Asus G53SW Owners' Lounge

Perhaps deciding on what games you intend to play (or other media you intend to use) may help you regarding this dilemma lol. I would think the 560M may be slightly better than the 460M. Also consider what the price difference is. I really really hope the SW's 460M will run Battlefield 3 (DICE tends to optimize their games really well, I can run BFBC2 on over a 100 frames on 720 on med settings; 60fps on 1080p on high/advanced with a few tweaks). So personally, I would think about what software and/or games you intend to use on the laptop.

 

So I was wondering if anyone has run benchmarks on this laptop? I just ran some today and for some reason they seemed kinda low. Just wondering what other people are getting.

 

Try running Throttlestop on setting number 2 and then re-run your benchies.
Let us know if that makes a diff.

 

Yeah..
Starcraft 2
Diablo 3
I'm not really a FPS person so I don't think I will play Crysis 2.

 

I've tried TS on and off but no, no notable difference. I've been checking online for some bench results (3DMark 06, 11, Vantage) and for the most part it seems like they are higher than what I've been getting.

 

Hey guys,

I think I have asked this question before but I was looking for some more responses. So yeah the question was what are your thoughts on the I7 2630qm. How does it compare with other notebook processors in terms of value, performance etc. Are you guys with happy with it?

I personally saved up for a while to purchase a new laptop. I bought the G53SW assuming that it was one of the better/best laptops out there and now that i visit this website:

Sandy Bridge - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

I see that there a lot of better processors out there with better CPU's and clock rates. So what im looking for is someone in the know who can dispel my fears. I mean I probably should have done more research before I bought the notebook. Did I make a mistake? Also, the 2620m is rated at 2.7 ghz with 2 cores - is it better than the 2630qm with 4 cores? Not that knowledgeable on this area....thanks in advance guys.

 

At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you are planning to do. With games, any of the new Sandy Bridge CPUs will be just as good (assuming you're using the GTX460M, because GPU usually bottlenecks first with games). Better processors will offer a marginal difference (but at a higher cost) when it comes to games if your GPU is bottlenecked.

If you're rendering media, like working with software like Sony Vegas, Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, then better processors will render faster because media based software are designed to take advantage of multi-core processors (most games aren't, although this is changing with games like Crysis 2, Battlefield 3 etc). To give you a benchmark, I get almost real-time rendering of BFBC2 footage (captured with fraps and rendered in Sony Vegas). Real time meaning the video renders in the same time as it's length. So the 2630qm is an awesome processor for both gaming and media (for the price; obviously more money will give you processors with better clock speeds and such, but do you really want to spend more than $1200). The 2620m is a 2 core therefore won't be as fast as the 2630qm (q = quad = 4) when it comes to media rendering (because there are only 2 cores for media based software to use). Hope this helps. Others can add or correct me if needed

 

Sandy Bridge was also a big upgrade over the previous iteration of Intel processors - to give some perspective, the 2630QM processor is actually faster than the highest-rated Clarksfield quad-core, the i7-920XM. Basically, it's really really fast, and unless you have a specific need for absurd processor speeds, it's going to be way more than adequate for most everyone's purposes for probably a couple years at least. Truth is that the casual users who are shelling out tons of money for 2820QM processors and such are paying for upgrades that they very likely are not going to come close to fully utilizing.

 

I look at this laptop today in best buy.I notice that laptop seat very close to table,not like other laptops.Is this make any problem for cooling?

 

The cooling is great, and it comes out of rear vents, not the base, hence why it sits low to the table. But DO NOT buy this laptop at Best Buy unless you want an inferior, gimped GPU instead of the normal, powerful GTX 460m that most everyone else in this thread has. The Best Buy G53SW also only has 720p resolution instead of 1080p, which is a serious downgrade, and a vastly inferior dual-core i5 processor instead of the powerful quad-core i7 processor we were just discussing above.

Just saying, you can buy what you want, but if you purchase the Best Buy G53SW you will *not* be purchasing anything even close to the laptop we have been discussing in this thread. Proceed with caution. I *strongly* recommend going to newegg or Amazon and purchasing one there.

 

I have to agree, I looked at the Best Buy Model before buying mine, (incidently I got mine from Microcenter). The Best Buy model is not as great and cost as much as I paid for mine ($1299 +tax.) I got the better deal and while it's up to you, I would check to see if a Microcenter is around you first, and if not order online. I personally wouldn't get the Best Buy Model.

I was wondering if anyone has had any problems getting onto Asus's website lately to download drivers. (Under the support tab once your in) I tried getting on and keep getting timed out. Was going to redo windows and such on my laptop. (Deleted the recovery partition as I had a sluggish out of box system and just redid it. That and I like a clean system where I can install what I want.) Anyhow was going to download the latest drivers and couldn't get to the driver download site. Even tried other computers and called my friend up to try the site (make sure it wasn't my internet acting up) and no go. Also on a side note, i tried to find the SW in the notebook selection area, where you can look them up and no SW just the 73SW not the 53SW, what gives there?

