can't choose between the asus u1 versus the asus u3

u1 is 11.1 inches.. u3 is 13.3 inches.

I prefer the ultra portability of the u1, but the u3 is equipped with better hardware. I'm also a bit concerned whether I will be able to adjust to the small sized keyboard of the u1. I've tried a similarly sized laptop at a retail store but it was only a few moments of trying out.

I am upgrading from the Asus z70v with pentium m 2.0ghz.

I'm able to get either one at the same price so price isn't the problem..

Any input on helping me make a decision will be greatly appreciated!

 

The U3 is probably plenty portable, but if you're planning on using it a lot then I would definitely say go higher screen size than the U1 - I just can't see being regularly productive on an 11" screen. Big downsides to the U3 is a) no optical drive, 2) Asus stopped making it (EOL) after the summer 08, so it's a SantaRosa system and I don't think it has the Penryn cpu either.

If you're thinking about the U1 and need good portability, I'd suggest considering the U6 instead. It offers a bit more portability, and has a nice mix of the two to it.

 

The U6 is a bit beyond my budget.. unless I can find one for less than ~$1200.

You bring up a good point regarding the productivity with the 11.1". Also, I think I'll be ok with the previous generation's cpu. Do you know if the U3 supports ExpressGate? I can't find whether it does or not.

 

Both the U3 and the U1 don't have expressgate. But in all honesty, I can't recommend either. If you're set with Asus, then I'd go with the N20. If you can squeeze the extra $$, I would highly recommend the U6Vc. If you're in the US, keep in mind that resellers like gentechpc will offer a 3% discount if you pay via check/e-check (paypal).

 

Is there a particular reason why you wouldn't recommend either? I don't mind the lack of optical drive as I can count the number of times I've used the one in my z70v in the previous 3.5 years. Ideally I'd like to get the U6 but it's $1000 versus $1600

 

For one, they are slightly overpriced, especially, given that the hardware is from the previous generation. Second, due to the nvidia fiasco, i would avoid purchasing any 8 series GPUs (pertaining only to the U3S series). Thirdly, having a U2400 (or any other low wattage CPUs for that matter in the U1) and running Vista will be terrible, not to mention trying to watch HD videos. If the U1 comes with XP, then that will be better, but you shouldn't expect to do any heavy duty computer work - web browsing and using MS office at most. You might as well choose a netbook for much less.
If this purchase is for your main computer uses, you may want to look for one with a strong CPU and definitely a larger keyboard. It all depends on what you'll be doing with your new laptop.

 

What is the nvidia fiasco all about?

 

It's regarding how the 8 series mobile GPUs are defective, some more so than others. The 8600M in particular were hit the hardest, but I'd still avoid the 8400 if i could.

http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/02/nvidia-says-significant-quantities-of-laptop-gpus-are-defectiv/

 

Hm I wish the U6 model was cheaper... I wonder how long until the price comes down..

 

Not for a while I'd guess. The U6Vc came out not long ago (less than a month). You could maybe get the U6V for a little cheaper since it's the previous refresh. Everything is basically the same except for a slightly better CPU and webcam.