If you're looking for a high-end desktop replacement notebook, you've got a choice of processors and even a 64-bit option. Intel or AMD: whose processor reigns supreme?
The last time we reviewed notebooks was October 2003. In that review they were ultralight portable sub-2kg units, this time around they are virtually the opposite: ultra-bulky all-in-one notebooks designed to replace a desktop PC. And they are getting very close to that goal, with impressive LCD screen sizes, integrated DVD burners, and very quick processors translating to the all-important faster application response times and multitasking capabilities that users demand from the modern PC system.
We have also introduced a twist into the mix. We opened the field and asked vendtors to submit either an AMD notebook or an Intel notebook, or both if they had them. We thought with several vendors now producing notebooks using processors from both manufacturers, it would be interesting to compare how HP, for example, differentiated their Intel- and AMD-based products. We were surprised to discover that Acer was the only manufacturer to send us one of each for review. The AMD camp has vendors such as QDI, TPG, and Pioneer and the Intel camp has Sony, Toshiba, Dell, and IBM.
HP, LG, and Xenon were also invited but didn't submit. So of the notebooks we received, here's how they went.
I'm surprised that in a 'high-end desktop replacement notebook' category Dell didn't think to submit their new Inspiron 9100.
To quote from Reuben Lee, ZDNet, 04 March 2004
'The Inspiron 9100 is probably one of the best notebooks around that can truly replace the desktop PC, offering speed and excellent 3D graphics performance.'
Having just purchased one I would have to agree.
I would have truly liked to have seen this cat set amongst these pigeons.
What was Dell thinking?