Sager 5720 Review
1. Overview and Introduction
I finally got my dream machine and here’s the review!
The subject is NP5720-C by Sager, a “boutique” notebook manufacturer. The company was established in 1985 and offers top-of-the line systems at bargain prices. This desktop replacement laptop is geared towards gamers who demand top performance in the latest games along with the ability to carry the notebook on their back or shoulder without injuries.
Here’s the specifications of the 5720 reviewed:
17" WSXGA+ LCD (Glossy 1680 x 1050)
Pentium M ( 770 ) 2.13 GHz 533MHz
nVIDIA GeForce Go 7800 GTX w/ 256MB GDDR3
2GB PC4200 533DDR2 RAM
80GB 7200RPM SATA HD
Pioneer 8x Combo with DVD+R DL
Windows XP Professional SP2
Lithium Ion 8Cell battery
Intel PRO Wireless a/b/g
Built-in Bluetooth
1 Year Sager Warranty
2 Year Accidental Coverage
2. Reasons for Buying
Here’s how I decided to get my 5720. I was looking for a laptop under $3000 with the following qualities: good design and build quality, good gaming performance, WSXGA+ screen in 15.4” or 17”, under 10lbs. I also wanted to avoid a flashy laptop that would scream “gamer!” whenever I whip it out.
I started looking around at different models in December. My first choice was Acer Ferrari 4006WLMi. It had most of the things I wanted in a great looking package from a reputable manufacturer. I was set on buying the Ferrari for a while…until the TravelMate 8200 was announced! Better CPU, X1600 graphics, bigger hard drive – it was the perfect laptop for me. I told myself that would be my final choice and stopped researching while I waited for Acer to release the notebook.
One day I was at the local bookstore and happened to see the latest PC Gamer issue with the best games of 2006. I picked it up and started flipping through the pages and there it was – Sager’s ad for their lineup. When I saw the 5720 I ran home to get online to find out more about the laptop. After looking at the specs and reading about it on NotebookForums I pulled out my credit card and configured my 5720 that night!
3. Where and How Purchased
I ordered my 5720 from PCTorque after looking up their ratings on ResellerRatings.com. The configuration and ordering process was a breeze. The total came out to $2683 plus the second 1GB of RAM from NewEgg for $85. Placed the order on Sun, the 28th and received it on Fri the 4th. Thanks PCTorque for the fast service!
4. Build & Design
When I pulled the 5720 from the box, my first impression was that it was built like a rock. It really feels like a solid object – no flex in any part of the construction. The hinges look and feel very strong and the notebook opens/closes with reassuring resistance and no wobbling. The top cover gives adequate protection to the screen – I had to push pretty hard on the back to get any ripple on the screen. Overall, the case looks and feels high quality.
5. Screen
The screen is one of my favorite features of the laptop!
The WSXGA+ is the perfect resolution for a 17” screen – gives you enough room to multi-task without having to squint. Also, I can play most games on native resolution, whereas not many would be as playable at max settings or even support a WUXGA screen.
The fact that the screen is glossy is also great in most cases. It really brings out the contrast in photographs, movies, and games. Everything looks more “intense” compared to a mate screen. The only downside to this is the glare you get from light sources in the room or outside.
There is absolutely no light leakage on the bottom of the screen like you would see on most DELL 9300’s. The screen is evenly lit throughout.
I also like the 1.3MP camera built in above the screen – great for video chat through MSN Messenger
One complaint I have is that I got mine with one dead pixel in the center area of the screen. It’s not a huge deal and I did not send it back because it’s only visible if you look for it; otherwise it does not bother me at all.
6. Speakers
The sound out of the speakers is decent. The SRS really help with the surround effect, but I like the sound on a HP dv8000 better. Also, it seems that the left speaker puts out more volume than the right with the balance in the middle. Not sure why that is.
I did received my 5720 with the infamous hissing noise in the headphones
, but I was prepared with my Turtle Beach Audio Advantage Micro – a small USB audio card that looks like a thumbs drive. Works like magic for $23.
