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Review Samsung Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E Notebook

Beacon of hope. The Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E definitely belongs to the most exciting and most awaited multimedia laptops of 2013. The main attraction is - depending on the view - either the slim metal chassis or the integrated 28 nm GPU. AMD's Radeon HD 8870M competes with Nvidia's powerful Kepler architecture. We took a detailed look at the 17-incher.
Samsung Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E

For the original German review, see here.

Users looking for a high-performance yet not too bulky multimedia device should look at Samsung. With a price of over 1200 Euros (~$1566), the Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E is not exactly aimed at price-conscious buyers. However, the elegant casing and strong hardware make the laptop very attractive.

This review is based on the 770Z7E-S01DE entry-level model that is currently priced at approximately 1250 Euros (~$1631). Like its more expensive brother, it features a non-glare Full HD screen, DVD burner (only the S03DE sports a Blu-ray drive) and a quad-core from Intel's latest Ivy Bridge generation. Depending on the load, the Core i7-3635QM achieves between 2.4 and 3.4 GHz.

A cutting-edge DirectX 11.1 accelerator is also part of the bundle. The Radeon HD 8870M is based on AMD's energy-efficient GCN architecture and sports 2048 MB of GDDR5 video RAM. 8 GB of DDR3 RAM (1600 MHz) and a 1000 GB HDD (5400 rpm) are also decent. The manufacturer relies on Windows 8 64 bit as the operating system.

The nearly 300 Euros (~$391) more expensive 770Z7E-S02DE features a small 128 GB SSD instead of an HDD and runs on Windows 8 Professional Edition. The premium models S03DE (~1600 Euros, ~$2088) and S04DE (~1750 Euros, ~$2284) feature between 12 GB of DDR3 RAM and a large 256 GB SSD. The more expensive versions are throughout interesting since a solid state drive makes itself noticeable in practice and accessing the hard drive slot is only inconveniently possible.

Samsung Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E-S01DE 770Z7E-S02DE 770Z7E-S03DE 770Z7E-S04DE
Processor Intel Core i7-3635QM Intel Core i7-3635QM Intel Core i7-3635QM Intel Core i7-3635QM
Graphics Card AMD Radeon HD 8870M AMD Radeon HD 8870M AMD Radeon HD 8870M AMD Radeon HD 8870M
Working Memory 8 GB DDR3 (1600 MHz) 8 GB DDR3 (1600 MHz) 12 GB DDR3 (1600 MHz) 12 GB DDR3 (1600 MHz)
Hard Drive 1.000 GB HDD (5400 rpm) 128 GB SSD 256 GB SSD 256 GB SSD
Optical Drive DVD burner DVD burner Blu-ray combo DVD burner
Display 1920 x 1080 (non-glare) 1920 x 1080 (non-glare) 1920 x 1080 (non-glare) 1920 x 1080 (non-glare)
Operating System Windows 8 64 bit Windows 8 Professional 64 bit Windows 8 64 bit Windows 8 Professional 64 bit
Price (Cyberport) 1249 Euros (~$1628) 1569 Euros (~$2044) 1599 Euros (~$2083) 1749 Euros (~$2279)

Case

Brushed aluminum
Brushed aluminum

The Chronos 770Z7E's exterior corresponds to the 700Z7C reviewed half a year ago. Besides the successful looks, it is the high-quality materials especially that make a great first impression.

The manufacturer not only uses brushed aluminum for the lid, but also for the display bezel and for the keyboard area. The casing's plain base, which also gleams in a silver-gray color, proves to be plastic. The laptop is quite resistant to smudge due to the lack of high-gloss components and dark colors. Fingerprints are no issue for the 770Z7E.

With a weight of three kilograms, the all-rounder belongs to the light 17-inch laptops. Asus' N76VZ (GeForce GT 650M) for example weighs 500 grams more. Further bonus points are given for its moderate size. Most contenders clearly surpass the height of 27 millimeters. For comparison, the aforementioned Asus N76VZ is almost one centimeter thicker.

The build makes a mixed impression. While the base unit is beyond reproach, the lid exhibits weaknesses. For example, the transition to the display bezel was uneven in our test device. Not only do the fingers notice this, but it can be seen from a slanted angle when the display light shines through it. The 770Z7E unfortunately just misses a very good workmanship rating due to this flaw.

The same is true for stability. Unlike the base unit that only yields noticeably in the center of the speaker's grille, the lid can be warped extremely using both hands (typical laptop issue). The very audible hinges are adjusted so that only one hand is needed for opening. As expected, vibrations cause the screen to rock slightly.

The casing gives an overall good but not outstanding presentation. The 17-incher is located in the upper third since most all-rounders make a cheaper impression.

Connectivity

Interfaces

The connectivity can compete with multimedia contenders. Three video outs (VGA, HDMI & mini-DisplayPort) are just as impressive as four USB ports (2x USB 2.0 & 2x USB 3.0). The left's back area sports a Kensington lock, a (foldable) RJ45 Gigabit LAN port and the power socket.

The manufacturer makes cutbacks in audio jacks. A headphone/microphone combo jack is a bit stingy. Surround sound is only available via the digital video outs. The 4-in-1 card reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC) cannot really compensate for this shortcoming.

