What laptop for older games on external monitor?

[mfeller2]

I am looking to buy a laptop. Primary usage will not be gaming...I have a desktop for that. But I may look to spend a little extra for a laptop that can support some older favorites (Civ 4), where graphics requirements will be a little lower.

A few questions:
1) I assume that integrated graphics will be up to the task for the laptop's LCD.
2) But for using an external monitor at 1680x1050 or 1920x1080, will newer integrated graphics work (HD4000 or AMD's newer)?
3) Or do I need to look at discrete graphics options? If so, what level?

Thanks!

 

[jacktesterson]

I picked up a A8-3520m based laptop this week for $479.99 on sale.

I wanted something with a little GPU power. (My work laptop's 32MB Intel HD is garbage)

I would check them out. It will run MLB 2K12 maxed out at 1366x768 at 70 FPS, and is smooth playing Saint's Row 3 at Medium presets. Those are newer games, so older games at 1680x1050 should be fine.

Problem with HD4000 is you need to buy an I5 or I7 to get it currently, and drivers for games will probably never be as good as AMD's.