Help getting a new XPS

[Artoiss]

I have set my eyes on the XPS 15 and the XPS 15z. I won't be doing much gaming on this, but it is mainly for video editing, 3D modeling etc.
So I would like to get the i7 with 8GB.

I was initially going for the 15z, but after reading "build quality" issues with the 15z, I'm now looking towards the XPS 15. I'm not too bothered by the size of the XPS 15, but 15z does look very nice.

I have two questions:
Q1-Should I avoid 15z and buy XPS 15?
Q2-I would like to get an i7 quad-core. But the dell UK website does not say if these i7s are quad-core or not. As i7 come as duel and quad, how would I know how many cores in the XPS I buy?

Thanks. Any help is appreciated.

[zjacobss]

1. Yes the XPS 15 will be better for your needs, also the 15z is not available with a quad core processor.

2. If the processor name ends with QM which means quad core then it is.

[ZXRaziel]

One more vote for the XPS from me , more robust system.
And yes the i7 CPU's with QM on the end are quad cores .

[Artoiss]

Thanks a lot guys. XPS 15 it is then.

[edit1754]

A couple things about the XPS 15 if you end up buying it:

- Display: If you are getting the XPS 15, especially if it's for graphical work but in general as well, you should ensure that you get the 1920x1080 B+RGLED display upgrade. The higher res display allows you to fit more onscreen at once so it is provides a significant advantage for modeling, video editing, and also general productivity. In addition to the larger screen space, the image quality is significantly better because the contrast and color gamut are both much higher, and the image displayed is considerably sharper. The 1366x768 default display included by default is quite poor; I find that it is the worst part of the stock non-upgraded XPS 15 base config. I would not recommended buying the XPS 15 in any configuration that does not include the 1920x1080 display upgrade.

- RAM: Generally it is not a very good idea to upgrade the memory on the configuration page, because you can upgrade it significantly cheaper yourself. If it costs more than $40 to upgrade to 8GB on the config page, Do it this way instead.

- GPU: In case you were looking at upgrading the GPU, keep in mind that it's $100 for a mere 12% gain. This upgrade isn't worth the price in my opinion, and if necessary both GPUs can be overclocked anyway.

- Backlit keyboard: I find this is one of the most worthwhile upgrades (second to the display). It helps in dark environments.

- Coupon: 932N$0ZCCHWZB9 to take off $100

[robcope]

I completely agree with edit, but if you can, why not consider the XPS 17. More monitor for graphical work would seem to be a must. But either way the XPS 15 or 17, not the z model.

[edit1754]

The XPS 15's 1080p screen is a bit better quality than the XPS 17's.

[jamsquid]

I think 15 inches is large enough for his needs. If not, he can hook up to an external monitor. That extra mobility you get with a 15 is definitely worth it.

[mikeybc]

The 1080 screen is a must... You don't want your screen to make your computer look like you paid 350 bucks at Walmart for it...the standard panel is quite bad

[MSGaldenzi]

If your not concerned with the size, go xps 15.

Like edit said... 1080P screen is a MUST!