Which T520 configuration is better for my needs?

[YellowJersey]

I'm buying a new T520 laptop for general use and image editing. I work with 22mb RAW files as well as 120mb TIFF files in photoshop. My current T500 can barely handle them. My question is, which processor/graphics configuration would suit me better?

Intel Core i7-2860QM Processor (2.50 GHz, 8MB, L3, 1333MHz with a NVIDIA Quadro NVS4200M Optimus technology 1GB graphics card?

Or an Intel Core i7-2640M Processor (2.80GHz, 4MB L3, 1333MHz with Intel HD Graphics 3000) ?

 I'm also concerned about reliability, and hear that the NVIDIA graphics card heats up a lot more than the Intel card.

[NINE]

hi Yellow jersey.

I am going to base this pick through my own personal judgement and experience. I would certainly advise you to get the the choice posted below. I do a fair bit of 3d modelling in spare time and some picture and texture editing. In comparison to the intel HD graphics, the Quardo does a great job. Especially in rendering my images.

Intel Core i7-2860QM Processor (2.50 GHz, 8MB, L3, 1333MHz with a NVIDIA Quadro NVS4200M Optimus technology 1GB graphics card?

I can't really say which one is better though as it really boils down to the person. But if you were to ask me i strongly advise to get the the one with the Quadro. U can't go wrong with that when it comes to graphics.

Do let me should you require further advice.

Regards

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

Which software package are you using? Adobe photoshop? I dont think the nvs quadro would much difference with your files, i would go with the more powerful CPU, lot of ram and a SSD. Or get the Thinkpad W520.

[mixz1]

Of the two, the Intel Core i7-2860QM Processor (2.50 GHz, 8MB, L3, 1333MHz with a NVIDIA Quadro NVS4200M Optimus technology 1GB graphics card would be the configuration of choice.

NVIDIA's reputation is going to be affected by the Quadro disaster of several years ago, as evidenced by the number of T60, T61, Dell and even Mac video failures, for a long time. If anything, I would say it's safe to assume that they've learned their lesson and that their newer chips are as bullet-proof as can be.

I can tell you from personal experience that my T520, configured as above, runs very cool even when stressed. My T61p which failed 3 or 4 times (I can't remember) ran so hot under normal browsing conditions that it blackened the COA label and was uncomfortable to hold on my lap. Not so with myT520, which never gets hot.

Of course, as mentioned by other posters, if you want a maximized configuration, you should look at the W520. In my personal experience, involving a fair amount of photo and video editing, the T520 has not let me down. The only other recommendation I would give is to double the installed 4 GB of memory to 8GB.

Good luck.

[lead_org Microsoft MVP Contributor]

T60 uses ATI GPU.

[tripplec]

The Nvidia 4200 is a pretty weak GPU and if you look at Nvidia own site. Its near the bottom of the NVS family. I would look at another series which has a much more current GPU w/2GB video ram since this also pulls memory out of the share pool even though its has its own memory it will use systems ram.

As for the processor a 2.5GHZ i7 (4 cores plus 4 hypertheaded cores) is a long term must. A lot also depends on what you're doing with the photo's. A fast GPU would be a must though. If this series is a preference then check later on the T530 which should be a big step forward. Even the Intel graphic is significantly upgraded and would blow away the 4200M easily. Its fine to say get the fastest CPU but they are not paying the bill. You have to be reasonable. But some things are a must.

As for the HD with plenty of ram EG 16 GB hard drive lag would not be a factor and you can add it later if you really need or think you need more speed in the I/O dept. Aftermarket is cheaper and the existing drive can go into the Ultrabay or an eSATA enclosure.

[mixz1]

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lead_org wrote:
T60 uses ATI GPU.

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oops. My bad. It's been awhile.

[YellowJersey]

Excellent. Thanks for the info.