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    Glossy Screen - is it a MISTAKE in my case?

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by SoundsGood, Jun 27, 2008.

  1. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    I've always had matte screens on my laptops, and I frankly prefer them to glossy screens. But I'm thinking about maybe going with an XPS laptop next, so I won't have a choice -- I'm stuck with the glossy screen.

    Here's the thing: I work from home, and often use my laptop on our kitchen table. The table has windows behind it and to the side of it. Therefore it's pretty bright behind and around me.

    So... would going with a glossy screened laptop (like the XPS) be a mistake in my case? Should I look for a similar laptop that has a matte screen option?

    What do you guys think? How bad is it really?

    Thanks!
     
  2. ThreeD

    ThreeD Notebook Evangelist

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    from what i've read the new screen on the xps is a lot brighter than the one from the older generation (i am talking about the m1330 with led-backlit). therefore the reflections aren't that bad anymore and you can also use it at the outside.

    but i don't know for the usual lcd-screens. i would always try to avoid glossy screens, if possible.
     
  3. Johnny T

    Johnny T Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Right now I am using a notebook with glossy screen, with me facing the window (back of notebook facing window). I have to close the blinds/curtains other wise there will be reflections. to be honest I have got used to it after 3.5yrs+ but I would really rather have had a bright matte screen...
     
  4. dingbat

    dingbat Notebook Evangelist

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    It will be better if you avoid glossy screens.
     
  5. Forte

    Forte NBR's Supreme Angel

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    If you get an LED one, the brightness is so nice, that direct sunlight has no effect on it whatsoever. I can use mine without having to close blinds or anything. The same can't be said about my Inspiron.
     
  6. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    Hmmm... well, I would definitely get the LED screen. But I really wish Dell would offer a choice on the XPS screens. I wouldn't hesitate to get the matte screen if it were available.
     
  7. Just Lou

    Just Lou Notebook Evangelist

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    I use the glossy screen in an office filled with fluorescent lighting, and it doesn't bother me.
     
  8. Forte

    Forte NBR's Supreme Angel

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    Like I said, get an LED, it will be perfectly fine.
     
  9. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    Thanks !
     
  10. millermagic

    millermagic Rockin the pinktop

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    The downfall to glossy screens is windows for sure. I had a class last semester at 3-5pm in a classroom that had windows facing west. I always sat in the back by the window. Rarely could I see anything but my face.

    I suppose if you are good enough with sandpaper you can turn it matte ...
     
  11. XPS1330

    XPS1330 Notebook Deity

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    Proceed at your own risk! :rolleyes:
     
  12. mattocs

    mattocs Notebook Deity

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    On my XPS with the LED screen, I get very little glare. It is a good screen, and I too was afraid of the glossy coating.