Even though we respect ASUS for being innovative with its notebook designs, the ASUS F6V-3P182E with its "musk" scent is too whiffy. But if you can get past the smell, a decent 13.3in notebook can be yours for $1599.

The more we used this netbook, the more we fell in love with it. Despite being small, you get used to typing on it. It's one of the few netbooks on the market to have an ExpressCard/34 slot, so it's perfect for use with a mobile data card. We also love the unit's build quality. All up, we recommend this unit if you're after an 8.9in netbook.

The Lenovo ThinkPad W700 (275854M) is a fast and feature-packed workstation with a very effective graphics processor. However, this notebook is let down by the use of a 5400rpm hard drive.

For demanding users who tend to miss their mouth while they sip, or for anyone who is always using their notebook on the road, the semi-rugged Toughbook CF-52 is a worthy proposition. But it won't withstand everything you throw at it.

The Fujitsu LifeBook T5010 is a relatively powerful notebook with the latest connectivity options and an above-average battery life. Unfortunately the unit's overheating detracts from what should be a strong performer.

Sony has produced an ultraportable that is rich in features, elegant in design and has a striking paint job. It's easy to carry and easy to use once you get used to it.

This is a very fast workstation that features a small Wacom digitiser built into the right palm rest and the latest networking technology. But with its very heavy weight and sky-high price tag, users will need to decide if its worth buying this instead of two similarly fast PCs.

The NB100 is a little overpriced, but it is a solid little unit with Sleep-and-Charge USB ports, which are very convenient while travelling. It could use more RAM and a solid-state drive; a version with Linux installed would be pretty sweet, too.

The HP Compaq 6730b is a good value laptop with an excellent battery life and relatively wide selection of expansion ports. Although it sports a small hard drive and is quite heavy for a 15.4in notebook, the positives outweigh the negatives.

Don't even think about using this notebook on the road; it's strictly for those who require a desktop replacement with home entertainment features. It has Blu-ray, HDMI and a high-definition screen. Even though it's a fast unit, it doesn't even have the fastest gizzards on the market.

The Lenovo IdeaPad U330 is a device with lots going for it. Apart from the excellent keyboard, strong hardware and attractive design, the unit also has a great screen and a large variety of ports. Unfortunately, this quality is reflected in its high price tag.

It has a few flaws, but the 2230s is a capable laptop for business users. It has good speed, plenty of security options, and it's a portable size, but it could use more RAM and some design tweaks.