Need help deciding between 2 laptops

I'm getting a new laptop for school. want it to be an 17", i dont mind carrying the extra bulk around but really like having the extra screen size.

the 2 laptops I am looking at are:
the new samsung Series 7 NP700Z7C-S01US
and HP Envy 17

i would get the samsung immediately because of better graphics, ivy bridge, and smaller dimensions. my only draw back on it, is i want it to have 2 HDD bays so i can add a ssd for windows and programs then still have a 750-1000gb for storage.

the envy has a worse graphics card, sandy bridge instead of ivy bridge, and is a little bigger. but it has dual hdd bays so i can add an ssd.

has anyone used both? give me some feedback of both of them and which they prefer?

are there any other pros and cons between them?

 

Better to post it in this section.

 

If the Samsung ticks all the right boxes except for two HDD bays and if you don't need to use the optical drive then you can get an adaptor and put the HDD in there (external USB optical drives are inexpensive these days).

John

 

You aren't considering an HP Elitebook 8760W ?
Or the 17" MacBook Pro?

 

John, it has a slot load dvd, so I wouldn't be able to get a caddy and put a HDD there.

Hammer, the elitebook's only go up to a 15", I am looking for a 17". And I'm not a fan of anything apple has that doesn't run iOS, plus the 17" MBP starts at about $1000 more than those 2 I listed, and has lower specs.

I'm hoping that HP will update their envy series soon with the new processors. That would be best case, it's just that I will need it soon, before June. My old laptop bit the dust a few weeks ago (it was about a 4 year old dell and the hinges broke so the screen basically fell off).

 

Right now, I'd go with the Samsung, except if having those two drive bays is your top priority.

Check this thread for pics and impressions.

 

Wanna bet?

And by the way, it's really hard giving you a decent recommendation with so little information on your requirements and budget.

 

oh ok, i didnt see the 17" elite book.

my budget is <$1500 for computer.

I will be doing some video and photo editing and light gaming.

Either one should suit me fine, just wondering which one is the better computer. I'm leaning towards the samsung due to newer components, and if after i get it i still want an ssd i can get a 128gb or so ssd and then just take the 1tb that came with it and put it in an external case. was just trying to get away from having to carry a portable hard drive with me

anyone have anything negative to say about it? any cons?

 

Why not? See this thread.

John

 

Oh wow, that's awesome! i had no idea you could put a caddy in place of a slot load.

thank you very much, that might have just made my decision for me!