Although left-handed users will have to cope with restricted elbowroom when many cables are connected (keyword: external mouse), the interface positioning appealed to us. Users who do not own a headset with microphone for voice chats can use the built in microphone in the wrist rest's left area.

Wireless Communication

An Intel product is used for wireless communication. The Centrino Advanced-N 6235 PCIe card supports both the 2.4 and 5.0 GHz frequency and transmits data with a maximum of 300 Mbit/s. Bluetooth 4.0 is also supported besides Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n. The Wireless Display technology, Smart Connect and vPro are also part of the specs. It is too bad that the wireless module's range was unsatisfactory in the test.

Left: Kensington lock, AC-in, RJ45, Gigabit LAN, VGA, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0, mini-DisplayPort, audio
Left: Kensington lock, AC-in, RJ45, Gigabit LAN, VGA, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0, mini-DisplayPort, audio
Front: 4-in-1 card reader
Front: 4-in-1 card reader
Right: 2 USB 2.0 ports, optical drive
Right: 2 USB 2.0 ports, optical drive

Maintenance

At first glance, the maintenance options seem quite restricted. Only one DDR3 RAM slot is found underneath the small flap and is equipped with 4 GB in the 770Z7E-S01DE. The other 4 GB is unfortunately soldered to the motherboard.

The casing's entire bottom has to be removed to access the 17-incher's innards (e.g. the hard drive). Although just a simple Phillips screwdriver is needed, almost 10 screws are anything but convenient. Also, the battery is not outside the casing but adversely under the hood.

We find it a bit aggravating that the 17-incher follows the example of ultrabooks in this category. We would prefer a traditional maintenance cover that allows fast access to the fan, cooling system, hard drive and the (entire) working memory a lot more.

Software

Installed software
Installed software

Nearly 40 programs, drivers and tools are preinstalled in state of delivery. The manufacturer installs "Adobe Photoshop Elements 11", "Cyberlink PowerDVD 10" and "Windows Essentials 2012" among other programs on the hard drive. "Microsoft Office" and "Norton Internet Security" are time-limited trial versions.

The program dubbed "Settings" is also worth mentioning. The user can for example change the deactivation speed of the keyboard's light (several levels) or customize "Silent Mode" under "General". "Eco Mode" (reduces the power consumption), "Battery Life Extender" (the battery is only charged to 80%) and "USB Charger" can be enabled or disabled via the tab "Energy Management".

Easy Settings Tastatur
Easy Settings Leisemodus
Easy Settings Eco Mode
Easy Settings Battery Life Extender
Easy Settings Aufladen per USB
Easy Settings

Accessories

The small 125 x 50 x 30 millimeter and 340 gram light 90 watt power supply is only accompanied by a few information leaflets, i.e. quick start guide, safety instructions, warranty information. There is no recovery medium, but that can be created using the program with the same name. A driver DVD is also not included.

Warranty

The 24 month standard warranty can be upgraded to three or four years within 90 days.

SysInfo
Advanced
Security
Boot
BIOS Screens

Input Devices

Keyboard

Samsung draws from all resources and installs a white backlit chiclet keyboard that is lowered a few millimeters. The keyboard will even satisfy prolific typists with its spacious wrist rest, pleasant typing feel owing to a good pressure point and stroke and decent noise.

The key size of averagely 15 x 15 millimeters does not give reason for complaint either. Only the arrow keys and the F row could have used a bit more height. Laptop typical special functions that are enabled via the FN key as usual have been cleverly lined up. The user will not only find the brightness and volume controls but also the keyboard's backlight as well as buttons for the Silent Mode, touchpad, wireless module and slot-in drive here.

The keyboard is completed by a four column number pad. Since Samsung largely sticks to the standard, most users will quickly accustom to the layout.

Touchpad

The generously sized Elan Smart-Pad of 107 x 77 millimeters supports two up to four finger gestures (scroll, zoom, rotate, etc.). The multi-touch technology was quite inconspicuous in practice and did not exhibit any major flaws. The various finger gestures are explained in a video via the touchpad software.

The mouse replacement also scored quite well in the other tests. Samsung ensures for a first-rate gliding capability with the sleek surface. The accuracy is also decent, although the input could be a bit more precise here and there.

The keys embedded directly in the touchpad (no transition to the "normal" surface) are certainly a matter of taste. Nevertheless, the majority of buyers will cope after a short familiarization period. In contrast to Lenovo's IdeaPad Y500, which features a similar model, the touchpad barely yields.

Keyboard
Keyboard
Touchpad
Touchpad

Display

Samsung installs a matte, Full HD screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio to meet the high claim and justify the laptop's price. Although 1920x1080 pixels tend to push the graphics card to its limits in 3D programs, the manufacturer has opted for an appropriate resolution in our opinion. Games and movies can be enjoyed adequately alongside the screen's big diagonal of 17.3-inches / 43.9 centimeters. However, this verdict is not only based on the technical specs but also on real measurements.

