Asus M50Sv Review, Benchmarks and Photos

Asus M50Sv Review
By EXcaliberPC.com on Saturday, March 15, 2008

Overview and Introduction:

Asus introduced this week (week 3 March ’08) the M50SV-A1 notebook. It is a 15.4” WXGA+ (1440x900) wide screen notebook touted by Asus as the “Entertainment Revolution.” It is easy to see why. This notebook features the latest processor technology in the T9300 Penryn CPU with its 6MB cache, 250GB of spacious hard drive storage, Altec Lansing speakers, innovative multi-media control touchpad, and connectors such as HDMI and e-sata. Other key features include a 1.3M pixel webcam, fingerprint reader (cool feature), numeric key pad, Trusted Platform Module V 1.2. Asus positioned the M50SV-A1 in the mid range to value range and indeed for its price you do get a ton of features. The model reviewed is black in color and uses the same In-mold Roller high gloss finish cover that was used on the F8SV series.​

Specifications for the M50Sv-A1 model used for this review are as follow:

• Screen: 15.4" WXGA+ (1440 x 900) Color Shine Glossy LCD
• Processor: 2.5GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T9300 (800 MHz FSB, 6MB L2 Cache)
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce 9500M GS (512MB dedicated VRAM)
• Memory: 3GB RAM (DDR2 667 memory, 2 sockets for up to 4GB)
• Hard Drive: 250GB 5400RPM Serial ATA
• Optical Drive: 8x DVD Super Multi Dual Layer
• Camera: 1.3 megapixel webcam w/240 degree swivel
• Card Reader: 8-in-1 card reader (MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory Stick/MS Pro/MS Duo/MS Pro Duo)
• Ports/Slots: 1 x HDMI, 1 x VGA, 1 x Express Card, 4 x USB 2.0 ( 1 x eSATA/USB Combo), 1 x IEEE 1394
• Wireless LAN: Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n)
• LAN: 10/100/1000 Base T
• Communication: Bluetooth V. 2.0 + EDR
• Security: Fingerprint Authentication Reader + Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
• Speakers & Mic: Altec Lansing Stereo Speakers and built-in microphone
• Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium
• Dimensions: 14.7" x 10.5" x 1.7" inches (W x D x H)
• Weight: 6.65 pounds
• MSRP: $1399 USD



Reasons for Buying:
The typical M50SV-A1 buyer is looking for a notebook that packs power (latest CPU and 3GB of memory) and fingerprint security in addition to a large hard drive. The e-sata connector is relatively uncommon for notebooks but provides excellent way to use fast external hard drive storage. The M50SV-A1’s numeric keypad makes data entry very easy for those who are used to the regular keypad and the multimedia touchpad is a cool feature to have.

Build & Design:
Being an Asus notebook the M50SV-A1 naturally has an attractive design. The outside of the notebook is black with faint straight lines running across it and is very glossy. The cover is made with the In-Mold Roller technology which means the surface is very scratch resistant. The notebook opens smoothly and pushes back against you as it opens making it feel very solid. The same IMR technology is used on the inside of the notebook except it’s gray in color instead of black. The borders around the LCD are black and solid glossy surface. Pushing in on the lid from the outside does not cause ripples on the LCD picture. It’s possible to twist the LCD casing slightly so it is a bit above average in construction. While the notebook is open pushing on the LCD the hinge wobbles very little and holds its position well. The M50SV-A1 feels quite heavy if you were to hold it with one hand so it is best not to operate it while holding it up with just one hand.

Refer to the photo below to identify the components on the bottom side of the notebook.


Screen:
The M50SV-A1 features a 15.4” WXGA+ (1440x900) screen. The screen surface is very reflective and is almost like a rear view mirror if showing black background. Text and lines are very clear. The image seems a bit dull (not very bright due to the AI light feature turned on by default) but so is softer on the eyes though some people may wish it was brighter. Asus integrates AI Light features (also known as Ambient Light Sensor) so it adjusts brightness to ambient lighting should provide images with the best lighting effects and least strain on the eye. The Asus Intelligent light feature can be disabled by pressing " Fn + A " keys, users will then have full control in typical brightness setting. Our test unit had no dead pixels but with Asus 30 day ZBD guarantee nobody should have a problem with dead pixel. The viewing angle on the M50SV-A1 is quite good both horizontally and vertically.

