Need advice on Asus Z70Va

Hi all,

I am seriously considering buying this notebook from canadasys.com, as I live in Vancouver. The budget I have allowed for myself is 2000$ CAD, before taxes.

Couple of questions. First, if I am to buy this laptop, what addons should I choose?

The base model 1.86 GHz Pentium M starts at $1603, and the 2.0 Ghz is $1673.

Some things I would like to add:

512 more MB RAM to total 1GB (70$ more)

Windows XP (dont have it, 99$ more)

5400 rpm 80 GB HD (30 $ more)

which brings me to ~1850, assuming i go for the 2.0 GHZ processor (is the difference between 1.86 and 2.0 worth the 70$ extra?).... What else would you all reccommend upgrading?
This is to be used for work, gaming (batlefield 2), and some light photo/video editing. Something that can replace my desktop. Also, I am leaving to teach English in Japan soon so a Global warranty is desired.

*edit - I am also looking for good wireless capabilities. I don't know much aout bluetooth, but should I be adding internal bluetooth for 60$? thanks.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, has anyone ordered online from Canadasys.com? Seeing as how 2000$ is a ton of money to me, I want to make sure this is a totally safe transaction. Has anyone done a direct TD bank transfer to them? (They advertise this is one of the methods you can pay). Thanks in advance for all your help guys!

 

I don't think the 1.86GHz > 2.0Ghz Processor increase is worth the money. The best price/performance values in the Pentium M are the 1.73 and the 1.86GHz (740 and 750) models.

CanadaSys is a very reputable reseller - I believe Coriolis ordered from them, he loves his notebook. I'm sure he'll post on this thread.

If you have bluetooth devices, and you like the idea of transferring files and data without cables, getting the bluetooth may be worth it. However, if you don't mind using USB cables, I say save the money.

Wireless reception is pretty good with any laptop you get today, I haven't heard any complaints lately - however, make sure you don't get the Intel 2200 card - there have been reported problems with that. Get the 2915, that's the latest.

Could you list the specs of the notebook you plan to buy? Then I could make some better suggestions on what you should upgrade.

Happy Buying!

 

Thanks for the quick reply... Ok, here we go, my potential computer:

Pentium 1.86 GHz

Microsoft XP home or Pro (what's the difference, and is Pro worth the upgrade??)

Intel 915PM chipset

1GB Dual channel DDR2 DRAM

15.4" WSXGA+ TFT Display

PCI Express ATI X700 128 MB

Interchangeable 24x/24x/8x/24x/ DVD + CD-RW Combo

wireless 2915 802.11 a/b/g



etc, etc....

Thanks again

 

Sounds like a great config!

If you are not sure that you want the Asus, I would suggest completing the FAQ, that way, you could get some more suggestions.

Basically (referring to the operating systems), XP Pro adds more networking features - so, if you are on a network at an office or school, I'd recommend it. Otherwise, I don't think it is worth the upgrade. I have used both versions - there is no signifigant difference - the only part that I noticed was different between the Home and Pro was that the Pro had the remote desktop feature...ah, not really worth it.

Coolness!

 

Are you getting one 1gb stick of RAM, or 2x512mb? You might want to get just one stick of 1gb, as the ease of upgrading in the future outweighs the negligible peformance gain, IMO...Other than that, I'm a little jealous...my Z70V has x700 envy!

 

Greetings!

CanadaSys is a pretty good place to shop, THE place to get ASUS laptops in Canada so far, other resellers are pretty slow at it.

Mines is very similiar to yours, its a great setup..

And english teacher in Japan - I wish I could do that, kawaii schoolgirls LOL

The direct transfer is safe since there is a receipt of purchase, and they'll email you afterwards.

However, there is no global warranty, barebones is warrantied by the reseller so that's something that may sway you from the z70va...

I'd also recommend the w3v, it'll handle all your needs, and is smaller but costs a tad more...

 

Coriolis-

Why do you think I applied to be a teacher?


anyway, I recieved an email back from support; the aforementioned system is 1970$ CDN with taxes and shipping included. This seems like a good price, HOWEVER, there is no global warranty, and I will be in Japan for at least a year. Should I reconsider? I believe the W3V has a 2 year global warranty, but is a bit pricier. Help!

For the record, I was leaning towards a Dell Inspiron, but after browsing several sites, including this one, I've concluded the Asus looks far superior.

 

Yea the global warranty should be better...

Hard to say right now...


A sensei in Japan, an undoable dream but hey, I can dream A close friend of mines wants to do that, and I'm pretty sure he will, too bad I can't follow - Never took international languages and I can't find anywhere nearby to have lessons that fit my schedule...

Living in Japan, uber cheap manga/Gundams, kawaii girls, and ANIME ON TV!!

Opps, going way off topic here LOL

 

The W3V looks great as well (little bit less power, but nice and portable.) If the price is comparable, I may consider this. The global warranty is reassuring.

Wish me luck!

 

Good Luck!