Configuring Inspiron 1720: Need video card help

I'm configuring an Inspiron 1720, and am not sure which video card I really need. I have the choice of: 1) Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100, 2) 128MB INVIDIA GeForce Go 8400M GS, or 3) 256MB INVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT. I don't do any gaming, and probably will use the notebook occasionally for watching DVD's. I do a lot of photo editing, if that makes any difference. Any help with recommendations would be appreciated.

 

Since you are not doing any gaming then the Intel Graphics Media Accelarator will work fine, save you alot of money and you will be able to watch dvd's with the integrated solution.

 

You definitely don't need the 256MB card if you're not gaming. I think you'd be alright with the X3100; it would be less draining on the battery and be one less thing that would need to be cooled. If you're not doing anything 3D (gaming, CAD, whatever), usually an integrated card will be just fine.

 

So the Invidia cards won't make any difference with DVD's and photo editing? If not, I have not problem saving money. I wasn't sure if the dedicated cards were only of benefit in gaming.

 

Dedicated cards are pretty much for gaming only. Dvd's will play fine and photo editing more depends on the processor speed (applying filters, rendering etc.) so you can go integrated and be fine, whilst saving some cheddar!!

 

Also, I'd just like to add, the X3100 is the best integrated video card.

 

I have a follow-up question I too am considering the 1720 and was wondering if the intergrated graphics would be fine for the occassional game. I am not a serious gamer but I do play flight simulator and civilization IV.