Sony Vaio VGN-AR Series
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T5450, Intel Core 2 Duo T7100, Intel Core 2 Duo T7200, Intel Core 2 Duo T7250, Intel Core 2 Duo T7300, Intel Core 2 Duo T7700, Intel Core 2 Duo T8100, Intel Core 2 Duo T8300, Intel Core 2 Duo T9300, Intel Core Duo T2400, Intel Core Duo T2500, Intel Pentium Dual Core T2370Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT, NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600
Display: 17.00 inch, 17.10 inch
Weight: 3.8kg, 3.9kg, 4.1kg
Price: 0, 900, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1650, 2200, 2300 euro
Average Score:
Average of 29 scores (from 43 reviews)
Average of 29 scores (from 43 reviews)
Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR190GProcessor: Intel Core Duo T2500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 200 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, x pixels
Weight: 4.1kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 3 scores (from 3 reviews)
Reviews
The Qosmio G35-AV650 and VAIO VGN-AR190G offer HD DVD and Blu-ray, respectively.
Source: PC World
Archive.org version
The first notebooks supporting the next generation of optical media are here, fueling the battle between the two high-definition DVD formats. Sony's $3499 VAIO VGN-AR190G comes with a Blu-ray Disc burner, while Toshiba's $3000 Qosmio G35-AV650 offers an HD DVD drive. Both of these units permit you to watch stunning high-definition movies on their own screens or on a connected HDTV, but we preferred Toshiba's G35-AV650 for its lower price, better ergonomics, and smoother movie-viewing experience. This pricey notebook has a vast screen; plus, its Blu-ray burner lets you write to high-capacity discs and play Blu-ray movies.
umfangreicher Erfahrungsbericht eines Benutzers; online abrufbar
79 von 100
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/25/2006
Rating: Total score: 79%
Source: PC World
Archive.org versionThe first notebooks supporting the next generation of optical media are here, fueling the battle between the two high-definition DVD formats. Sony's $3499 VAIO VGN-AR190G comes with a Blu-ray Disc burner, while Toshiba's $3000 Qosmio G35-AV650 offers an HD DVD drive. Both of these units permit you to watch stunning high-definition movies on their own screens or on a connected HDTV, but we preferred Toshiba's G35-AV650 for its lower price, better ergonomics, and smoother movie-viewing experience. This pricey notebook has a vast screen; plus, its Blu-ray burner lets you write to high-capacity discs and play Blu-ray movies.
umfangreicher Erfahrungsbericht eines Benutzers; online abrufbar
79 von 100
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/25/2006
Rating: Total score: 79%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR190G
Source: PC Mag Archive.org version
The high-definition media struggles are heating up with Sony's launch of its VAIO VGN-AR190G ($3,499.99 direct) laptop. The world's first Blu-ray–equipped laptop, the new VAIO is Sony's answer to Toshiba's HD DVD laptop, the Qosmio G35-AV650. Both laptops are extremely capable Media Center laptops. Both can play HD content, though only the Sony can record it. And both laptops are plagued by the same issues—stuttering playback (it's the software) and a shortage of content. That said, for early adopters looking for the next hot thing—or anyone who is willing to pay a lot to take HD on the road—the AR190G is a sure thing.
eher kurz gehaltener Test; online abrufbar
3.5 von 5, Preis/Leistung teuer, Akkulaufzeit schlecht
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 06/26/2006
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 50%
Source: PC Mag
Archive.org versionThe high-definition media struggles are heating up with Sony's launch of its VAIO VGN-AR190G ($3,499.99 direct) laptop. The world's first Blu-ray–equipped laptop, the new VAIO is Sony's answer to Toshiba's HD DVD laptop, the Qosmio G35-AV650. Both laptops are extremely capable Media Center laptops. Both can play HD content, though only the Sony can record it. And both laptops are plagued by the same issues—stuttering playback (it's the software) and a shortage of content. That said, for early adopters looking for the next hot thing—or anyone who is willing to pay a lot to take HD on the road—the AR190G is a sure thing.
eher kurz gehaltener Test; online abrufbar
3.5 von 5, Preis/Leistung teuer, Akkulaufzeit schlecht
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 06/26/2006
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 50%
Sony's revamped multimedia flagship is the first notebook to boast Blu-ray disc technology.
