Computer & Laptop Hardware

[#1]

I want to know because I am planning to buy a laptop this december and in Futureshop, they only have the L500. I visited them earlier and they told me that they don't sell the A500 anymore because they said that apparently, the L500 is the upgraded version of the A500. But when I looked at the Toshiba website, the A500 is more expensive and it seems better than the L500 since it has an HD screen, Kardon Speakers, Backlight keyboards and etc.

The L500 model that they sell in Futureshop is the L500-O2H

I just really want to now what's the difference between these two Toshiba models and if the L500 is really better than the A500

[#2]

Hi FlanPudding, and thanks for bringing your question to the Forums!

I'd like to preface my answer by pointing out that "better" is a relative term. I am, and always have been, a diehard Toshiba fan, while there are people that will tell you that HP is "better." So with that in mind, I'll give you my opinion on the question.

Generally speaking, the A series 500 laptops are considered higher-end than the L series 500 laptops. The factors determining this are, by and large, personal preference. The L series laptop uses the AMD dual-core processor rather than the Intel, and uses the ATI graphics processor. For some people, this is a HUGE thing, while for others, there is no noticeable impact. In a similar way, while Harman / Kardon makes FANTASTIC speakers, it's very much relative if you keep in mind that laptop speakers are tiny, so getting faithful acoustic reproduction from them is difficult at best, regardless of the speaker's manufacturer. The design of the two machines is slightly different, with the A series using different materials from the L, which again contribute to the perception of "higher quality."

The main difference, as far as I've ever been able to determine, is the value. You'll notice that the A series laptop is significantly pricier for what looks to be about the same spec line-up. The difference is based on the things I've described above. The L series was designed, first and foremost, as a high quality but value-priced system. And frankly, the average person (myself included for the most part) won't ever notice a real performance difference using the standard office, internet, educational, etc. software. Where we WILL notice the difference is in the bank account. 

So essentially, it boils down to a matter of choice and personal preference. Both series are excellent computers, and I say this having worked with both. If that little bit of a performance edge and slight polish to the design is what you need, the A series is a great choice. If you need a good, solid work horse, with great performance and the longevity to last you the next 3 to 5 years, but are keeping an eye on the budget, you can't go wrong with the L500!

Hope this has helped some!

Cheers, 

Greg

[#3]

thanks for answering greg but i have a few more questions

because im a fan of online games and i also love to watch movies using a laptop, so would the gaming quality and movie viewing quality of the L500 be great?

and does the l500 have an hd screen? because in some sites, they say that the l500 has an HD screen and some say it doesnt

[#4]

Hi again Flan,

Well, let's tackle the screen first. Whan you say HD Screen, I assume you are asking if the PC is capable of watching HD video, 1080P quality, and the answer is yes, the screen IS capable. However, unless you are downloading or streaming your content, the screen isn't really the issue, because you would need a Blu-Ray DVD drive in order to PLAY HD movies, which neither model currently have. But if you are downloading, or streaming content, the L500 will do just fine.

Next we tackle the games. When you say online games, can you be a bit more specific? For example, my wife LOVES her Facebook games online... Lexulous, Farmville, that sort of thing. And yes, Flash games and online content games like that will work fabulously. However, if you're talking about something like World of Warcraft, a heavier duty GAME game, that's a different story. And while either of the units under discussion will WORK, neither of them are gaming machines... there are very few laptops that are! 

So again, taking these factors into accound should help you determine which unit is right for you!

Cheers, 

Greg

[#5]

i think its called the TruBrite technology

do both of the models have that? or just the A series?

well i guess for the gaming part, i shouldnt have asked you that because now i am using an old acer aspire model and all the games i like to play, work just fine so i guess it wouldn't be any different, or it may be even better, on the L500

and once again, thanks for answering i really appreciate it

[#6]

Hi again!

Ok, regarding the TruBrite technology, two points: 1) Yes, the L500 has it, however 2) This technology has nothing to do with HD or playback. TruBrite™ is Toshiba’s trademarked marketing name which represents the latest in anti-reflective LCD screen technology (anti-reflective technology).

And as you say, if your current Acer is running the games you want, either of the models we're discussing will DEFINITELY fit the bill. 

As we talk more, I'm REALLY leaning towards the L500 being more than suitable for your needs. Regardless of where you purchase it, you're going to save a fair bit of change on it, and as far as everything you've mentioned to me, the value is DEFINITELY with this model. And of COURSE, while I'd love for you to buy at Futureshop, please don't think I'm just trying to keep you buying there! LOL If you think this is the unit for you, look around, check the flyers, find the best price, then let FS give you the best price guarantee!

And no problem, it's been my pleasure helping out, and always feel free to ask me directly for any help or information, I'll do my best! And if you DID find this helpful, and think it might help others, please do take time to click the Kudo button on my replies so that people know the information is helpful

!

Cheers, 

Greg

[#7]

Hi im planning to buy L500 but what is the video memory of ati radeon 3100? ther's no details on it. I've seen acer laptop for a lower price but i t only has 2.0 amd processor but the video graphics is ati radeon 4200hd..