Questions: Graphics vs. Sound/Durability/Heat + X200 vs 14.1inch

Hey guys,

So I noticed that Lenovo offers a graphic card option in its T400/T500 series, and if any of you have experience on the following:

As opposed to an integrated graphic chip, will having a graphic card on your laptop increase sound (ie. fans) and heat? Will it reduce the average lifetime of your laptop?

The reason I'm asking is because my previous Dell had serious issues with all 3 mentioned above, and I'm just not sure if its just Dell or what. The last thing I want to do is sacrifice Lenovo's durability for a graphic boost.



Also, is the x200 too small (opinion-wise)? I've been thinking about getting it for its battery life, but do any of you prefer 14-15" laptops to the 12"? (I've only had experience with a 15")


Thanks
Jeff

 

Hi Jeff,

Having a discrete graphics card will increase the heat of your laptop, leading to the fan spinning faster or more frequently causing more noise. Additionally, having a discrete graphics card will reduce your battery time compared to an integrated solution.

It depends on your needs of the laptop. If you're only doing Office tasks/web browsing you will be fine with the integrated card. The discrete graphics card is only for users who watch a lot of movies/DVDs, or use 3D applications like games or possibly photo-editing/design.

 

Thanks,

So more specifically, in for the T400, we have the choice between

- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
- ATI Mobility Radeon 3640 with 256MB

From what I understand, the tradeoff between the two is better graphics for more sound and heat. Would the integrated chip make any noise at all?

I have heard that Lenovo laptops are surprisingly quiet and cool, is it because of the integrated graphic chips that they use?