K70ic-a1, K61ic-a1, N61vg-a1

Looking to buy a laptop very soon - hopefully next couple of days - and have been really looking at ASUS. Also checked out Dell, Sony, Toshiba, but I like the greater customization flexibility of ASUS and its warranty. I would have liked to purchase it on Black Friday to take advantage of free shipping and a small discount, but I'm still indecisive and don't want to make the wrong purchase. From what I've read ASUS makes great laptops, but no company is immune from producing models that don't make the grade or have issues. I want to avoid these models.

Here's a quick list of things I'm looking for. I'm looking for a 16-17" laptop for web surfing, streaming/watching HD content, hulu, music, using winrar. I won't be gaming. I've narrowed it down to 3 models, the K70IC-A1, K61IC-A1, and N61VG-A1. I'd appreciate any feedback on these models, particularly some enlightenment that goes beyond the listed specs. Basically, anything that will help me in my decision.

Is it a good idea to get the Artic Silver 5 or IC Diamond Thermal Compound?

P.S. Is the K70IC-A1 essentially a larger version of the K61IC-A1?

 

All 3 laptops you listed will do the tasks you require just fine. However, the N61 series would be the better choice in my opinion due to the better build quality and port selection.

Between AS5 and ICD7 thermal paste, I'd go with the ICD7. It has better thermal conductivity and require almost no break-in time.

 

Any other comments/thoughts?

I have a budget of $1100 and would appreciate any input on which ASUS 16-17" notebook to buy. Or if I should look at another brand(s).