Opinions on Two Asus Laptops (M50Vm-A1 VS F8Va-B1)...

I wasn't exactly sure where I should post this. I thought at first to put it in the one that says "What Notebook Should I Buy?" section, But then, I figured that it probably made more sense to put it here, because the two specific ones are both Asus, and I'd probably get better opinions in a forum that more likely has owners of both.

If it's the wrong place, someone feel free to move it.

********

All right, I've been thinking about buying a new laptop for a little while now, and I think it's about time.

I haven't had the best of luck with laptops.

Basically, they've had everything thrown at them, from having the Network Cable struck by lightning, blowing the Network cards out of it, to being dropped from a counter onto a hard floor 5 feet below, to being stolen and tossed out a window (Gladly it was onto grass, and only like 4 feet up). I also tend to always use it, like I'll either use it several hours a day, or leave it on 24/7, and carry it around where ever I go.

I don't try to destroy them, but it happens.

Now, I've been suggested that I buy a Panasonic Toughbook, but I've already chosen against that. Too much for too little specs, and besides, I need to start dealing with my ability to destroy things, and do my best NOT to destroy them.

Anyway, I've been searching around, and have only been able to find a few Laptops that fit my specifications.

Those are Basically:

1.) Core 2 (Centrino, 2GHz+, Preferably the newer Montevina core)
2.) 14-15.4 inch Wide Screen. Preferably 14.1, as I really don't want anything larger.
3.) Pretty much ANYTHING BUT an Intel Video card (This narrows the field down to almost nothing)
4.) Something that won't fall apart the first time a piece of dust lands on it
5.) Something with Some type of design, so it looks fairly nice is prefered
6.) Good Construction (Again )

That's just a base-line. I don't need anything with a GeForce 8800 or better, not by any shot. I don't game, hardly ever. I just want something that'll last me a while. The intel x3100 Video cards can hardly handle Aero.

I looked at Best Buy and Circuit City the other day, and went through like 40 laptops, and found only one that appealed to me AT ALL. Only thing was, I won't buy it, because it has an Intel Video card...

Right now, I'm kind of torn on a few. I've found a couple Asus laptops, which from what I've seen are supposed to be fairly respectable in most every way. The main issue here, is I can't see one in person very easily to test it out before I buy it, because they for whatever reason don't sell their computers in most stores. So far, the closest place that has any that I can find is like a 250 mile round trip, which I prefer not to go on.

My options appear to be somewhat limited to these:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...odeValue=410:10742&PropertyCodeValue=443:6963

Long link, but it filters out all but the few that match my query. Also, the Asus brand ones were the only one that fit that query, even if I removed the brand specification from it.

More Specifically, the two I'm looking at are:

1. ASUS M50 Series M50Vm-A1 NoteBook Intel Core 2 Duo P8400(2.26GHz) 15.4" Wide XGA+ 4GB Memory 320GB HDD 5400rpm DVD Super Multi NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS - Retail
2. ASUS F8 Series F8Va-B1 NoteBook Intel Core 2 Duo P8400(2.26GHz) 14" Wide XGA+ 4GB Memory DDR2 800 250GB HDD 5400rpm DVD Super Multi ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3650 - Retail

I REALLY want a 14.1 inch Laptop over a 15.4, because I don't really want something that large again. But, if it comes down to it, I can live with one.

I looked at reviews for both laptops, but it still doesn't give me a good sense of exactly how well they're built, or anything like that.

The issue here is not the HDD and Video card differences between the two, I don't care about those, it's the Size of the laptop, the construction (How well it's built), and features.

I'm getting mixed indications as to how well either is built. Also, I'm kind of just looking for anyone who might have some input on it, or experience with Asus brand Laptops in the past, or even someone that MIGHT have one of the models above.

I also see that the speakers on the F8 are on the bottom, so they probably don't sound nearly as good.

