HP Envy 15 Alternative

doctordoctor

Member
Oct 24, 2005
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Looking for a light-ish 15" Windows-based performance rig. Doesn't need an SSD, but will probably buy one if it's not included.

Attracted to the Envy but the red screen issues have scared me away for now (I've read rumors of a recall or a software patch but the community seems to scoff at the latter).

Desired:

Dedicated video card with ≥1 GB DDR5
Capacity for ≥ 8 GB RAM
i5 or i7
Nice aesthetics (e.g. backlit keyboard).

Uses:
Rare video editing, frequent photoshop use
Remote work connection through XP virtualization (so I need Windows 7 Pro or better)

Have been considering the Samsung Series 7 15" though some complain about sharp edges and a plastic base. These are probably not essential items, but there seem to be some concerns about build quality. Am I crazy? Thinkpads lack any design panache whatsoever, and Vaios are all > $2K for the same specs. Is there a sub $2K machine that fits this bill?

As with everything, online reviews are both my friend and enemy. By trying to make the exact right choice, I can't make any choice at all. It's another case of "perfect is the enemy of good." What is good (enough)?