Alienware M11X Netbook

[Tecknik]

Configured with the Core 2 Duo 1.3Ghz SU7300 (+$100), Windows 7 Ultimate (+$150), 4GB DDR3 800Mhz (+$50), and 160GB SATAII 5400RPM HDD (Standard)... $1,099.

[Tbone]

http://gear.ign.com/articles/106/1065816p1.html

[Subb]

hang on - why is it roughly $700 for you guys and £700 for us?

[Tbone]

I think it's closer to $900 for us.

[Tecknik]

Base model is $799 in the US.

After thinking about it, the SU7300 is only worth the extra $100 if you plan on using Windows Virtual PC, or XP Mode, in Windows 7.  The SU7300 and the SU4100 are basically the same chip.  The differences being that the SU7300 has Virtualization support, and an extra 1MB of L2 cache.  They are both 1.3Ghz dual core processors.  The SU7300 being a Core 2 Duo, and the SU4100 being a Pentium.

It also doesn't make sense to add Windows 7 Ultimate for an extra $150 (Or even Professional for $130) for the same reason listed above.  If you're not going to be using WVPC or XP Mode, Windows 7 Home Premium should be fine.

That puts the price back at $850 after upgrading to 4GBs of DDR3, up from 2GBs.

It's also been shown that in the BIOS is an option to overclock to a preset value, which I've read boosts processor speed up to 1.6Ghz.

So for $850, you're getting a lightweight, compact powerhouse that will run for 7-8 hours (3-4 gaming), and can run Crysis at 50 fps, MW2 at 30 fps, and Street Fighter 4 at anywhere from 60 to 90 fps at the computer's maximum resolution (1366 x 768, AKA 720p).

[ArchNemesis]

It really is an impressive laptop for it's price and size. This is by no means a replacement for a Desktop but can run most games decent to good.

I think i've mentioned it before, but if you're one that is always wanting more power this isn't for you. If you want to be able to run everything that's out there right now and need something that's lightweight and lasts long, look no further. Also, since Dell bought Alienware the build quality has been improved substantially.
The refreshed laptops all have amazing cooling design. Overclocking shouldn't be a huge issue, you'll more than likely crash your system (drivers if it's your vid card) before you overheat.

[Subb]

I was sold once IGN reported it could play ME2 on full specs.

[Tecknik]

Alright.  Just placed the order for mine.

Cosmic Black, Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, Intel Pentium SU4100 1.3Ghz, 4GB Dual Channel DDR3 1066Mhz, 160GB 5400RPM HDD, and Bluetooth module.

Subtotal was $869 + tax and shipping.  I chose Next Day shipping for $16.  Total was $941.49.

Should be here "on or before" March 4th

[likwidtek]

meh

[Tbone]

It should definitely handle SWTOR when it comes out in 5 years

[likwidtek]

oh snap

[ArchNemesis]

Dude, you could have used some EPP discounts that i got if you told me you were gonna get it.

Also, always order by phone. Those reps get commission so you can bet your ass you can haggle prices / get freebies like bags, mice, or even free next day shipping.

[Lithium]

Yeah, I get a 2%-5% discount through my company's EPP code I think.

[Tecknik]

Oh well.  I'll remember that for the future.

[likwidtek]

For any of you on the fence about this one, read this post from one of my fellow gamer buddies who works at intel:  http://www.lancamp.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=4790&view=unread#p66433