Good for its price if you are using it for productivity applications. However, try typing on it before you buy, as you may find the trackpad hampers your input.

While it might not quite resurrect a dying breed, the A9 (PTS52A-00V00F) proves that big old-fashioned business notebooks still have a worthy place in the ultra-mobile world. Worth investing in.

A decent, but not particularly inspiring machine, the Tecra A6 will suit those who need an affordable business notebook.

The BenQ Joybook S32 (BV13) offers a slight improvement over the previous S32 iteration. Its overall performance was predictably solid for a notebook in this price range. It will neither wow, nor disappoint.

The VAIO VGN-CR13G is a reasonably solid, if unspectacular, notebook that features a lovely design and reasonable specifications. A decent choice if you are after an all-purpose machine.

There's plenty of style to boast of here. The Verve, aptly named for its design, will turn heads, and it's a good performer too, if not at the top of the class.

On design alone the Sony VAIO CR25G/R is a winner. Beyond that it's a solid machine with some nice features but not a tonne of power. Those looking to do the basics and look good in the process will enjoy this notebook.

While it's a master of none, this versatile machine will handle just about anything the average user can throw at it.

Solid business notebook performance and extended battery life. Plus product lifecycle longevity and familiar ThinkPad design.

With a simple, but thoughtful feature set, a solid build and a classy design there's little to complain about. While the CR13G/B isn't the top of the game, it is a very nice notebook.

There's not a whole lot more to the HP Pavilion Special Edition, but the small perks and unique design easily match, if not outweigh the slight price hike.

With power, connectivity and functionality at your fingertips there's little to complain about. The BenQ Joybook R56 offers some nice new features in a solid, usable machine.