Sony FW vs. Dell SXPS 1640

I currently own the 1640 and have had nothing but problems over the last two weeks. Hard drive crash, optical drive broken, deal pixels etc etc. I'm thinking about returning the 1640 and getting the Sony FW instead. Is the FW a RELIABLE computer b/c at this point, I think that's what I'm looking for? Has anyone used both machines and how do they compare? For those that own the FW, how do you like it and have you had any problems? Thanks guys.

 

Wow not ONE response!? Can anyone give me their opinion or review of the FW 590?

 

Hi, I have the FW490 but the FW590 version is basically the same. I have had no problems at all with my computer since I purchased it in June. I got mine with the 1080p screen, T9600 (2.8GHz), 4gig ram, bluray drive, and 1gig ATI Radeon HD 4650.

I can play games fine, gets a little warm but not scorching. It's too bad about your Dell. I have no experience with them but they do offer more options now with the Core i7 processor. The only problem with the FW models is that the hinges are not as durable as they seem. Some members reported that they have broken hinges on the left side where the power cable plugs in. If you are constantly on the move with the laptop, then maybe the FW model might not be a viable option for you.

As far as customer support goes, I can't really say much since I never really used it. I went through them when I purchased the FW390 model that shipped with a faulty graphics card. They took it back right away and paid for the shipping. Then I waited for the FW490 model to come out (which I have now). But this laptop has not given me any problems that would make me dissatisfied.

I hope this helps, if you want more specific answers then please let me know.

 

I've been using an FW for just over a year and I love it. Over the course of this, I had to take my laptop twice in for repairs.

Cons:

1. Major light leakage on one side of the screen (between the screen and the bezel. I guess something was loose and the screen wasn't attached properly on that side). It didn't disrupt me from working but since it was warranty, I took it in anyways and they replaced the screen.

2. My right-click button stopped working after that. I took it in and they fixed it again no questions asked. I tend to use a mouse a lot now just in case.

The barrel on the left side is indeed weaker and has a design flaw but it's not wobbly on mine and didn't fall off. The laptop is also very prone to scratches so I suggest getting the chocolate brown one.

Pros:

Sony extended my warranty by 3 months for free because of the issues I had so I'm still covered until end of November but so far so good (knock on wood). I didn't even have to debate this on the phone; I just explained my situation and they gave me a code which extended my warranty.

The keyboard is amazing. I've never enjoyed typing so much on a keyboard.

The laptop runs very cool, (ESPECIALLY compared to the Dell). I don't know how the newer CPUs, GPU, faster HDD may negatively affect the temperatures though.

Excellent screen. I have only the ECO screen and I like it a lot (despite many complaints from people on it). I still recommend getting the 1080p screen just because of the resolution.

Sexy design. This laptop is nice, like I love the way it looks. When I was looking to buy a laptop, I was looking at the Macbook Pro just because all the Windows laptops were ugly (and I still don't like what the other manufacturers offer). Luckily, Sony came out with this model just in time and I immediately fell in love with it. And I have the version with the white keyboard and white LCD cover and it really does look nice.

That's about all I can think of off the top of my head right now.

I could have easily bought a Dell, especially since my dad's company uses them and could have gotten a discount but despite the favorable specs, price, and 5 year warranty... I still didn't want a Dell. To this point, I don't regret my decision since the FW is a fine laptop and very well built. I also take it to class every day and carry it around and it has fared well so far.

 

Thanks guys...very helpful info. I plan on taking it to and from work with me every day in a backpack and on the NYC subway. Do you think I'll have a problem with the hinges?

 

Hmmm, unless someone else wants to chime in. I don't really port my notebook around so I can't attest to the durability of the FW. But based upon the problems I read about the hinges, I would say that it isn't safe unless you get a decent case to carry it in.

Do you mind if I ask what your budget is? Maybe there are other alternatives to the FW. However, don't let me sway you if you are interested in the FW, it's a very nice computer...just not too sure about the hinge issue in your case since it is an important factor.