This is a value-priced power notebook that's well geared towards multimedia use.

A formidable notebook choice with a classy design. Although it's aimed at the casual user in both price and performance, we still feel that an extra $100 can get you a more powerful Intel-based machine.

The MSI MegaBook EX600 is a solid, but far from outstanding unit. It will handle most basic tasks with ease, but will struggle with more demanding applications.

If you’re looking for a desktop replacement with processing power, plenty of storage, an excellent screen and great connectivity options then the Dell Studio 17 (1735) is a hard product to beat.

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

A great value multimedia machine, the 5z70 provides a DVD writer, wireless networking and graphics grunt at a competitive price.

This notebook is ideal for business users who want a big screen, good connectivity options and above all, a solidly built unit for the road. There's not much wrong with it at all.

If you don’t mind your laptop attracting more attention than you, the HP DV5-1010TX_01 is a fast but heavy unit that comes with a built-in TV tuner and Blu-ray player for a reasonable price.

This is a solidly built unit that's a joy to use and has plenty of grunt for most applications. It also has versatile networking options, including the ability to connect to 5GHz 802.11n routers.

If you can fork out the cash and don’t mind the design, then the Sony Vaio VGN-FW17GU is a well-performing unit that features a Blu-ray burner.

It looks good, has good processing power, and it's well-suited as a notebook for everyday tasks. However, it's not really a great unit for high-definition video endeavours, as it lacks a Full HD screen and a Blu-ray drive.

While it looks excellent, the T1 didn't quite perform to expectations, and unless design is of a primary concern to you, there are better deals elsewhere.