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Better Computing for Less Money

Performance up, prices down in latest round of notebook PCs.

BY MIKE ANTONIAK

Recent weeks have seen a flurry of new notebooks announced by computer vendors, providing more reasons to consider trading up or making a notebook your primary PC. Across the board, the latest models reflect the trend for manufacturers to deliver more features and performance in more affordably priced systems.

With price not the issue it once was, the challenge for you is deciding which type of notebook best suits your real estate needs. The category, as reflected in these new models, now entails several well-defined niches. These choices include entry-level systems for those most concerned with cost; ultra-lights for the ultimate convenience in portable computing; Intel Centrino models with built-in support for Wi-Fi networking and technology that makes more efficient use of battery power; full-powered desktop replacement systems; and multimedia systems with the emphasis on graphics and display.

Whatever your preference, you’re likely to find a serviceable solution for less than $2,000.

• Economy. Gateway describes its new M405 Series as a “value” notebook. This bargain-priced entry combines a solid mix of basic features starting at $1,169. If you’re looking for an inexpensive answer to portable computing, this could be a good choice. The M405CS Centrino notebook comes with a 1.5GHz Pentium M processor, 256MB RAM, a 14.1-inch screen, full-sized keyboard, 30GB hard drive, and a CD-ROM drive. Bundled software includes Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition and Microsoft Works 7.
  
  
• Ultra-Light. The new IBM Thinkpad X40 is the company’s most compact notebook to date. Weighing just 2.7 pounds and less than an inch thick, this Centrino model features a full-sized QWERTY keyboard and 12.1-inch screen. Yet its footprint is only 8.3-by-10.5 inches. The basic model (starting at $1,499) includes a 1 GHz Pentium M processor, 256MB RAM, 20GB hard drive, and 802.11b Wi-Fi support.
  
  The system is the first to incorporate a new IBM feature called “Rescue and Recovery with Rapid Restore.” In the event of problems, such as virus infection, corrupted software drivers, or missing system files, this feature can be activated with a push of a button to restore and recover data.
  
  
• Big Picture. For the same $1,499 price, Acer offers the new Aspire 1710. Its desktop-sized, extra bright 17-inch LCD screen will be a welcome feature to those who want viewing comfort when working in the field. With the big screen, the unit boasts other impressive specs: a 2.8 GHz Pentium 4 processor; 512MB RAM, 80GB hard drive, support for 802.11g Wi-Fi (a newer, faster mode for wireless than the 802.11b), and a CD-RW/DVD combination drive. For connecting peripherals, it has four USB 2.0 ports and a FireWire port. A 6-in-1 card reader is built into the notebook for reading data stored on the most popular Flash Media formats.
  
  
• Multimedia Machine. Dell’s new Inspiron 9100 combination of features and software equip it for creating and sharing presentations on its 15.4-inch LCD screen. The recommended configuration for $1,649 comes with a 2.8GHz Pentium 4 processor, 512MB RAM, 60GB hard drive, 64MB ATI Radeon Mobility video card, built-in floppy drive, and a CD-RW/DVD combo drive. For connecting with external monitors or other peripherals, the model includes four USB 2.0 ports, a FireWire port, and digital video and S-video ports.
  
  
• Desktop Replacement. Sony expands your choices in desktop replacement systems with its new VAIO K Series notebooks. Each features a 15-inch screen and comes bundled with a suite of Sony software to simplify the creation, sharing, and management of all types of digital content, including digital still images and video. For $1,399, the basic VAIO K-13 includes a 2.8GHz Pentium 4 processor; 512MB RAM, 40GB hard drive; built-in CD-RW/DVD drive; Memory Stick media slot; PC card slot; 3 USB 2.0 ports; a FireWire port; and integrated support for 802.11b/g Wi-Fi networking.