Starting from a specific CPU point (QX9300) I need build recommendations

[storm-chaser]

True to it's name, I'd like to keep my next laptop Lenovo, if possible.

So I've started by selecting the CPU first. Jumped right to the top of the list and I think I'll go with the QX9300.

That being said, is this CPU feasible in ANY Lenovo laptop? If not Lenovo does anyone have a good recommendation for a laptop that

will house such a beast as the 9300? Thanks in advance.

[Thinkpad4by3]

W700 runs a QX9300 with no problems. Mine is running a Q9000(close enough) with more than adequate temps, but the cooler inside is the size of an A/C unit.

[wujstefan]

T601 with quadcore-mod? ;P

QX9300 is a temperature hit for it though.

[storm-chaser]

W700 runs a QX9300 with no problems. Mine is running a Q9000(close enough) with more than adequate temps, but the cooler inside is the size of an A/C unit.

Thank you. I will be on the lookout for a W700.
Is this a DDR3 laptop?

[wujstefan]

Yup, it is. It is expensive and very rare though.

[storm-chaser]

Yup, it is. It is expensive and very rare though.

I see one on eBay right now for like $225 shipped. I should really pull the trigger...

[wujstefan]

No kidding! This is a real deal for a W700!

[Thinkpad4by3]

I wouldnt. (wait, are you looking at the 225$ working one or the 175$ non working one? Assuming the 225, but similar either way)

It doesn't have a Q9000 or a QX9300 and I believe they use different mobos. Add 50-100$ right there.
Need a Q9000 or QX9300 to put in the new motherboard. Add 100$.
It doesn't have the WUXGA display which is all this machine should EVER have. Add 100$
3GB of RAM is useless. Need 4-8GB for it to be even usable. Add 20-40$
I'd personally upgrade to a FX 3700M. Add 100$

So before you know it, it becomes a pretty crappy deal. You'd be paying $500 - $670 for a W700. If you are willing to pay that much, bite the bullet and get it. Otherwise, hold out.

One went a little while ago for 201$
Came with a Q9000
Came with 4GB RAM
Came with the WUXGA lcd
And it was still cheaper.

Not just that:
Came with the FX3700M
Came with the Wacom tablet
Came with the colorimeter
Came with a working battery.
And it was still cheaper.

Is it really still a good deal?

[Screamer]

Concerning about the W700's quad and dual core differences in the motherboard, I don't think its different. There was an old post in 2013 that had someone upgrading from a T9600 to a QX9300. He managed to get it to work by unplugging the CMOS battery, with the QX9300 installed I believe.

[wujstefan]

It has the same motherboard. I have no idea where the heck did you get such info that the motherboard might be different?

The OP already has QX9300 - read carefully
fx3700m - I'd not upgrade unless I'm really using it. Power draw difference and temp jump are huge. This is personal I believe

I'm definietely not into buying ANY W70x unit, just because they have lots of flaws while being hugely overpriced. However, at a $201 price tag for a top-specced unit, I'm into it.

If it simply has to be a thinkpad for the CPU requested, W700 is the only choice (or, a T61 w/ quadcore-mod).
If it doesn't, get a Dell M6400. Or sell the CPU and get a Dell M6600/HP8740w (just beware for the poor backlit keyboard in the latter). You will get better machine for less money. Lenovo does not know how to build 17" workstations. Maybe this is why they stopped at W701 to start back at P70

[Thinkpad4by3]

I don't know...I had Mobo failure and swapped a Mobo with a T CPU in it and it refused to boot with a Q9000 in it. Got the exact FRU from the machine, booted right up.

[wujstefan]

Weirdo. Swapped a CPU (T9600 -> Q9100) in 2758-4SU with no problem at all.

Still got the non-quad-working motherboard?

[QWERTY Andreas]

If you are into modding, do a T61 QC mod. It Works rather well (i have a T61p mobo with QX9300)

[Thinkpad4by3]

Weirdo. Swapped a CPU (T9600 -> Q9100) in 2758-4SU with no problem at all.

Still got the non-quad-working motherboard?

I should but I gotta check.