Latitude E-Series Anticipation Thread

Does the new Latitudes support the switchable graphics or not? Some say that all Centrino 2 lappies do, but it doesn't say anything on the Dell webpage...

 

The live-stream didn't mention anything like that...

Though... has anyone else looked at the Precision (specifically M4400) series? They don't look all too different from the Latitude E-series feature wise--though some of the features (e.g. backlit keyboard, webcam w/ microphone) are not included by default, though it comes with on-site as oppose to mail-in and a beefier (130 watt) adapter (by default) if that makes any difference.

 

I was just using the Dell Chat to ask this question, and according to the rep, the E6400 (and presumably the other new Latitudes) do not support switchable graphics.

I believe the Intel chipset has the functionality ready, but its up to mobo manufacturers and system builders to put in the rest of the pieces if they want to offer the feature. It is really unfortunate that Dell chose not to do this; now the Thinkpad T400 is still on the table.

 

MBGat Does T400 has switchable graphics.
if so, than Thinkpad is a good and cheaper alternative.
but has it LCD LED option?

 

The configurator for E-series is now live on the Dell UK site, I've got an E6500 specced up just ready to add to the basket, but it won't let me include bluetooth or modem options :-(

I think for an extra £188 I can leave the battery slice until later!

 

Encountered the same thing in the finnish version of the configurator.. My new E6500 will have to wait.

It seems that the BT option is also missing in the US version. Hope they will fix this soon..

 

The T400 Thinkpad has switchable GFX and LED screen as an option, the screen though is matte finished.
If the Latitude E's don't support switchable graphics the Thinkpads have my vote. I'm still waiting for the new XPS's though (Love the backlit keyboard )

All-in-all I was just a tad bit dissapointed after checking out the E's specs. I was excpecting everything as good as the new Thinkpads only in the cool looking brushed metal casing. But no switchable graphics, no DDR3 memory and also from the photos I can't see that they have the optical drive being switchable for a battery, HDD etc.
I think Thinkpad's have my vote so far...

 

The new style is still "boxy and edgy". Much better than D, but I expect much better. Don't want to spoil the E series here, but I really need to decide whether to buy Latitude E (with edgy style) or HP Elitebook? See here:

http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=4551

My initial option was Dell Latitude E, but HP is offering something else. I have been a Dell Desktop and Server uses for years and would like to know your feedbacks

between: Dell Latitude E vs HP Elitebook. Thanks.

 

Guys, how long do you think i'll take before they start offering linux on these computers (especially the E6400)?

Edit: I asked a dell representative and he said probably within the next two weeks

 

:/ will the new latitudes be available on epp?