Source: Laptop Mag Archive.org version
Not only is Sony's new VAIO VGN-AR190G Digital Studio the first notebook to feature Blu-ray technology, it's also one of the best equipped multimedia notebooks around. Of course, treating yourself to the latest technology comes at a cost; in this case, you'll pay a whopping $3,499 for the privilege. The 1.3-inch-thick VGN-AR190G is visually stunning in more ways than one. Its sleek-looking glossy black exterior is offset by a silver VAIO logo with matching silver trim and port covers, but it's the 17-inch widescreen display that really catches the eye.
ausführlicher Test mit Geräteaufbau und Testwerten und Bildern; online abrufbar
4 von 5, Preis/Leistung sehr teuer, Leistung zufriedenstellend, Display positiv, Akkulaufzeit schlecht
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 06/16/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 40% performance: 75% display: 90%
Source: Laptop Mag
Archive.org versionNot only is Sony's new VAIO VGN-AR190G Digital Studio the first notebook to feature Blu-ray technology, it's also one of the best equipped multimedia notebooks around. Of course, treating yourself to the latest technology comes at a cost; in this case, you'll pay a whopping $3,499 for the privilege. The 1.3-inch-thick VGN-AR190G is visually stunning in more ways than one. Its sleek-looking glossy black exterior is offset by a silver VAIO logo with matching silver trim and port covers, but it's the 17-inch widescreen display that really catches the eye.
ausführlicher Test mit Geräteaufbau und Testwerten und Bildern; online abrufbar
4 von 5, Preis/Leistung sehr teuer, Leistung zufriedenstellend, Display positiv, Akkulaufzeit schlecht
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 06/16/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 40% performance: 75% display: 90%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR11M
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR11MProcessor: Intel Core Duo T2400
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 128 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)
Foreign Reviews
Testbericht Sony Vaio AR11M
Source: Notebookforum.at
DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 11/13/2006
Rating: Total score: 98% display: 95% workmanship: 95%
Source: Notebookforum.at
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 11/13/2006
Rating: Total score: 98% display: 95% workmanship: 95%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR21S
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR21SProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7200
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 128 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 5 scores (from 8 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR21S laptop Review
Source: Pocket Lint Archive.org version
Sony may be best known for its ultraportable notebooks but it isn’t afraid to take a few chances at the other end of the scale, as this 3.8kg desktop replacement can attest to. If you must have a desktop replacement with all the latest bells and whistles in place, and have the money to support your demands, this is a great notebook. True, you’re not interested in its portability, as that’s rather limited, but everything else you want from a high-end notebook is here – enjoy!
eher kurz gehaltener Test; online abrufbar
8 von 10, Preis/Leistung mangelhaft, Leistung sehr gut, Akkulaufzeit zufriedenstellend
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/20/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 50% performance: 90%
Source: Pocket Lint
Archive.org versionSony may be best known for its ultraportable notebooks but it isn’t afraid to take a few chances at the other end of the scale, as this 3.8kg desktop replacement can attest to. If you must have a desktop replacement with all the latest bells and whistles in place, and have the money to support your demands, this is a great notebook. True, you’re not interested in its portability, as that’s rather limited, but everything else you want from a high-end notebook is here – enjoy!
eher kurz gehaltener Test; online abrufbar
8 von 10, Preis/Leistung mangelhaft, Leistung sehr gut, Akkulaufzeit zufriedenstellend
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/20/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 50% performance: 90%
Foreign Reviews
Dicke aber stylisch - Sony Vaio VGN-AR21S / AR31S
Source: Notebookjournal DE→EN Archive.org version
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 04/03/2007
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 40% performance: 75% features: 70% display: 50% mobility: 50%
Source: Notebookjournal
DE→EN Archive.org versionComparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 04/03/2007
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 40% performance: 75% features: 70% display: 50% mobility: 50%
Edel-Notebooks
Source: PC Professionell DE→EN Archive.org version
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 03/05/2007
Rating: Total score: 82% performance: 81% features: 87% ergonomy: 91%
Source: PC Professionell
DE→EN Archive.org versionComparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 03/05/2007
Rating: Total score: 82% performance: 81% features: 87% ergonomy: 91%
Notebooks im Test
Source: PC Games Hardware DE→EN Archive.org version
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 02/20/2007
performance: 90%
Source: PC Games Hardware
DE→EN Archive.org versionComparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 02/20/2007
performance: 90%
Sony VAIO AR-21S
Source: AON.at DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 02/02/2007
Rating: price: 50% performance: 80% features: 90% display: 80% ergonomy: 60%
Source: AON.at
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Short, Date: 02/02/2007
Rating: price: 50% performance: 80% features: 90% display: 80% ergonomy: 60%
Sony VGN-AR21S
Source: c't DE→EN Archive.org version
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/20/2007
Rating: performance: 80% features: 90% display: 70% ergonomy: 70%
Source: c't
DE→EN Archive.org versionComparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/20/2007
Rating: performance: 80% features: 90% display: 70% ergonomy: 70%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR21S
Source: PC Welt DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 01/05/2007
Rating: Total score: 84% performance: 81%
Source: PC Welt
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 01/05/2007
Rating: Total score: 84% performance: 81%
Erstes Notebook mit Blu-Ray-Brenner
Source: Chip.de DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/20/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 60% performance: 72% features: 91% display: 82% mobility: 50% workmanship: 80% ergonomy: 84%
Source: Chip.de
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/20/2006
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 60% performance: 72% features: 91% display: 82% mobility: 50% workmanship: 80% ergonomy: 84%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR590E
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR590EProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7300
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT 512 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR590E (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 2 scores (from 2 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E
Source: PC Mag Archive.org version
When I think of a laptop that encompasses all things media, the first thing that naturally comes to mind is a media center—the granddaddy of all laptops. Grand in the sense that it carries many of the media capabilities found in a home theater, topped off with the processing power of a desktop. The Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E ($3,299 direct) is no stranger to the media-center motif. After all, it is the first laptop to feature a Blu-ray high-definition disc drive. Its latest venture involves putting in the latest processing parts from Intel to complement the Blu-ray burner. Interestingly enough, Sony also throws in an external ATI Digital Cable tuner that's supposed to bring a cable set-top box experience to your PC, but that feature proved very problematic in our testing. If you're looking for the best Blu-ray experience on a laptop, the Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E is your ticket to HD bliss.
