Dell Inspiron Mini 10s (HD)

After retiring the 9-inch and 12-inch Inspiron Mini netbooks, Dell concentrated on building the best possible 10-inch netbook. The Inspiron Mini 10s (HD) ($425 direct) is one of many Mini 10 configurations that can be customized with different colors, a host of features, and processor options (These models are also known as the Mini 1012). This particular model comes with an embedded Broadcom HD decoder chip (for HD playback), a 1,366-by-768 resolution, and mobile broadband, making it one of maybe two netbooks—the other is the HP Mini 5102 ($400 direct, )—that piles on this many features. The only thing that plagues this netbook (and every other Mini 10 configuration) is that dreaded touchpad with the integrated mouse buttons; the irritating navigating experience is hard to get past.

Dell, Inc.

http://www.dell.com

• Price as Tested: $425.00 Direct
• Type: General Purpose, Ultraportable, Value, Netbook
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Starter Edition
• Processor Name: Intel Atom N450
• Processor Speed: 1.66 GHz
• RAM: 1 GB
• Weight: 3.1 lb
• Screen Size: 10.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel GMA 3150
• Storage Capacity: 250 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11a/g
• Primary Optical Drive: External

Sony VAIO VPC-Z116GXS

Before it lost serious ground to netbooks and CULV laptops the Sony Z-Series laptop reigned as the most elegant, the most powerful, and naturally, the most expensive ultraportable in the market. Well, not much has changed. The Sony VAIO VPC-Z116GXS ($1,800 direct) still has its predecessor's bragging rights, as it's the only 13-inch ultraportable (at the moment) that runs an Intel Core i5 processor and a switchable graphics system. And luxuries such as a backlit keyboard, high resolution screen, and support for multiple SSD drives rarely come in packages this small. And yes, its price tag can buy you at least four netbooks, but it still earns an Editors' Choice (in the ultraportable category) for being such a powerful, feature-packed ultraportable.

Sony Corporation

http://www.sonystyle.com

• Price as Tested: $1,800.00 Direct
• Type: Gaming, Media, Ultraportable, Business, Small Business
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Professional
• Processor Name: Intel Core i5-520M
• Processor Speed: 2.4 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 3 lb
• Screen Size: 13.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel GMA HD
• Storage Capacity: 256 GB
• SSD Memory: Yes
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Toshiba Satellite E205-S1904

It's hard to contain my excitement every time a laptop maker takes a plain-looking laptop and showcases an exciting new technology. Case in point: the Toshiba Satellite E205-S1904 ($999 list). The Toshiba E205-S1904 is a speedy one, created under the direction of, and sold exclusively by, Best Buy. Not only is this laptop equipped with a backlit keyboard and a Core i5 processor, but it's one of three laptops (the other two are from Sony and Dell) embedded with Intel's Wireless Display (WiDi)—a technology that will allow you to stream any form of media to an external LCD, wirelessly.

Toshiba America Inc

http://www.toshiba.com

• Price as Tested: $999.00 List
• Type: General Purpose, Media
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core i5 M430
• Processor Speed: 2.27 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 5.1 lb
• Screen Size: 14.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel GMA HD
• Storage Capacity: 500 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: External

HP Pavilion dv7-3180us

The HP Pavilion dv7-3180us ($1,449.98 list) is a high-end, quad-core desktop replacement. At $1,449 (list), it's likely the highest priced laptop you'll encounter at your local Staples. The big price nets you powerful components, including the Intel Core i7-720QM processor and Nvidia GeForce GT 230M graphics that can tackle demanding tasks like video editing and 3D gaming. It boasts a Blu-ray drive, and HD video looks fantastic on the 17.3-inch widescreen display. An integrated subwoofer helps boost the laptop's audio output. We reviewed the nearly identical HP Pavilion dv7-3080us ($1,449.98 list, ) at the end of last year and the only upgrade is a larger hard drive. Unless you play 3D games and need a Blu-ray drive, you can find a suitable desktop replacement for less.

