Sony has finally announced it will update the Vaio G series with four new models to replace the the third-generation G3 range. All four share a 12.1-inch 1024×768 max resolution LCD – we feel that is a little low for 2009. The entry-level model features a Centrino 2-era, ultra-low voltage 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo CPU; it also comes with 2GB of RAM, 120GB hard drive and Wi-Fi. A mid-range model receives a 1.4GHz Core 2 Duo chip and a 64GB solid state drive.
The remaining two customizable packages include both have the 1.4GHz chip, though differ as one has a 120GB hard drive and DVD drive, while the other trades the optical drive for a larger, 160GB hard drive. All G5’s are preloaded with Windows Vista, with the option to downgrade to Windows XP Professional.
Sony has made sure the updated G series can take a pounding, as their chassis are reinforced with carbon fiber while the display’s surface has a coating that can withstand scratches from a 5H pencil. Sony also spilled six ounces of water onto a G series, and after the appropriate amount of time to dry, the laptop still worked flawlessly. In other tests, Sony reportedly dropped the laptop 26 times from various distances (several feet and below) and the laptop still functioned. Watch video of the stress tests at Sony JP (unfortunately, I couldn’t get video to work for me).
There are now three USB ports instead of just one, and other connections include a VGA output, SDHC/MMC/Memory Stick PRO/Duo slot and a fingerprint sensor. Battery life is rated at 12 hours for the hard drive models or 13 for the solid-state drive, and there is a lightweight power cell offered that will allow for 5.5 hours of operation.
The notebooks will be released on February 7th and 9th, with prices starting at $1,960 and topping out at $2,240. Thanks, Electronista. Information also available at AV Watch, and Sony JP.
