The new VAIO VGN-SZ series are the first Sony notebooks to use the Hybrid Graphic System, which will be described in detail below. The base model, VAIO VGN-SZ15GP, runs on the latest dual-core Centrino platform with magnesium alloy chassis, while the premium VAIO VGN-SZ18GP has a lighter yet stronger carbon-fibre exterior with a faster processor and security features.
Upside
Made from the same material as the chassis of race cars, the black carbon-fibre exterior is very light, yet stronger and more scratch-resistant than magnesium alloy. This notebook has an understated and classy black-and-grey theme which sits well in an office environment.
The first in Sony's VAIO line-up to incorporate the Hybrid Graphic System, the VAIO VGN-SZ18GP has the best of both worlds when it comes to video rendering. To extend battery life, the integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 GPU is more than adequate for simple computing tasks without consuming excessive power. But when it comes to intensive graphics rendering, a flick of a switch and a reboot allow the dedicated Nvidia GeForce Go 7400 processor to kick in and utilize 128MB of TurboCache VRAM to boost performance at the cost of increased power consumption. We feel this new technology breaks new ground as, increasingly, mobile computers are used both for work and play.
Not forgetting its role as a corporate machine, the VGN-SZ18GP has a fingerprint biometric sensor, Trusted Platform Module chip and hard drive password protection up its data security sleeve. Because information is vital to any business, the hard disk is physically protected with a 3D acceleration sensor that secures the hard drive if it detects sudden drops or shocks to the system.
The addition of an integrated Webcam above the display also makes video conferencing a breeze. With seven hours of estimated battery life, offsite presentations should not be an issue with this thin-and-light laptop.
Downside
For a AU$3,699 premium notebook with corporate features, the lack of an S-video port is almost incomprehensible. This makes hooking up to external analog displays difficult without the optional port replicator base.
The warranty terms are not too attractive for a premium notebook, offering only one-year local coverage. For a thin-and-light in this price range, it would have been nice to offer a three-year service period. Though you can upgrade to international coverage, there is no extended warranty option.
Outlook
Unlike the song, the best things in life aren't free and at close to AU$4000 for a thin-and-light, it may be out of reach for most people. However, those with deeper pockets will be hard-pressed to find another notebook which can offer the build quality and design of the VAIO VGN-SZ18GP, not to mention the innovative Hybrid Graphic System that gives the user even greater control options. For work or play, this VAIO notebook definitely fills both shoes easily.
More comments... 11 - 13