Long time ASUS owner need a help UX31 vs U36SD vs M11x vs MBA

[Enilder]

Both notebooks run cool enough to keep on your lap. The UX31 is actually a bit cold due to the all metal construction.

You can purchase a U36 with SSD, at least in some regions around the world, so storage considerations may not have to be part of your decision.

If you don't need a 1600x900 screen, then I'd actually recommend purchasing a U36, simply because it's a very well constructed notebook that's portable but does not sacrifice too much performance. UX31 will get you looks, but until Asus sorts out the touchpad issues, it's not something I can recommend unless you plan on using an external mouse.

I am guessing that U36 may be the way to go if I want to use this laptop as a "stand-alone" laptop. I have a dedicated laptop (I use external mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc.) so I can always hook it up to external components.

As far as the resolutions are concerned, do you see a noticeable difference as far as quality is concerned? Also, I am curious to find out what type of work you do on U36 (if you don't mind).

The only reason why I want to have SSD is the accessibility, which I am not sure of. I haven't stumbled upon the speed between 7200 rpm vs SSD.

Thank you.

All I can really give advice on is that you don't get the M11x or MBA.

The M11x is too bulky for your needs and the MBA gets way too hot.

Yeah, M11x was long gone when I found out that it's not worth the money. MBA was one of choices but I am sticking to Windows 7. Thanks though.

[eugenes]

Text and images are much brighter and sharper on the UX31.

I have a 7200rpm drive in the U36, but the only time I really notice it being "slow" is when starting up and shutting down windows. For day to day use, both notebooks work fine.

Day to day use for me consists of emails, webex/netmeeting, and general browsing/im. I also use the UX31 for entertainment when on flights. I do have some server grade software installed for customer demos, but those services are typically turned off.

[Enilder]

Text and images are much brighter and sharper on the UX31.

I have a 7200rpm drive in the U36, but the only time I really notice it being "slow" is when starting up and shutting down windows. For day to day use, both notebooks work fine.

Day to day use for me consists of emails, webex/netmeeting, and general browsing/im. I also use the UX31 for entertainment when on flights. I do have some server grade software installed for customer demos, but those services are typically turned off.

this has become rather difficult choice. thank you for sharing your experiences. i dont have anything intensive besides my hobby (photoshop) and of course, watching "tv," movies, etc. when i am on the move.

do you have any wireless issue (commonly known as it seems)? slow? disconnection, etc? not really sure how critical keyboard and touchpad issues are:

keyboard: doesn't "register" until fully stroked
touchpad: accuracy issue and "bouncing" issue from one point to another

if these 3 things are minor, i think i will go after UX31. U36 appears to have it's own problems and UX31 appears to have more to offer imo.

[eugenes]

I have no issues with wireless or keyboard. The keyboard does take some getting used. Once "learned", you should be able to type on the UX31 keyboard without too many errors. You won't be getting the best wireless reception, but I haven't been in a situation where I cannot connect.

I do have a jumpy touchpad that will cause the cursor to suddenly jump to one of the edges. It happens just often enough to be annoying, but when I switch over to my Logitech and turn off the touchpad, the issue disappears. Multi-touch gestures do work, but are not very responsive. I bought the UX31 knowing there are touchpad issues, so it's a choice I'm willing to live with.

Keep in mind that I also have desktop systems at home/work, so I mainly use the UX31 for reading/writing documents and email. The 1600x900 resolution and portability are the main reasons for my purchase.

[Enilder]

I have no issues with wireless or keyboard. The keyboard does take some getting used. Once "learned", you should be able to type on the UX31 keyboard without too many errors. You won't be getting the best wireless reception, but I haven't been in a situation where I cannot connect.

I do have a jumpy touchpad that will cause the cursor to suddenly jump to one of the edges. It happens just often enough to be annoying, but when I switch over to my Logitech and turn off the touchpad, the issue disappears. Multi-touch gestures do work, but are not very responsive. I bought the UX31 knowing there are touchpad issues, so it's a choice I'm willing to live with.

Keep in mind that I also have desktop systems at home/work, so I mainly use the UX31 for reading/writing documents and email. The 1600x900 resolution and portability are the main reasons for my purchase.

I am now looking into Lenovo U300S...I am really scared of wireless card issue more than anything else. err!

[edit] Have you seen this? Sony's S series: VPCSA390X CTO

Resolution is the same. It has dedicated graphics, etc. Spec on paper seems to be better than UX31...

[eugenes]

If you're simply looking for an ultrabook, then there are quite a few choices now. I believe Acer just released the i7 model of the S3. Lenovo has the U300 and Toshiba has the z830. If you're not in a hurry, HP will also be releasing one.

I'm not a big fan of Sony. I've owned and replaced two z505 and both experienced critical hardware issues within one year. I'm sure Sony have improved over the years, but they're also quite a bit more expensive than other brands.