Photograph: Marc Simon
Turion 64 mobile technology for notebooks represents AMD's attempt to challenge Intel's dominant Centrino platform. I looked at two shipping notebooks from Acer and Compaq that use the new processor-and-wireless combo--and found both well equipped and suitable for most uses. While neither model proved a performance powerhouse compared with some Centrino-based systems our Test Center has evaluated, both possess strengths that should pique the interest of savvy buyers.
The basis of Turion 64 mobile technology is the new Turion 64 mobile processor, which AMD derived from its popular Athlon 64 CPU by lowering the chip's power consumption. Turion 64 chips fall into one of two categories: ML, which consumes less power (for longer battery life), and MT, which favors performance over power savings. Just as Intel calls Centrino a platform, AMD refers to Turion as a technology, and not merely a processor. Like Centrino, Turion includes a wireless transmitter (802.11a/g) as part of the package. And, to one-up Centrino, Turion adds Bluetooth, a nice bonus.
Differing Performance
The two notebook models I reviewed, the Acer Ferrari 4000 and the Compaq Presario M2000Z, rely on the 1.8-GHz Turion 64 ML-34 processor and 1GB of RAM.
Despite their similar configurations, they turned in varying performance. The Acer managed a score of 85 in our WorldBench 5 tests, while the Compaq mustered a 73. The Acer's score places it above the mark of 84 earned by a similarly configured notebook equipped with a 1.86-GHz Pentium M 750 processor.
In battery life tests, the Acer and Compaq switched places. The Acer lasted just 3 hours--an average showing--on a single charge, while the Compaq powered through for 4 hours, 48 minutes. That isn't the longest battery life we've seen--some Centrino-based notebooks we've tested have topped out at 6 hours--but it's impressive, nonetheless.
Features Galore
The Ferrari 4000, Acer's latest model in its line of race-car-inspired notebooks, has candy-apple-red trim that's visible even when its checker-design lid is closed.
The unit's keyboard has a somewhat unusual ergonomic curve, which encourages quick, comfortable typing. And its 15.4-inch-wide screen with 1680 by 1050 resolution makes both working and viewing movies a pleasure.
Acer has placed a five-in-one media card reader, battery and power status lights, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi LED button controls on the front of the notebook for easy access. On the side the notebook offers a slot-loading DVD Super-Multi double-layer drive. A DVI port on the back is a nice extra.
The Compaq, on the other hand, has a more staid design, with a standard-aspect-ratio 15-inch screen and a muted silver exterior finish. A 12-cell battery forms a foot at the back of the notebook; it also gives the keyboard a slight downward slant when the unit is placed on a desk.
A six-in-one media card reader resides on the left side, and a rewritable double-layer, dual-format DVD drive can be found on the right. Handy icons identifying all the ports and slots ring the keyboard, so you don't have to wonder about the right connection.
Moderate Prices
In addition to sporting different designs, the Acer and Compaq have widely diverging prices. The Ferrari 4000 costs $1999, while the Presario M2000Z I reviewed is an incredible deal at just $914. The Acer's steeper price tag is attributable largely to its unique car-themed design and extra features. Even so, many Centrino-based notebooks cost $1999 or more, making the Compaq's sub-$1000 price particularly appealing--in spite of its uninspired performance.
If you're looking for top-of-the-line speed, neither Turion 64-based notebook is ideal. But if you seek reasonably robust configurations and easy-to-use designs, either one would make a fine selection.
Sleek-looking notebook will appeal to those who love snappy design; delivers respectable performance but average battery life.
Price when reviewed: $1999
Current prices (if available)
This model lacks style, and its performance isn't stellar, but its solid battery life and bargain price make it worth considering.
Price when reviewed: $914
Current prices (if available)
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