249
cd/m²
228
cd/m²
228
cd/m²
246
cd/m²
272
cd/m²
227
cd/m²
279
cd/m²
286
cd/m²
264
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei N173HGE-L11 (CMO1720) tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 286 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 253.2 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 79 %
Center on Battery: 208 cd/m²
Contrast: 907:1 (Black: 0.3 cd/m²)61.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
84.9% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
60.8% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)

Unsurprisingly, the Chi Mei N173HGE-L11 screen, extremely popular among laptop manufacturers and which is also found in the Chronos 770Z7E, scores with a beautiful picture quality. Apart from the odd color and calibration weakness (see CalMan screenshot), which is barely if at all noticed by the average user and the weak illumination of ~80%, the screen does a good to very good job.

For example, the black value of 0.3 cd/m² is much better than that of a low-cost, mainstream screen, such as the recently reviewed Dell Inspiron 17R-5721. The advantage is that dark contents look more intense and not as grayish. A brightness of just below 250 cd/m² is also easily sufficient indoors. We would say that the biggest highlight is the high contrast of 900:1, which is unreachable for standard screens that are usually below 500:1. The interpolation capability also ranges above the average.

Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. sRGB (grid)
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. sRGB (grid)
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. AdobeRGB (grid)
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. AdobeRGB (grid)
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. Samsung 700Z7C-S01DE (grid)
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE vs. Samsung 700Z7C-S01DE (grid)
Calman Grayscale
Calman Grayscale
Calman CMS Calibration
Calman CMS Calibration
Calman Saturation Sweeps
Calman Saturation Sweeps

Only the fact that the brightness is massively reduced on battery power annoyed us. The brightness of our test device suddenly dropped from 272 cd/m² to just 208 cd/m² in the screen's center. That is roughly 25% less. As our pictures show, the laptop is no longer unconditionally outdoor suitable. Its use is very restricted, particularly on bright days. Users who work outdoors should connect the device to the mains where possible.

Outdoors
Outdoors
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE in outdoor use

The viewing angles convinced us to the largest degree. The picture remained attractive both horizontally as well as from slanted angles, although the colors deviated slightly. The image stability is not quite as high vertically, but still decent when compared with other screens.

Viewing angles: Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
Viewing angles: Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE

Performance

Ivy Bridge
Ivy Bridge

Processor

It is not least due to the modern 22 nm manufacturing that Intel's Ivy Bridge generation has become a synonym for high performance and reasonable power consumption. Samsung does not install a dual-core model but a potent quad-core despite the slim build.

With 1.4 billion transistors, 6 MB of L3 cache and a clock of 2.4 - 3.4 GHz, the Core i7-3635QM corresponds to the more known Core i7-3630QM model. Differences are only found in the graphics chips clock and feature list. While the HD Graphics 4000 in the Core i7-3635QM runs with up to 1200 MHz, it is "only" 1150 MHz in the Core i7-3630QM. The latter model also does not support VT-d virtualization technology.

The Chronos 700Z7C equipped with a GeForce GT 650M also featured the 2.3 - 3.3 GHz faster precursor Core i7-3615QM (also Ivy Bridge). The quad-core can process up to eight threads simultaneously via Hyper Threading, but does not bring any significant advantages in games. The automatic overclocking feature is dubbed Turbo Boost.

System info CPUZ CPU
System info HDTune
System info GPUZ (HD 8870M)
System info GPUZ (HD 4000)
System info HWiNFO
System info CPUZ RAM SPD
System info CPUZ RAM
System info CPUZ Mainboard
System info CPUZ Cache
DPC Latency: High rates when Wi-Fi module enabled
System information: Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE

Throttling

Single cores drop below the default rate
Single cores drop below the default rate

The CPU clock does not reveal any nasty surprises when only the processor is loaded. Approximately 3.3 GHz in single-core rendering and 3.2 GHz in multi-core rendering theoretically indicate a sufficiently sized cooling and power supply.

The verdict is no longer as good as soon as the Radeon HD 8870M joins in. According to the HWiNFO tool, one up to three cores throttled to 1.2 GHz for fractions of a second. Although at least one core remained above the default rate and Intel's Turbo Boost Monitor displayed 2.4 - 3.1 GHz, the fluctuating clock partly affects the benchmark scores. CPU-heavy 3D programs, such as Hitman: Absolution, Guild Wars 2, Far Cry 3 or Assassin's Creed III, are particularly susceptible for this.

This throttling can be related to the power supply (we measured just below 90 watts during full load), the CPU's temperature (according to HWMonitor a maximum of 95 °C in the stress test) or the manufacturer set this deliberately. A bug is apparently not responsible. Perhaps Samsung would be well-advised to install a dual-core CPU or a quad-core with 35 rather than 45 watt TDP, such as the Core i7-3612QM.

Single-core load
Single-core load
Multi-core load
Multi-core load
CPU & GPU load
CPU & GPU load

CPU Performance

The Core i7-3635QM behaves properly in the CPU-only benchmarks. We used Cinebench R11.5 as an example. With 6.47 points in the multi-core test, the processor places itself almost exactly between the 100 MHz slower Core i7-3610QM (6.2 points @ Toshiba Satellite P855-107) and the 200 MHz higher clocked Core i7-3720QM (6.84 points @ Fujitsu Celsius H720). A similar picture is seen in the single-core test. 1.39 points are 2% higher than the score of the Core i7-3610QM (1.36 points) and 5% lower than the Core i7-3720QM (1.47 points).

