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    ASUS X83Vm-X2 vs. F81Se-X1 - Help me choose please!

    Discussion in 'Asus' started by abjank, Apr 27, 2009.

  1. abjank

    abjank Newbie

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    Okay, so I need to get a new laptop in the next 2 weeks, and I've narrowed it down to these two. I'm looking for something small (14.1" scrn or smaller) and as feature packed as possible for under $1,000USD(after shipping/taxes). Battery life is probably the least important thing in all of this.. I just need a solid 1.5 on a charge and I'm good...

    X83Vm-X2 ($859.99 after taxes) http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9172879&st=asus&lp=2&type=product&cp=1&id=1218044029788
    Pros:
    Faster HD (7200rpm vs 5400)
    1GB Geforce 9600M GS
    Had 'hands-on' in store vs never seeing the F81
    Sweet design

    F81Se-X1 ($913.93 after ship) http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834220517
    Pros:
    Slightly faster processor
    Slightly smaller
    512MB ATI Radeon HD4570

    So basically, I know the X83 has more video memory than the 9600, but which one is really better overall? I don't do heavy gaming, but do partake in light imaging/video work.

    My biggest concern is that the X83 has been out for a while and may have older tech/components than the newer F81. I need this thing to last as long as possible (at least 3 years for general computing).

    I'm leaning towards the x83 a little just because I've had hands on with it, and Best Buy is local.. just in case something breaks in the first month...

    So, PLEASE help and give me your suggestions, what's the better deal?
     
  2. RUDEtHIng

    RUDEtHIng Notebook Enthusiast

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    I would go with the X83 because of the video card but I can see myself buying the F81 because of the screen resolution. Which is more important? I have always liked Nvidia better. You can obviously see what is important to me in my sig. Power in a medium sized package.
     
  3. IKAS V

    IKAS V Notebook Prophet

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    For me the F81 would be the choice.Performance is a wash with the slight edge going to the X83 but the F81 is sleeker and better looking than the X83.
    In my eyes the X83 is very drab looking but still a very nice laptop.
     
  4. stevezachtech

    stevezachtech Notebook Evangelist

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    Never count on the Nvidia mobility GPUs, they have had a bad manufacturing flaw during the year of 2008... Go for the F81Se so your GPU won't fry itself.
     
  5. abjank

    abjank Newbie

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    Thanks for the suggestions so far. Still leaning towards the X83 a little, however....

    I found a F81Se-X2AM on Amazon for $819 shipped.. about $100 cheaper than the one on Newegg...

    The biggest difference is the X2AM only has 32-bit Vista, opposed to 64 (so only 3GB of ram is being used... )

    Also, the X2AM has a lesser processor, a 2Ghz T6400.. (opposed to the F81Se-X1 2.26Ghz P8400)

    So.. between these 2, which is the better deal? Is the better processor/vista 64 worth the extra $100?
     
  6. asus xb

    asus xb Notebook Enthusiast

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    get the x83 you wont be dissapointed dont by a t6400 laptop get a centrino 2 processor they are alot faster more efficent and newer tech.
     
  7. RUDEtHIng

    RUDEtHIng Notebook Enthusiast

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    I know you said you were looking for a 14.1" or smaller but if you are willing to upgrade to a 16" you should check out the HDX16t.

    Components

    * • Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)
    * • Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo Processor T6600 (2.2GHz)
    * • FREE Upgrade to 4GB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm) from 3GB DDR2 System Memory (2 Dimm)
    * • FREE Upgrade to 320GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive with HP ProtectSmart Hard Drive Protection
    * • 512MB NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT
    * • 16.0" diagonal High Definition HP BrightView Infinity Display (1366x768)
    * • LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-RW with Double Layer Support
    * • Webcam + Fingerprint Reader with HP Imprint Finish (Fluid)
    * • Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N Mini-card
    * • No TV Tuner w/remote control
    * • HP Color Matching Keyboard
    * • 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery
    * • No Productivity Software

    The base price would be $999 after shipping. There is a coupon code to save $200 just do a search for hdx16t coupon.