Faster processor or discrete graphics? Must buy tonight, please weigh in.

[bull2118]

I am wanting a new laptop. Mostly for watching DVDs, web etc... but I would also like to play some RTS/Strategy games, nothing fancy. 14'' is preferable but 15/16 is ok. Price is definitely a (500USD) consideration and I've narrowed it down to these two.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Asus+-+L...&skuId=1257145

and

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...=ITD&body=MAIN

The coupon on the thinkpad expires tonight so I've got to pull the trigger tonight. Which is better? Will the integrated graphics on the Asus run CIV, SC2? Thanks in advance.

 

[IGemini]

Between the two, the Asus is a far better deal. While GMA HD and the Radeon 4250 are basically on the same level, the Turion is gimped in the cache department. And neither of these uses discrete graphics.

 

[Throckmorton]

Onboard graphics will suck for strategy games, unless you're talking about very old ones like Total Annihilation

 

[Skott]

Personally, I wouldnt consider either of them decent enough for games. If you can hold out till Xmas you may be able to snag a laptop on sale with something better than onboard graphics between now and then.

 

[Soleron]

They're both integrated.

That said I play Starcraft II on a laptop with worse graphics than either (4500MHD) and it works completely fine except for 4v4. That's a recent and relatively intensive RTS.

 

[Skott]

Just as a thought has the OP considered the Alienware mx11? I know its smaller than 14" but might fill the need. Only $599. I never played around with one but they have been popular with those looking for small budget gaming laptop.

http://www.dell.com/us/p/alienware-...112,765600447,1291309903,,20805148,6285118750

 

[corkyg]

Too late, Nay-Tahn!