Cinebench R10
Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit (sort by value)
Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
5905 Points
Core i7-3630QM
HP Envy dv6-7202eg
5861 Points -1%
Core i7-3740QM
One M73-2N
6366 Points +8%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit (sort by value)
Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
22048 Points
Core i7-3630QM
HP Envy dv6-7202eg
21531 Points -2%
Core i7-3740QM
One M73-2N
24299 Points +10%
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
5905 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
22048 Points
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
7373 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.39 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
6.47 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
54.9 fps
Help

Graphics Card

Switchable graphics - Application Settings
Switchable graphics - Application Settings
Switchable graphics - Global Settings
Switchable graphics - Global Settings

As mentioned in the intro, the Radeon HD 8870M chip is manufactured in a 28 nm process. Compared with the "old" Radeon HD 7870M, which is also based on the GCN architecture (Graphics Core Next), AMD increased the memory clock by 12.5% from 1000 to 1125 MHz (applies to the GDDR5 version).

However, the core clock has decreased by almost 10%. Rather than 800 MHz, it is only 725 MHz in the Radeon HD 8870M. Still, the 8000 range can make use of automatic overclocking. The core clocks with a maximum of 775 MHz in the Radeon HD 8870M, which adds up to a plus of 7%. The Shader Unit count (640 Unified Shaders) and the memory bus (128 bit) are identical in both cases. It is great that Samsung does not make any compromises and uses a big 2048 MB GDDR5 video memory.

The most important feature of the Radeon HD 8870M, next to DirectX 11.1 support, is its dynamic graphics switching dubbed Enduro. Programs are either assigned to the integrated or the dedicated graphics chip depending on their requirements. For example, while the web browser runs on the HD 4000, the Radeon HD 8870M accelerates games.

Regrettably, Enduro still cannot hold a candle to Nvidia's Optimus counterpart despite various optimizations. On the one hand, Optimus provides more visual displays and convenience features and on the other, the detection rate is much better. It can recurrently happen that a 3D application is rendered unnaturally slow because the AMD graphics card is not enabled. When this occurs, it is worthwhile to look in the Catalyst Control Center (see right screenshot).

It is possible to manually assign single programs to either the integrated (energy-saving) or the dedicated (high-performance) GPU in the menu "Switchable Graphics Application Settings". Those who are lazy will simply adjust the global preset ("Maximize Performance" starts 3D programs reliably with the Radeon HD 8870M).

5.9
Windows 8 Experience Index
Processor
Calculations per second
7.8
Memory (RAM)
Memory operations per second
7.8
Graphics
Desktop performance for Windows Aero
6.9
Gaming graphics
3D business and gaming graphics
6.9
Primary hard disk
Disk data transfer rate
5.9

GPU Performance

In a nutshell: The DirectX 11 performance of the Radeon HD 8870M is baffling. With 2986 points in 3DMark 11, AMD's graphics card even places itself above the GeForce GTX 670M from Nvidia's old Fermi generation (2703 points @ Asus G75VW-T1040V). Both GeForce GTX 660M (2369 points @ Schenker XMG A722) and GeForce GT 650M (2113 points @ Medion Akoya P6815) Kepler models fall behind by almost 20 and 30% respectively.

The differences are a bit lower in the Unigine Heaven 2.1 benchmark (1280x1024, high, default tessellation). While the Radeon HD 8870M achieves an average of 37.6 fps, the GeForce GTX 660M reaps in a 14% lower 32.5 fps. The GeForce GT 650M lags behind by over 20% with 29.1 fps. However, the Radeon HD 8870M cannot surpass the GeForce GTX 670M (39.0 fps). Generally true: The older and undemanding a benchmark is (DirectX 9, etc.), the better Nvidia's models look.

Unigine Heaven 3.0 - 1920x1080 DX 11, Normal Tessellation, High Shaders AA:Off AF:Off (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3630QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
26.7 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
21.5 fps -19%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
27.6 fps +3%
GeForce GTX 675M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
34.7 fps +30%
3DMark - 1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3630QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
2169 Points
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
1572 Points -28%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
1751 Points -19%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
1950 Points -10%
GeForce GTX 675M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
2331 Points +7%
3DMark 06 Standard Score
15675 points
3DMark Vantage P Result
11623 points
3DMark 11 Performance
3292 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
49606 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
11335 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
2091 points
Help

Storage Devices

CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark

Samsung naturally uses a hard drive from its own production line. The 9.5 millimeter, slim SpinPoint M8 HN-M101MBB is a 1000 GB HDD that spins at 5400 rpm and offers 8 MB of cache. The benchmark results are more than decent for a 5400 rpm model.

HDTune recorded an access time of 19.2 ms and a transfer rate of approx. 84 MB/s for the hard drive. CrystalDiskMark stated 93 MB/s in sequential read and 88 MB/s in sequential write. The likewise 1000 GB and 5400 rpm Toshiba MQ01ABD100 managed somewhat higher rates (just over 100 MB/s in Nexoc M507II).

Users who do a lot of multitasking and despise unnecessary loading times should preferably choose a version with an SSD or install one. Solid state drives extremely speed up Windows routines.

