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    SZ vs. TZ?

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony' started by MaXimus, Feb 20, 2008.

  1. MaXimus

    MaXimus Notebook Deity

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    I have the SZ484N but was just wondering. Which was better?

    SZ FTW?
     
  2. Rahul

    Rahul Notebook Prophet

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    Pretty different machines, depends on your needs. The TZ is of course lighter, smaller, gets better battery life, has a better screen.

    The SZ has a larger screen, much more power with a full Core 2 Duo processor, 2.5" HDD and dedicated graphics.

    I like the TZ because I like ultraportables. If I wanted a larger notebook, the SZ would be on my list.
     
  3. Ic3Demon

    Ic3Demon Notebook Guru

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    It really depends on what you are looking for in a laptop. While both are very mobile, the TZ is (in some ways) more stylish, lighter and smaller. The SZ is a lot more powerful than the TZ (like rahulnirmal mentioned). All the TZ models come with a LED bl screen (similar to the the premium SZ models but smaller). The normal SZ models, however, does not have a LED bl screen which makes their display quality a lot worse than the TZ and premium SZ.
    In my opinion, I prefer the premium SZ because it is well balanced in terms of power/performance, mobility and style. If you are looking for something unique and a laptop that will definitely standout amongst the crowd, go for the TZ. :)
     
  4. exetlaios

    exetlaios Notebook Evangelist

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    Nothing more to add, totally agree with above guys.

    I had also this exact doubt, and I went for the TZ because the SZ has a big footprint. In addition I didn't like the keyboard of the SZ. I wanted something really portable and the TZ feets exactly this purpose. I would recommend theTZ with SSD so you will have also some performance.
     
  5. karimnacer

    karimnacer Notebook Consultant

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    Hey! I bought the SZ650N some months ago, and I must say I'm VERY satisfied with it!! However now I'm used to this screen, wich looked very small to me, and I'm sure my next laptop (in minimum 2 years) will be a TZ...
    I bought the SZ for the dedicated graphics, in case of... But I never use it!
     
  6. Drvec

    Drvec Notebook Evangelist

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    I think the scale tipper between them is more to do with what other computers you have or intend to use. A well spec'd SZ with a docking station is a real desktop replacement, while the TZ is the perfect compliment to a desktop.
     
  7. imagine

    imagine Notebook Consultant

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    Also, not only are the speeds and display size different, but the keyboards are also completely different. I was initially going for the SZ but the keyboard completely killed it for me (so I went with the TX instead). It felt very cheap and noisy for such an expensive machine, but that is just my opinion.

    The point that I am trying to make it is that no matter how different they are on paper, be sure to test them out in the store because it could make all the difference in the world.
     
  8. MaXimus

    MaXimus Notebook Deity

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    Oh I already have the SZ484N Premium which comes with a led screen, carbon fibre built, dedicated graphics (i never use it although I specifically was looking for it). But thanks for the clarification guys. My next laptop would still be an SZ I guesss coz I care about performance alot and dual core must. Just upgraded to 3 GB RAM andnow this system flies.
     
  9. aamsel

    aamsel Notebook Evangelist

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    I just compared the two side-by-side today:

    The TZ has a much higher resolution screen. At 1366 X 768 with 11.1", the DPI is 141.2. The text is very small, but razor sharp, very well defined. Text on the SZ's 1280 X 800 screen is less defined. Yes, it was a premium LED-lit SZ model I tried.

    My issues are solely with the keyboard on both models. The TZ is very cramping for my fingers, no way to comfortably type on it with my large hands, unless there is a technique that I don't know about? The SZ has a full sized keyboard, but there is about 2 miles of throw to the keys, which is also not very comfortable to me.

    Compared to any Thinkpad I have ever used, the keyboards are the big negatives to both models for me. I love the screens, particularly the TZ's.

    Damn, I hate it that no notebook is perfect! <grin>

    Andrew
     
  10. keru

    keru Notebook Enthusiast

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    was considering both, but bought the TZ for portability & looks.
     
  11. jeme

    jeme Notebook Evangelist

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    Which one did you buy?
     
  12. Ic3Demon

    Ic3Demon Notebook Guru

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    I have to completely agree with that statement :) . It really comes down to personal preference when buying a suitable laptop for yourself and this preference varies amongst individuals. For example, many people hates the SZ keyboard but I like it. To me, the keyboard is exceptionally comfortable to type on (but you will need about 1 week to get used to it).
    Again, I highly encourage you to try both laptops at your local sony store to see which one you prefer overall.