Based on the Core 2 Duo platform, the Asus boasts a high-end video card as well as the next-generation draft-N wireless service. Combined with its sleek profile, those willing to pay a premium for looks and performance will certainly be enticed by the ASUS Lamborghini VX2.
Upside
Available in glossy black or shiny yellow, the showroom shine of the VX2 chassis is certainly eye-catching, with Lamborghini's distinctive shield adorning the top cover of the laptop. Aesthetics are also improved on from the VX1, with a leather bound palm rest area with yellow stitching designed to resemble the car interior. But what you are really paying AU$4,200 for is the blazing 2.16GHz Core 2 Duo processor, Windows Vista Ultimate Edition, high-end 512MB GeForce Go 7700 graphics engine and the 802.11n-compatible wireless radio (based on the draft-N standard). With these components, the VX2 should be able to run circles round its peers--which it had better do if this Lamborghini wants to offer all that the Ultimate version of Vista has to offer.
Other features include a 1.3-megapixel Webcam sitting atop the widescreen transflective display which can swivel within a 270-degree arc. ASUS also claims its fingerprint sensor in the VX2 differs from the usual surface scanning technology, going past the dead cell layer to detect and recognize the living epidermis. Hence, prior skin conditions should not affect the accuracy of the sensor.
Downside
For a laptop with a high retail tag, it certainly is stingy with USB ports, offer only three of the common port standard for your peripheral needs. Moreover, with so many high-end components the Lamborghini portable may end up as a gas-guzzler, requiring refueling after a few short laps round the virtual track.
Beyond the ASUS fence lies the boring but powerful Dell Inspiron 9400. It offers an equally powerful Core 2 Duo processor for AU$3,346 and the kick-ass GeForce Go 7900 GS video card with 256MB of memory--which may equal or even best the VX2 for many gaming titles.
Outlook
The ASUS Lamborghini VX2 offers pure computing muscle in a stylish and attractive (if somewhat USB-stingy) design. However, those not impressed enough to fork out AU$4200 to be associated with the famous race car brand may prefer cheaper options with similar performance benchmarks.
Add Your Review 10