Samsung SpinPoint M8 HN-M101MBB
Transfer Rate Minimum: 49.3 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 115.6 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 83.8 MB/s
Access Time: 19.2 ms
Burst Rate: 105 MB/s
CPU Usage: 1.1 %

System Performance

We ascertained the system performance with PCMark 7. The scores strangely deviated noticeably with every run. The total score settled to about 2900 points in two of five tests. Two other measurements settled to almost 3800 points. PCMark even once recorded 4400 points. We ultimately entered the average rate in the database.

With 3750 points, the Chronos 7707E is exactly on a par with Schenker's XMG A502 (Core i7-3610QM, GeForce GT 650M & 120 GB SSD) and Toshiba's Qosmio X870-119 (Core i7-3610QM, GeForce GTX 670M, 128 GB SSD).

PCMark 7 Score
3750 points
Help

Gaming Performance

Medium or high details are usually playable
Medium or high details are usually playable

As can be seen in the benchmark below the review, the gaming performance varies extremely. While the Radeon HD 8870M often places itself above the GeForce GTX 660M in DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 titles, such as Alan WakeMax Payne 3Sleeping DogsAnno 2070 or Battlefield 3 (at least in maximum settings), AMD's model is even defeated by the GeForce GT 650M in other cases. The graphics card seems to (still) have problems particularly with Unreal Engine 3 (Borderlands 2 & Dishonored).

The moderate results in a few games or settings are not only to be explained with CPU throttling, but also AMD's driver. Enduro laptops are known to speed up less than technically equal Optimus contenders when the graphics options are reduced. Artifacts in Assassin's Creed III (white lines and surfaces) also prove that the preinstalled driver was not up-to-date.

When compared with the Chronos 7707E, the Radeon HD 8870M settles in right behind the GeForce GTX 660M. The GeForce GT 650M was 10% slower and the GeForce GTX 670M was over 20% faster after our benchmarks. The Radeon HD 8870M should overtake the GeForce GTX 660M with the latest driver and a CPU that does not throttle. Regrettably, the 28 nm GPU cannot quite fulfill the high expectations that the scores in the synthetic benchmarks aroused.

Casual gamers who are satisfied with medium details, reduced resolution and/or disabled anti-aliasing when need be will have enough power though. Some games can even be played in the native resolution using very high details and anti-aliasing as a look at Dead Space 3, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, FIFA 13, Counter Strike: Global Offensive, Diablo III and Mass Effect 3 show.

low med. high ultra
Battlefield 3 (2011) 49.9 40 36.2 18.8
CoD: Modern Warfare 3 (2011) 135.7 95.7 78.1 51.2
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) 74.9 61.2 49.8 32
Anno 2070 (2011) 97.3 67.6 47.5 24.6
Alan Wake (2012) 69.5 46.4 22.4
Mass Effect 3 (2012) 59.7 59.7 49.4
Risen 2: Dark Waters (2012) 60 55.7 40.6 20.5
Diablo III (2012) 132.9 96.2 85.4 54.2
Dirt Showdown (2012) 77.9 45.8 39.1 24.4
Max Payne 3 (2012) 45.3 31.2 28.5 25.1
Darksiders II (2012) 92.1 54.3
Sleeping Dogs (2012) 60.6 45.5 31.8 12.2
Counter-Strike: GO (2012) 183.2 138.4 116.3 87.2
Guild Wars 2 (2012) 65.4 28.5 16.4
Borderlands 2 (2012) 72.3 61.1 48.4 31.5
Fifa 13 (2012) 266.4 191.7 169.8 134.7
Dishonored (2012) 85.5 81.1 79.1 51.8
Medal of Honor: Warfighter (2012) 71.8 55.4 47.4 18.1
Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2012) 48.9 42.1 31.9 23.8
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 (2012) 99.5 86.9 53.9 36.4
Hitman: Absolution (2012) 31.1 27.4 22.7 13
Assassin´s Creed III (2012) 22.4 21.2 13.4
Far Cry 3 (2012) 54.8 48.4 26.8 11
Dead Space 3 (2013) 174.4 97.3 75.2 46.2
Crysis 3 (2013) 53.6 32.6 22.4 9.4
Tomb Raider (2013) 110.8 69.8 42.2 21.2

Emissions

System Noise

The idle noise level comes very close to that of the Chronos 700Z7C. With an average of 31-32 dB, the 17-incher is only slightly audible, so agreeably quiet. Although the tested version never worked completely silently, the noise development is compelling.

The noise increased to a maximum of 40 dB in 3D mode, which is still absolutely tolerable. Almost 35 dB in DVD playback will unlikely annoy anyone either (all measurements were made at a distance of 15 centimeters). Even potent laptops, such as the Lenovo IdeaPad Y580, One K73-2O or Schenker XMG A522, are frequently much louder.

Noise Level

Idle
31 / 31.5 / 32 dB(A)
DVD
34.6 / dB(A)
Load
39.3 / 39.7 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-320 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

Stress test (Furmark & Prime)
Stress test (Furmark & Prime)

We cannot make a general statement about the temperatures. While the casing just reached 27 °C in idle use, it heated up clearly during load. Our thermometer measured up to 50 °C on the top and up to 44 °C after one hour of our stress test using the tools Furmark and Prime.

