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    Should I buy the M1530 or...

    Discussion in 'Dell XPS and Studio XPS' started by techadventures, Nov 16, 2008.

  1. techadventures

    techadventures Notebook Consultant

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    I am having a hard time in deciding what to buy. I am looking at a fully loaded XPS m1530 and a fully loaded T400 from Lenovo. The T400 is cheaper and it has better battery life but a smaller screen. I like the dell because I can get it with a full HD screen (1920) but the battery life isn't as good ( I will be on the road with this laptop quite often). The dell is also near end of life...that is, it is quite old and due for an upgrade, but at the same point they might kill the XPS line so it would be worth buying as I like the specs and the looks. This computer is for business (and pleasure) so the Lenovo has that "business look" to it but that is a small thing. Also, when I call dell they aren't giving me much of a discount and Lenovo has a 10% off the entire order right now. What do you guys think?

    Thanks
     
  2. Isend2C

    Isend2C Notebook Deity

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    I would go with the Dell, it is a much more attractive notebook. It does look professional.
     
  3. surfasb

    surfasb Titles Shmm-itles

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    While it is nearing a refresh, I still think it is a very professional looking and attractive laptop. The brushed metal look is quite in vogue. Plus, Dude, you are getting a Dell!!!
     
  4. atbnet

    atbnet Notebook Prophet

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    They aren't really killing it, just moving it to a sub brand. The M1530 though is still a very nice laptop.
     
  5. techadventures

    techadventures Notebook Consultant

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    :)...Thanks Guys...and boy am I sure glad that its in vogue
     
  6. Nintendogs

    Nintendogs Notebook Geek

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    There's a 20% and 30% off coupon for the M1530 right now.

    20%:J$TM0G$K3CNRLT (must spend at least $1,299.00)

    30%:VDN07FWDP03V0R (must spend at least $1,699.00)

    definitely go with the dell.
     
  7. steelroots7xe

    steelroots7xe Notebook Evangelist

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    I'd say go for the Lenovo first, because of battery life being the main issue. However, you're going to sacrifice better framerates on games (if you're a gamer) which the XPSM1530 provides. I've read that the T400's battery life can go up to 9-10 hours or something which is impressive. The XPS M1530's 9 cell won't even match that. Then again, Dell's got the Latitude series which can go up to 19hours, if you're willing to shell out a hefty sum. In the end, it's up to you. I have an XPS1530 and so far, I'm satisfied with it as it suites my needs.
     
  8. Cin'

    Cin' Anathema

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    Hey, to be in vogue LOL ;) :rolleyes:

    I think you should get what you want! :D
    In the end it's a matter of personal choice.

    The 1530 is a nice lappy, and right now there are some awesome deals going on for it (and the 1330). Unless, you want to wait for Dell to finally release their latest and greatest (but nothing is *set-in-stone* per se for the actual dates) :)

    I have the 1530, have had it for about 10 months, and it just *rocks* for me :D


    Cin ;) :)
     
  9. eadrian75

    eadrian75 Notebook Guru

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    The 1530 is a great machine. I love mine. Butt...this machine does love the juice. I don't take it on the road so I'm fine with it. You on the other hand may find it a bit frustrating when you find yourself managing not only your business efforts, but the when and where you will need to recharge.
     
  10. techadventures

    techadventures Notebook Consultant

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    I really can't decide. I went to best buy today to look around and I played with the m1530. It is a nice looking laptop...hard to tell what mine would be like as the best buy one is really basic spec. As I was walking around I ran into a Sony VGN Z555. This thing is a road warriors dream....13.1 in 1600 res screen, 2.4ghz dual core, 4 gb ram, vista business, and a dedicated video card (nvidia 9300 gs) and the option to switch to integrated graphics. With a 6 cell battery I can get 5 hours of battery life and a 9 cell like 7-8 hours of battery life. I am not a hugh fan of Sony, but this thing looks great. Now I really don't know what to do....I love the Dell but that sony looks pretty sweet as well. Price is around the same...what to do...
     
  11. Cin'

    Cin' Anathema

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    Hmm so you like both, eh?
    Well, weigh out what you like best, and what you don't like about both! Sometimes that helps! :D

    You already did the best thing, actually playing around with both of them.

    Go back again..maybe take pictures for a side-by-side comparison. Play around with them some more, etc.

    I took pics of the 1330 vs. 1530, when I was having a tough time making my decision. And after playing with them both, I am so glad I chose the 1530..it just works well for me :D


    Cin ;) :)
     
  12. martinmach

    martinmach Notebook Evangelist

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    t400- centrino 2, ddr3, switchable graphics, low weight, led screen, build quality and awesome battery life.
    m1530- looks, hdmi ouput, decent battery life and a good screen. there are problems with gfx cards though.
    alternatively you may want to look at the t500 or w500 for better graphics, wsxga+ or wuxga, display port output and a excellent battery life