Question 1

I See it says discrete graphics but doesn't say which graphics.  Does it have a firepro or nvidia?

Accepted Answer

I do not remember the model number but I do know for a fact it is a Firepro. I bought this as a gift so its not in my possession to double check.

Question 2

Does it have USB 3.0 ports and an HDMI port?

Accepted Answer

There is no HDMI output. It appears to have USB 3.0 support in at least one slot, but mine is not colored. VGA out, SPDIF out, esata, and display port.

Question 3

Is this usable for light gaming? Mostly for little web-based games.

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, it has a dedicated graphics card which you do not see to often in "non-gaming" laptops. I bought this for my cousin and he was able to play games like CIV 5 (not maxed) and Fallout 3 / 4.

Question 4

What ports does this have?

Accepted Answer

There are many different iterations of this laptop.
But, you can just google "hp 8650w" and you should get links to your answers.
I found spec pages and the whole service manual online.
My laptop had Usb 2, usb 3, vga port, display port(which can go to hdmi with adapter cable) sd card slot, dvd-writer, esata/usb combo port. May have firewire - don't have it in front of me.
Video cards are a crap shoot. You can get a decent amd card or a nvidia
quatro (junk) 1000M. Check before you buy.

Questions & Answers