That might sound like a lot but it is not that bad in practice. For one thing, the system will never be loaded to such an extent in routine use. For another, the wrist rest never surpasses 30 °C. The Chronos 700Z7C achieved identical rates in 3D use with an average of 39 °C on the top and 35°C on the bottom.

The components get a lot warmer. A maximum of 95 °C on the CPU and 87 °C on the GPU is relatively hot. The processor would perhaps exceed 100 °C without temporary throttling, if the CPUID Hardware Monitors recorded correctly.

Max. Load
 50.3 °C
123 F
50.3 °C
123 F
33.6 °C
92 F
 
 49 °C
120 F
49.4 °C
121 F
29.8 °C
86 F
 
 29 °C
84 F
28 °C
82 F
26.3 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 50.3 °C = 123 F
Average: 38.4 °C = 101 F
36.5 °C
98 F
44.2 °C
112 F
42.6 °C
109 F
26 °C
79 F
40.9 °C
106 F
38.5 °C
101 F
24.3 °C
76 F
26.1 °C
79 F
26.1 °C
79 F
Maximum: 44.2 °C = 112 F
Average: 33.9 °C = 93 F
Power Supply (max.)  50.2 °C = 122 F | Room Temperature 22 °C = 72 F | Voltcraft IR-550
(-) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 38.4 °C / 101 F, compared to the average of 31.2 °C / 88 F for the devices in the class Multimedia.
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 50.3 °C / 123 F, compared to the average of 36.9 °C / 98 F, ranging from 21.1 to 71 °C for the class Multimedia.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 44.2 °C / 112 F, compared to the average of 39.1 °C / 102 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.3 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 31.2 °C / 88 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29 °C / 84.2 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.8 °C / 83.8 F (-0.2 °C / -0.4 F).

Speakers

SoundAlive
SoundAlive

The 2.1 system from JBL surprises with a quite decent sound quality. Considering the laptop's low height, both speakers produce a more than acceptable sound. Owing to the installed subwoofer, even prominent though not outstanding bass is audible. The 2.1 system is quite suitable for permanent use alongside the high maximum volume. Thus, an external sound system is not imperative.

However, the sound would have to be a bit more accurate and clearer to apply as a reference. The "Settings" software contains several sound modes under the "SoundAlive" tab (e.g. music or movie).

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The energy-efficient hardware ensures moderate power consumption. 14 - 26 watts in idle mode does not give reason for complaint. However, the Chronos 700Z7C (Core i7-3615QM & GeForce GT 650) is a bit more efficient with 12 - 21 watts. A load consumption of 76 - 92 watts is also reasonable. Despite its weaker components, the 700Z7C consumes roughly the same amount of power with 74 - 95 watts. Laptops featuring Nvidia's GeForce GTX 660M devour between 5% (Schenker XMG A722) and 40% (Gigabyte P2542G) more power depending on the device.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.1 / 0.2 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 14 / 22.9 / 26.2 Watt
Load midlight 75.7 / 91.7 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 940
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Runtime

Maximum battery runtime (Reader's Test)
Reader's Test
Minimum runtime (Classic Test)
Classic Test

The battery runtime is impressive. When the screen brightness was set to minimum and the system was barely loaded, the strong 80 Wh lithium polymer battery lasted for around 10 hours, which is a top rate.

Five hours of wireless internet browsing with a slightly reduced brightness is also impressive. DVD playback using maximum brightness was possible for approximately 2.75 hours. The all-rounder was only not as compelling in Battery Eater's Classic test. Like most contenders, the laptop was drained after one hour.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 07min
WiFi Surfing
5h 08min
DVD
2h 42min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 06min

Verdict

Samsung Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E (Picture: Samsung)
Samsung Series 7 Chronos 770Z7E

The verdict for the Chronos 770Z7E is mostly positive. The biggest unique selling point is definitely the slim build alongside powerful hardware. A quad-core CPU and gaming-suitable graphics card in a 27 millimeter device? Almost unthinkable a few years ago.

Those who expected an excessive temperature and noise development can be assured that the laptop does not get unpleasantly warm or loud even in 3D mode. Regrettably, Samsung achieves this successful concept with a processor that throttles. One up to three cores dropped to 1.2 GHz for a short period depending on the 3D application. Fortunately, this was hardly if at all noticed during most benchmarks.

Since the 17-incher has many strengths, this flaw should not keep the potential buyer from purchasing. Besides the high-contrast Full HD screen, we liked the input devices, battery runtime and the looks. Such a good speaker sound is also not encountered every day.

The 17-incher would be close to perfect with more convenient maintenance options, a better build quality and flawless CPU clocking. The all-rounder just misses a very good rating in its current form. Nevertheless, equals among the multimedia laptops can be counted on one hand (Asus UX51VZ, Asus N76VZ & Apple MacBook Pro). Samsung has done a great job with the Chronos 770Z7E.

Courtesy of ...

