With the new Intel 11th Gen and Ryzen 5 laptop processors and nVidia RTX 30-series laptop GPUs, I am starting to look for a new replacment for my Dell XPS 15 as a good multi-purpose business/gaming laptop.
The new laptop should have the following criteria:
In addition, the new XPS line lacks any USB-A ports, which means a crapload more dongles. As an IT admin/analyst, I am constantly plugging into console ports, wired Ethernet, etc. to diagnose or test equipment.
Battery size/life is less critical as I usually have an outlet available. Weight should be kept to ~5lbs or less.
I was leaning toward the new MSI Creator 15/15M series, but they have not fully listed specs or availability and are still using Gen10 Intel.
Zephyrus also caught my eye, but I can't confirm any Windows Hello support.
Any/all recommendations or observations are appreciated.
Thanks,
John
The new laptop should have the following criteria:
- Decent main CPU and RTX 3060 or 3070
- At least 1TB m2 SSD or two m2 slots
- Good 720p Webcam above screen; ideally higher.
- Windows Hello support - fingerprint reader preferred
- 15" non-touch display with >60Hz refresh
- Good thermals for moderate gaming
- Good port assortment including at least HDMI, 2 USB-A and 2 USB-C/Thunderbolt/etc.; wired Ethernet is a plus.
- Good reliability/build quality (must be reliable as primary daily laptop)
- Look business-like enough (no traditional gaming flashy case, although lighting effects are cool if you can disable or tune to more subdued).
In addition, the new XPS line lacks any USB-A ports, which means a crapload more dongles. As an IT admin/analyst, I am constantly plugging into console ports, wired Ethernet, etc. to diagnose or test equipment.
Battery size/life is less critical as I usually have an outlet available. Weight should be kept to ~5lbs or less.
I was leaning toward the new MSI Creator 15/15M series, but they have not fully listed specs or availability and are still using Gen10 Intel.
Zephyrus also caught my eye, but I can't confirm any Windows Hello support.
Any/all recommendations or observations are appreciated.
Thanks,
John