This Acer notebook is worth considering if you need a 64-bit processor and plan to move to Windows Vista in the near future. The superior build quality is also a plus.

With an 18.4in high-definition screen, a 5.1 speaker configuration, a digital TV tuner and a Blu-ray player built-in, the Gemstone Blue is almost like a complete home theatre setup. It's fairly easy to use and it's a good performer, so it's a good choice for anyone after a desktop replacement.

Sleek, powerful, well-equipped portable computing for a fair price.

We couldn't find a weak point - and believe us, we put the Acer through its paces. With a WorldBench score of 90, it'll breeze through most tasks. If you're looking for something powerful with great entertainment potential then look no further than the Acer Aspire 9504WSMi.

The Acer is a powerful notebook, capable of operating as a media centre PC.

A desktop replacement notebook with good speed and some versatile connectivity features that's also comfortable to use.

Too pricey for what is being offered.

Once you get over the fact that you could buy several PCs at this price, the Alienware Area-51 m15x-R1 is an extremely capable desktop replacement for the keen gamer.

The Alienware m9750 is without a doubt one of the most powerful and feature packed notebooks we've laid our hands on, but it comes at a hefty price. Unless you're bent on portability you'd be much better off buying a desktop system for half the price and with considerably more power. That said, if you've got your mind set on a notebook, you need the power and have the cash, then you'll enjoy the broad functionality and classic Alienware style of this machine.

The PowerBook hasn't been drastically overhauled, but it remains as one of the best options on the market for either Home or Office use. Be prepared to pay for it though.

Apple’s greenest notebook ever is also one of its best. The MacBook Pro is overpriced, but you certainly get a powerful and exquisitely designed machine for your hard-earned cash. It’s not perfect, but using it is a largely positive experience on the whole.

If you already own a MacBook Pro, there is little reason to upgrade. For the rest of us, Apple's power notebook is a fine machine on the whole.