Couple questions on T520.

Hi there, first I was wondering if it comes with an IPS option? They list the following:

Second is System graphics and I want to be able to play some basic games like Starcraft 2. Will the the Intel integrated "HD Graphics 3000" handle it or do I need to upgrade to "NVIDIA NVS 4200M Graphics"

Third does this laptop have HDMI out?

I know I should probably look towards a gamers laptop for better value but track-point is a necessity and I am a loyal thinkpad fan for it's no frills tough design.

Thanks.

 

No, the T520 does not come with an IPS option. That is only found on the X220. Starcraft 2 runs alright on low on the Intel card. I believe the 4200M will be able to run it on medium. Many people say that the Nvidia card isn't much faster than the Intel, but from my experience I found that games are better supported with the Nvidia drivers and I like having it there for the times that I do want to game.

No HDMI out, but it has Displayport and VGA. You can find a cheap adapter for displayport to HDMI on amazon.

 

Though the 4200M is no power gpu, it will play Starcraft 2 at a much superior level to the Intel 3000D, according to the following benchmarks on the following comparative pages (scroll down):
Intel HD Graphics 3000 - Notebookcheck.net Tech
NVIDIA NVS 4200M - Notebookcheck.net Tech

 

I tried playing SCII on 1600x900 medium with the Intel HD 3000 yesterday after upgrading my RAM, it worked fine minus being a little sluggish when scrolling. Should be fine at 1366x768 or 1280x720 on medium or something. Also, all the panel options are TN panels.

 

None of the are IPS, but still, upgrade to the 1600x900 display at least.
The 1366x768 display will have terrible image quality and contrast, because that's just the way most 15.6" 1366x768 displays are. Plus, the resolution is way too low for a 15.6" screen.