Note to the graphic cards: The above listed OpenGL graphic cards are selected models that are currently quite often built into notebooks and for which the according test results are also available. Brand new or older variants can alternately be found and compared in the Notebookcheck comparison list .

Note to the benchmark list: Please consider that the listed values here are test  results of certain configurations. As a rule, especially the CPU, hard disk, RAM and display resolution, aside from the GPU, have an influence on the results. That the full performance isn't always available in battery mode also has to be considered.

Note to the benchmarks: The listed benchmarks are supposed to enlighten the efficiency of graphic cards in the OpenGL field on the one side and on the other, supply comparable values to the DirectX performance. The Cinebench R10 OpenGL Shading and the 3DMark'06 are so-called "synthetic benchmarks". They are aligned for demanding certain components (in our case, the graphic card) and rank them according to performance. The results are shown in a point system, the higher the better. In opposition to this, the SPEC test belongs to the so-called "real life benchmarks" that fall back on certain processing steps in order to achieve a more practical/program orientated result. The results of the single programs are recorded in frames per second. It also applies here, the higher the result, the smoother the depiction.

Who needs an OpenGL optimized graphic card?

Three circumstances / questions should be considered before purchase:

1. Software

Which programs are worked with / will be worked with and in how far are these based on OpenGL functionality? (Also see the software overview at the end of this editorial)

2. Frequency

How intensely will the OpenGL based software be used and how high is its part in the daily work routine?

3. Job

Which requirements are put on an optimal driver maintenance, support and stability? Devices that are equipped with pro cards are usually tested / certified for a whole range of software and grant a high standard of compatibility, stability, and support.

Case study: A student, who is short of money, can probably waiver on it sooner than an architect who makes his living with it. The student would take an alternative with HD 3650 or 9600GT, the architect would choose a notebooks with V5700 or FX 770M for support and velocity reasons.

Verdict:

Professional users, who intensely work with the programs listed below, won't come around an according configuration. Velocity, stability, and support are suited for professional field and bid the best possible performance.

The occasional user should, however, exactly weigh up how the surcharge relates to the use intensity and then decide according to the cost-benefit analysis.

Software Overview

An overview of common OpenGL software is found in following. This isn't to be seen as conclusive or complete, but should only be a point of reference.

Generally, every software has a minimum requirement and recommended requirements. However, you should never orientate yourself on the minimum, as work rate, workflow, and quality (depiction) usually suffer.

Don't forget other important factors at choosing the right notebook!

In addition to the graphic card, following points should be evaluated and considered for choosing the right notebook. More often than not, you will have to give preference to one configuration detail and forgo on another, as not everything is available simultaneously or combinable.

1. Display Characteristics

Size, resolution (desktop surface, detail depth), outdoor suitability, color space

2. Connectivity/Connections (eSATA, FW400, FW800, UMTS)

3. Hardware CPU, RAM, internal hard disk (amount, velocity) / SSD

4. Flexibility/Extendibility

Module slots for a fast exchange of opt. drive, hard disk, battery, floppy

Dummy module for a multi-bay slot / docking station / port replicator for fast connection to stationary peripherals.

Many of these options are closely coupled to the mobility. Therefore, a weighing up of benefits and disadvantages for the single application field is always necessary.