For Comparison

Crysis 3
1920x1080 Very High Preset AA:2xSM AF:16x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
9.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
8.4 fps -11%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
10 fps +6%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
11.2 fps +19%
1366x768 High Preset AA:FX AF:16x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
22.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
21.9 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
26 fps +16%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
29.4 fps +31%
Dead Space 3 - 1920x1080 Very High Preset (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
46.2 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
41.7 fps -10%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
49.5 fps +7%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
59.7 fps +29%
Far Cry 3
1920x1080 DX11 Ultra Preset (HDAO, Enhanced Alpha To Coverage) AA:4x MS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
11 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
8.8 fps -20%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
10.6 fps -4%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
12.9 fps +17%
1366x768 DX11 High Preset (SSAO, Standard Alpha To Coverage) AA:2x MS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
26.8 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
28.3 fps +6%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
35.5 fps +32%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
38.8 fps +45%
Hitman: Absolution
1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS AF:16x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
13 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
9.9 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
11.5 fps -12%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
14.1 fps +8%
1366x768 High Preset AA:2xMS AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
22.7 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
22.9 fps +1%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
27.6 fps +22%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
33.2 fps +46%
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 - 1920x1080 (Extra) High / On, FXAA AA:4xMS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
36.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
28.2 fps -23%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
37.3 fps +2%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
41.1 fps +13%
Need for Speed: Most Wanted
1920x1080 High / On (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
23.8 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
19.7 fps -17%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
23 fps -3%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
25.4 fps +7%
1366x768 High / On (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
31.9 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
33.8 fps +6%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
41.5 fps +30%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
45.7 fps +43%
Medal of Honor: Warfighter
1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS AF:16x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
18.1 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
17.6 fps -3%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
20.8 fps +15%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
23 fps +27%
1366x768 High Preset AF:16x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
47.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
38.5 fps -19%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
47.1 fps -1%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
53.3 fps +12%
Dishonored - 1920x1080 High / On, FOV: 75 AA:FX (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
51.8 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
56 fps +8%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
66.7 fps +29%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
77.8 fps +50%
Fifa 13 - 1920x1080 High AA:4xMS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
134.7 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
132.8 fps -1%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
155.7 fps +16%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
189.9 fps +41%
Borderlands 2 - 1920x1080 (Ultra) High / On (PhysX low) AA:FX AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
31.5 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
35.7 fps +13%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
41.3 fps +31%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
46 fps +46%
Guild Wars 2
1920x1080 All Maximum / On AA:FX (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
16.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
12.5 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
16.1 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
20.9 fps +27%
1366x768 Best Appearance Preset AA:FX (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
28.5 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
29.8 fps +5%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
40.4 fps +42%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
43.3 fps +52%
Counter-Strike: GO - 1920x1080 (Very) High, FXAA AA:4x MS AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
87.2 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
72.3 fps -17%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
88.5 fps +1%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
90.5 fps +4%
Sleeping Dogs
1920x1080 Extreme Preset AA:Extreme (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
12.2 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
7.5 fps -39%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
8.6 fps -30%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
11.8 fps -3%
1366x768 High Preset AA:High (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
31.8 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
29.8 fps -6%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
36.7 fps +15%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
45.7 fps +44%
Darksiders II - 1920x1080 2/4 Shadows, No Ambient Occlusion, AA:Low (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
54.3 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i5-3360M
Schenker XMG A502
41.1 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 660M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
49.6 fps -9%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
62.3 fps +15%
Max Payne 3
1920x1080 Very High, DX11 AA:Very High FX AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
25.1 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
16.3 fps -35%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
18.7 fps -25%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
22.8 fps -9%
1366x768 High, DX11 AA:High FX AF:4x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
28.5 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
21.5 fps -25%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
24.4 fps -14%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
27.9 fps -2%
Dirt Showdown
1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
24.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
17 fps -30%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
23.4 fps -4%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
29.8 fps +22%
1366x768 High Preset AA:2xMS (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
39.1 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
55.8 fps +43%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
48.8 fps +25%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
73.4 fps +88%
Diablo III - 1920x1080 High AA:on (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
54.2 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
59.3 fps +9%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
67.4 fps +24%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
59 fps +9%
Risen 2: Dark Waters
1920x1080 Ultra / on AA:on AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
20.5 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
16 fps -22%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
20 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
22.7 fps +11%
1366x768 High / on AA:on AF:4x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
40.6 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
33.6 fps -17%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
39.9 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 670M / Core i7-3610QM
Asus G75VW-T1040V
47.8 fps +18%
Mass Effect 3 - 1920x1080 all on AA:on AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
49.4 fps
GeForce GT 650M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Fire DTX
48.1 fps -3%
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
55 fps +11%
Alan Wake
1920x1080 High Preset AA:4x AF:8x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
22.4 fps
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
22.2 fps -1%
1366x768 Medium Preset AA:4x AF:4x (sort by value)
Radeon HD 8870M / Core i7-3635QM
Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE
46.4 fps
GeForce GTX 660M / Corei7-3610QM
One K73-2O
47.7 fps +3%
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In Review: Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE (Picture: Samsung)
In Review: Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE, courtesy of:

