Looking for knowledgeable opinions on computers

[conroy]

Hey all,

I'm new to these forums but since i don't have a great understanding of computers I came here for some advice. Id like to buy a gaming computer and im currently looking into 2 different laptops. I plan on using the computer for diablo 3 and tribes 2 (which is an old FPS game from 2000). I may also buy other games down the road so i would like the computer to last awhile.

http://www.ibuypower.com/Store/Valkyrie_CZ-17_2_Gaming_Laptop

http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=710_577_371&item_id=051363

i was hoping someone with some experience could help me understand the pros/cons of each of these computers. I would also welcome any other suggestions. I'm not against getting a desktop but mobility has its perks. So for desktops i would hope the computer is better for the price.

 

[i_hate_toms]

if gaming is your primary requirement, purchasing a laptop is NOT a very good idea.
not because they aren't powerful enough to run modern games, but because a high performance CPU/GPU generates a lot of heat. Heat is the number one enemy of a portable computer. The lack of space makes airflow difficult, the heat builds up, and reduces life of every internal component to some extent, the HDD, the CPU, the GPU, all hates heat. But it's the battery that suffers the most. Heat kills the battery faster than anything else.
If portability is a must, both are pretty good.
I would go for http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=710_577_371&item_id=051363
because of the 1>Hybrid HDD and 2>Backlit keyboard.
I would strongly suggest a desktop if gaming is the primary requirement.

 

[daisymtc]

Go for ibuypower. But Add a 120GB SSD.
I honestly don't know if it worth extra $150 for 3630QM to 3740QM...
RAM - DDR3 1600 at same price
OS - Personally stick with Win 7.

If you want a small desktop. There are options with mini-itx build.

 

[conroy]

thanks i have a feeling i may go with a desktop. my brother told me to look at this:
http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3234272&Sku=A50-13000

i may also try and build one... ive been asking people i know trying to find someone who could help me.

Anyone have suggestions for decent builds? im fairly flexible with price but since its a custom build i dont think its necessary to pay as much as the laptops are priced. so say $1000-1500 give or take.

If you could also explain why you like the build...so i can start learning about this stuff as i go. Much appreciated.

 

[Life]

if gaming is your primary requirement, purchasing a laptop is NOT a very good idea.
not because they aren't powerful enough to run modern games, but because a high performance CPU/GPU generates a lot of heat. Heat is the number one enemy of a portable computer. The lack of space makes airflow difficult, the heat builds up, and reduces life of every internal component to some extent, the HDD, the CPU, the GPU, all hates heat. But it's the battery that suffers the most. Heat kills the battery faster than anything else.
If portability is a must, both are pretty good.
I would go for http://www.canadacomputers.com/product_info.php?cPath=710_577_371&item_id=051363
because of the 1>Hybrid HDD and 2>Backlit keyboard.
I would strongly suggest a desktop if gaming is the primary requirement.

That is complete nonsense. There is o reason for him to need a desktop. The laptop From his post ibuy link, is a great laptop, which has just as much power as nice desktop. I know plenty of people with gaming laptops. Laptops can be great for gaming. I suggest the first link.

 

[johnb35]

That is complete nonsense. There is o reason for him to need a desktop. The laptop From his post ibuy link, is a great laptop, which has just as much power as nice desktop. I know plenty of people with gaming laptops. Laptops can be great for gaming. I suggest the first link.

You do realize that heat will be an issue for the laptop? And for a true gaming experience, you really do need a desktop system.

 

[Okedokey]

Laptops are rubbish for gaming, cannot be upgraded and simply cannot compete with desktops. You also pay more for the miniturisation which if gaming is your priority, is not necessary, so spend $1600 (price of first laptop link) on a desktop and you'll get way more performance.

 

[Life]

You do realize that heat will be an issue for the laptop? And for a true gaming experience, you really do need a desktop system.

I understand that, but that is why cooling pads are there. And he was only wanted to play some old games, and maybe get some new ones down the road. So if that is the case, then there is absolutely no need for gaming desktop. If he gets that laptop, he can play any games he wants, and can take it places. I think there is no real need for a desktop at this point. But that is only my opinion.