Mobile Notebook/Laptop for Graphics and Animation

[Sentinel]

Looking to get something mobile so I can travel with it and work on projects. Trying to spend under $1k. Is this possible? Would like to ideally get a core duo, however something decent with a gig of ram (upwards of 2GHz) would work.

Suggestions?

 

[halfadder]

Good luck for under $1000. If you're careful and not rough, you can probably get by with a cheaper notebook that isn't built quite so sturdy, that might save you a few dollars.

Suggestions:
Get at least 1 GB, RAM is cheap these days, even from crucial.com
Get a real GPU, at least a 128 MB X1600, don't skimp on the graphics, you'll be kicking yourself later. "Upgradable" graphics can be upgraded, at a huge price.
If you plan on outputting your animations to MiniDV, DVCAM, or DVCPro, then get a notebook with a Firewire/iLink/IEEE1394 port.
Built-in bluetooth is handy, that way you can bring along a good mouse without also having to bring along a wireless adapter or cord.

 

[Sentinel]

Yeah, I know it is a small amount to work with- just wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to what to purchase. I have been researching with no luck.

 

[Sentinel]

OK if I bump the budget up to about $2000, what kind of machines should I look for?

Right now I am personally running a xp1700 @ 2.2GHz, 2x1 GB Ram, 9600xt 128 MB and that is slow when I have huge files. The workstations we use aren't even up to par in our animation lab- using 3.2 GHz P4s, 2x512 MB Ram.

 

[deathwalker]

I thing you could get a Dell e1705 for $2000 (or less) with all the power you would need for that job.

 

[pkme2]

You can get an E1505, spec it $2000 and use the $750 discount coupon. Get it for $1250 + shipping.
The lappy will have everything needed to do video/graphic 3D/2D. Just helped a client order one, same specs.
If you want the info, you can PM me.

 

[Aimster]

Originally posted by: deathwalker
I thing you could get a Dell e1705 for $2000 (or less) with all the power you would need for that job.

I just got one for $1250 shipped - 3%

I got a carrying case ($50)
plus shipping was $60

1 GB Ram
1.8Ghz CPU
256 Nvidia Graphic Card
60GB 7200RPM harddrive
17" upgraded to the ultralight

check fatwallet for the deal.