17.3" 1920x1080 VS. 15.6" 1920X1080 On HP Dv laptop

I am about to order a HP dv7t Quad or dv6t Quad notebook.

How would the resolution compare on either of the screens (15 v. 17)

I am definitely going with the 1920x1080 upgraded screen ... just cant make up this last decision yet.

If it helps... I will be doing a lot of general word processing, internet, some advanced excel, linear programming, AutoCAD from time-to-time, and maybe graphics here and there (not a necessity)

The 17" screen only brings the width of the laptop 1.5" wider ... that's why I am kind of leaning toward that one.

 

Same resolutions on smaller screens tend to have higher DPI's and make things smaller, so you'll have to squint to read if your eyes aren't good with the 15.6. With the 17.3 you won't have as much of a problem.

You could increase Window's Overall DPI, but that's negating the point of having a 1080p display in the first place
If you're going to be reading text maybe go with the bigger one, if only so things are easier to read.

 

The 17" will likely run cooler, but it probably won't have as good battery life, and it will be less portable. That extra 1.5" wide is a LOT more than you think it would be.

 

Also the colors on the 17.3" 1920x1080 display are slightly better than on the 15.6" 1920x1080 display, in these particular models.

 

Another plus for the 17" is the second hard drive.

I would go with the 17" if you are not traveling that often.

 

If you're going to carry it around on a regular basis, I would highly suggest against the 17" dv7t. I have the 15" T500, and already feel that it's pretty much at the upper limit of what I would tolerate carrying around on a daily basis.

My suggestion would be to take a look at 15.6" 1920x1080 screens in-store at a store like Best Buy (you may even be able to find a dv6t with that resolution) and 17.3" 1920x1080 screens. I prefer a higher DPI, but you have to find a screen that's comfortable for you. Also take note of the physical size of the laptops--as mentioned before, 1.5" is a lot more than you may think (after all, the T520 "only" an inch wider than the T420).

 

Best Buy doesn't have any. They even force all manufacturers who produce laptops sold in their stores, that normally come standard with 1920x1080, to come up with special models that have junk 1366x768 screens. An example is the G53SW.

Check out Fry's or CompUSA.

 

Ah, interesting, thanks for the correction. I haven't been to BB in a while. I usually go to Fry's, as they have a better set of high and low end laptops from all brands, but Fry's isn't exactly prevalent nationally, unfortunately.

 

Thanks everyone for you input. This forum has definitely helped make up my choice through several aspects of customizing a notebook.

I ended up going with the 15.6".

I would like to put it in a backpack and bring to school from time to time and the current 15" notebook is already pushing it.

Yes, just by looking at how much more desk space the 1.5" would take up may cause an inconvenience.

The 17" is nice b/c of the warranty, hard drive, sub-woofer, cooler running, etc. but not a necessity for me.

I think the 15" notebooks may be easier to sell a few years down the road, as it seems they are always in higher demand.