3.5 von 5, Display sehr gut, Preis/Leistung schlecht, Mobilität gut
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 09/06/2007
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 40% display: 90% mobility: 80%
Source: PC Mag
Archive.org versionWhen I think of a laptop that encompasses all things media, the first thing that naturally comes to mind is a media center—the granddaddy of all laptops. Grand in the sense that it carries many of the media capabilities found in a home theater, topped off with the processing power of a desktop. The Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E ($3,299 direct) is no stranger to the media-center motif. After all, it is the first laptop to feature a Blu-ray high-definition disc drive. Its latest venture involves putting in the latest processing parts from Intel to complement the Blu-ray burner. Interestingly enough, Sony also throws in an external ATI Digital Cable tuner that's supposed to bring a cable set-top box experience to your PC, but that feature proved very problematic in our testing. If you're looking for the best Blu-ray experience on a laptop, the Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E is your ticket to HD bliss.
3.5 von 5, Display sehr gut, Preis/Leistung schlecht, Mobilität gut
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 09/06/2007
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 40% display: 90% mobility: 80%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR590E
Source: Laptop Mag Archive.org version
Sony's latest big-screen multimedia machine is a high-def delight that justifies its high price with smooth Blu-ray playback, a bundled CableCard-ready TV tuner, and enough oomph for gamers.
When it comes to entertainment, only a few notebooks can touch the VAIO VGN-AR590E, Sony's latest all-in-one high-def dynamo. Featuring Intel's speedy Next Generation Centrino processor, a powerful Nvidia graphics card, a massive 320GB hard drive for storing gobs of photos, music, and video, plus an integrated Blu-ray drive that writes as well as reads, the VGN-AR590E is a worthy desktop replacement for multimedia mavens willing to make the $3,299 splurge. At 8.4 pounds, this system is a bit heavy but easy to move from room to room. We recommend you place this VAIO where it can be seen when guests drop by. The VGN-AR590E is a model of minimalist elegance, sporting a glossy, piano-black finish highlighted by silver trim.
4 von 5, Leistung sehr gut, Display sehr gut, Preis/Leistung mäßig
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 07/11/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 60% performance: 90% display: 90%
Source: Laptop Mag
Archive.org versionSony's latest big-screen multimedia machine is a high-def delight that justifies its high price with smooth Blu-ray playback, a bundled CableCard-ready TV tuner, and enough oomph for gamers.
When it comes to entertainment, only a few notebooks can touch the VAIO VGN-AR590E, Sony's latest all-in-one high-def dynamo. Featuring Intel's speedy Next Generation Centrino processor, a powerful Nvidia graphics card, a massive 320GB hard drive for storing gobs of photos, music, and video, plus an integrated Blu-ray drive that writes as well as reads, the VGN-AR590E is a worthy desktop replacement for multimedia mavens willing to make the $3,299 splurge. At 8.4 pounds, this system is a bit heavy but easy to move from room to room. We recommend you place this VAIO where it can be seen when guests drop by. The VGN-AR590E is a model of minimalist elegance, sporting a glossy, piano-black finish highlighted by silver trim.
4 von 5, Leistung sehr gut, Display sehr gut, Preis/Leistung mäßig
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 07/11/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 60% performance: 90% display: 90%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR41L
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR41LProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7100
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT 128 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR41L (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 1 scores (from 2 reviews)
Reviews
Sony - Vaio VGN-AR41L review
Source: IT Reviews Archive.org version
Sony's VGN-AR41L is one of the desktop replacement Vaio laptops and, although it's an imposing size (and, for that matter, weight; 4.6kg with the power brick), it seems to lack the style you get with smaller notebooks in the Vaio line-up. Powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo T7100 processor clocked at 1.8GHz, the VGN-AR41L isn't going to win any performance awards but it will do all the usual mundane office jobs without any problems.
