Comex 2012 - Notebooks, PC Systems, Networking & PC Accessories Buying Guide
With Ivy Bridge prices dropping and Windows 8 just around the corner, Comex 2012 is a great place to look for a new system, whether you're after an Ultrabook, touchscreen all-in-one, or anything in between. We've also got you covered with memory deals, peripherals and all your networking needs.
Notebooks, PC Systems, Networking, PC Accessories Buying Guide
Comex 2012 is currently taking place at the Suntec International Convention and Exhibition Center. Till the 2nd of September, the expo will span three floors (3, 4 and 6), and its doors will be opened from 12pm to 9pm daily. In this segment, we highlight noteworthy items related to the Personal Computing category, consisting mainly of notebooks, desktops, networking and other accessories.
Buying Guide Index
Comex 2012 Shopping Resources
Remember to check out the HardwareZone Tech Show Portal for the latest consolidated shopping resources and updates.
Notebooks and Desktops
If you've been eyeing a new notebook or desktop system, there's no better time than Comex 2012 as models equipped with Intel's 3rd generation Ivy Bridge processors have started to come down in price. If you're looking for a real bargain, look out for older Sandy Bridge-equipped notebooks, as you can bet they'll be priced at extremely attractive prices.
If you're in the market for an Ultrabook, we have good news, these thin-and-light notebooks are becoming much more affordable. This second wave of Ultrabooks is also, for the most part, more powerful, and some are even equipped with discrete graphic options. For the business executives out there, look out for a fairly new entry into the Ultrabook market, in the form of the Enterprise Ready Ultrabook. These Ultrabooks come with extra security features not found on regular Ultrabooks, all whilst retaining the light weight, sleek looks and style of the consumer models.
Finally, don't forget, Microsoft's Windows 8 OS is just around the corner (launching 26th October), so if you're thinking of upgrading your desktop PC, you might want to consider a touchscreen all-in-one desktop. Windows 8's primary user interface has been designed for use with a touchscreen device, so if you want to get the most out of the OS, you'll definitely need a touchscreen monitor like the ones utilized on many all-in-ones. They're also great space savers if you're looking for something compact!
Acer (Level 4, Booth 8105 & 8458)
Acer Aspire S3-391-59914G52a
Back in 2011, the 13.3-inch Acer Aspire S3 was one of the first Ultrabooks on the market, and was a great example of Intel's Ultrabook 'philosophy' sporting a very thin body (13mm thick), light weight (1.3kg), good battery life, and fast resume times. This year's model has been refreshed with an Ivy Bridge Intel Core i5-3317-U (1.7GHz) processor or, if you prefer something a bit more powerful, an Intel Core i7-3517U (1.9GHz). Both models utilize 4GB RAM, and have a 500GB HDD.
- Comex Price: $999 (Core i5), $1198 (Core i7)
- Usual Price: $1098 (Core i5), $1298 (Core i7)
- Promotion: Free HDMI to VGA converter, 2nd year local extended warranty.
- More Information: HWZ Review
Acer Aspire Z5771
If you're planning on upgrading to Windows 8 this October, make sure you buy a system with a multi-touch display for the full user experience. Acer's Aspire Z5771 is one such model, featuring a 23-inch full HD multi-touch display that's perfect for the Windows 8 UI. This model is armed with an Ivy Bridge Intel Core i7-3770S (3.1GHz) processor, 8GB RAM, 2TB HDD and NVIDIA GeForce GT 630 with 2GB VRAM, which makes it more than capable for any multimedia needs, as well as some moderate gaming. It also comes with a wireless mouse and keyboard, and built-in webcam and speakers.
- Comex Price: $1599
- Usual Price: $2199
- Comex Promotion: Free 3-years local on-site warranty.
ASUS (Level 4, Booth 8310 & 8220)
ASUS Zenbook Prime UX31A
The first generation Zenbook was quite an impressive piece of hardware. It had a fairly high resolution display (1600 x 900 pixels), and was beautifully designed. This year's follow-up, the 13-inch, 1.3kg Zenbook Prime UX31A retains the looks and build quality, but with a higher resolution display, which has been bumped up to Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels). This model is armed with a Intel Core i7-3517U (Ivy Bridge) processor, 4GB RAM and a 256GB SSD. It will be available in Singapore for the first time at Comex 2012.
