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    TM 3201 vs Aspire 2012?

    Discussion in 'Acer' started by PigeonSlaughter, Aug 18, 2004.

  1. PigeonSlaughter

    PigeonSlaughter Newbie

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    Wondering if anyone might have any opinion which of these two machines to buy...

    I need to puchase a laptop next week for grad school. I'll be spending most of my time using office programs and data crunching, but I'd also like to have a good graphics card since I'll be commuting and have only the laptop for entertainment (DVD's, few games). Acer seems to be one of the few companies to put a good GPU in systems that aren't super-heavy or over $2000.

    Here are the two Acer models I'm considering:

    1) TM 3201xci (new model)
    1.5 Ghz, 512 MB, 60 GB 4200, CD RW/DVD Combo, 14.1 XGA (1024x768), Radeon 9700 64 MB, 3-in-1 card reader, 4.8 lb.
    $1499-$1539 from Nice Electronics or PC Connection (few in stock, if any yet)

    2) Aspire 2012 wlmi
    1.5 Ghz, 512 MB, 60 GB 4200, DVD +/-, 15.4 WXGA (1280x800), Radeon 9700 64 MB, 4-in-1 card reader, 6.6 lb.
    $1399 from NewEgg

    Main questions:
    The 2012 is a bit heavier, but if the display is that much better, I won't mind the extra weight. Also, NewEgg seems to have a good following. I don't know about PC Connection or Nice Electronics.

    The TM3201 does have that new folio design which is attractive and user friendly. Does it look like the keyboard placement is more comfortable?
    http://www.acer.com/APP/AKC/INTERNET/AACPubli.nsf/AllDocs/EB7979A4421DE25888256EC8007A8577?OpenDocument

    Thanks for any advice. If there's another brand that offers a 9700 GPU and decent weight for around $1500, please let me know.
     
    PigeonSlaughter, Aug 18, 2004
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  2. Brian

    Brian Working at 486 Speed NBR Reviewer

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    I really like the Acer 2000 series. They're offering great value/dollar. I prefer it over the TM you reference because of the widescreen. I'll never be able to go back to a standard ratio display.

    If you can scrape together a little more dough, you might look at the 2020 series which offers an upgraded video card. This would make sense if you end up doing more gaming.

    Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com
     
    Brian, Aug 18, 2004
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  3. PigeonSlaughter

    PigeonSlaughter Newbie

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    Thanks for the heads-up on the 2020 series. Might be a bit too pricey for me at this time. The widescreen should be great for spreadsheet work and DVD's, but any trouble with 'stretching' some games (ie. NBA live)?
     
    PigeonSlaughter, Aug 18, 2004
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  4. Brian

    Brian Working at 486 Speed NBR Reviewer

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    Most newer games have widescreen resolutions. If you poke around in the gaming software forum you will find several posts on this topic.

    Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com
     
    Brian, Aug 18, 2004
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