7. Processor and Performance
The Pentium M 2.13GHz, 2GB RAM, and the 7200RPM HD provide very responsive performance.
Windows boots up very quickly, new applications start instantaneously, and it never hangs for more that a couple seconds when performing intensive tasks.
Now the good part – the 7800 GTX!
It blows every game away on max settings and native resolution. So far, I’ve played Half-Life 2, FEAR, and Battlefield 2. I was able to play HL2, Counter-Strike: Source, and Battlefield 2 at native resolution (1680x1050) with everything set to high and 8xAA - above 60 fps 95% of the time! Those three look fantastic! I didn’t like FEAR and uninstalled it after playing for 20 min, but it was smooth as butter as well at max settings. Also, the 7200RPM hard drive really speeds up the load time for the games as well.
8. Benchmarks
Here are the results for the benchmarks I ran so far with ForceWare 81.94 drivers without tweaking or overclocking:
3DMark03 @ default settings: 14354
3DMark05 @ default settings: 6830
Super PI to 2 mil. Digits: 1m 40s
9. Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard is great – the keys feel smooth and solid. The layout took a couple days to get used to from using a standard keyboard, but there are no major complaints so far. I like having the num pad as well.
The media controls on the front of the notebook are a welcome addition. So far, I’ve only used the volume buttons, but I can see myself using the laptop to play CD’s without booting up at some point. One thing I’ve noticed is that those volume keys don’t work in games.
There is also three convenience button on top – one opens up your default email application, second is for the browser, and the third can be configured for a most-used program.
The touchpad quality does not match the rest of the laptop. The sensitivity seems very low and a pain to adjust, but I use my Logitec G5 Laser mouse 99% of the time, so it’s not a big deal at all.
10. Input and Output Ports
Type II PCMCIA Slot
4-in-1 Card Reader
InfraRed Wireless Interface
Speakers out / Mic in ports
1 IEEE-1394 Port
4 USB 2.0 ports
1 S/PDIF out
1 DVI out port
1 RJ-45 port
1 RJ-11 port
1 S-Video TV-out port
1 Serial port
1 TV-in Port (with optional TV tuner)
11. Wireless
The 5720 uses Intel’s PRO Wirless card, which supports a/b/g networks. The speed is excellent with my LinkSys router downstairs. IR is also included as well as the optional Bluetooth module I had installed.
12. Battery
I didn’t really expect to get good battery life out of this monster, nor do I need it. When I unplugged the power, the meter gave me 1:08 of life on the batter with the CPU running at 2.13. There are some options to have the CPU drop to a lower frequency when unplugged, but I have not played with those setting as I keep mine plugged in at all times.
13. Operating System and Software
Sager gives you the option to either have XP Pro, XP Home, or no OS on the notebook at the time of configuration. I had mine shipped with XP Professional because that’s one of my school’s requirements. The 5720 came preloaded with all the necessary drivers for installed hardware and was mostly up to date with Microsoft’s Update application. There was no unnecessary junk that would require reformatting. The recovery CD was also included.
14. Customer Support
As I mentioned, the order process was a breeze through PCTorque. As for warranties, I kept the standard 1-year from Sager but added the 2-year Accidental Warranty for $155 just in case. I never had to use warranty on anything I owned so I did not really read up on what’s covered, but the Policy page on PCTorque’s website covers the details.
15. Complaints
- The dead pixel was a bit of a disappointment
after laying out $2700, but again, it’s not a deal-breaker for me.
- The hissing noise from the headphone using the on-board sound. I wish Sager would respond to this known issue by now.
- Heavier than I would like
- The volume controls not working in games, but I might be able to fix this with drivers when I have more time
16. Praises
- Quick build time from PCTorque
- Great build quality
- Excellent screen
- Best price for the components
- Good keyboard
- Screaming gaming performance
- Fast HD
17. Conclusion
Overall, I am really happy with my choice. Sager 5720 turned out to be everything I expected and more. I would recommend this machine to buyers who are looking to bust out the latest games without a professional looking laptop.