This is a well-rounded desktop replacement laptop with a good list of features and reasonable performance. However, the placement of the trackpad and mouse buttons in relation to the keyboard is a real source of annoyance, as neither of these is properly accessible while you type.
Ausstattung gut, Leistung zufriedenstellend
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/19/2007
Rating: performance: 70% features: 80%
Source: IT Reviews
Archive.org versionSony's VGN-AR41L is one of the desktop replacement Vaio laptops and, although it's an imposing size (and, for that matter, weight; 4.6kg with the power brick), it seems to lack the style you get with smaller notebooks in the Vaio line-up. Powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo T7100 processor clocked at 1.8GHz, the VGN-AR41L isn't going to win any performance awards but it will do all the usual mundane office jobs without any problems.
This is a well-rounded desktop replacement laptop with a good list of features and reasonable performance. However, the placement of the trackpad and mouse buttons in relation to the keyboard is a real source of annoyance, as neither of these is properly accessible while you type.
Ausstattung gut, Leistung zufriedenstellend
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/19/2007
Rating: performance: 70% features: 80%
Foreign Reviews
Im Test: Sechs Santa-Rosa-Notebooks
Source: Com! - 10/07
Comparison, , Length Unknown, Date: 09/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 69% price: 60% performance: 80% features: 80% ergonomy: 50%
Source: Com! - 10/07
Comparison, , Length Unknown, Date: 09/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 69% price: 60% performance: 80% features: 80% ergonomy: 50%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR51MProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT 256MB MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 1650 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 4 scores (from 6 reviews)
Reviews
Review Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M Notebook | Notebookcheck
Sony and graphics… Besides a number of fine, small notebooks with LED display and elegant carbon fiber cases, Sony also offers at least one interesting series in the fields of desktop replacement notebooks, the AR models. Though big, these are aesthetically pleasing and score points especially by their bright display. Regarding video performance, Sony forges ahead anyway for a long time.
Sony and graphics… Besides a number of fine, small notebooks with LED display and elegant carbon fiber cases, Sony also offers at least one interesting series in the fields of desktop replacement notebooks, the AR models. Though big, these are aesthetically pleasing and score points especially by their bright display. Regarding video performance, Sony forges ahead anyway for a long time.
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M laptop PC
Source: Tech Advisor Archive.org version
The Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M is a good performer that can even turn its hand to gaming. You won't get much more than an hour out of the battery, but given its size and weight you're unlikely to be using it on the move much anyway. The inclusion of a Blu-ray drive is a bonus, but it's a shame the resolution support doesn't allow you to make the most of it.
(von 5): 4, Verarbeitung 4, Ausstattung 4, Preis/Leistung 4
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% features: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: Tech Advisor
Archive.org versionThe Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M is a good performer that can even turn its hand to gaming. You won't get much more than an hour out of the battery, but given its size and weight you're unlikely to be using it on the move much anyway. The inclusion of a Blu-ray drive is a bonus, but it's a shame the resolution support doesn't allow you to make the most of it.
(von 5): 4, Verarbeitung 4, Ausstattung 4, Preis/Leistung 4
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% features: 80% workmanship: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M laptop PC
Source: Tech Advisor Archive.org version
The Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M is a good performer that can even turn its hand to gaming. You won't get much more than an hour out of the battery, but given its size and weight you're unlikely to be using it on the move much anyway. The inclusion of a Blu-ray drive is a bonus, but it's a shame the resolution support doesn't allow you to make the most of it.
(von 5): 4, Verarbeitung 4, Ausstattung 4, Preis/Leistung 4
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% features: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: Tech Advisor
Archive.org versionThe Sony Vaio VGN-AR51M is a good performer that can even turn its hand to gaming. You won't get much more than an hour out of the battery, but given its size and weight you're unlikely to be using it on the move much anyway. The inclusion of a Blu-ray drive is a bonus, but it's a shame the resolution support doesn't allow you to make the most of it.
