Discrete vs. Integrated Graphics

I am looking at purchasing a new laptop, namely a Dell Inspiron 1420. I was wondering if I should pay extra to get a discrete graphics card, although I am not a gamer, to help Windows Vista's Aero interface run more smoothly.

The integrated card is Intel's standard X3100 while the discrete card would be an Nvidia 128MB NVIDIA GeForce Go 8400M GS. I will have 2 GB of system memory, but I've heard the system may be less capable overall without discrete graphics because part of the system memory's bus will be taken by the integrated GPU to run graphics.

On the other hand, integrated graphics is of course cheaper and would improve battery life.

Any ideas? Will my system be less capable for normal tasks without a discrete graphics card?

 

If you're not a gamer, don't bother with the upgrade. It'll do nothing to affect the performance of the Aero interface...it runs perfectly on X3100 as it is.

 

Yes, the X3100 is fine for normal 2D graphics. It's a lost faster than the previous GMA 950. In fact, the Windows Experience Index puts the X3100 above the 8400M G for the normal desktop graphics.

John

 

I have my integrated chip configured to only leach 32 MB of system RAM naturally and it runs everything perfectly. I don't notice the miniscule dent in my RAM and when I actually do try to run an older game it works flawlessly.

If you're looking for a notebook for basic/multimedia tasks then an IGP is a great way to save some money. I've been very happy with my AMD notebook with an Nvidia IGP

 

Pft yeaaah, and the first 1.2ghz p4 was "faster" than a 1ghz p3... ^.^'

That said, for all i DESPISE intel gfx, the X3100, is fine for normal users. It supports all the basics, and can handle aero plus a little fine from what I've seen. The 8400 would be a decent step up-I'm quite sure. But frankly, unless you intend to do some real gaming on this sys, the X3100 does fine all around. Plus-its a little more energy effecant. And frankly-it manages even light gaming (HL/CS well, HL/CSS minimaly okay... Quake 3, that sort.) Its the first intel vcard ive been able to say nice things about. Still pathetic, but not bad.

In short, if the 8400m costs more and you dont wana spend as much, the X3100s fine, highly sufficent. If you got a little to throw in though-the 8400 isnt a bad investment. Its a fair bit faster. (Its DX10 support is practically worthless. But thats a minor detail)

 

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