 

Which one should I purchase? ASUS G53SW A1 or XN1?
I am just a casual player who plays web-based games, but I am majoring in Computer Science so that I want a laptop with good productivity. Help me out

 

Unless you can find an A1 cheaper than $1,150, get the XN1. it's currently the best deal for a G53SW and will serve you well.

Same goes for you

 

Both computers are essentially the same thing, there are only a few differences like hard drive and memory. Also the A1 includes a gaming mouse and a bag. I agree with the poster above me, the XN1 is the better choice, but if money is not a problem, go with the A1 since you'll get more out of it.

 

What type of settings are you guys on for those who is playing GTA 4?

 

Well, I kinda disagree - if money isn't a problem everyone should *still* get the XN1. It's cheaper to upgrade RAM on your own, and quite frankly if you have the money to buy an A1 you should save it, buy the XN1, and spend that extra money on a solid-state drive. The boost in performance you'll get from an SSD will be astronomical compared to an extra 2GB of memory and a little more HDD space, both of which have very minimal real-wold impact on performance.

 

Anyone play Witcher 2 yet? What settings are you running with what fps?

 

Im actually having troubles with Witcher 2. Im getting pretty low FPS even on low specs (15-25) at 1080. However, at 720 I get ok FPS on high specs.

 

Witcher 2 is just too much for the GTX 460M to be running at 1080p on high details. You have to run at 900p or lower to keep the high settings or run everything on minimum to keep 1080p.

 

woots got my G53SW today but I have some issues. I am wondering if anyone can help me?
Firstly, I bought it in Singapore since I am a Singaporean.
Issue 1: I bought it for an upgrade up to 12gb ram but apparently the reseller failed to install both rams into my laptop. However, they installed one and requested me to go to the ASUS service center to upgrade/install the other one. Is this possible? Furthermore, I found out through dxdiag that my laptop has already got 12gb ram unlike what they claimed it is 8gb because it had 4gb default in their perception so I am really perturbed if my laptop has 8gb/12gb should I trust dxdiag?
Issue 2: My usb 3.0 don't seem to acknowledge another usb 3.0 harddrive that was free within my purchase. HDD 500gb from Toshiba "Calmee Zeus". How else can I get it to work?
Please help me.Thanks!

 

@asuslaptopfan

if you look at this video, you can see that the G53SW has three easily accessible RAM slots, you can access it without voiding your warranty. The fourth one needs a complete disassemble of the computer, voiding your warranty.

but 12GB is possible, you may have 3x4GB installed ^^

 

Is it possible then in that case to get ASUS Service Center to install the 4th 4GB Ram for me because I don't want to risk voiding my warranty.

 

Yea thats what I thought, although its still a bit choppy at 900p on high settings.

 

How do you disable backlit light on the keyboard?

 

try FN + F3

 

Just picked up a G53SW-A1. Put my Vertex 3 in it. It was much easier to get to the HDD then I've read about. Works great. This must scratch easy though. I had a couple deep scratches on it out of the box.

 

Hello all, first time poster here!

I've just bought a G53SW, which is performing great in all games I've tested except GTA IV, but from what I read that's a very common problem. Still, this is not the issue I'm bringing forth today!

I just seem not to be able to update my graphics card with the new 275.33 drivers from nVidia, just say that the system can't find a compatible graphic card. I've seen this issue around, but haven't been able to find a solution, work-around or found a statement from nVidia.

Does anyone know how to update my driver without using the 267.xx drivers from Asus' website?
Or is this an issue that's being worked on? I would really like to have the benefits of a new and improved driver!

 

Thanks. Got my G53SWupgraded to 16GB ram

 

I feel so stupid asking this, but how do you open the computer without hurting it? I tried a screwdriver to pop open the bottom, but that didn't work at all. How are you supposed to do it?

 

I suggest that you watch videoes on youtube and try to understand before attempting to open your com/laptop especially if you value it a lot.
Always be sure of what you are doing.

 

try the "inf" file from laptopvideo2go here...

The youtube video may be this one! watch it, very good =)

 

I heard it is bad for the laptop to have it plugged in while the battery at 100% (Shortens the overall battery life)

Should I take out the battery when I am at home and keep it plugged in? Anyone doing this?

 

I followed the steps in this article and it's working perfectly.

