Notebook with both integrated + dedicated graphics

[pilzner]

In checking out reviews of the HP Envy 14, I noticed this review that mentioned being able to switch between the integrated and dedicated vid cards. Idea being when a power source was available, you'd use the Radeon 5650, and when on the go Integrated graphics would help conserve battery life:

http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=5891&p=3

I'd really like a laptop that could do this. The envy 14 is not a contender, since it doesn't come in 1600 resolution and I'm not a fan of the touchpad. What other notebooks have this ability?

Is the ability to do this fairly standard laptops with both integrated graphics + GPU (say, i5 plus whatever graphics card)? Or does it involve some sort of hardware/software magic that HP cooked up on there own?

 

[TheStu]

HP's implementation is unique in that it works with ATi cards, but almost any with Core i and an nvidia card should have what is called Optimus, which is nVidia's solution.

What is your price range?

 

[pilzner]

~ $1000.

For Optimus, is the switching initiated by the User, or does the software/hardware determine which to use?

 

[TheStu]

~ $1000.

For Optimus, is the switching initiated by the User, or does the software/hardware determine which to use?

It is usually a software thing, at least for current Optimus implementations. I believe you can also force it yourself.