can the 8510p or 8510w's...

CPU and harddrives be changed after ordering it? like say in the future i want to upgrade to a better processor, could i? and how much of a performance difference to you see with thesetwo?

 

Yes, the RAM, CPU, and HDD should be upgradeable. As for the performance difference, do you mean between the 'p' and 'w' version? The 'w' has a slightly better GPU, with much better driver support. Other than that they're the same.

 

oh thats great. do those upgradable components in someway affect gaming performance? or just for app performance? and given that, would the settings be that better for games like crysis on the w than the p?

 

Well, CPU and RAM can affect gaming performance, but not to the extent that the GPU does. You'll need at least 2 or 3 GB of RAM for games to run smoothly. The CPU is more involved in RTS's, and in games like Medieval 2: Total War or Supreme Commander a CPU upgrade could help significantly.

Right now the drivers for the ATI card on the 'p' version are new, but as better one's are released I'd say the performance difference between the 'p' and 'w' versions would be no more than 10%.

 

You can only upgrade to current generation CPUs..........which pretty much defeats the point. I see very advantage in going from a 2.2ghz ot a 2.4 or even a 2.6 when it comes out.

you will not be able to upgrade to next generation quadcores which will make a real difference in performance.

 

Well, mobile quadcores are still several generations away. You will however be able to upgrade to the next generation Penryn processors.

 

yep the ram and HD can both be upgraded

 

cool thanks everyone! i guess the P should suffice for everythin i need!

 

I got the w and the graphics is surpurb. Very fast and the wsxga screen is just right (for the 15.4")

Yes, cpu ram & drive are all upgradeable. I've done two of those already.

 

Same. Popped out the HDD for a 7200rpm upgrade and added an extra 1GB on my 8510p.