I've been toying with getting a portable rig for very light post post processing and more for simple photo viewing while on trips around the world. My current laptop, while extremely powerful, is an aweful lot to carry around, and really isn't a laptop as much as a desktop replacement.

I was hoping there was somebody here who has had a little experience with the XPS 1330 (with the LED backlit screen) while doing remote work (not necessarily in harsh environments), and how they've found it.

Cheers in advance.

I have the 1330.

I would get it again. If you want a better video card, you'll have to upgrade to the heavier M-1530. I topped my 1330 out with 4G RAM (Crucial), and the HDMI output I use a converter with to go DVI-in for my 24" (1920*1200) monitor. As far as I know, it supports 30" monitors.

I would get the extended battery pack as well.

I won't be expecting anything hardcore graphics wise, short of 2D, which most cards are easily capable of I think.. Is the one you have with the 8400gs?

I recently got a smaller portable laptop for just this purpose. I looked at the Dell XPS 1330 and the Sony SZ780. I chose the Sony because I felt the video card and display were superior. I have been VERY happy with the performance of the sony. I would suggest you check it out at sonystyle.com or at a sony style store if you have one nearby. One very important thing to pay attention to is the fact that they have low-end SZ series laptops that don't have the LED backlit display.

Oh yeah--the 1330's LED screen is 33% brighter than its sister flourescent screen. The only thing for me is that my current hard/software seems to have an issue calibrating LED-based LCDs. I connect this CPU to my external monitor, though, so this is not a real issue.

Michael

repeat post

I just wanted to say thanks for the help lads (and ladies?) in any case, I've decided to go with the Dell... the options I managed to score with it over the weekend, completely outdid any other option on the market. Thanks for the suggestions though.

I don't plan to do any colour critical work on it, but in time I'm sure it'll improve.