Asus G73JH or Dell AW M17x R2 - Which should I keep?

So being "Mr. Indecisive" I went out and bought both laptops, and now I'm faced with a dilemma. I can't return either without being charged restocking fees, so I have to sell one and keep the other.

Asus G73JH
Core i7 740
6GB 1333MHz RAM
640GB HDD
ATI 5870M
DVD+-RW
1600x900 LG LED

Dell AW M17x R2
Core i7 720
8GB 1333MHz RAM
250GB HDD
Crossfire ATI 5870M
Blu-Ray
1920x1200 LED

What would you do? Is the Dell as configured worth the price premium or it just a waste?

 

Depends on what you want to play. Obviosly the Dell is the stronger laptop. If you are going to play games that benefit from the CF 5870s then keep the Dell (games like Crysis & Metro 2033). If not save the $$$ and keep the Asus. The G73 runs most games at max, but the Dell has more headroom and should last you longer before becoming dated.

 

You will get a much higher price for the Dell, but it will last you longer and is a stronger
laptop. If money isn't a big concern, sell the Asus.

Just out of curiosity, what are the restocking fees? Depending on what you're asking for the laptop(s)*, you still might be better off just returning one and paying the fee.


*Or what someone will give you for it...

 

I'd always go with single card over dual card.

 

I too prefer single video cards... though I'm not sure if the resolution on that ASUS would make me happy. :S I like my screen real state.

 

I think both the Asus and Dell are nice. I'm toying with getting a M17x myself but the Dell is not without it's issues either. I think it all depends on your pocketbook. It is the holiday season so you could treat yourself and get the Dell. : )

 

Best Buy's restocking fee on the Asus is 15%, and I think Dell's is 15% as well. I'm actually typing from the Asus now and do like it, but the Dell is more "future proof" spec wise. I'm thinking the Asus may have to go even though I like its looks a little better than the flashy Dell and it's so quiet and stealthy. I wish I could take the best parts of both and combine them.

 

They're both great.
But if I had to pick, I'll keep the M17x R2.
Because of the specs

 

Get the G73, buy a new screen if you want the 1080p. (I did, it was super easy) Don't worry about the RAM, it runs in Dual Channel mode even though there are 3 sticks, and 6gb is more than plenty for just about everything out there today. When (if) the need for more arises, it's about a 30 dollar 5 minute upgrade to 8gb.

Obviously, the M17x will be superior... But in the desktop world, who is cooler? The guy with a 6800 Ultra or the guy with the 6800 Ultra SLI? Fact of the matter is: That hardware is antiquated so the question is rather irrelevant.

Both of these laptops will be made obsolete. The g73 will at least remain something relatively classy (if you upgrade the screen), rather than a power sucking heat monger from the stone age! If, however, you find yourself to be an independently wealthy person, go for the Alienware! Mine was cool while I had it, but I just wish that I had saved even HALF of what I spent on it for a future replacement.