- Comex Price: $2098
- Promotion: Trend Micro Internet Security, ASUS Notebook bag, mouse, sleeve, miniVGA attachment, USB LAN attachment
ASUS All-In-One PC ET2411
If you're looking for a space-saving all-in-one PC that will look good in any corner of your house, make sure you check out what ASUS has on offer. The 23.6-inch full HD ASUS All-in-One PC (ET2411) has a multi-touch display which makes it a great choice for Windows 8, and not only looks spectacular, but also packs quite a punch for something so slim. This AIO is armed with an Ivy Bridge Intel Core i7-3770S (3.1GHz) processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, NVIDIA GeForce GT 630M with 1GB VRAM GPU and even comes with a bonus external subwoofer and a hybrid TV tuner.
- Comex Price: $1899
- Promotion: Free Counter-Strike Global Offensive Game, 500GB USB 3.0 HDD, Trend Micro Internet Security 2012, Wireless keyboard and mouse, trolley
Dell (Level 4, Booth 8251)
Dell XPS 14 Ultrabook
Dell's XPS 14 Ultrabook is a sleek and sexy aluminum clad notebook with a virtually indestructible 1600 x 900 resolution 14-inch display thanks to its hardened Corning Gorilla Glass screen. Connectivity is excellent with all of the essentials covered: Mini DisplayPort, HDMI port, RJ-45 port, headphone/microphone jack, two USB 3.0 ports, and a multi-card reader. It's armed with a 3rd generation Intel Core i5-3317U (1.7GHz) processor, 8GB RAM, 500GB HDD and a speedy 32GB SSD cache. This particular model also comes with an NVIDIA Geforce GT 630M with 1GB VRAM for some light gaming.
- Comex Price: $1549
- Usual Price: $1749
- Comex Promotion:Free McAfee Security Center (36 months), carry case, and 1st year CompleteCover Warranty
- More infomation: HWZ Article
Dell Alienware X51 Desktop
If you're after a space-saving and portable desktop system that doesn't require you to compromise on the quality settings, consider Dell's Alienware X51. Roughly the size of a Microsoft Xbox 360, this diminutive gaming machine still manages to pack in a powerful Intel Core i5-2320QM (3.0GHz) quad-core processor, 8GB RAM, slot load DVD drive, 1TB HDD and a full-size NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 graphics card. It's perfectly at home oriented standing up or lying down, which should make it a great fit for any desk. Do note though that it doesn't come supplied with a monitor.
- Comex Price: $1499
- Comex Promotion: Free McAfee Security Center (15-months), Free Accidental Damage Coverage
Fujitsu (Level 4, Booth 8235 - Courts)
Fujitsu Lifebook SH771
Fujitsu's 13.3-inch Lifebook SH771 is perfect for the corporate environment with its understated matte black finish and slim form-factor. The finish is actually smudge and fingerprint resistant which will help maintain its professional aesthetic. It also sports a complete collection of connectivity ports and a built-in optical drive that can be easily swapped out to shave 100g off of its total weight. It's also one of the few notebooks available today that's still made in Japan and, as expected, build quality is top notch. This model utilizes an Intel Core i5-2520M (2.50GHz) processor, 8GB RAM and 640GB HDD.
- Comex Price: $1888 ($400 cash back rebate); Trade-in Price: $1688
- Usual Price: $2888
- Comex Promotion: Free upgrade to 8GB RAM, Fujitsu carrying case.
- More Information: HWZ Review
HP (Level 4, Booth 8245, 8108 & 8428)
HP Envy 4
The HP Envy 4 Ultrabook is one of the most stylish Ultrabooks out there. It's unique style consists of a lid and interior done up in sleek black, brushed aluminum, and if you flip it over, its base has a vivid soft-touch red finish. Not only does it look good, it's also powerful enough to get some serious work (or casual gaming) done. It's packing an Intel Core i5-3317U (1.7GHz) processor, discrete AMD Radeon HD 7670M GPU, 8GB RAM and a 500GB HDD with 32GB SSD cache. Music lovers should should definitely give this one a closer look as, on top of its Beats Audio, it's also the only Ultrabook out there with an on-board subwoofer.
- Comex Price: $1399
- Usual Price: $1548
- Comex Promotion: Free Trend Micro Internet Security, HP Carrying case, 1yr Premium Smartcare Service Plan ($299), HP Wireless Mouse X3000 and HP 2.0 Compact Speaker. Purchse to Purchase: Pay $119 for MS Office 2010 Home and Student Edition (worth $188), Pay $299 for Beats Audio Solo Headphone (worth $420) and Pay $149 for HP 2nd & 3rd Yr Local Parts & Labour Carry-in Warranty (worth $499)
- More Information: HWZ Review
HP Touchsmart 520
The HP Touchsmart 520 may not look like much, but it's definitely ready for Windows 8. For a very reasonable price, this 23-inch Full HD all-in-one PC has a responsive multitouch screen, either a 3rd generation Intel Core i5-3450S (2.8GHz) processor or a 3rd generation Intel Core i7-3770S (3.1GHz) processor, 6GB RAM, and a 1TB HDD. The i5 version comes equipped with an AMD Radeon HD 7450A, while the i-7 is armed with an NVIDIA Geforce GT 540M.