Also, if anyone knows any Asus Retailers in the Lower part of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, or Northern Indiana (Or extreme northeast Illinois, I guess) feel free to suggest one, as I'd like to look at one in person.

Also, just for fun, which one would you pick of the two, assuming prices are the exact same, also assuming that the specs are EXACTLY the same (Just look and designed how they are shown above) (I know they're not exactly the same specs, but just assume with me for a minute)?

If I did too much rambling and didn't make something entirely clear, let me know.

I'm open to suggestions on other Asus models. I haven't seen any other brand that I feel even worthy of considering, except a few Gateways, but those haven't passed, because of the Intel x3100.

I think I can get either of those laptops I listed above for 100-200 bucks cheaper than Newegg shows. I found one on another site that has a 150$ instant rebate, so the Newegg ad is just a guideline, with pictures and specs.

One other thing I liked about the two I listed were that they came with a 1 year Accidental Damage and a 2 year regular warranty included in the price. Not too many others do that.

One of the few things I dislike about both is that is comes with Vista 32bit, when it has 4GB of RAM... Vista 32 has given me nothing but problems. x64 has worked flawlessly.

But, I suppose, I can always "upgrade" that later on.

The only real "Reviews" I've been able to find on either are mainly on this site, which I assume is probably because I believe at least one of them just came out like 15 days ago.

Mainly, I'd just like to know which is everyone's suggested pick of the two, and which is built better, and less apt to break, technically speaking.

Any input on this is appreciated.

Thanks.

 

I have the M50Vm-A1 and it feels like a sturdy laptop. The casing is well made and is just quality. I haven't done a drop test or anything on it (don't think anyone wants to), but I think it'll last for you.

I would have for the F8 but the downside to that is I will be using a mouse in my dorm at college.. and the air vent is on the right side. I figured that might not be the best idea.

If you move your laptop or carry it around a lot I'd go with the F8, but heed my warning about the air vent being on the right side. They are both constructed for quality and I'm sure which ever you choose, it will last.

---

Another option for you is to look at Lenovo Thinkpads. They have the "rollcage" technology which will surely Provide good protection against accidental drops, etc. Only downside is price. Their new Montevina's will be coming out in first week of August.

 

Hah. Yeah, I didn't expect a drop test. Just looking for people's thoughts on how it's built generally.

I'm actually looking more for the "sturdyness" of the F8, because I've heard more claims of the M50VM it being well built than the F8.

I'm not too worried about where the vents are. I typically use a touchpad for everything on a laptop. I've used them so much, that I don't have any issues with them, and typically, I use the laptop with it on my lap more than on a flat surface.

I have an old Gateway 12.1 inch Laptop (P3, 1GHz) that I love the size of. It's a BIT too small, but I saw one 14 inch laptop at the store the other day that was of favorable size, but the rest of the 14 inches looked kind of odd.

I'm kind of looking for a place now that sells the Asus laptops with the ability to return them with the least charge possible. So far, I've found one with a 10% restocking fee, and the rest either have a 15%, or don't allow returns.

Not that I will return it, but I want the ability with the least possible downfalls as possible in case I find that I don't like whichever I choose.

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

Can't really give you a comparison since I only own the M50.
Good luck with your buying. I got mine from GenTech PC.

 

I think XoticPC offers a complete refund on ASUS laptops (but don't quote me on that).

 

I just checked, and yes they do.

Thanks for that piece of Info. It'll make me feel better that if I don't like it I can always send it back without having to pay them like 130-170 bucks for "restocking."

It's full refund, minus shipping.

Just looking for opinions the model you have, I don't expect everyone to be able to give me personal experiences with both.

 

The vents on the right side really don't bother me at all and I use a mouse 99% of the time. Unless you're doing heavy gaming the airflow is generally pretty low and the vents are top right of the laptop. When I use my mouse its always bottom right, so its of no consequence. Hope this helps a bit .