(von 5): 4, Verarbeitung 4, Ausstattung 4, Preis/Leistung 4
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/24/2007
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% features: 80% workmanship: 80%
Foreign Reviews
Test Sony Vaio AR51M Notebook
Source: Notebookcheck DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: Total score: 87% performance: 89% display: 95% mobility: 56% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 88% emissions: 81%
Source: Notebookcheck
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: Total score: 87% performance: 89% display: 95% mobility: 56% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 88% emissions: 81%
Test Sony Vaio AR51M Notebook
Source: Notebookcheck DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: Total score: 87% performance: 89% display: 95% mobility: 56% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 88% emissions: 81%
Source: Notebookcheck
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: Total score: 87% performance: 89% display: 95% mobility: 56% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 88% emissions: 81%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR630E
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR630EProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT 512 MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR630E (Model)
Price comparison
Reviews
4 Hot Multimedia Notebooks Reviewed
Source: Tom's Guide Archive.org version
The Sony really impressed us with its combination of features and functions, including its Blu-ray player, and its reasonable price. That is, except for the god-awful control buttons built into the front edge of the keyboard deck. If you buy one of these puppies, spring for and use a wireless mouse and disable the touchpad and its controls. We like the Logitech V450 Laser Cordless mouse because it lets you tuck the USB 2.4 GHz wireless dongle inside the housing when it's not in use (and that action also turns the mouse off, conserving battery life enormously). You can get one for around $40 without too much shopping around. Do so if you glom onto the Sony VAIO VGN-AR630E.
Preis/Leistung gut, Ausstattung gut
Comparison, online available, Very Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: price: 80% features: 80%
Source: Tom's Guide
Archive.org versionThe Sony really impressed us with its combination of features and functions, including its Blu-ray player, and its reasonable price. That is, except for the god-awful control buttons built into the front edge of the keyboard deck. If you buy one of these puppies, spring for and use a wireless mouse and disable the touchpad and its controls. We like the Logitech V450 Laser Cordless mouse because it lets you tuck the USB 2.4 GHz wireless dongle inside the housing when it's not in use (and that action also turns the mouse off, conserving battery life enormously). You can get one for around $40 without too much shopping around. Do so if you glom onto the Sony VAIO VGN-AR630E.
Preis/Leistung gut, Ausstattung gut
Comparison, online available, Very Long, Date: 10/08/2007
Rating: price: 80% features: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51J
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR51JProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT 256MB MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 1650 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR51J (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 4 scores (from 5 reviews)
Foreign Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR51J
Source: PC Go DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/29/2008
Rating: Total score: 72% features: 80% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: PC Go
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/29/2008
Rating: Total score: 72% features: 80% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR51J
Source: PC Magazin - 2/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 01/04/2008
Rating: features: 80% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: PC Magazin - 2/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 01/04/2008
Rating: features: 80% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51J
Source: Connect - 12/07
Comparison, , Short, Date: 11/29/2007
Rating: Total score: 75% performance: 93% features: 85% mobility: 64% ergonomy: 58%
Source: Connect - 12/07
Comparison, , Short, Date: 11/29/2007
Rating: Total score: 75% performance: 93% features: 85% mobility: 64% ergonomy: 58%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51J
Source: Notebookjournal DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/11/2007
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 40% features: 50% display: 30% mobility: 50% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 80% emissions: 80%
Source: Notebookjournal
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/11/2007
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 40% features: 50% display: 30% mobility: 50% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 80% emissions: 80%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR51J
Source: PC Actual
ES→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 05/12/2008
Rating: Total score: 88% price: 80%
Source: PC Actual
ES→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 05/12/2008
Rating: Total score: 88% price: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51E
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR51EProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7250
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT 256MB MB
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 1100 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR51E (Model)
Price comparison
Foreign Reviews
Testbericht Sony Vaio AR51E.G4
Source: Notebookforum.at DE→EN Archive.org version
User Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/28/2007
Rating: display: 80% workmanship: 50% emissions: 80%
Source: Notebookforum.at
DE→EN Archive.org versionUser Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/28/2007
Rating: display: 80% workmanship: 50% emissions: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR730E
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR730EProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T8100
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 4.1kg
Price: 1200 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR730E (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR730E/B Desktop Replacement Notebook
Source: Comp Reviews Archive.org version
Sony's updated VAIO VGN-AR730E desktop replacement notebook is a good general purpose system. While it certainly isn't the most powerful system available on the market, it has decent base components for just about any task. Those looking at using the system for PC gaming would want to consider other alternatives though.
4 von 5, Display mangelhaft, Leistung schlecht, Mobilität mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/17/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 40% display: 50% mobility: 50%
Source: Comp Reviews
Archive.org versionSony's updated VAIO VGN-AR730E desktop replacement notebook is a good general purpose system. While it certainly isn't the most powerful system available on the market, it has decent base components for just about any task. Those looking at using the system for PC gaming would want to consider other alternatives though.
4 von 5, Display mangelhaft, Leistung schlecht, Mobilität mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/17/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 40% display: 50% mobility: 50%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR61
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR61Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T5450
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Price: 900 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR61 (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 4 scores (from 5 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR61E notebook review
Source: Pocket Lint Archive.org version
The Sony VAIO VGN-AR61E proves that there is more to making a good multimedia machine than simply matching a big screen with plenty of software. While the build quality is good, the keyboard is something of a mixed blessing. However, we were disappointed with the specification – it is fine if you’re looking for a budget option but it won’t meet the needs of anyone looking to run high-end tasks.
