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Sony Vaio Z updated with quad SSDs, Core i7 processors

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On January 19, 2010, 10:29 AM EST

Sony's European branch has announced an update to its range of Vaio Z ultraportable laptops that will bring some seriously beefy specs to the same tiny and beautifully designed form factor. Two new models will be on offer starting March -- the VPC-Z11Z9E and VPC-Z11X9E -- with 2.66GHz and 2.4GHz Intel Core i7 processors, respectively, and Nvidia GeForce GT330M graphics capable of operating at full speed when needed or in "stamina mode" to scale down performance and save battery life -- possibly reverting to Intel's built-in graphics.

They also have four SSD drives configured in RAID 0, offering either 256GB or 128GB of storage depending on the model, which Sony estimates will be able to load data at up to 6.2 times faster than a regular 5,400RPM notebook disk. Their 13.1-inch LED backlit displays will offer a 16:9 aspect ratio and 1,920 x 1,080 or 1,600 x 900 resolutions, there's a built-in DVD burner, plus HDMI-out to hook up with your HDTV.


Other notable features include 6GB of RAM on the VPC-Z11Z9E and 4GB on VPC-Z11X9E, a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts the screen and keyboard backlights to optimal levels, 3G mobile broadband support, Wi-Fi n connectivity, and Microsoft's 64-bit version of Windows 7 Professional. Everything is packed inside a 210 x 23.8-32.7 x 314 mm carbon fiber and aluminum chassis that only weighs 1.43kg.

Sony did not mention anything regarding battery life but I wouldn't expect any breakthroughs considering all the punch these laptops are packing. Both new Vaio Z series laptops will arrive in March 2010 to Europe, with a U.S. rollout expected in April. No official pricing has been announced but Electronista suggests they'll start at $1,900.

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User Comments (9)

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slh28
on January 19, 2010
11:15 AM

Wow I'm amazed they managed to pack 4 SSDs into a 13in laptop! But I'm guessing the $1,900 base model only includes a normal HDD...

Reply

Guest
on January 19, 2010
1:32 PM

Actually, the $1,900 will have the 128GB SSD.

Reply

Ithryl
on January 19, 2010
3:30 PM

What a beauty.

Reply

Guest
on January 20, 2010
1:11 AM

looks cool , all that remains is

1)to know beattery life and

2)how can it handle heat from intense graphics 12 hour work

3)well and of cource wait 1-2 yars before it arrives in my country

Reply

Zeromus
on January 21, 2010
3:04 PM

dats crazy fun awesome, laptop with quad SSDs

Reply

Guest
on January 22, 2010
3:42 AM

They put an Intel i7 processor and 4 SSD in a 13.1" laptop?

That's going to be really fast.

Sony said that battery life will go up to 6 hrs.

Reply

Guest
on January 27, 2010
12:01 PM

Price in Sweden will be, hold your horses, 3590.76 us dollars

Reply

Guest
on January 27, 2010
12:08 PM

Did you hear me? 3590.76 us dollars in Sweden......better buy 2 asus then

Reply

Guest
on February 14, 2010
1:03 AM

I ordered one from their top of the line signature series. Its got the dual SSDs for a total of 512 gb. Over $5000 US. can't wait to try it out

Reply

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