A screenshot of the desktop (Click to enlarge)


Speakers:
Asus integrated Altec Lansing stereo speakers into the M50SV-A1 and the results are quite good. Sound is clear and fairly loud at the highest setting. As is with most mobile speakers it is lacking in bass. The speakers are located prominently in the upper left and right corners of the inside of the notebook instead of being tucked away at the sides for most notebooks for the best sound effects.

Processor and performance:
The M50SV-A1 takes 58 seconds to go from the user pushes the power button to when Windows is ready. The system comes with 3GB of memory which is almost as much as you can use for Vista 32 bit. The 250GB hard drive is only 5400 RPM but programs executes quickly on it. The performance is fast as seen below due to the latest Intel Penryn CPU and its speedy GeForce 9500M GS 512MB graphics card.




Benchmarks:

Vista Windows Experience Index: 4.8 (Click on thumbnail to see the details.)



System Hardware:
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo T9300 (2.5GHz 6MB L2 Cache)
Memory: 3GB DDR2 667 (Hynix 2GB + 1GB)
Graphics Card: GeForce 9500M GS 512MB

System Software & Drivers:
Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium (32-bit)
NVIDIA ForceWare Version: 156.80 (Stock Driver)



3DMark06 Score: 4419 (800x600) - 3804 (1024x768) - 3578 (1280x720) - 3091 (1440x900)
3DMark06 Score: 4419 (800x600)

3DMark06 Score: 3804 (1024x768)

3DMark06 Score: 3578 (1280x720)

3DMark06 Score: 3091 (1440x900)



System Hardware: (Overclocked via RivaTuner v.2.08)*
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo T9300 (2.5GHz 6MB L2 Cache)
Memory: 3GB DDR2 667 (Hynix 2GB + 1GB)
* Graphics Card: GeForce 9500M GS 512MB
* Core: 561MHz - Shader: 1122MHz - Memory: 451MHz

System Software & Drivers:
Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium (32-bit)
NVIDIA ForceWare Version: 174.31


3DMark06 Score: 5042 (1024x768) - 4726 (1280x720) - 4041 (1440x900)

3DMark06 Score: 5042 (1024x768)
3DMark06 Score: 4726 (1280x720)
3DMark06 Score: 4041 (1440x900)

Heat and Noise:
Overall this notebook is cool except for slight heat from the exhaust fan on the upper left side due to the use of Penryn CPU and new GF 9500M which lowers heat output substantially. Noise is also almost non-existent during operating. The only way to hear noise is to our ears next to the hard drive compartment during hard drive search or next to the fan exhaust to hear a faint hum. The DVD super-multi drive makes noises only during initial reading of the drive or during changes in chapter. Other wise during operating the DVD drive is very quiet.

Below are images with the temperatures listed in degrees during our operation (Fahrenheit):


Keyboard and touchpad:
The keyboard on the M50SV-A1 has a definite flex on the top. The keys don’t feel as nice as other notebooks we have reviewed. The great thing about this notebook is the addition of numeric keypad. For people who are used to entering numbers quickly using numeric keypads this is a great feature. The touchpad is very smooth to the touch and has printed on it the multimedia controls that you can activate by tapping on the upper right corner of the touchpad upon which the touchpad printing lights up in blue so you know you are in the multimedia mode. It is very convenient and easy to use. The multimedia functions work with Windows Media player. During multimedia touchpad mode you can also use the scroll feature to change volume or mute sound.

Full-sized Keyboard w/ Numeric Keypad (Click on the thumbnail below to enlarge)



Input and output:
The M50SV-A1 features 3 USB ports, all on the right side of the notebook. Also on the right side of the notebook are 3 audio ports (microphone, headphone, s-pdif out). On the back of the notebook are modem port, wired LAN RJ45 port, and power in jack. On the left side of the notebook you have an e-sata/USB2.0 combo port, IEEE 1394 firewire port, VGA out, HDMI, SD card slot, and express card slot.

note: AV/S Video In & Antenna Input is not listed as available features on US models at this time.