7 von 10, Display gut, Verarbeitung gut, Mobilität mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 08/04/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% display: 80% mobility: 50% workmanship: 80%
Source: Pocket Lint
Archive.org versionThe Sony VAIO VGN-AR61E proves that there is more to making a good multimedia machine than simply matching a big screen with plenty of software. While the build quality is good, the keyboard is something of a mixed blessing. However, we were disappointed with the specification – it is fine if you’re looking for a budget option but it won’t meet the needs of anyone looking to run high-end tasks.
7 von 10, Display gut, Verarbeitung gut, Mobilität mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 08/04/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% display: 80% mobility: 50% workmanship: 80%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR61E
Source: Techradar Archive.org version
An affordable multimedia offering from Sony. Sony’s VAIO AR-series laptops have long been associated with multimedia use, thanks to big, vibrant screens, feature-packed specifications and cutting edge technology. The VAIO VGN-AR61E (£650 inc. VAT) is an entry-level machine, however, and can’t rival the others here when it comes to cutting-edge features. It has a 17-inch display, which is colourful and bright, but lacking in sharpness. Its resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels is quite low among compared to the competition. Screen quality is bright, but you can’t watch high-definition content at full resolution. In a bid to keep costs down, the Sony uses an nVidia GeForce 8400M GT graphics card. It’s one of the cheaper options, but it still provides adequate performance for most uses, with only the very latest games causing the system to slow.
3.5 von 5, Preis gut, Verarbeitung gut, Ergonomie gut, Display sehr gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 07/01/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 80% performance: 40% display: 90% workmanship: 80% ergonomy: 80%
Source: Techradar
Archive.org versionAn affordable multimedia offering from Sony. Sony’s VAIO AR-series laptops have long been associated with multimedia use, thanks to big, vibrant screens, feature-packed specifications and cutting edge technology. The VAIO VGN-AR61E (£650 inc. VAT) is an entry-level machine, however, and can’t rival the others here when it comes to cutting-edge features. It has a 17-inch display, which is colourful and bright, but lacking in sharpness. Its resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels is quite low among compared to the competition. Screen quality is bright, but you can’t watch high-definition content at full resolution. In a bid to keep costs down, the Sony uses an nVidia GeForce 8400M GT graphics card. It’s one of the cheaper options, but it still provides adequate performance for most uses, with only the very latest games causing the system to slow.
3.5 von 5, Preis gut, Verarbeitung gut, Ergonomie gut, Display sehr gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 07/01/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 80% performance: 40% display: 90% workmanship: 80% ergonomy: 80%
Foreign Reviews
Tragbares Heimkino
Source: SFT - 5/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 04/30/2008
Rating: Total score: 91% features: 80% display: 95% mobility: 40%
Source: SFT - 5/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 04/30/2008
Rating: Total score: 91% features: 80% display: 95% mobility: 40%
Sony Vaio AR61: Blu-ray-Notebook im Exklusivtest
Source: Netzwelt DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 02/05/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 80% mobility: 30%
Source: Netzwelt
DE→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Long, Date: 02/05/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 80% mobility: 30%
Mobiele thuisbioscoop
Source: Computer Totaal
NL→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 05/08/2008
Rating: display: 80%
Source: Computer Totaal
NL→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Short, Date: 05/08/2008
Rating: display: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51SU
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR51SUProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T7700
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 2200 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR51SU (Model)
Price comparison
Foreign Reviews
Multimedia total
Source: Notebook / Organizer / Handy - 3-4/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 02/22/2008
Rating: performance: 80% mobility: 40%
Source: Notebook / Organizer / Handy - 3-4/08
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 02/22/2008
Rating: performance: 80% mobility: 40%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR51SU
Source: PC World Italia
IT→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/02/2008
performance: 90%
Source: PC World Italia
IT→EN Archive.org versionSingle Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/02/2008
performance: 90%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR61
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR61Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo T8300
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 2300 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR61 (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 2 scores (from 3 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR61ZU Blu-Ray Laptop
Source: Bios Magazine Archive.org version
Preis schlecht, Leistung gut
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/16/2008
Rating: price: 40% performance: 80%
Source: Bios Magazine
Archive.org versionIt may be a laptop, but the VGN-AR61ZU (416x299x33mm, 3.9kg) has all the power necessary to edit personal HD video content - before burning your clips onto BD-R/-RE/-ROM/DVD+-RW/+-R DL/RAM for safekeeping. Whether you are editing in HD or enjoying an HD movie, the massive 17-inch WUXGA (1920x1200) widescreen display gives you every last pixel of 1080p Full HD in brilliant colour with X-black LCD screen enhancement and super-bright double lamp illumination.