- Comex Price: $1499 (Core i5, AMD Radeon HD 7450A), $1899 (Core i7, NVIDIA GT 540M)
- Usual Price: $1648 (Core i5, AMD Radeon HD 7450A), $2048 (Core i7, NVIDIA GT 540M)
- Comex Promotion: Free Trend Micro Internet Security, 2nd and 3rd Yr local warranty ($599), HP Trolley. Purchase with Purchase: Pay $99 for MS Office 2010 Home and Student Edition (worth $188), Pay $249 for Beats Audio Solo Headphone (worth $420), Pay $199 for MS Xbox360 4GB.
Lenovo (Level 4, Booth 8358)
Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Carbon
If durability and build-quality are important to you, there's no better Ultrabook than Lenovo's latest Thinkpad, the X1 Carbon, which is fully constructed from carbon fiber. Not only durable, carbon fiber is also known for its lightweight properties, and the X1 Carbon is no exception; in fact, at 1.36kg it's likely to be the thinnest and lightest 14-inch notebook on the show floor. Specs on the X1 carbon include a low-voltage Core i5-3317U (1.7GHz) processor, 14-inch 1600 x 900 resolution display, 4GB RAM and a 128GB SSD. It is available in Singapore for the first time at Comex 2012.
- Comex Price: $2349
- Comex Promotion: Free 6-months Kaspersky Antivirus
- More Information: HWZ Review
Lenovo IdeaCentre B540
Just in time for Windows 8, the Lenovo IdeaCentre B540 boasts a gorgeous 23-inch multi-touch full HD screen, and combines sleek looks with moderate performance that should be adequate for most multimedia needs. Behind the glass you get a 3rd generation Ivy Bridge Intel Core i5-3450s (2.8GHz) processor, 4GB RAM, NVIDIA Geforce GT 615M and 1TB HDD. It also includes a variety of fun touch-enabled games (like Air Hockey and the ubiquitous Angry Birds) pre-installed.
- Comex Price: $1399
- Usual Price: $1599
- Comex Promotion: Free 6-months Kaspersky Antivirus, 2nd Year on-site warranty.
MSI (Level 4, Booth 8321 - Corbell)
MSI GT70 OND
MSI's GT70 OND is the complete gaming package. It's got great specs, utilizing a fast Ivy Bridge Core i7-3610QM (2.3Ghz) quad-core processor, paired with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 675M GPU with a whopping 4GB VRAM, a 750GB HDD, and a Blu-ray optical disc drive. To complement its specs, it also boasts a 17.3-inch full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution screen, a gaming keyboard designed by Steelseries, 2.1 audio with a built-in subwoofer, and a Killer Gaming network card to reduce latency. Models purchased at Comex will receive a free upgrade to a massive 16GB RAM.
- Comex Price: $3299
- Usual Price: $3499
- Comex Promotion: Free upgrade to 16GB RAM, Free MSI Gaming Mouse and backpack.
- More Information: Related HWZ Review
Samsung (Level 4, Booth 8321)
Samsung Series 9 2012 (NP900X3C-A01SG)
The very slim (12.9mm) and ultra light (1.16kg) Samsung Series 9 is one of the best Windows based Ultrabook-esque notebooks you can buy on the market right now. It has a simple but excellent design and a nice bright (400 nits) matte screen with a comfortably high resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels. This model is armed with an Intel Core i5-3317U processor (1.7GHz), with a 128GB SSD and 4GB RAM.
- Comex Price: $2188
- Comex Promotion: Free Trend Micro Titanium Internet Security, 2nd and 3rd Year Extended Warranty, HDMI to VGA adaptor, Samsung notebook sleeve.
- More Information: HWZ Review
Sony (Level 4, Booth 8210)
Sony VAIO T SVT13115FG
Sony's first Ultrabook, the VAIO T, may not be the most exciting model out there, but it does have a winning combination of attractive looks, excellent connectivity (which includes an RJ-45 Ethernet port and a VGA port), decent performance and an enticing price. It also comes with some interesting unique software such as motion-controlled media controls. Specs are fairly standard for an Ultrabook - this 13.3-inch model is equipped with an Intel Core i5-3317U processor (1.70GHz), 500GB HD and 32GB SSD, and 4GB RAM (upgraded to 8GB if you buy at Comex).