Wireless:
The M50SV-A1 provides wireless connectivity through either the built in WLAN 802.11AGN wireless card and Bluetooth 2.0 EDR – an enhanced data rate that transmits up to 3 times faster than standard Bluetooth. The wireless LAN works great with our office router and can be turned on or off via software (off to conserve power).


Battery Life:

• 6-Cell, mAh, 53Whrs
Battery Saving Mode (DVD Movie Playback) :
Approximately 1 hour and 41 min.
Display Brightness: 60%
Maximum / Minimum processor state: 60% / 5%
Wireless/Bluebooth: Off

Battery Saving Mode (Internet Video Streaming & Web Surfing) :
Approximately 2 hour and 15 min.
Display Brightness: 60%
Maximum / Minimum processor state: 60% / 5%
Wireless/Bluebooth: On

note: large 9-cell battery is available as an optional accessory

Operating System and software:

The M50SV-A1 is factory loaded by Asus with Windows Vista Home Premium 32bit. It is also loaded with the Symantec Internet Security, Nero 7 Essentials, MS Office Trial version, and several other trial/freeware. As with all with notebooks, it comes with a recovery DVD and software CD which are easy to use. Alternative way to recover the OS is using the hidden partition.

Program Menu


Default Programs and Features


Customer Support:
We have not had to use Asus customer support for this notebook.

ASUS 360 with 20224 Protection
2 A two year global warranty: You can receive free service on your notebook at ASUS service centers worldwide for two years from your date of purchase.
0 A zero bright dot guaranty: If your LCD displays even a single bright dot within 30 days of purchase, ASUS will replace your notebook’s entire screen.
2 Free two-way standard overnight shipping: If your notebook needs service, we cover the cost of shipping it to us Fedex standard overnight from one of over 2,000 Fedex stations in the US. We overnight it back to you for free as well. In Canada, call for pickup from your business or residence to our Canada Service Center and we will deliver your notebook back to the same address, also using Fedex standard overnight.
24 Twenty-four hour tech support seven days per week: Our customer service professionals are there to service you at all times (Holidays excepted) .
* Excluding holidays

ASUS Accidental Damage Warranty
ASUS notebook users who register their new notebook within 60 days of purchase are eligible for ASUS’ accidental damage warranty. If your ASUS laptop is damaged from an accidental electrical surge, fire, spill, or drop, it will be repaired or completely replaced by ASUS.

* Selected models apply; one claim per notebook.

Conclusion:
The M50SV-A1 offers the latest technology at a modest price. It is great as a desktop replacement and media center on the go.

• Pro:
- Latest technology at a great price
- Great performance
- Solid construction
- Good viewing angles
- Multimedia touchpad
- Numeric Keypad
- Runs cool and quiet

• Con:
- Keyboard flex at top
- Glossy screen coating does enhance color over a matte panel,
but its reflectivity could irk users if there's a light source in front of the display.
- Average battery life

Package Content:


• Accessories included with M50Sv-A1:
1. 6-cell battery 4800mAh, 53Whrs x 1
2. 90 Watt AC Adapter w/ power cord (ADP-90SB) x 1
3. Asus branded optical mouse (Logitech M-UAG120) x 1
4. Asus branded carry case x 1
5. S-Video to RCA Cable x 1
6. RJ11 Phone Cable x 1
7. Cable Tie x 1
8. Microfiber LCD Cleaning Cloth (Blue) x 1
9. Notebook Warranty Card w/ serial # x 1
10. Quick Installation Guide x 1

• Software:
1. Asus Recovery DVD v. 1.3 (EN/FR/SP/CS/CT)
2. M50Sv Driver & Utility CD v. 2.0
3. Nero OEM Suite CD v. 7.9.6.2

Thank you for reading!

 

Great, thanks for the excellent review! I'm hoping all the 8600GT notebooks get the 9500GS upgrade (or better) soon. I'm tired of noisy laptops with insufficient cooling that run hot (main reason I'm holding off on Apple, besides price).

 

Thanks for the great review! Can you provide any battery life amounts for the optional 9-cell battery?

