cool gaming: Asus N61JV-X2 (w/Optima GT 325M) or N61JQ (w/ATI Radeon 5730)?

Edit: I originally posted this in the "what computer should I get" section, but I'm getting replies like 'try this other brand/model'. Well, I'm pretty sure I want to order one of these Asus models, so I thought maybe I should post it here. Mods, if the cross-posting isn't allowed, please accept my apology and delete...but I would really appreciate some insight from people familiar with Asus models.

I primarily use my home laptop for browsing the Internet and gaming. The games that I really enjoy are RPGs like Dragon Age and Mass Effect 1 & 2. I would like to keep the cost not too much above $1000 (and of course, under $1k is better!)

My main concern is heat and longevity of the laptop. My last laptop died after three years from overheating. But I also want decent frame rates.

So I'm looking at the ASUS N61JV-X2 for $880 (i5-430M and Nvidia GT325M) at Amazon, or the ASUS N61JQ-X1for $955 (or A1 for $1139) (i7-720QM and ATI 5730) also at Amazon. One minor thing that I like about these models is that the exhaust fan blows to the side instead of the back, because I love to use the laptop while sitting in my recliner, and a rear vent would be pretty uncomfortable on my knees. That's one of the reasons why I'm not considering the G73.

The N61JV has an i5-430M with NVidia GT325M (and the Intel chip built in--this has Optimus). I'm wondering if Optimus will help the life of the laptop, as I would only use the GPU when gaming instead of having it on all the time (less usage=longer life). Seems like that would reduce heat, too.

But I'm a bit worried that Optimus might have problems with games identifying the GPU (it's a pretty new technology and early users have reported some problems with the early drivers)---although I would think that newer drivers would solve these kinds of problems. But you never know...Hmmm...

The N61JQ-X1(or A1) has a more powerful CPU and GPU. Is ATI good at updating their mobility drivers?

The difference between the N61JQ-X1 and A1 is that the X1 is cheaper ($955) and it comes with a 320 GB HD and a one year warranty from Asus; and the A1 is $1139 with a 500GB HD with a two year warranty from Asus. The bigger drive and the extra year of protection sound great, but still, that's almost a $200 difference. Do you think it's worth it?

I'm having a hard time deciding between these three models. The Optimus sounds like it makes sense for keeping the laptop cooler overall....Any advice?

 

I will just say this; the GPUs in these two laptops arent really the best for gaming and wont provide good fps on higher settings in most modern games. If you like gaming at full resolution and high settings i recommend you reconsider and get something with a gtx 260m/280m/360m/480m or mobility 5850/5870 even if its paired with a C2Q or C2D CPU.

 

Well, for me, 1366x768 is fine. As long as I can get 25-30 FPS, I'm happy.

 

If you have a Best Buy in your area, you can pick up the G60JX for about $850.00. It has the i5 430 and GTS 360M. Plus you can upgrade the cpu if you want.

 

Thanks, dighost--I did consider the G60JX, but I read that it gets pretty hot.
Thanks anyway.