Hewlett-Packard Company

http://www.hp.com

• Price as Tested: $1,449.98 List
• Type: General Purpose
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core i7-720QM
• Processor Speed: 1.6 GHz
• RAM: 6 GB
• Weight: 7.5 lb
• Screen Size: 17.3 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: nVidia GeForce GT 230M
• Storage Capacity: 640 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: DVD+/-RW DL with Blu-Ray

ell Inspiron i1464-4382OBK

The Dell Inspiron i1464-4382OBK ($749.98 list) is a well-balanced, mainstream laptop that should hold wide appeal for Staples shoppers perusing the shelves for a modern, versatile laptop. Its 14-inch display and sub-five-pound weight mean the laptop is big enough for use as your primary computer and light enough for daily travel. The Inspiron i1464-4382OBK is built on Intel's latest mobile platform, featuring the new Core i3 processor and integrated Intel GMA HD graphics. It doesn't offer blazing performance, but it is competitive among similarly-priced laptops and should stand the test of time better than a model based on older technology. In addition to the laptop's size and weight, we also like its sleek yet understated design and the surprisingly big sound that the speakers emit. The Inspiron i1464-4382OBK's merely average battery life won't help the laptop win any converts, but there are ways to fix that on Dell's Website (you can upgrade to a bigger battery and Core i5 processor for $100 more). Whether shopping for the home, small office, or college campus, the Dell Inspiron 1464-4382OBK deserves a spot on your short list. As such, it earns our Editors' Choice for budget laptop.

Dell, Inc.

http://www.dell.com

• Price as Tested: $749.98 List
• Type: General Purpose
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core i3 330M
• Processor Speed: 2.13 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 4.8 lb
• Screen Size: 14.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel GMA HD
• Storage Capacity: 500 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK

There is nothing inherently wrong with the Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK. This entry-level 15.6-inch laptop can be found at Staples for $639.98 (list) and features a standard configuration that includes an Intel dual-core CPU, 4GB of memory, and integrated Intel graphics. It boasts a pleasing design, with a simple, understated look and a comfortable keyboard and touchpad. Plus, its 320GB hard drive is blissfully free of bloatware. But if you look at the larger 17.3-inch Dell Inspiron 1764-5955IBU ($799.98 list, ) and the smaller 14.1-inch Dell Inspiron 1464-4382OBK ($749.98 list) on either side of the Inspiron i1545-4583JBK on the shelves at Staples, you'll notice that they received an upgrade to Intel's latest mobile processor—the Core i3—while the Inspiron i1545-4583JBK uses the older Pentium Dual Core T4400 CPU. Core i3-based models offer better performance, and they still carry reasonable prices. HP's latest 15.6-inch laptop, the Pavilion dv6-2173cl ($799.99 list, ), features a Core i3 chip, plus discreet Nvidia graphics to boot. Still, the Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK costs up to $160 less than these Core i3-based laptops. For basic home use—Web browsing, movie watching, and music listening—or for your kid clamoring for a laptop, the Dell Inspiron i1545 is a good pick.

Dell, Inc.

http://www.dell.com

• Price as Tested: $639.98 List
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Pentium Dual Core T4400
• Processor Speed: 2.2 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 5.8 lb
• Screen Size: 15.6 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
• Storage Capacity: 320 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11b
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Toshiba Satellite L505D-ES5025

The entry-level Toshiba Satellite L505D-ES5025 ($829.98 list), sold at Staples, evolves from its predecessor, the Satellite L505D-S5996 ($580.00 list, ), by bringing another 1GB of memory to the party, stepping up the AMD Turion II CPU and accompanying integrated ATI graphics chip a notch (albeit for an extra $250). It packages these parts, however, in the same clunky chassis. The Satellite L505D-ES5025's performance and battery life are marginally better than the preceding model, but that's not saying much. The system's weak audio doesn't do it any favors, nor does its weak keyboard. There are better entry-level options, such the Acer Aspire AS5740-6378, which features a Core i5 CPU for only $10 more, and the Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK, which features better build quality and battery life.