 

We will post more battery results on Monday for both 6 and 9 cell plus gallery pictures. Thanks!

 

Thanks Excaliber for this very well-done review.

I purchased one of these from Xotic as they are located close to me. I had considered the Compal JFL92.

I knew the battery life on the Asus was not as good as the Compal JFL92. Do you feel the the keyboard and screen are better on the Compal?

 

I would also be real interested in what people think of the keyboard. The comment of flex at the top concerns me.
Also the review that mentioned the screen was to shiny for office use.
If thats true the sager 2092 matte screen may be better afterall

 

The screen and image quality should be just as good as the Compal, if not, only better. Brightness can be adjusted based on user preference and the intelligent light sensor can be disabled using Fn + A keys. Screen reflectivity might irk some users to get used to, but we like what we see in terms of clarity.

 

Is NVIDIA ForceWare Version: 174.31 this for vista 32 bit? or for xp 32 bit? cuz i couldn't find it??? just curious...

 

Yes, it's vista 32-bit and you can find it on laptopvideo2go.com. Thanks!

 

you may want to remove/edit your comment about the screen not being bright. The ai sensor can be disabled. if the sensor is disabled the lumens would measure out to be an industry standard. This screen is no less bright then most others you see from asus and any other manufacturer. Other then that a very detailed review.

 

great review. nice work

 

Can you list, or picture the surface temperatures when you overclock the GPU? Please

 

Excellent review! Man, that was helpful.

I am wondering if anybody has used this laptop to try and play Bioshock. I'm looking to buy a new computer (laptop) specifically for that purpose. So far, this laptop (the ASUS M50Sv-A1) is my top choice.

I love the specs as well as the Altec Lansing speakers and the touchpad setup - never seen something like that before. I've been spoiled by my Toshiba (first laptop ever purchased) with its dedicated volume wheel on the outside and this touchpad volume seems to be the closest thing to an "outside volume wheel" that I can find on reasonably-priced laptops. So I really really want to get it.

However, the main reason I'm getting a laptop with this kind of power is to play Bioshock. And I don't want to get something that won't play it - does anybody have anything to say on that?

 

Well you are in luck! As you might know, the Asus F8Sn C1 has EXACTLY the same hardware as the M50Sv. And guess what...GenTechPC has recently (two days ago) released a review on the F8Sn-C1 with a video of it playing Bioshock!
The thread is here.

The review also has nice overclocking setups. If you want to play Crysis in the future, then this laptop can play it acceptably (30-50fps in a video I have seen, thats alright I guess) on low-medium settings at 1280x720, with OC.

Hope I have helped you with your queries!

 

Hey EXcaliber, does the M50Sv have S-Video out?

Because the package comes with a S-Video to RCA Cable right? But I can't see the connection on it anywhere in the provided description pictures..

 

Hello,

M50Sv does not have S-video out. The S-video to RCA cable is included with all Asus notebook regardless. Have you tried the HDMI?

 

Ok thanks for verifying!

With the M50Sv? No, I havn't got one..yet! (6)
And I havn't used the HDMI connection anywhere else either, just used to S-Video. Though the HDMI is alot better by my understanding in video quality output, and it sends sound too so awesome! Just need a HDMI to RCA cord when I get the M50Sv..

HDMI ftw?

 

Wow, digital to analog converters are expensive..lol.
But VGA to RCA is fine, I don't know why I didn't consider that first.

 

Yes, they are very expensive for what they are. 15-pin VGA to RCA M/M cable should be pretty easy to find these days. Thanks!

 

Great review, I think this is the midrange 15.4" notebook to beat right now.

I have a question though. I see that there is no DVI out, but rather there is an HDMI and VGA out instead. I've seen HDMI to DVI connector adapters, do you know if they actually work? I'd like to connect to my LCDs DVI connector with this notebook as opposed to VGA.

 

The principle differences between the HDMI and DVI are that HDMI carries audio as well as video signals and uses a different kind of connector. You shouldn't need an intervening converter box, but just a plain DVI/HDMI cable or adapter since they are bi-directional. A DVI/HDMI cable should run no more than $20 and it's worthy a try!