- Comex Price: $1299
- Comex Promotion: Free upgrade to 8GB RAM, Sony VAIO carrying case, Logitech wireless mouse, Sony balanced armature earphones, 3 months extended warranty.
- More Information: HWZ Review
Toshiba (Level 4, Booth 8143)
Toshiba Portege Z930-2002
Toshiba's Portege Z930 is the ideal companion for the frequent traveler, as it weighs just 1.12kg thanks to its magnesium alloy build and slim form factor. In fact, Toshiba claims that it's the world's lightest 13.3-inch Ultrabook. It also boasts excellent battery life, and better than average performance, armed with an Ivy Bridge Intel Core i5-3371U (1.7GHz) processor, 6GB RAM and a 128GB SSD drive.
- Comex Price: $1699
- Usual Price: $2199
- Comex Promotion: Free Norton Internet Security (1-year), 1 year local pick-up and return service, 3 years extended international warranty, and Toshiba External DVD Drive.
- More Information: HWZ Article
Toshiba Regza LX830-1000X
This 23-inch all-in-one desktop boasts a full HD 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display with impressive 10 point multi-touch recognition. It is equipped with the latest Intel Ivy Bridge i5-3210M (2.5GHz) processor, a 1 TB HDD, and NVIDIA GeForce 630M discrete graphics. If you buy it at Comex, you'll also get a free upgrade to 8GB RAM. A Blu-ray drive and ONKYO stereo speakers and subwoofer make it a great choice for entertainment and movie watching, and it also comes with a built-in TV tuner. A matching wireless keyboard and mouse are also included.
- Comex Price: $1699
- Usual Price: $2299
- Comex Promotion: Free Norton Security (1-year), 1 year local on-site warranty, upgrade to 8GB RAM.
Networking
With more and more content becoming available for digital delivery, and many services (especially gaming) requiring an 'always-on' connection, the speed of your network connection is now more important than ever. In the past, we were limited to slow 14.4kbps dial-up modems, but with the advent of cable and and now fiber optic broadband, we have achieved speeds of 200Mbps and above.
These technological advancements also demand equally proficient hardware, at the consumer end at least, to optimize their blazing fast speeds. As such, it is important that you pick the right router to suit your broadband capabilities. For instance, utilizing an old N-router when you're subscribed to a fiber network is like listening to 128kbps songs with a pair of high-end headphones. So if you've upgraded to fiber recently, be sure to get a high-speed router (and preferably NGNBN-certified) to match your network.
ASUS (Level 6, Booth 6261; Level 4, Booth 8220)
ASUS RT-AC66U Wireless-AC Dual-band Router
Launching at Comex this year is the ASUS RT-AC66U wireless-AC dual-band router. Serving as ASUS' new flagship router, this model features ASUS' AiCloud service, which ASUS claims will revolutionize personal cloud services for the end-consumer. Other impressive features include next gen Wi-Fi (802.11ac) support, a 30-second setup, six guest SSIDs (three on 5GHz, and another three on 2.4GHz), and a fancy "high-density aluminum fins" cooling system.
Aztech (Level 6, Booth 6601)
Aztech HomePlug AV 200Mbps Wireless-N Extender HL110EW
Say no to wireless dead zones in your home with the HomePlug AV 200Mbps Wireless-N Extender from Aztech. The HL110EW supports WEP, WPA and WPA2 encryption to secure your data packets over the air; with its two additional LAN ports, you can also hook up two other wired devices to your network.
- Comex Price: $69
- Usual Price: $79
- Comex Promotion: Aztech Mini HomePlug AV 200Mbps Ethernet Adapter + Aztech HomePlug AV 200Mbps Wireless-N Extender for only $99
Cisco (Level 6, Booth 6118 & Booth 6101; Level 4, Booth 8418 & 8488)
Cisco Linksys E3200 High Performance Dual-Band Router
The Cisco Linksys E3200 is a dual-band wireless-N router that operates at both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, ensuring optimal performance for any device with Wi-Fi functionality. This high performance router also has four Gigabit ports for wired connections at the highest possible throughputs, just in case you're concerned about the possibility of network lag on its wireless connection.
