Laptop HELP!

[prd295]

How's it going people?

 

I am gearing up to splurge on a new laptop. It will be for college use, moderate to heavy CAD applications, programming, and maybe video editing on the side( planning on learning). My budget is around 2.5k USD. So far I have narrowed it down to 

Dell XPS 9570

MSI GS65 Stealth (053 variant)

Alienware 15

Razer Blade 2017

 

So here is what I have in mind:

I want a really good display because I consume a lot of content online. A good graphics card would be an added bonus. I do some light gaming and I need it mainly for CAD and machine learning(hopefully in the future). Finally, the thinner it is, the better. I rely on public transport to get around and the situation is not going to change in the near future. So something light and powerful would fit in really well.Also, time is kind of an issue because my current laptop is on its last legs. So I'll be buying at most, during april mid or end.

I owned an alienware m15x back in the day. I was not happy  at all with the quality. Had to multiple issues with the screen, motherboard, keyboard etc. Unless their quality control has improved, I'm not looking to go for an alienware again. I've only heard bad things about Razer's customer support, and linus' video about the bugs in the staff's blades only makes it worse. However, there are huge discounts on Razer's website and at the Microsoft Store. The Dell XPS makes the most sense, but I feel the only downfall is the 1050Ti.

Any help in helping me pick is greatly appreciated. If you have any other suggestions, please let me know!

[TheNuzziNuzz]

$2700 but its got a full 1070 and i7 7820HK

https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/gaming/laptops/?menu-id=Gaming_Laptops

Comes with SSD and HDD, 16gb ram, 17.3" 1080p Led with GSync

[Guest DeWat4]

Dell XPS is a great choice. Everyone here on the forums rants and raves about how good they are.

 

I have no knowledge of the MSI machine. Hopefully others can comment about it.

 

Alienware 15 isn't the greatest choice for a student. While you can get it with the largest battery you can legally take on a plane (and it does last a long time on non G-Sync machines), it's heavy at 8 pounds.  They just released 8th gen models for pre order with improved cooling, a slightly better keyboard, as well as some other stuff. They're very very durable and the keyboard is the best bar none for gaming laptops.  IMO, they also have the best warranty. 

 

I suggest getting a cheaper XPS 15 with the i7 and getting a Razer Core, but if weight isn't an issue, go for the Alienware-but don't get a TN panel.

 

EDIT-stay away from the HK processors in the 15 R3.

[prd295]

3 minutes ago, TheNuzziNuzz said:

$2700 but its got a full 1070 and i7 7820HK

 

Comes with SSD and HDD, 16gb ram, 17.3" 1080p Led with GSync

Thanks! but what laptop are you talking about?

[TheNuzziNuzz]

Just now, prd295 said:

Thanks! but what laptop are you talking about?

Omg HAHA I forgot the link!

https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/gaming/laptops/?menu-id=Gaming_Laptops

[Guest DeWat4]

1 minute ago, prd295 said:

Thanks! but what laptop are you talking about?

In general, I'd stay away from HK processors in laptops. In all but the thickest of laptops (I'm talking Acer Predator 21X beasts) they tend to get very hot, even when not overclocked.

[genexis_x]

Wait for mobile workstation (Lenovo Thinkpad P, Dell Precision 5000/7000, HP Zbook) with CFL H CPU or, go for Clevo P750TM/P775TM. Choose between power and portability, powerful hardware inside thin chassis will potentially cause temperature problems (high inner temps+surface temps+fan noise under load)

[genexis_x]

1 hour ago, TheNuzziNuzz said:

https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/gaming/laptops/?menu-id=Gaming_Laptops

Y920 is super overpriced and yet only has OKish cooling, not recommended.

[prd295]

I appreciate the suggestions guys! 

I'm mostly going to bite the bullet on the graphics and go for the XPS. That screen is just too good to pass on!