Specifications

Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE (Series 7 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-3635QM 4 x 2.4 - 3.4 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
AMD Radeon HD 8870M - 2048 MB VRAM, Core: 775 MHz, Memory: 1125 MHz, GDDR5, 9.3.5.0, Enduro
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR3-RAM PC3-12800 (1600 MHz), 4 GB soldered, 4 GB in one accessible SO-DIMM slot, max. 12 GB
Display
17.30 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, Chi Mei N173HGE-L11 (CMO1720), TN LED, diagonal: 43.94 cm, Full-HD, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel HM76 (Panther Point)
Storage
Samsung SpinPoint M8 HN-M101MBB, 1000 GB 
, 5400 rpm
Soundcard
Realtek ALC269 @ Intel Panther Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
2 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: headphone + microphone combo, Card Reader: SD,SDHC,SDXC,MMC
Networking
Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6235 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.0
Optical drive
Matshita DVD-RAM UJ8A7AS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 27 x 406 x 262 ( = 1.06 x 15.98 x 10.31 in)
Battery
80 Wh Lithium-Polymer, 8 cell, non-removable
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 1.3 Megapixel
Additional features
Speakers: 2.1 (JBL), Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, PSU: 90 watts, several info leaflets (warranty information, safety instructions, quick start guide), Windows Essentials 2012, CyberLink Power2Go 8, CyberLink PowerDVD 10, Adobe Photoshop Elements 11, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
3 kg ( = 105.82 oz / 6.61 pounds), Power Supply: 340 g ( = 11.99 oz / 0.75 pounds)
Price
1249 Euro

 

Samsung relies on a silver-gray color.
Samsung relies on a silver-gray color.
The status LEDs are located beside the power button.
The status LEDs are located beside the power button.
The white keyboard light can be adapted using F9 and F10.
The white keyboard light can be adapted using F9 and F10.
The arrow keys could be bigger.
The arrow keys could be bigger.
While the GPU belongs to the upper midrange, the CPU comes from the premium range.
While the GPU belongs to the upper midrange, the CPU comes from the premium range.
The touchpad supports various gestures.
The touchpad supports various gestures.
A microphone is built into the wrist rest.
A microphone is built into the wrist rest.
The casing's bottom sports a small subwoofer.
The casing's bottom sports a small subwoofer.
The right provides two USB 2.0 ports.
The right provides two USB 2.0 ports.
Samsung opted for a slot-in drive.
Samsung opted for a slot-in drive.
The RJ45 Gigabit LAN port has to be folded out before use.
The RJ45 Gigabit LAN port has to be folded out before use.
The digital video outs (HDMI & mini DisplayPort) are surrounded by two USB 3.0 ports.
The digital video outs (HDMI & mini DisplayPort) are surrounded by two USB 3.0 ports.
The front sports a card reader.
The front sports a card reader.
The sound of both speakers is surprisingly good.
The sound of both speakers is surprisingly good.
The input devices do not give much reason for complaint.
The input devices do not give much reason for complaint.
Samsung states 1.3 megapixels for the webcam.
Samsung states 1.3 megapixels for the webcam.
The lid and keyboard area are made of aluminum.
The lid and keyboard area are made of aluminum.
The all-rounder looks quite elegant owing to the high-end materials.
The all-rounder looks quite elegant owing to the high-end materials.
The 17-incher is completely matte.
The 17-incher is completely matte.
The surfaces are correspondingly insensitive.
The surfaces are correspondingly insensitive.
A DVD burner is used as the optical drive.
A DVD burner is used as the optical drive.
The multimedia laptop weighs just below three kilograms.
The multimedia laptop weighs just below three kilograms.
The maximum opening angle is approx. 135°.
The maximum opening angle is approx. 135°.
Despite the powerful components, the 770Z7E only has a height of 27 millimeters.
Despite the powerful components, the 770Z7E only has a height of 27 millimeters.
Annoying reflections are mostly thwarted.
Annoying reflections are mostly thwarted.
The workmanship is of a high standard.
The workmanship is of a high standard.
The connectivity is also above average.
The connectivity is also above average.
The base is only plastic.
The base is only plastic.
The handy 90 watt power supply is comfortable to carry around.
The handy 90 watt power supply is comfortable to carry around.

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Pros

+High-contrast Full HD screen
+Integrated keyboard light
+High-end material impression
+Good noise level
+Impressive battery runtime
+Modern 28 nm GPU
+Great input devices
+Slim case
+Small PSU
+Great performance
+Good sound
+2x USB 3.0
+Elegant looks
 

Cons

-Fluctuating CPU clock in 3D mode
-Suboptimal maintenance options
-Non-removable battery

Shortcut

What we like

No matter whether components, speakers, design or screen - the laptop compels in almost every category.

What we'd like to see

A more stable clock behavior and a directly accessible battery.

What surprises us

Striking weaknesses? Not in the Chronos 770Z7E.

The competition

17-inch all-round or gaming laptops with a lot of graphics power, such as Acer Aspire V3-771G, Asus N76VZ, Clevo W370ET Barebone (Schenker XMG A722 & One K73-2O), Dell Inspiron 17R, One M73-2O, MSI GE70 or Samsung 700Z7C.

Rating

Samsung 770Z7E-S01DE - 02/28/2013 v3(old)
Florian Glaser

Chassis
85%
Keyboard
90%
Pointing Device
84%
Connectivity
78%
Weight
73%
Battery
82%
Display
86%
Games Performance
91%
Application Performance
94%
Temperature
84%
Noise
84%
Add Points
88%
Average
85%
86%
Multimedia - Weighted Average
Florian Glaser, 2013-03- 5 (Update: 2013-06- 6)