1. Overview and Introduction
I finally got my dream machine and here’s the review!
The subject is NP5720-C by Sager, a “boutique” notebook manufacturer. The company was established in 1985 and offers top-of-the line systems at bargain prices. This desktop replacement laptop is geared towards gamers who demand top performance in the latest games along with the ability to carry the notebook on their back or shoulder without injuries. 
Here’s the specifications of the 5720 reviewed:
17" WSXGA+ LCD (Glossy 1680 x 1050)
Pentium M ( 770 ) 2.13 GHz 533MHz
nVIDIA GeForce Go 7800 GTX w/ 256MB GDDR3
2GB PC4200 533DDR2 RAM
80GB 7200RPM SATA HD
Pioneer 8x Combo with DVD+R DL
Windows XP Professional SP2
Lithium Ion 8Cell battery
Intel PRO Wireless a/b/g
Built-in Bluetooth
1 Year Sager Warranty
2 Year Accidental Coverage
2. Reasons for Buying
Here’s how I decided to get my 5720. I was looking for a laptop under $3000 with the following qualities: good design and build quality, good gaming performance, WSXGA+ screen in 15.4” or 17”, under 10lbs. I also wanted to avoid a flashy laptop that would scream “gamer!” whenever I whip it out.
I started looking around at different models in December. My first choice was Acer Ferrari 4006WLMi. It had most of the things I wanted in a great looking package from a reputable manufacturer. I was set on buying the Ferrari for a while…until the TravelMate 8200 was announced! Better CPU, X1600 graphics, bigger hard drive – it was the perfect laptop for me. I told myself that would be my final choice and stopped researching while I waited for Acer to release the notebook.
One day I was at the local bookstore and happened to see the latest PC Gamer issue with the best games of 2006. I picked it up and started flipping through the pages and there it was – Sager’s ad for their lineup. When I saw the 5720 I ran home to get online to find out more about the laptop. After looking at the specs and reading about it on NotebookForums I pulled out my credit card and configured my 5720 that night!
3. Where and How Purchased
I ordered my 5720 from PCTorque after looking up their ratings on ResellerRatings.com. The configuration and ordering process was a breeze. The total came out to $2683 plus the second 1GB of RAM from NewEgg for $85. Placed the order on Sun, the 28th and received it on Fri the 4th. Thanks PCTorque for the fast service!
4. Build & Design
When I pulled the 5720 from the box, my first impression was that it was built like a rock. It really feels like a solid object – no flex in any part of the construction. The hinges look and feel very strong and the notebook opens/closes with reassuring resistance and no wobbling. The top cover gives adequate protection to the screen – I had to push pretty hard on the back to get any ripple on the screen. Overall, the case looks and feels high quality.
5. Screen
The screen is one of my favorite features of the laptop!
The WSXGA+ is the perfect resolution for a 17” screen – gives you enough room to multi-task without having to squint. Also, I can play most games on native resolution, whereas not many would be as playable at max settings or even support a WUXGA screen. 
The fact that the screen is glossy is also great in most cases. It really brings out the contrast in photographs, movies, and games. Everything looks more “intense” compared to a mate screen. The only downside to this is the glare you get from light sources in the room or outside.
There is absolutely no light leakage on the bottom of the screen like you would see on most DELL 9300’s. The screen is evenly lit throughout.
I also like the 1.3MP camera built in above the screen – great for video chat through MSN Messenger
One complaint I have is that I got mine with one dead pixel in the center area of the screen. It’s not a huge deal and I did not send it back because it’s only visible if you look for it; otherwise it does not bother me at all.
6. Speakers
The sound out of the speakers is decent. The SRS really help with the surround effect, but I like the sound on a HP dv8000 better. Also, it seems that the left speaker puts out more volume than the right with the balance in the middle. Not sure why that is.
I did received my 5720 with the infamous hissing noise in the headphones
, but I was prepared with my Turtle Beach Audio Advantage Micro – a small USB audio card that looks like a thumbs drive. Works like magic for $23. 7. Processor and Performance
The Pentium M 2.13GHz, 2GB RAM, and the 7200RPM HD provide very responsive performance.
