M17x stock w/ 260M in Sli vs M15x w/ 820QM i7

Which would benefit more for FPS?
btw 260M in the M15x.
thanks

 

by far the m17x

 

260m Sli

 

really? even with the weaker processor? (2.53 core 2 duo i think)

 

Let's put it this way: M17x Q9000 @ 2.0 + 260M SLI >>>>>>>>>>>>> M15x 920QM + single 260M.

 

I can't get the 2.0GHz quad core in NZ though. They have recently just taken that option down :S
aaand i have somewhat of a budget cap.

 

What I was trying to tell you is even with worse option for CPU (no matter if it Quad or Duo) on M17x, you still see a big gap in gaming over M15x with best CPU if you config your M17x with SLI. In gaming GPU counts. Dont think that better CPU in M15x will compensate the gap between SLI vs single GPU especially in modern games.

 

The one thing with the M17x is you can upgrade the gpu later and depending where you live you can upgrade the gpu on the M17x to quad core.

 

I believe you mean CPU

 

If your question is the narrow technical issue of which video subsystem is faster, then dual 260Ms in SLI in the M17x (P8600) are faster than a single 260M in the M15x (i7 820QM). However, if your real question is which is the better option given the budget constraints (approx. $1,999 at Dell USA), then IMHO the M15x is the overwhelming choice.

As a threshold matter, the M17x-R1 (Core 2) with 260m/280m in SLI is the precise configuration that has suffered from the severe DPC latency issues and resulting stuttering, drop-outs and freezing reported in several threads and hundreds of messages in this forum. After 5 or 6 months, the cause remains uncertain and the cure elusive. Why would you want to jump into that trap when existing owners are trying their best to escape?

In addition, dual 260M SLI (or equivalent) is overkill when placed between a 2.4GHz Core 2 duo and a 17" 1440x900 display. You just don't need, and can't really use, all that potential graphics power in an otherwise entry level configuration. Sorta like having a Porsche with a Mini Cooper engine.

The M15x with the 820QM and a single 260M will run any game your M17x can run and, in most cases, better. Plus, it will look better on the M15x's 1600x900 display. Finally, the 820QM will offer greater headroom for future games (or other uses). To me, it's no contest.

If the 17" screen is compelling, you should at least consider the M17x-R2. For an additional $100 above your working budget, you get an i5-540M 2.4GHz (2.93GHz Turbo) plus dual ATI 4870s in CrossFireX, both significant upgrades over the M17x-R1. Another $150 and you get either an i7-620M or i7-720M, which can begin to really drive the graphics cards. Then, another $150 and you have a 1900x1200 display (not the very best, but pretty good). Without a 1900x1200 display, a 17" gaming laptop is a questionable endeavor.

Still, within the budget constraints, the M15x rules. Good luck.

 

thanks for that revelator.
A couple of problems still though, new zealand is a hole (no i5 or i7 e.g r3 right?)
It will look better on the m15x screen?? what about crysis, dare i ask? playable?
I have found a really good deal on the M17x q9000 w/ 260's in Sli with blu ray and 265gb ssd, except its been in the box (for a client of someones but they didnt need it) so theres only a 6 month warranty.
In NZ the M17x comes stock with the 1900x1200 screen.. hmmmm..
To make matters worse, the M17x is in an auction, and closing tommorow, and the M15x is waiting on word for a teaching discount... soo its really tough decision... someone help me out here??

 

A M17x, w/ Q9000, 260M x2, 256Gb of SSD and a 1200p screen? Go for the M17x and buy and extended warranty in 6 months!

 

Well, that's a whole different proposition. That M17x is much better equipped and makes more sense. The DPC latency, et al issues remain, but it's all a question of price and tolerance for possible (probable?) issues. Be nice if you could test drive it, maybe even run DPC Latency Check on it. On the other hand, they may discover the cure tomorrow. Just be aware of what you could be getting into.

 

yea i understand. if i were to use headphones, would that not solve the issue somewhat?
thanks for your help man. all i need is to convince my mother now.. hahah

 

M17x all the way! 3 year extended warranty is around $300.

 

Grab the M17x! In most cases audio issue is tolerated as long as you enable Hybrid SLI and use IGP. Besides, that's a great deal.

 

I did. Phew. that was toughie. I got it
the most money ive ever spent at once. im sure it wil be freaking awesome though

 

Congrats!
And yeah, dont worry, this system is a beast O_O

 

sweet. im pretty excited atm
picking it up tommorow night.
Thanks for all your help guys! (esp. revelator and honey)

 

Congratulations, Munkeynz. Nothing more fun that a brand new powerhouse to play with.

If you run into any trouble, lot of guys here to help.

 

Congratz! Your Q9000 can be OC pretty good. I ran mine @ 2.53 so don't worry about CPU

 

Really? wow. did you have a laptop cooler? or just on the internal fans?sweet thanks, if I have any trouble, ill see if you guys can help

 

You will be shocked how cool the laptop runs. I know I am. I thought it would put out heat like my old gaming desktop but it is really a comfortable machine. Perfect for MMOs and RPGs. I still prefer a desktop for shooters but im not a big shooter guy anyways.

 

I use a NC2000 but like gatti said, M17x is cool enough and my laptop cooler does not help much In hardcore gaming my CPU is always under 70C.

 

wow. im keen to give it a test drive
crysis /crysis warhead here we come (tommorow night)!!!
it should run fine no? (soz for the age old question lol)

 

It will run just fine as long as your GPU driver is installed properly, SLI is enabled and game's profile is chosen in NCP They are my favourite games

 

yaaayy
gloating rights to my friends are miinee! xD
preety geeky. but hey, if you spend 4k on a laptop, I think you deserve to be gloating lol

Edit: oh By the way, what is NCP? I'm not much of a computer whiz.... yet