I can't decide!

[Avi]

Hi everyone! First I have to say that this is a great site and I learned a lot from the knowledgeable forum members here. Now my background and dilemna:

I have decided to order an np8660 as a desktop replacement which I will use mostly for gaming. I play a lot of WoW but I also enjoy FPS games when my computer can run them and I will be selling my soul to Diablo III when it comes out.

So the specs I have chosen for the machine are: P9500 processor, Nvidia 9800 GTS, 320GB 7200RPM HD and 2GB RAM. I will probably also be using XP Home SP2 because I am so much more comfortable at using and troubleshooting that OS. I can always upgrade to Vista (or better) later if I want.

I have two remaining concerns that I have researched and still cannot decide:

1) 1680x1050 glossy or 1920X1200 matte. My problem is that I have been using a matte screen lappy at home for 6 years now and the glare from my glossy screen laptop at work is really annoying me. Problem is, I think the 1920x1200 res might be too high for me considering it will be a gaming machine. Can anyone here with the 8660 matte screen comment on the game quality (video and performance) when running at resolutions lower than native? I would like to be able to use my new laptop without needing optimal lighting :D
I read some threads on how some people really like their matte choice, but how do you who chose the lower resolution feel about the glossy? Will I need to close all the blinds at home to eliminate reflection? I rather enjoy a bit of sunlight so this would be a shame :D

2) For my 2GB RAM, how much of a performance impact (gaming) is there for taking 1 2GB stick single channel vs 2 sticks of 1GB dual channel? I'd prefer to take 1 2GB stick so I can add another 2GB dual channel later if I decide to upgrade XP to something newer.

Thanks to all who took the time to read my post and I appreciate any advice you can give me. Can't wait to get my hands on the new laptop!

Avi

[Avi]

By the way, editing the title of a post doesn't work :(
I wanted to change it to something more useful to others like "NP 8660 Screen question" but changes to the title don't seem to go through.

[Elecman]

If this helps, I had 2 x 1GB sticks installed in my desktop PC for a year & half and never realized until 2 weeks ago they were in single channel. Since I moved one stick to the proper mobo location my Windows Experience Index increased from 4.7(single channel) to 5.3 (dual channel). AFA differences in gaming... I haven't noticed any but at least in theory the sticks will be running in interleave mode instead of 'parallel'. And I think everyone will advise you of the same thing; always go with 2 sticks in dual channel or else you aren't really getting what you pay for in what DDR RAM offers.


2) For my 2GB RAM, how much of a performance impact (gaming) is there for taking 1 2GB stick single channel vs 2 sticks of 1GB dual channel? I'd prefer to take 1 2GB stick so I can add another 2GB dual channel later if I decide to upgrade XP to something newer.
Avi

As far as your screen issue... I hear you loud and clear. 1900x1200 at 15.4" is 146 dpi which is insanely high. At that res you effectively won't see pixels anymore. I'd go with the 1680x1050 screen despite the glare is a more respectible 130dpi; a resolution where you'll game the best at, actually see native pixels which helps with graphic clarity, and its cheaper and easier on the battery.

[PSRT]

I agree with Elecman...unless the you really can't stand a glossy screen, go with the 1680x1050. Glossy screens tend to have better contrast and colour than matte screens, and in a 15" screen, a WUXGA display is overkill. Besides, there's a much greater chance of being able to play games at a native resolution of 1680x1050, rather than 1900x1200.

[Avi]

Thanks for the feedback guys!

always go with 2 sticks in dual channel or else you aren't really getting what you pay for in what DDR RAM offers.
I completely agree with this statement. The only reason I thought to do otherwise was that I'm cheap and it would be easier to upgrade to 4GB (only need to buy 1 RAM module instead of replacing 2) later and save $100. Then again that introduces possible memory compatibility issues with different brands and the price will probably go down before I decide to upgrade.

Right now I'm leaning towards the 1680x1050 screen...