Comparing to FZ models and thoughts..

Well the FZ (and maybe FW) have caught me eye. But does the difference between the $1099 model and $1699 really pack anymore power beyond blue ray? I'm not going to be watching movies and I would upgrade (on my own too bad can customize on website) the ram from 2->3GB. Just want a speedy notebook, not really for entertainment type stuff, but I like the looks of the FZ.

Thoughts?

Link to FZ Sony Page.
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?categoryId=8198552921644488277&parentCategoryId=16154#

 

I think if you are referring to the VGN-FZ290ECB on the Sony page and you are going to be using it for the generic, all purpose things you describe, that particular model of FZ would be more than alright, including movies and other entertainment as well as work. It has the best screen and a dedicated gpu. The only thing I would alter is too up the RAM to the maximum of 4GB, but you can buy and do that yourself...easily and cheaply.

It's sometimes easy to forget with all these sparkly new toys to choose from that the so called "old" products are very fine and perfectly wonderful in themselves.

 

The $1699 model has a faster processor and a bigger hard drive as well as blue ray. I used to own an FZ so I could probably answer any questions about it, but what exactly are you using the laptop for anyways? Are you taking it with you often or will it just sit on your desk?

 

A solid perspective and I wish I could take it. My lappy was irresistable and perfect a year ago, like the Z is to me now. Can't...resist...new tech...aargh!

 

Just going to be doing mainly word processing, web research, and having a couple productivity apps running. (Law School). Been using my thinkpad x40 but want a larger screen. No gaming, no movies except web type videos. Just been something comfortable to type on. Fast load times are a plus.

Would you go with 3rd party memory (2x2GB) or does the FZ have more then two slots for RAM sticks? Probably only be able to use 3.5 of the 4GB because I have to use 32 bit windows as the testing software does not run on 64 bit.

 

I think the one for $1099 would suit you fine. Look at my signature - I am very happy and did not need the Blu-Ray - I never watch movies on my laptop. I also went with 2gb memory and upgraded to 4bg myself. My FZ only see about 3.1gb - but I got a really good deal on two Crucial sticks.

BTW - no laptop on the mainstream market has more than two slots for RAM right now (I believe).

 

To all the FZ owners, how is the fan noise? I saw some video on youtube complaining about it. But how is it really?

Also anything else I should know about the FZ? maybe other recommendations

Thanks

 

Virtually non-existent on mine - I hear it a little, but it is very quiet overall. If you do some more homework, you will find this was a "problem" with the earlier models of the FZ but that complaint has died out as of late 2007 or early 2008.

 

Well I think the FZ is it. Think I'll to go with the $1099 model and just upgrade the ram. The other models seems to just add entertainment options I am just not looking for.

Any recommendation on where to buy? Sony Style Store, Sony Online, or Fry's (for liberal return policy)?

Hate to get a dead/stuck pixel and have sony tell me I need at least X amount.

 

no gaming? Don't get the FZ. It drains battery fast if you get the GPU 8400 GT. It's a GREAT media laptop. Oh god I miss my FZ...great screen and keyboard and great moderate gaming laptop. However, I used it for school and when I just wanted to lay in bed with it or use it someplace w/o a wall socket, it would drain in 1 hour on balanced mode. It has a double lamp screen (hi color) to power, and a dedicated GPU... not going to pull through a 3 hour class thats for sure.

Go for the CR with intregrated GPU. 14.1 inches...still a good size to satisfy big screen crave, IMO.

push it further with an SR at 13.3 inches if you want