Questions on the FZ Series

Does anyone know if all FZ series models have magnesium chassis and covers? I've seen references on various Sony web sites concerning magnesium, however, the wording is not consistant on all models. Does Sony produce different types of chassis and covers within each line? I recently purchased an FZ150E/BC from Costco and it wasn't obvious if the cover was magnesium or plastic.

Also, is one expresscard slot sufficent for a new laptop. I assume Sony left out the older PC card slot to reduce size and weight, however, I wonder if this would be an issue going forward. The FE series machines had both.

What are your opinions regarding the FZ series and the new Macbook Pro announced yesterday? I had been considering the Macbook and the new version at $1,999 seems like a nice unit. Comparably equipped, the price of the FZ would probably be similar. Thanks for you comments.

Thanks
Mike

 

I own a FZ140E. Man, I'm lovin it. I think the cover is plastic and covered by magnesium paint. I have no problem with it. In fact, this helps the notebook more lightweight and looks cool. IMO, one expresscard slot is good enough because it also comes with 3 USB 2.0 ports. The best thing I like about FZ Series is it's the first Santa Rosa notebook and I got a great deal at CC on Memorial Day sale ($1149.99 after rebate. The price is back to $1349.99 today). I won't get a Macbook since I am a Windows die-hard and I believe that FZ is the best notebook for Vista on the market so far.

 

My question is this:

The website says the video card is this:

What does all that mean? And how would it compare to the 7700, 8400 GS, and 8400 GT?

 

integrated graphics probably plays games from like four/five years ago on high, but recent games are probably going to be a big problem.

 

does it worth to buy (price, speed) a 2.4ghs processor?? cause is a big difference in price between a 2.0 and a 2.4 ($450)

 

No, just stick with 2.

 

The only drawback, if I cud say so, of the FZ is that the screen resolution is only WXGA even for the highest FZ model with the blu-ray drive. That sort of nullifies the advantage of having a blu-ray drive.

 

If you want to play games, just customize it at sonystyle.com and select the dedicated graphics option. If you don't want gaming, then integrated graphics is fine.

I agree that the main drawback of this machine is the lack of a higher-resolution screen option.
An extra USB port or two would have also been nice, since they'd certainly have the space for it... but I can live with just three.

I really love the FZ otherwise.

 

im thinking of buying one that just has the integrated graphics card for much cheaper but i like to game, so it is possible to install a graphics card?

 

No, unfortunately, that's not possible.

 

I'm afraid not without major and unrealistic brain surgery.