 

How's the build/construction of the laptop feel? Does it feel like it's built solidly?

 

Hi, can I ask you how the keypad is on your m50vm? I've read a review saying that was the weakest point of the laptop, and that it didn't feel too great.

Can you give me your input on the keypad?

Thanks

 

It sounds kind of ridiculous, but I'm actually thinking about the possibility of ordering both from XoticPC where the shipping right now is free and there is a full refund if I don't like the computer.

So, then, that way I could have both to try for a day or two, then call them up and send the one that I don't like as much back.

I've got to get a hold of their support on their site, though, to make sure I'm reading all the terms correctly to make sure I can do that without incurring any charges besides possible shipping to send it back.

I think that's probably the best idea, and I don't see how it's a bad idea in anyway.

 

I don't see anything wrong with the keyboard. It's sturdy and I like typing on it better than most other laptops. There's basically no keyboard flex at all, so plus for that. I haven't had any of that infamous keyboard lag on the M50, and if you look around, some other owners of the A1 haven't either. That's a good sign. There's also a number pad on the right side making typing numbers a lot easier for me.

I don't see how the keyboard is weak or lacking..

 

Don't recommend doing that.. Pick one that you like more and go for it. See how that one is but I doubt you'd regret buying it.

 

Thing is, though, I don't really see why it'd be a bad idea to do that.

Main reason is, if I understand the Terms (Which I'd ask them specifically about before trying) is that I order one, and don't like it, so I send it back, and they refund it 100%. Only thing I might be out is shipping, which can't be too bad.

I like the M50 more, Without much question. The ONLY thing I don't like about it (That I can see from not personally inspecting it) is the Screen size. I really do not want a 15.4 inch screen.

Then again, maybe I'm missing something obvious as to why it would be a bad idea to do that, which is always possible.

 

Shipping should be around $10 with USPS.
Just make sure nothing is misunderstood; don't want to much stuck with 2 laptops.

 

Oh, don't worry, if I do it, I plan on finding out the specifics of what I can and cannot do

 

Shipping is more than $10 with USPS. For larger, heavier and valuable packages, FedEx would be MUCH cheaper. Don't forget you'll need to get a tracking number which will cost extra with USPS. Insurance is also cheaper with FedEx.

 

For priority mail? I thought it was around $10. My mistake then.

 

No problem
Yeah, unless you can fit the notebook in the priority flat-rate box, then priority will be more expensive.

 

great! thanks for the response.

Yeah, I've been reading about that keyboard lag too, and to be honest its whats mostly stopping me from ordering my m50vm.

Is there a definite solution that gets rid of the lag once and for all?
The thread on it was kind of inconclusive, and it doesn't seem like its an issue Asus will fix under warrenty (which I find kind of strange).

 

1. It's not entirely honest to do that in this scenario, as then the retailer is stuck with a notebook that they have to turn around and sell at a discounted price as "open box" merchandise. This isn't Costco with their huge operating revenues that this kind of thing is less than a rounding error; most resellers have razor-thin profit margins on original priced Asus units (2-4%) to begin with. Their return policy, which is similarly offered on Ensemble units by BTOTech, as I interpret it is for buyer's remorse or other issues that arise following purchase and as service to not charge restocking fee - which is intended to a) discourage returns and b) cover the financial loss of having to discount the unit for resale.

2. $10 would be for Priority Mail flat rate box - but there's no way you would be able to properly pack the notebook in there to prevent shipping damage and if it doesn't arrive in new condition you aren't going to get a refund . You would definitely want to ship it with tracking/delivery confirmation and insurance if one ships it USPS (which I agree with Emporium is unadvised).

 

Well, really what choice do I have if I want to see and try both before I really decide?

I'd prefer not to do that, but You give me a better option, and I'll take it. I have NO retailers here for at least 150 miles that carry those laptops.

