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    Similar Vaio Z replacements?

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony' started by Stalvros, Dec 5, 2008.

  1. Stalvros

    Stalvros Notebook Evangelist

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    I think I've posted this thread before but for some reason, I can't seem to find it when I search :(

    Oh well, in any case.
    My fiancee wanted to get my Z but it's too expensive for her.

    Yes there are cheaper versions but I am also aware that it's only sold abroad. Here in Indonesia, they only have the US$2200 version. You can't really ask to change the spec unless it's the RAM to upgrade only.

    So what I want to know is, what other laptop that's similar to Z?

    She loves my Z because
    1st - Long battery life
    2nd - Slim LCD
    3rd - Light

    She is also aware that Macbookair is slimmer then Z but it's heavier and also, she's not too used to MAC software yet.

    We had a look at ASUS but the screen is terribly thick!
    (Compared to Z at least)

    Also, the budget's probably US$1500.00
    (Yes, we know we can get it on some website but it's only for the US and even if they send it abroad, they would tax us like mad which brings the total amount to US$2200 probably and we might as well buy the version they sell here)
     
  2. dubc35

    dubc35 Notebook Enthusiast

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    I was considering one of the SR models. The 240 is pretty similar to the Z size wise (about an inch longer, 15oz heavier). I ended up going with the Z though.

    I don't have enough posts here to link, so google/amazon search: VGN-SR240N/B

    edit, the 240 was the one I was looking at, obviously other variations available
     
  3. Phil

    Phil Retired

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    The SZ has similar battery life, is light and has a very thin LCD too.
     
  4. Buddy17

    Buddy17 Notebook Consultant

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    yup...i would say go with the SR, or possibly the SZ. I like the newer keyboards better than that of the SZ, but any of those are good choices and could be had for less the 1500.
     
  5. Stalvros

    Stalvros Notebook Evangelist

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    Ummm, when I meant Z replacement, I don't mean it has to be Sony too XD

    Other brands is ok as well.
    Just suggest whatever comes to mind.
    (But ill have a look at the SR and the SZ)
     
  6. lamtutu

    lamtutu Notebook Consultant

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    SZ recomended .
     
  7. Buddy17

    Buddy17 Notebook Consultant

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    are there really other brands that even compare to the Z?!?

    haha just kidding...lenovo has a few worth looking at, but they are really ugly! very well built though.

    Dell has the XPS 1330, that is soon to be replaced with something new...

    Samsung has a very nice X360 and X460, but i'm not sure on the reliability, price, availability, etc.

    LG has the P310 that has amazing specs, especially for a 13", but to me it would be a fire hazard and horrible battery life.

    That seems to be most of the competition i can think of, but i think the SR from sony still compares best with the Z than any of the others.
     
  8. PointZero

    PointZero Notebook Enthusiast

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    I would have to agree that the SR is one of the best replacements for the Z series. I actually had a choice between the SR and Z, and ended up with the SR. A $300 difference definitely gave the nod to the SR, but it's also because I couldn't justify the premium difference.

    With the Z series, you get a lighter weight (3.3 vs 4.2 lbs), carbon fiber body (as opposed to magnesium alloy), switchable graphics, and better battery life. The first two points are very subjective, based on the person. Switchable graphics, I thought was novel but 9300M is still marginal at best. In terms of battery life, I get 4+ hours with my SR, and my roommate gets under 6 hours with his Z. If battery life is a concern, particular consideration should be spent here.

    Other similar models that I would consider are the aforementioned LG P300 (or P310), Samsung X360 or X460, Thinkpad SL300 or T400 (my personal favorite), or Dell m1330.
     
  9. sonoritygenius

    sonoritygenius Goddess of Laptops

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    I think the SR is the best Z-replacement (if there ever, can be one) that is low budget fit and meets your requirements pretty spot on
     
  10. Firestone

    Firestone Notebook Consultant

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    toshiba r500