cheap gaming laptop advice

[DjUnternull]

I am going to get a laptop for personal/xmas because i wanted something to take to work and use as i needed and play SOME games. I own a gateway fx6860 and it does the job with the games that i have, however its a 17'' monster and ways like a brick so im looking for a lighter alternative to take to work and use as a gaming machine.(i will put what games i will play on the bottom). My spending limit is around 400-500.
World of Warcraft
Everquest 2
Age of Conan
Aion
I know the two most graphic intensive ones is probably Aion but its worth a shot if anything i would cut back to only wow and eq2 as i currently have subs to these two.
Trying to go with a low screen size for portability
and hopefully good build quality




Thanks and let me know of your opinion

 

[CurseTheSky]

For those games, you absolutely want a dedicated graphics card. Integrated isn't going to cut it for Aion, Age of Conan, and probably Everquest 2.

If you're willing to turn settings down, this one comes with an HD4570 (not fast by any means) for around $600: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16834220636. It's 15.6" and weighs 6 lbs.

Otherwise, I'd look for a used laptop with a decent last-generation gaming card. Finding one that's not 17" will be tough, though.

Other than that, you're really looking at something double the price range you listed. Here's an ASUS with a 14.1" screen and HD4650 for $800: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834220635.

 

[DjUnternull]

what about the last generation laptops like the Dell Inspiron XPS ? it will probably do wow and eq2....

 

[CurseTheSky]

Yeah, my girlfriend was able to play Portal (Source engine) on an XPS M1530 with an 8400M GT, but she had to keep the AA off and turn down a couple of settings. It should handle WoW fine, and probably EQ2 without many problems. Aion and Age of Conan might be a bit more difficult, but should still be playable.

Finding one for $400-500ish might be difficult, though.

 

[DjUnternull]

im looking around on ebay there running 250+ , should i go for those or try to find a dual core?