 

The fix on that thread is suppose to "fix it" almost entirely. ASUS has not released a real fix it for it yet. The A1 and B1 doesn't seem to have the lag though.

I don't ship stuff much so I don't know how much those boxes are. But I do know that its a flat rate for up to like 60 pounds.

 

Well, I just emailed their Sales Support to ask them specifically about doing that...

I tried to use their Live Chat (Four Times), but it timed out after a few minutes and said nobody was available.

 

I may just give in and order the 15.4, but I'm going to give it time and see. Still have lots of things to look at to do with the two.

One more question though, I've had the hinges crack on my past two laptops. Both had plastic casing, which I believe this also has too.

Anyone heard of any instances of that happening? Even with the M50Sa model, which I believe is the same design and construction?

 

I think it's maybe too early for cracking hinges problems to show on this series of laptops.

 

That's what I figured, which is why I mentioned the other model, which I think has been out longer, but I don't know how long.

But you're right, that probably hasn't been out long enough either.

 

I've been getting varying reports about how well built these are. Some say they're very good, others say they're built like crap.

But, I'm getting some that are saying that their experience is more tailored to the older Pentium M Asus Laptops.

Are these newer ones built a lot better than those? Anyone know?

Any comparisons to build quality versus some other venders? Like VS a lot of HP or Gateway, etc laptops?

Thanks.

 

Well, I talked with their support, and was told that I could do what I was thinking of doing.

Entire Conversation:

I haven't decided if I'm in fact going to do that yet, but I thought I'd post the answer and whatnot in case anyone else should wonder.

 

Which one did you get? I'm also trying to decide between these two and I'd love to hear what you thought once you had them side by side...

 

Im wondering the same question? Which one did u end up buying?

I have been searching for a topic like this forever and finally I found one! LOL If u could plz reply on which laptop u think is better? ASUS F8 Series F8Va-B1 or ASUS M50 Series M50Vm-A1

Code:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834220337

Code:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834220366

I plan on ordering one next week.

Thanks!

 

This the link to follow

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buridan_Principle

 

Ok.... lol

Anyone else have anything to say?

Thanks

 

The M50Vm has the ambient light sensor and dual function media touchpad which I don't believe the F8Va has. I would suspect the GPUs are relatively equal in power and features. I've got an M50Vm-B2, and I think its a magnificent system. (I found both the ambient light sensor and dual function touchpad to be extremely useful).

 

Avid Gamer,
If it is not a difficult, please post your opinion on Express gate feature.
I would like to know your take on this

 

Boot up of Express Gate / Splashtop is fast (as noted in many other reviews).

The display defaults to a resolution of 1280x800 (and is greyed out preventing any other resolution, including my system native resolution of 1680x1050 ).

The web browser works well for browsing web sites, and is just as fast (I tested speed on www.speedguide.net) as web broswing in other browsers (are there any specific websites anyone would like me to test?). I did notice an oddity (don't know if it was intentional, or an oversight). If you access your e-mail via webmail you can attach files from external media (in my case an external 2.5" SATA mobile HDD connected by USB), but there is no option to access files on the internal hard drive.

In the music player and image viewer programs you can access programs in the Windows user directories (it appears you can access all music and image files on the internal hard drive regardless of what user profile they are in - making private images or sound files not so private ).

The chat program allows chat via AIM, Google Talk, MSN, QQ, and Yahoo. None of my "buddies" were online at the time I logged in, so I am unable to report how functional (feature wise) the chat program is currently. If I have a chance later I'll see if I can attach files from the internal hard drive to send to one of my "buddies" to see if it suffers from the same flaw as the web browser.

The Online Games and Skype programs seem like a waste to have put as applications in Express Gate / Splashtop. I think a video (media) player would be a better application to have access to in Express Gate / Splashtop. The Online games look like basic flash style games that you might find on a web phone, or old PocketPC/PDA/PalmPilot (games.splashtop.com).