Toshiba America Inc

http://www.toshiba.com

• Price as Tested: $629.98 List
• Type: General Purpose
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: AMD Turion II Dual-Core Mobile M520
• Processor Speed: 2.3 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 6 lb
• Screen Size: 15.6 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: ATI Radeon HD 4200
• Storage Capacity: 320 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Asus UL50VF-A1

Intel's consumer ultra-low voltage (CULV) processors were initially used primarily in 13-inch systems like the Asus UL30A-A1 and Toshiba Satellite T135-S1305WH, but they are finding their way into larger laptops now. CULV processors require less cooling, so manufacturers are able to pare down the cooling methods that make other, more powerful laptops bulky and heavy. The Asus UL50VF-A1 ($850 street), for instance, houses a 15.6-inch widescreen, but weighs just 5.2 pounds. The CULV processor isn't that fast, but the UL50VF-A1 has something else to offer. It will be the first laptop to come with Nvidia's Optimus technology. Optimus allows this laptop to switch to a powerful Nvidia graphics chipset (from an integrated one) without any user intervention whatsoever.

AsusTek Computer Inc.

http://www.asus.com

• Price as Tested: $850.00 Street
• Type: Gaming, General Purpose, Media
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300
• Processor Speed: 1.3 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 5.2 lb
• Screen Size: 15.6 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: nVidia GeForce G210M
• Storage Capacity: 320 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Compaq Presario CQ5320F

The Compaq Presario CQ5320F ($399.99 list), available at Staples, straddles the line between great bargain and diminishing returns. Let me explain. Have you ever been to a gas station that has 8 different types of gasoline? They start with Ultra Premium, and then descend into types like Extra Premium, Premium, Regular, and Economy. When you compare prices, Economy looks awesome; you can fill your tank and save a few bucks. The problem is when you look at the fine print Economy barely has 80 octane per gallon, which does your engine a disservice and likely costs you more down the line. The Compaq Presario is like that Economy gasoline. Its $399 price tag lures you in but once you fire it up you realize that it might not be the bargain you thought.

Hewlett-Packard Company

http://www.hp.com

• Price as Tested: $399.99
• Type: Gaming
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo P6500
• Processor Speed: 2.8 GHz
• RAM: 3 GB
• Graphics Card: nVidia GeForce 6150 SE
• Storage Capacity: 500 GB
• Primary Optical Drive: DVD+/-RW (Plus Minus)

Dell Inspiron 14z

The Dell Inspiron 14z ($824 direct, as tested) is essentially the conservative alter-ego of the Studio 14z, as it keeps many of the features that the latter would consider antiquated, such as an integrated optical drive, a VGA-Out, and Intel's integrated graphics. And while the Studio 14z is aimed at aspiring video editors and part-time photographers, the Inspiron 14z's Consumer Ultra Low Voltage (CULV) processor is indicative of its emphasis on battery prowess rather than fast performance. The Inspiron 14z is a little pricey and plain when other CULV laptops in its class, namely the Acer Aspire AS4810TZ-4120 and ASUS UL80Vt-A1, are pushing the envelope while selling for less.

Dell, Inc.

http://www.dell.com

• Price as Tested: $824.00 Direct
• Type: General Purpose, Media, Value
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300
• Processor Speed: 1.3 GHz
• RAM: 3 GB
• Weight: 4.5 lb
• Screen Size: 14.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
• Storage Capacity: 250 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW

Toshiba Satellite T135-S1305WH

Like all other consumer ultra-low voltage (CULV)-equipped laptops that came before it, the Toshiba Satellite T135-S1305WH ($649.98 list, available at Staples) measures less than an inch thick and runs on an ultra low-powered processor. Since the last time I reviewed this system (namely, the Toshiba Satellite T135-S1300, Toshiba has bumped up the Intel Pentium processor to a dual core version and the hard drive to 320GB. Performance is good, battery life is very good, but compared with other CULV laptops it's the least attractive looking, with a counterproductive pair of mouse buttons. The Asus UL30A-A1 and UL80Vt-A1 are much better alternatives.

Toshiba America Inc

http://www.toshiba.com

• Price as Tested: $649.99 List
• Type: General Purpose, Ultraportable, Value
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Pentium U4100
• Processor Speed: 1.3 GHz
• RAM: 3 GB
• Weight: 3.7 lb
• Screen Size: 13.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
• Storage Capacity: 320 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: External