- Comex Price: $229
- Comex Promotion: Free HP Deskjet 1050 AIO color printer worth $99 (for the first fifteen customers at each reseller)
D-Link (Level 6, Booth 6351)
D-Link DNS-320 ShareCenter 2-Bay Network Storage Enclosure
This NAS enclosure is an oldie but goodie, with its easy-to-use features and support for RAID 0 and 1 configurations. The DNS-320 can also be used as a personal file server, wherever you are located, thanks to its built-in web interface. It supports drives up to 3TB in capacity, but do note that no drives are included with purchase.
- Comex Price: $99
- Usual Price: $169
- Comex Promotion: $79 (for a limited time only; from 1 - 6pm, on 30 and 31 Aug)
Phicomm (Level 6, Booth 6292)
Phicomm FWR-734N 300Mbps Wireless N Router
Phicomm is a relatively new company based out of Shanghai, China who specialize in the research, development and manufacture of networking and communication equipment. This sleek wireless-N router is one of their first products, and includes a built-in antenna that enables you to share your broadband connection with your networkable devices. With transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps, this router will ensure that there is little network lag when it is paired with these devices. It even features a built-in switch with four LAN ports to connect your devices without Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Comex Price: $39
- Usual Price: $45
Prolink (Level 6, Booth 6128)
Prolink Wireless-N Broadband Router PRN3001
The PRN3001 is the newest wireless-N router from Prolink, and is available for the first time in Singapore at Comex 2012. It has a total of four onboard LAN ports and boasts transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps. To give you ultimate peace of mind and as an attestment to its build quality, Prolink is offering a lifetime warranty for this router. It is available in either black or white.
- Comex Price: $45
PC Accessories
Whether you're looking for a new mechanical gaming keyboard, a portable mouse for your tablet, or you're just looking to upgrade your rig with extra RAM, we've found all the best deals on accessories at Comex so you don't have to scour the show floor yourself!
Cooler Master CM Storm (Level 6, Booth 6211 - Ban Leong)
Cooler Master CM Storm Quickfire Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
This mechanical keyboard features top-notch build quality and a choice of Cherry MX Blue or Brown switches. It is a full-sized keyboard with a number pad, which makes it versatile for users who plan on using it for productivity as well as gaming.
- Comex Price: $138
- Usual Price: $148
Corsair (Level 6, Booth 6276 - Best Bargain)
Corsair Vengeance 8GB Dual-Channel Memory Kit (2 x 4GB, PC3-12800, 1600MHz)
With memory modules at relatively economical prices, it is an opportune time to upgrade those in your existing PC. This Corsair Vengeance 8GB dual-channel memory kit is rated at 1600MHz, which should meet the needs of most users. Each memory module features a menacing looking heatspreader that will keep it cool to ensure better system stability when in operational for long hours.
- Comex Price: $69
Kingston (Level 6, Booth 6276 - Best Bargain)
Kingston HyperX Genesis 8GB Dual-Channel Memory Kit (2 x 4GB, PC3-12800, 1600MHz)
The Kingston brand name has always been synonymous with quality and reliability and this Kingston HyperX Genesis dual-channel memory kit is no exception to that rule. It supports Intel XMP 1.3, which makes setting its RAM timings a walk in the park.
- Comex Price: $69
Microsoft (Level 6, Booth 6126)
Microsoft Wedge Touch Mouse
The Microsoft Wedge Touch Mouse is one of the first peripherals designed specifically with Windows 8 in mind and targeted at the tablet user group. This Bluetooth 3.0 mouse supports 4-way touch scrolling, which means you can swipe up, down, left or right on the mouse to recreate these actions as if you executed them using your finger on a touchscreen enabled device. Its build quality is excellent and for such a lightweight product, it feels solid and sturdy.
- Comex Price: $89
- Comex Promotion: Free 16GB microSD card worth $15.50 (while stocks last)
- More information: HWZ First Looks
Roccat (Level 6, Booth 6641 - Corbell)
Roccat Isku
Roccat's Isku keyboard features Roccat's Talk protocol technology which gives users the option of executing mouse macros quickly and easily on their keyboard when paired with a compatible Roccat mouse. Other features of the Isku include programmable macro keys, media controls, and Roccat's Extreme Ice Blue backlighting.
- Comex Price: $125
- Usual Price: $139
Roccat Savu
This medium sized mouse has a fairly aggressive ergonomic shape with a generous thumb groove and a mid to high arched profile. The Roccat Savu is well built and ideal for those seeking a featherweight mouse under 100g.
- Comex Price: $89
- Comex Promotion: Free Taito Mini with every Roccat mouse purchased.
- More information: HWZ First Looks
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