Toshiba Qosmio X770 (Core i7 2630QM Processor 2.0GHz, 8GB RAM)

The gaming laptop segment is a hard nut to crack. It is a niche market with a relatively low population, since gamers generally tend to gravitate toward upgradeable desktops with multiple graphics cards. As such, the Toshiba Qosmio X770 joins a select group of gaming portables which include the Alienware series and Asus G51Jx. To up the ante, the Qosmio X770 may be the first laptop to integrate 3D Webcams.

Upside

One of the key features of this Qosmio lies just above the display. Instead of a single Webcam, the bezel is graced with two camera. This allows the Qosmio to not only snap 3D images, but also record 3D video. We are not sure if the 3D content shot is viewable on all 3D displays, but if you have two Qosmios you could have fun with a 3D Web conference.

Equipped with Nvidia's 3D Vision Kit, the 17.3-inch full-HD panel can playback 3D movies and games using active shutter technology. Powered by a single Nvidia GeForce GTX 560M graphics card, we can expect the machine to run the latest titles without a hitch. However, we have noted in the past that activating the 3D technology does cause a drop in frame rates, but this is a limitation of the technology and not the machine itself.

One feature we like that isn't present on the Alienware M17x is the Qosmio X770's ability to output 3D content via HDMI with its Blu-ray writer drive. The company has also included its proprietary Resolution+ technology, which upconverts standard definition content into a high-definition compatible format. This prevents the pixelation effect when playing DVDs on full-HD displays. The integrated sound system is no slouch either, marrying a set of Harman Kardon speakers with a subwoofer.

Other notable features include a two-bay harddisk drive, giving the machine the potential of up to 2TB storage capacity. The large multitouch trackpad can be used for gaming in a pinch, while the backlit keyboard makes dungeon crawls possible in the dark.

Downside

At S$3,799, the Qosmio X770 is a little heavy on the wallet considering the Alienware M17x starts at S$3,499. Moreover, while we do not expect fantastic battery life from a gaming desktop replacement, at a claimed uptime of 2 hours 30 minutes we strongly suggest staying close to a power source especially for games that eschew save slots for checkpoints.

Outlook

The Toshiba Qosmio X770 bring's 3D to the next level by offering a stereoscopic Webcam onboard, while offering the high-end performance and audiovisual effects demanded by today's gamers.