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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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