Windows boots up very quickly, new applications start instantaneously, and it never hangs for more that a couple seconds when performing intensive tasks.
Now the good part – the 7800 GTX!
It blows every game away on max settings and native resolution. So far, I’ve played Half-Life 2, FEAR, and Battlefield 2. I was able to play HL2, Counter-Strike: Source, and Battlefield 2 at native resolution (1680x1050) with everything set to high and 8xAA - above 60 fps 95% of the time! Those three look fantastic! I didn’t like FEAR and uninstalled it after playing for 20 min, but it was smooth as butter as well at max settings. Also, the 7200RPM hard drive really speeds up the load time for the games as well. 8. Benchmarks
Here are the results for the benchmarks I ran so far with ForceWare 81.94 drivers without tweaking or overclocking:
3DMark03 @ default settings: 14354
3DMark05 @ default settings: 6830
Super PI to 2 mil. Digits: 1m 40s
9. Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard is great – the keys feel smooth and solid. The layout took a couple days to get used to from using a standard keyboard, but there are no major complaints so far. I like having the num pad as well.
The media controls on the front of the notebook are a welcome addition. So far, I’ve only used the volume buttons, but I can see myself using the laptop to play CD’s without booting up at some point. One thing I’ve noticed is that those volume keys don’t work in games.
There is also three convenience button on top – one opens up your default email application, second is for the browser, and the third can be configured for a most-used program.
The touchpad quality does not match the rest of the laptop. The sensitivity seems very low and a pain to adjust, but I use my Logitec G5 Laser mouse 99% of the time, so it’s not a big deal at all.
10. Input and Output Ports
Type II PCMCIA Slot
4-in-1 Card Reader
InfraRed Wireless Interface
Speakers out / Mic in ports
1 IEEE-1394 Port
4 USB 2.0 ports
1 S/PDIF out
1 DVI out port
1 RJ-45 port
1 RJ-11 port
1 S-Video TV-out port
1 Serial port
1 TV-in Port (with optional TV tuner)
11. Wireless
The 5720 uses Intel’s PRO Wirless card, which supports a/b/g networks. The speed is excellent with my LinkSys router downstairs. IR is also included as well as the optional Bluetooth module I had installed.
12. Battery
I didn’t really expect to get good battery life out of this monster, nor do I need it. When I unplugged the power, the meter gave me 1:08 of life on the batter with the CPU running at 2.13. There are some options to have the CPU drop to a lower frequency when unplugged, but I have not played with those setting as I keep mine plugged in at all times.
13. Operating System and Software
Sager gives you the option to either have XP Pro, XP Home, or no OS on the notebook at the time of configuration. I had mine shipped with XP Professional because that’s one of my school’s requirements. The 5720 came preloaded with all the necessary drivers for installed hardware and was mostly up to date with Microsoft’s Update application. There was no unnecessary junk that would require reformatting. The recovery CD was also included.
14. Customer Support
As I mentioned, the order process was a breeze through PCTorque. As for warranties, I kept the standard 1-year from Sager but added the 2-year Accidental Warranty for $155 just in case. I never had to use warranty on anything I owned so I did not really read up on what’s covered, but the Policy page on PCTorque’s website covers the details.
15. Complaints
- The dead pixel was a bit of a disappointment
after laying out $2700, but again, it’s not a deal-breaker for me.- The hissing noise from the headphone using the on-board sound. I wish Sager would respond to this known issue by now.
- Heavier than I would like
- The volume controls not working in games, but I might be able to fix this with drivers when I have more time
16. Praises
- Quick build time from PCTorque
- Great build quality
- Excellent screen
- Best price for the components
- Good keyboard
- Screaming gaming performance
- Fast HD
17. Conclusion
Overall, I am really happy with my choice. Sager 5720 turned out to be everything I expected and more. I would recommend this machine to buyers who are looking to bust out the latest games without a professional looking laptop.
