complaints about gaming performance but this is not sold or designed as a gaming laptop and the fact the ryzen integrated graphics allow some games to run is a bonus.

    if you want real thermal dissipation design then it costs more money and bulk (more airflow). and usually noise (fans) also.


  • #1743
    tom23
    Registered Users Posts: 1,382 ✭✭✭tom23


    glasso wrote: »
    and he (lon) says that it's an IPS display - if true then that's a good feature for the price.

    there are some complaints about gaming performance but this is not sold or designed as a gaming laptop and the fact the ryzen integrated graphics allow some games to run is a bonus.

    if you want real thermal dissipation design then it costs more money and bulk (more airflow). and usually noise (fans) also.

    Don't care about games, they won't be played on it. Want it for work and web browsing, watching Netflix if needed. Ive been using Apple for years, and am used to paying a half decent wedge mostly for second hand Apple. But I really like the aesthetic of the Asus and hopefully it ticks all the boxes for me. Thanks again.


  • #1744
    Trojan
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 16,413 ✭✭✭✭Trojan


    I'm looking for recommendations for a 13-14" work laptop.

    Must haves:
    • Disk: 250GB SSD (ideally more)
    • RAM: 8-16GB
    • Build quality: can hold up to a bit of road warrior treatment - my high spec Asus U36 was a great machine but the casing fell apart (literally - I used Sugru to patch up the hinges, and the fan intake plastic disintegrated completely)
    • Look: aesthetically pleasing for client meetings (yes, this is a real isse)

    Usage:
    • Web browser: I regularly have 50+ tabs in usage
    • Presentations: frequent
    • Office editing: regular
    • Graphics editing: regular
    • Audio editing: regular
    • Video editing: occasional

    Budget: up to ~ €1400

    🎙️ The Recognized Authority Podcast



  • #1745
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    Trojan wrote: »
    I'm looking for recommendations for a 13-14" work laptop.

    Must haves:
    • Disk: 250GB SSD (ideally more)
    • RAM: 8-16GB
    • Build quality: can hold up to a bit of road warrior treatment - my high spec Asus U36 was a great machine but the casing fell apart (literally - I used Sugru to patch up the hinges, and the fan intake plastic disintegrated completely)
    • Look: aesthetically pleasing for client meetings (yes, this is a real isse)

    Usage:
    • Web browser: I regularly have 50+ tabs in usage
    • Presentations: frequent
    • Office editing: regular
    • Graphics editing: regular
    • Audio editing: regular
    • Video editing: occasional

    Budget: up to ~ €1400

    I think what you want is the dell xps 13. the black version as it has nicer soft touch carbon fibre on the keyboard/wrist-rest area.
    8gb will handle plenty of chrome tabs but probably go 16gb ram to future proof.
    by the way check out a free chrome (or firefox) extension called "onetab" - you would probably find it useful
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSfUqGtkHMc

    on dell.ie they seem to be only currently selling the late 2019 version (which is not that much different tbh) and they have a good deal on the 16gb i7 with 14% off with a code bringing it down to 1300 or just over so. very good price for the spec (I don't think that you are missing much with the latest version aside from better speakers and this is a good deal compared to the latest model prices). I would check out the two videos below and decide (the carbon fibre will be the same on the 2 versions if you get the black). the prior version has updated 10 series u chips so power will not be an issue.

    quality machine with road warrior build quality that should last years and years.

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/shop/laptops/xps-13-laptop/spd/xps-13-7390-laptop

    the uk site has the latest model

    latest 2020 model

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SfSUjxNHtE


    prior late 2019 model

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFjKYBa6ZqU


  • #1746
    tom23
    Registered Users Posts: 1,382 ✭✭✭tom23


    glasso wrote: »
    I think what you want is the dell xps 13. the black version as it has nicer soft touch carbon fibre on the keyboard/wrist-rest area.
    8gb will handle plenty of chrome tabs but probably go 16gb ram to future proof.
    by the way check out a free chrome (or firefox) extension called "onetab" - you would probably find it useful
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSfUqGtkHMc

    on dell.ie they seem to be only currently selling the late 2019 version (which is not that much different tbh) and they have a good deal on the 16gb i7 with 14% off with a code bringing it down to 1300 or just over so. very good price for the spec (I don't think that you are missing much with the latest version aside from better speakers and this is a good deal compared to the latest model prices). I would check out the two videos below and decide (the carbon fibre will be the same on the 2 versions if you get the black). the prior version has updated 10 series u chips so power will not be an issue.

    quality machine with road warrior build quality that should last years and years.