I've read reviews that say Express Gate / Splashtop gets better battery life than Windows, and others that say it is no different in battery life. If I have more time later I may try running down the battery web browsing or playing music in both Express Gate and Windows Vista to see if there is a significant difference in battery life. (In at least one review the reviewer based things off the battery reader estimates in the OS, and not real world testing).

I've spent most of my time with my new M50Vm in Windows Vista 64, but I can see myself using Express Gate in the future if all I need to do is browse, chat, or e-mail (as long as I don't want to attach any files from the primary hard drive ).

 

Thank you very much Avid.
Based on your review can I presume that when express gate is ON, internal HD is ON and spinning too, but OS does not run?.

Yes, I agree it strange why web mail does not read from internal HD while others do.

Kind regards

 

The hard drive light flashes very briefly during the BIOS loading, and when an application (like the web browser) is launched. As far as spinning technically the drive must spin to access, but there is no sound and no vibration. If you didn't look at the light you'd have a hard time determining that the hard drive was in use.

By OS does not run are you referring to Windows? Technically Express Gate is an OS too.

 

Thanks.
I got it now. OS - yes, I meant Vista OS.
HD is definitely ON - just nothing to access.

 

Thanks for the comment.

I think im gonna go with the M50Vm-A1 since it has a nice setup and for a decent price which I can afford. Plus I think it will perform better when gaming instead of the F8Va-B1

 

From other hand F8V has better screen (+) and 5 USB's so thing again

 

Better screen EH lol and yes 5 USB is cool but its really no need for me, 4 does the job

Well since u can tell im from Canada lol, the pricing is more but the thing is I can get the M50Vm-A1 and F8Va-B1 for the same price. Now in this situation, what one would u choose?

Thanks

 

Well, you can analyze what model has more/less complains and problems. Keep in mind that some problems are related to NB abuses
I've already bought f8Sn for my son and soon I have to replace my daughter's NB - so I'm thinking about

 

I'm going after F8VA-C1....nice machine for my purposes including portability...on the other hand, the M50 has a keypad....hmmmm

 

That is true...
What do u have in mind for replacing ur daughters laptop?

The F8Va-C1 is a nice machine but still has the same ATI 3650 video card which turned me away from the F8Va-B1. Yes it has the T9400 instead of the P8400, but the price jump is too much for me.

I want portable to but if I can pick up the M50Vm-A1 for the same price as the F8Va-B1 in CAN, i'd rather choose the M50Vm-A1

 

Let it be - M50Vm
BTW M70Vm has bottom mount sub-woofer...

 

Ok, what model though out of the M50Vm series?

That is sweet about the M70Vm and sub-woofer, but im trying to stay more portable

One other question. When or do u think ASUS would be releaseing a different model in the M50Vm series soon? Like im thinking of buyiing the M50Vm-A1 this week, should I research and wait next month to see something new?
I know technology and computers are always being released and something new, but just curious if ASUS has a setup when they release a new product and prices drop...?

Thanks, ur help is appreciated!

+Rep for ya

 

I do not think ASUS is going to manufacture more different configurations.
Just there are preferred resellers with larger selection (Newegg has some special SKUs)
I think ASUS does not have setup you are talking about.

For myself I'll go for smaller A8 model that does not have extra wistles and has lesser opportunities to make me wonder
I follow the KISS rule

 

@Oldman
Sounds good. Well good luck on ur decision and make sure to comment back when u do purchase one Im still reading all these reviews in the discussion forums. Man 50 pages or 25 pages takes for ever LMAO Although, theres some good info. when reading

Have a good one!

Lilskata

 

I ordered an M50VM-A1 and it should arrive on thursday. It seemed like the best deal to me.

 

Congrats! I've got one on the way too, should be shipping today.

At the risk of sounding "shallow,"
a big factor for me was the color of the wrist area. I sometimes use my laptop with dirty hands, and don't think the darker color will show dirt as much.