Expensive but powerful HD laptop
Preis schlecht, Leistung gut
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/16/2008
Rating: price: 40% performance: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR61ZU review
Source: Tech Advisor Archive.org version
The Sony Vaio VGN-AR61ZU is a very competent desktop-replacement laptop with impressive performance and good entertainment capabilities. Provided you're not planning on moving it too far and you can afford the high asking price it shouldn't disappoint.
(von 5): 4, Preis 3.5, Verarbeitung 4.5, Ausstattung 4.5, Leistung gut
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 04/28/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 70% performance: 80% features: 90% workmanship: 90%
Source: Tech Advisor
Archive.org versionThe Sony Vaio VGN-AR61ZU is a very competent desktop-replacement laptop with impressive performance and good entertainment capabilities. Provided you're not planning on moving it too far and you can afford the high asking price it shouldn't disappoint.
(von 5): 4, Preis 3.5, Verarbeitung 4.5, Ausstattung 4.5, Leistung gut
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 04/28/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 70% performance: 80% features: 90% workmanship: 90%
Sony VAIO VGN-AR61ZU - Entertainment Notebook
Source: Trusted Reviews Archive.org version
Despite the chassis being close to three years old, the VAIO VGN-AR61ZU is probably still the best looking, Full HD multimedia notebook on the market. You're also getting a very solid specification with strong performance, making it an ideal replacement for your big, ugly desktop machine. With a digital TV tuner and a Blu-ray drive built-in, you've got your entertainment needs pretty much sewn up. On the down side, the screen isn't quite as good as it could be, with backlight bleed at the bottom and top edges, while black levels could also be better. Also, the woefully disappointing internal speakers are a real issue with machines like Toshiba's Qosmio and the Acer Aspire Gemstone Blue have great internal sound to complement their visual performance. But even with these issues and the annoying placement of the touchpad buttons, the VGN-AR61ZU has a lot to offer the user who wants everything in one box.
(von 10): 8, Ausstattung 8, Leistung 9
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 04/04/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 90% features: 80%
Source: Trusted Reviews
Archive.org versionDespite the chassis being close to three years old, the VAIO VGN-AR61ZU is probably still the best looking, Full HD multimedia notebook on the market. You're also getting a very solid specification with strong performance, making it an ideal replacement for your big, ugly desktop machine. With a digital TV tuner and a Blu-ray drive built-in, you've got your entertainment needs pretty much sewn up. On the down side, the screen isn't quite as good as it could be, with backlight bleed at the bottom and top edges, while black levels could also be better. Also, the woefully disappointing internal speakers are a real issue with machines like Toshiba's Qosmio and the Acer Aspire Gemstone Blue have great internal sound to complement their visual performance. But even with these issues and the annoying placement of the touchpad buttons, the VGN-AR61ZU has a lot to offer the user who wants everything in one box.
(von 10): 8, Ausstattung 8, Leistung 9
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 04/04/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 90% features: 80%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR830E
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR830EProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T8300
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Price: 1400 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section
Price comparison
Sony Vaio VGN-AR71ZU
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR71ZUProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo T9300
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT
Display: 17.10 inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Weight: 3.9kg
Price: 2300 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR71ZU (Model)
Price comparison
Foreign Reviews
Full-HD-Notebooks von Acer, Asus und Sony
Source: Netzwelt DE→EN Archive.org version
User Review, online available, Long, Date: 07/08/2008
Rating: price: 40% performance: 80% display: 90% mobility: 40%
Source: Netzwelt
DE→EN Archive.org versionUser Review, online available, Long, Date: 07/08/2008
Rating: price: 40% performance: 80% display: 90% mobility: 40%
Sony Vaio VGN-AR71J
Specifications
Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-AR71J Processor: Intel Pentium Dual Core T2370
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT
Display: 17.00 inch, 16:10, 1440 x 900 pixels
Weight: 3.8kg
Price: 900 euro
Links: Sony homepage Sony notebook section Vaio VGN-AR71J (Model)
Price comparison
Average Score:
Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)
Reviews
Sony VAIO VGN-AR71J review
Source: Techradar Archive.org version
The Sony AR Series has been in existence for two years, but has been constantly evolving to include the latest features for the entry-level desktop replacement market. The latest iteration is the Sony VAIO VGN-AR71J (£599 inc. VAT), which is a hulking 3.9kg laptop dominated by its 17-inch Super-TFT screen. The Sony VAIO VGN-AR71J is a solid and well-built machine, but the base design is starting to show its age.
3.5 von 5, Display gut, Verarbeitung gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/17/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 40% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: Techradar
Archive.org versionThe Sony AR Series has been in existence for two years, but has been constantly evolving to include the latest features for the entry-level desktop replacement market. The latest iteration is the Sony VAIO VGN-AR71J (£599 inc. VAT), which is a hulking 3.9kg laptop dominated by its 17-inch Super-TFT screen. The Sony VAIO VGN-AR71J is a solid and well-built machine, but the base design is starting to show its age.
