How is the Studio 15 compared to the XPS ?

I was originally going to purchase a Dell XPS but after browsing the website and watching some videos on the studio 15, then i made the switch.

I still haven't bought it yet, but another reason why i have chosen to get the studio 15 is because the XPS is a little out dated and does have some issues (like any Dell, but the worst i have read about the Studio 15 is their speakers could be better)

I have a budget of US$1200 to US$1300, and would like to know some of these key features if it isn't too much to ask =)

The graphics card of the XPS i want is the standard 128mb NVIDIA 8400M
And the graphics card for the Studio 15 is the 256mb Radeon 3450

People have been telling me their is no real difference between the two, only the radeon will run a lot quicker but i would like to know from more experienced users like yourselves.

They will both use the same processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) 2 Duo Processor T6600 (2.20GHz/ 800 FSB/ 2MB Cache)

Is that a pretty good processor? I haven't bought a new computer since 2002.

And lastly, what is the difference with the operating systems:
Home Premium 32 bit SP1 and Ultimate SP1 32 bit

and

Home Premium 64 bit SP1 and Ultimate SP1 64 bit

what is the differences?

Thank you so much for your time, and please answer your questions only if you have experience in this area.

 

The 64 bit operating system can use 4gb+ of memory where the 32bit can only see 3.5gb

 

The processors are more than adequate for everyday needs
Specs-wise, I believe the Studio has the edge in graphics
plus the nvidia overheating issue is something you might want to consider
I believe the RAM on studio is faster as well, but that's number-wise; you wouldn't notice a difference..
On the other hand, the XPS is built more sturdy, and is one of the lightest in its class
I would go for the Studio myself; it seems like a better value
But if you value portability, the XPS is definitely a candidate

 

btw, if you're getting 4GB of ram, opt for the 64-bit OS
finding drivers for Dell is no problem, and i've had no problems with running 32-bit programs on it so far

 

I like this thread...as I already have the 1530 and I just love it.

However; I was perusing getting a S15 from the Outlet with 20% coupon...great deals abound.

So, I'd like to hear more opinions on this thread topic!

I think both the S15 and the XPS 1530 are both equally portable.
I have never had the GPU heating prob's that were found with the 1530.

The XPS has a sexy, sleek look...and the S15 is just a nice looking lappy!

You really should check out the Outlet for a S15 and even a 1530..if you want to go that route..More *bang* for you *buck* per se!

Cin

 

how do u like ur XPS ?
what are it's key features that wow you over any other notebooks/desktops you have previously had

 

Ohh I like my 1530 very much so!

What won me over on the 1530 was the sleek and sexy look, of course.

The brushed aluminum palm rest, the size & weight was what I wanted, the color choices, and all that was contained with the 1530. I like the price I got for the config' that I built. I like the slot loading drive, the ease of removing applications, the sound is pretty good, the USB ports are sweet and is the SD/MMC! The 9 cell batt' is also awesome, as it gives elevation on the back, allowing for air to flow easily for ventilation!

Originally, I was looking at the Inspiron 1530, 1420...then I stopped at the Dell Kiosk, and saw the XPS 1330..and then the 1530...and well, I chose the 1530 ~ cuz it just worked for me. I like how it felt when I held it in my hands, how the typing on the keyboard was, etc

It was my first lappy, and it took me nearly 6 months to find the right one..and I'm glad it was the 1530 I chose!

Hope that helps!

Cin

 

Hi I have a 1737 and my wife has a 1537 - both are good machines when working. I have had a lot of problems with my 1737 but Dell service is working on them.

Would recommend them as good machines, as long as you are lucky and dont get a bad one!