How much brighter?

Hi there!

I'm torn between the Samsung 9 series, 13 inch, with the 1600x900 PLS display, and the ones with 1920x1080 displays. The reason for that is that I enjoy sitting outside when doing work, studying and so on. The PLS is said to have 400 nits, and the full hd ones just about 300. I currently have a Samsung np730u3e, and that screen works, but I don't want anything that's less bright ( would think the 9 series have the same one?). The reason for me to look at the 9 series is for the simple reason that I hate the silver keys on the 7 series.

So, I was hoping someone in here could push me in one direction or the other. I would prefer full HD, although I've never had a 1600x900 to compare with. What do you think?

 

I share your sentiment about silver keyboards and sunshine. I've got a Toshiba R500 in my collection which has a special transflective display designed for use in daylight. However, the glare from the silver keyboard (and rest of the notebook) made it painful on the eyes.

Have you got a source for the NP900X3C? Models with the 400 nit 1600 x 900 PLS panel are no longer in production.

Perhaps your first test should be to check whether the display on your NP730U3E is still usable if the brightness is reduced by a couple of steps in which case the 300 nit panels might just be OK. Contrast and viewing angles are other factors affecting usability. The reviews at Notebookcheck make some detailed measurements.

John

 

+1 beside it's not very stylish

I got a FHD NP900X3E and while it's only my personal observation outdoor work is quite feasible. Indoors I hardly ever have it on 100%, even in well lit rooms.

 

I wouldn't give to much about the review of the NP900X3G though. The reviewer pretty much destroys the display. It's supposed to be the same like I have in NP900X3E and I absolutely love it. I can't share any opinions of the reviewer about the display.

 

Thanks for your replies!

"Have you got a source for the NP900X3C? Models with the 400 nit 1600 x 900 PLS panel are no longer in production."

I have found a sort of warehouse that has one, or more of those for sale. I don't know the english word for it, but all their computers and tvs and what not, have either been returned by unhappy customers, or because they needed repairs. I haven't tried placing a towel over the keyboard on my np730 to prevent the glare. That would probably make quite a difference.

At a closer look I have may choose between the 900x3c, 900x3d, 900x3e, and the 900x3f from that store, the older models being the cheaper ones.

Gah! The choises
Gonna get myself a good cup of coffee, and read some reviews.

 

Cross the X3D off the list because it is also silver.

The key factor in favour of the X3C is that you know that the maximum brightness is more than enough and the display itself is of excellent quality. However, the brighter the display then the shorter the run time on battery. I personally feel that 1600 x 900 is more than enough resolution in 13.3" size. If using FHD you may need 125% display scaling and, while Windows display scaling is better than it used to be, it's not 100% robust.

If you want, I can take some photos of my X3B's display (same as X3C) outside.

John

 

Hi, and thanks again for your reply.

You don't have to bother with pictures or anything like that, although I really appreciate the offer! The powerdrain I would expect. But that won't be a problem indoors. And I think you may have convinced me to go for the X3C. Thanks for the heads up on the X3D though. I didn't know about that.

Thank you all for all your advice, and your time. Much appreciated!
I'm off to order a new ultrabook I think

Ruben