Finally decided on the m15x, but I have a few questions.

I was debating between the m15x and the Sager NP8662 for quite a while, but the superior design and look of the Alienware convinced me, despite a supposedly slightly weaker performance.

I do, however, have a few questions.

1. I've heard rumors of Alienware possibly updating the m15x with GTX 260m or 280m graphics. Do these rumors have any sort of basis and, if so, when could we expect to see the option implemented?

2. I've heard that Alienware is coming out with a new model, the Quicksilver. I realize that information on this is minute at best, but any information you have on it would be appreciated, since it may make me go for it instead of the m15x.

3. Are there any differences as far as build quality between the Skullcap design and the Ripley design? I heard that there were some problems with early Ripley's, but that the Skullcap didn't have these problems is this still the case?

Thanks in advance.

 

1) GTX 260M is certainly a possibility, yes. as for the date, i assume around the time other vendors get them as well.
2) the quicksilver info is very scarce, yes. we only know it's a new AW model due to come out in 2009. Intel Calpella will debut in Q3 as well, so there's probably a connection.
3) the general impression seems to be that the skullcap case and hinges are sturdier than their ripley counterparts, but there's no proof or definitive infos on this subject as of now.

 

1) Very possible, but understand that buying right when new tech somes out means you deal with opening run quality issues. But waiting too long means you'll see the next generation and wait for that...Just buy what you like and just know that your hardware will be out of date fairly quickly like everyone else's

2) I have no clue but again, if you don't really want an M15x then wait. if you really like everything about the m15x then ignore that and get the m15x

3) They are simply plastic covers. The quality "difference" is because originally there was only the ripley design at launch...when the model had its teething problems. Those issues were in no way shape or form related to the case design. Those issues have since been mostly fixed and now chances of failure or a DOA computer are roughly the same as any other gaming computer.

Let me also point out a few things (besides pointing you away from AW because it's not my brand but I felt the need to dispel question #3 immediately)

1) The m15x has been out for a while now, we know what problems are left and how to fix most of them
2) The quicksilver, if it even is a new model will have the normal list of launch problems as does every new product line and if it has the new GTX cards...
3) the new gtx cards may not fit in a 15" right away. Or if they do expect massive heat issues and possible power problems. There are plenty of comps right now with a 9800 that can get 3+ hours of battery life. I doubt that will be the case with the new gtx series.
and finally
4) The "buy it now" or "wait for next breakthrough" decision is tough and nerve wracking but just ask yourself if you will be happier with a very reliable, working, fully tested product, or a brand new no one else has it design that when it has issues, most people will not be able to help you because...we don't have it.

 

Yeah, I'm probably just going to buy the m15x right now and not wait, but I felt the need to ask the question just in case the new updates were coming soon.

And the GTX cards do fit a a 15.4". The Sager NP8662 I mentioned has a GTX 260M and a 15.4" screen.

 

Yeah the GTX cards on the new sager are very tempting but I just love the design of my m15x and the smartbay battery just makes it perfect for university. Hopefully the GTX cards do come for the m15x which would eliminate that advantage for sager as well.

I would not worry too much about the hinges problem as it seems to have been fixed on the whole. If it is any reassurance I got my m15x pretty recently (January this year) and the hinges along with everything else has been absolutely solid with no complaints from me thus far (except maybe the speakers being sub par but you can go to my review for more on that )

 

i cant really add anything new that all these other posters have not, but i will just say i have had my unit since Sep 2008 and have had zero issues with it this far...

 

Hmm, alright, thanks!

I'm definitely looking into the smart bay battery, and I'll probably pick it up. Deciding between the Skullcap and the Ripley will be tough though.

 

Order that battery seperatley and save some money... just an fyi.

 

I think AW has finally corrected this incongruity with their accessory pricing. I just checked the website, and when configuring the m15x, the smart bay battery is now the same $75 (or did I pay $72?) I paid after purchasing my notebook in February instead of the $100 they were asking when I configured my notebook.