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/shop/laptops/xps-13-laptop/spd/xps-13-7390-laptop

    the uk site has the latest model

    latest 2020 model

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SfSUjxNHtE


    prior late 2019 model

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFjKYBa6ZqU

    Savage machine.


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  • #1747
    lawred2
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 24,457 ✭✭✭✭lawred2


    Just bought a G3 for software development stuff. Brilliant machine. Often you get more bang for your buck in an entry level gaming machine than an XPS..

    I was worried it would be fat and noisy but it's surprisingly quiet and sleek. Delighted really.

    Got a Valentine's day deal (wtf) - all in for 980 delivered.

    15 inch IPS screen, ninth generation i7, 16 GB RAM, 500GB SSD. Animal.


  • #1748
    cherryghost
    Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 17,135 Mod ✭✭✭✭cherryghost


    Preorders for 6 core Ryzen laptops are out in Germany now, starting at a measly 500 euro. Shipments expected Apr/May. Looks pretty good so far.


  • #1749
    ednwireland
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,452 ✭✭✭✭ednwireland


    glasso wrote: »
    I think what you want is the dell xps 13. the black version as it has nicer soft touch carbon fibre on the keyboard/wrist-rest area.
    8gb will handle plenty of chrome tabs but probably go 16gb ram to future proof.
    by the way check out a free chrome (or firefox) extension called "onetab" - you would probably find it useful
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSfUqGtkHMc

    on dell.ie they seem to be only currently selling the late 2019 version (which is not that much different tbh) and they have a good deal on the 16gb i7 with 14% off with a code bringing it down to 1300 or just over so. very good price for the spec (I don't think that you are missing much with the latest version aside from better speakers and this is a good deal compared to the latest model prices). I would check out the two videos below and decide (the carbon fibre will be the same on the 2 versions if you get the black). the prior version has updated 10 series u chips so power will not be an issue.

    quality machine with road warrior build quality that should last years and years.

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/shop/laptops/xps-13-laptop/spd/xps-13-7390-laptop

    the uk site has the latest model

    latest 2020 model

    if you want road warrior i would look at the latitude machines , we have precisions, inspirons and latitudes, the latitudes tend to take a beating better.

    the only xps we had a couple of years ago needed a few repairs.

    we always buy 3 or 4 year warranties with accidental damage and yes it adds to the cost but find dell just come out and fix them (even when people throw glasses of water over their laptops)

    i have an inspiron 5100 and i certainly wouldnt give that to some of our regular travellers ! and i am due about 15 latitude 7490 (i7 16gb ram) as windows 7 swapouts (from our new owners !)

    dont know if that helps !

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/work/shop/laptops/latitude-7400-business-laptop/spd/latitude-14-7400-laptop

    waiting for them to arrive ! might be a bit over budget in our spec !

    My weather

    https://www.ecowitt.net/home/share?authorize=96CT1F



  • #1750
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    a G3 gaming laptop is not what the OP is looking for. it's too heavy for lugging around ("road warrior" as the term the OP used goes). a rather silly suggestion in the context really.

    the xps line are very well made these days and use the most premium materials

    the top latitudes are well built but are a little heavier and just don't have that premium look or design compared to the xps 13

    here is the comparable version

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/work/shop/laptops/latitude-7300-business-laptop/spd/latitude-13-7300-laptop


  • #1751
    lawred2
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 24,457 ✭✭✭✭lawred2


    glasso wrote: »
    a G3 gaming laptop is not what the OP is looking for. it's too heavy for lugging around ("road warrior" as the term the OP used goes). a rather silly suggestion in the context really.

    the xps line are very well made these days and use the most premium materials

    the top latitudes are well built but are a little heavier and just don't have that premium look or design compared to the xps 13

    here is the comparable version

    https://www.dell.com/en-ie/work/shop/laptops/latitude-7300-business-laptop/spd/latitude-13-7300-laptop

    What's with the self important put down? Can I not be content with my purchase? :(

    Either way, it's relevant to budget with great value for money components wise. XPS machines are generally high end in both spec and cost.

    I'd add that it's also not that heavy. However the power supply is bloody heavy relatively speaking.

    13 inch screens wouldn't work for me anyway. Barely above tablet size. But that's not relevant here either.


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