 

Welp, I went ahead and bought a new 120GB OCZ Agility 3 solid state drive! It'll be arriving from Amazon tomorrow. Good deal with a mail-in rebate that gives an extra $30 off right now, so I only paid $200 for it. I'll let y'all know how it goes. I know OCZ isn't the most "reliable" of SSDs sooo... hopefully I get a good one. *fingers crossed*

 

Anyone experiencing any problems with wireless connectivity? My card drops internet 2-3 times a day randomly. I know it's not my router because my dad's laptop and wirelessly connected desktop keep their connections. Do I need to upgrade drivers (haven't touched any wireless drivers at all after initial set up)? When I loose connection it shows a little yellow bar on the wireless icon in system tray and says "DNS error." I usually just click "disconnect" and click "connect" again which fixes it, it's just that it has started to happen a couple times a day now. Not sure what I'm doing wrong. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Ugh... the left key on my touchpad is completely stuck. No bueno.

 

That is very no bueno Might be some practical way to fix it, I wouldn't know personally, though. Funny thing is, I literally *never* use the left button. The right button, definitely. But I always, always tap the touchpad instead of left-clicking. Just way easier. I did the same thing with my MBP for years. I guess it's a question of personal preference and habit, though. My left button could be broken and I wouldn't notice it for weeks, if not months.

 

Hmmm yeah i use it a lot. Don't think I was particularly forceful with it though. Guess I will have to take it to the service center.

 

Hello everyone! I've been following all of your posts here and in the original thread for awhile now as I've been searching for a new laptop to take with me to college that is capable of gaming. Thank you all for all of the information you've provided here, as it really made my decision a lot easier. And I wanted to give a special thank you to kaworu876 for starting this lounge I was in the same boat as you, where I was going to purchase an XPS 15 configured almost identically to yours, but then I found the G53SW on Newegg and started to do some snooping. Just ordered it 5 minutes ago so I'll let you all know when it comes in and if it works. I'm really hoping that I don't get one of the DOA units... Can't wait for it to get here!

 

anyone know if the G73 caddy for 2º HD is compatible with our G53?
(I can´t find sellers or stores in Europe to buy the specific of G53)
Thanks

 

I have had some problems too, but rather then a "DNS Error" mine just completely drops the connection and shows a red "x" over the wireless bars. I created a shortcut to my wireless connection on my desktop and just right-click it, the click disable, then right click again and click enable and it's fine. I know it's not a router issue as there are multiple wireless and wired computers hooked into my router. My wireless card in the g53sw might be picky though as i never had issues at my college. I took networking and honestly, for the issue your having, it might just be your router as your router has a DNS Server built into it, which short story it translates your web addesses such as Google into ip addresses. When was the last time you rebooted your router? Technically speaking, one should unplug, wait 5-10 mins then plug their router back in once a month. It will help. It's been mentioned on computer catalogs and on a few websites. This shouldn't erase all your settings it's just like shutting down your laptop or desktop to clear your memory. A router is a specialized computer after all. People tend to forget this. I would try that and see what happens. Hope that helps. Oh for those who don't know what DNS is: Domain Name System (DNS) is a hierarchical naming system built on a distributed database for computers, services, or any resource connected to the Internet or a private network. Most importantly, it translates domain names meaningful to humans into the numerical identifiers associated with networking equipment for the purpose of locating and addressing these devices worldwide. ( Domain Name System - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) for more information.

 

Prepare to be blown away!

 

Yes, it is.

Congratulations man! DOA units are rarer than you think (and mine works great), so I don't think you'll be disappointed

 

Only drawback about ASUS G53SW that I owned is that it is really bulky maybe because of the gig and the 15.6" Screen.

 

I had the older bigger brother to the 53SW the G73JH, it was nice but I ended up trading it because of the bulkiness. I find the 53SW to be just right. The reason for the bulkiness is the rear end. I joke around and say that my laptop has a fat a%$. (You know what I mean, not 100% sure of the rules here though so better safe then sorry.) The reason it is though is because of the cooling system and boy does it work. Now personally, I'd prefer an awesome cooling system over a thin laptop that could possibly overheat. But that's preference. Everyone has their own. But I do agree, the Newer G series (modeled after the f-117 nighthawk) are a bit bulkier then their same screen size counterparts.

 

Another touchpad issue. Well not really issue but does anyone have like a circular stain where you have used the touchpad - like it has been worn away? Am i tripping or does someone else have this?

Probably going to get my whole touchpad replaced next week (not for that problem). Unfortunately it is going to take a week to get it back and i need it for work.

All in all it is not that big of issue just feels like I am off to a bit of a bad start coz i only bought the notebook two weeks ago.

 

I've seen this kind of 'stain' on other notebook's touchpad. I always figured it was a stain from the natural oil from your finger.

 

maybe so. any tips on getting rid of it? or since i might be getting a new one preventing it?

 

There is no way to prevent it. You can clean the oil off with a tiny amount of windex on a rag.

 

Well I was able to test heat a bit better by ducting an air conditioner to the intake. Max GPU temp was 80C, but I'm still getting the stuttering/freezing issue while gaming.

I do not have an SSD in this. It's the 640 gig drive, whichever that is.