3.5 von 5, Display gut, Verarbeitung gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/17/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 40% display: 80% workmanship: 80%
Comment
Sony: Sony Corporation is one of the largest Japanese electronics companies. The company was founded in 1946 under a different name and initially produced rice stoves. The company launched the first transistor radio. In 1958, the company was renamed Sony. Sony is a combination of the Latin word sonus (sound) and the English word sonny (little boy). Today, its core business is consumer electronics. The company is engaged in the development, design, manufacture and sale of electronic equipment, instruments, devices, game consoles and software. Sony operates in the following segments: Gaming and Network Services, Music, Images, Home Entertainment and Sound, Imaging Products and Solutions, Mobile Communications, Semiconductors, Financial Services and Others.
Only some 3D games with very low demands are playable with these cards.
NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600: The NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 is a middle class video card of the 7000 series and suited for games of the year 2006. The performance is very similar to ATI X1600 / X1700. Compared to the desktop 7600 it is clearly slower.
NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT: The NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT is the DirectX 10 capable successor of the GeForce Go 7600 GT GPU for laptops. Depending on the used graphic memory and the clock speed, the performance is between the 7600 GT and 7900 GS video card.
NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT: NVidia GeForce 8400M GT is the DirectX 10 capable successor of the GeForce Go 7400 for laptops and technologically a slower 8600M GS video card. Not suited for DX 10 games in high details.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Graphics Cards and the corresponding Benchmark List.
Intel Core Duo: Double Core processor with a very good relation of performance to current consumption. The 2 MB L2 Cache are used together by the double. The maximum capacity of 31 watts is only 4 watts more than with the Pentium M (predecessor). Both cores are lowered automatically and independently of each other by speed steps down to 1 GHz. In addition it now supports also SSE3 instructions. At least it is just as fast as a equivalent Pentium M. With applications, which were designed for multi-processors, the performance can be nearly twice as fast as with the Pentium M (e.g. CineBench around 86% fast)
Intel Core 2 Duo: This is the Core Duo and Core Solo successor with a longer pipeline and 5-20% more speed without more power consumption. As an addition to the Core Duo design there exists a fourth decoder, an amplified SSE-unit and an additional arithmetical logical unit (ALU).
The Core 2 Duo for laptops is identical to the desktop Core 2 Duo processors but the notebook-processors work with lower voltages (0.95 to 1188 Volt) and a lower Frontside bus clock (1066 vs 667 MHz). The performance of equally clocked notebooks is 20-25% lower than Desktop PCs because of the lower Frontside bus clock and the slower hard disks.
T7200: Mid-range (at the time of annoucement) dual core processor based on the Merom core.
T7300: Mid-range (at the time of annoucement) dual core processor based on the Merom core.
T7100: Entry level to mid-range (at the time of annoucement) dual core processor based on the Merom core.
T7250: Mid-range (at the time of annoucement) dual core processor based on the Merom core.
T8100: Former mid-range Core 2 Duo based on the Penryn core that features FSB800 and VT-x virtualization functions.
T7700: Fastest Merom based Core 2 Duo with 35 Watt. The later Penryn Core 2 Duo are a bit faster at the same clock speed.
T8300: The Intel Core 2 Duo T8300 was at the time of announcement a fast dual-core CPU for laptops with 3 MB level 2 cache.
T9300:
The T9300 is a fast middle class dual core CPU for laptops and similar to the T9400 but with a lower FSB.
Intel Pentium Dual Core: The return of the name Pentium, though it is a Yonah core. In fact, it is a double Core processor with a very good relation of performance to current consumption.
T2370:
Entry level dual-core processor based on the Merom core (and therefore with 64 Bit support).
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Processsors.
17.00: This display size is a standard format for desktop replacements (DTR). The DTR laptops are heavier to carry, need more power, but texts are easy to read and high resolutions are no problem. DTR are mainly intended for stationary desk use, where weight and energy hunger don't matter. In return, you enjoy the advantages of high resolutions (more details, better legibility).
» To find out how fine a display is, see our DPI List.
3.8 kg:
A laptop with this weight is comparatively heavy and less designed for mobility than for use at the desk. Therefore, the devices tend to shine less with battery life than with a large screen and higher performance.
4.1 kg:
A laptop in this weight range is a heavyweight that you rarely carry around. This is meant for desktops and the devices tend to score with a large display and high performance and replace desktop devices.
79.62%: This rating is not earth-shattering. This rating must actually be seen as average, since there are about as many devices with worse ratings as better ones. A purchase recommendation can only be seen with a lot of goodwill, unless it is about websites that generally rate strictly.
» Further information can be found in our Notebook Purchase Guide.
