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YES, this year's school opening is upon us. And there's no better way to greet the new school year but with a new notebook PC that you can both use at school, at any WiFi hotspot and at home. Now, here are some of the latest laptop models that we at Tech Times think would be appropriate for your mobile digital lifestyle and of course, your budget.
HP Compaq Mini-note 2133
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What is it: A new class of "full-function" subnotebook from HP.
Who's it for: Those who don't want to carry a portable computer not more than 2kg.
Wallet magnet: Fashionably good-looking; Windows Vista runs fine on the VIA 1.6GHz, 2GB RAM model version; scratch resistant 8.9" WXGA with up to 1280x768 resolution; almost full-sized (92 percent) QWERTY keyboard - best keyboard layout on a subnotebook; solid chassis with lightweight anodized aluminium design; WiFi 802.11a/b/g and Bluetooth 2.0; nice stereo sound output; 160GB HDD with exclusive HP 3D DriveGuard.
On second thought: Entire under chassis gets really hot; VIA CPU performance is no Intel; average battery life; awkward left and right click position need getting used to.
What's in the box: HP Compaq Mini-note 2133; manual; power adapter.
Tech Times' verdict: So far, the best subnotebook (Not a netbook according to HP) in the market today. But better stay with the higher specs -1.6GHz VIA CPU, 2GB RAM and Windows Vista - just to be sure.
Lenovo IdeaPad Y510
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What is it: A handsome-looking Lenovo.
Who's it for: People looking for a notebook with good specs and innovative design.
Wallet magnet: Intel Centrino technology; Windows Vista Home Premium OS; VeriFace software for face recognition; up to 250GB HDD and 2GB RAM; built-in 1.3MP Webcam; dual-layer CD/DVD recorder; splendid keyboard layout; built-in four speakers and one subwoofer for Dolby Home Theatre sound output.
On second thought: Big and heavy; significant reflection on protective LCD glass layer.
What's in the box: Lenovo IdeaPad Y510 notebook PC; CD software and manual; power adapter.
Tech Times' verdict: Although not really a desktop replacement, the Lenovo Y510 is ideal for mobile and desktop use, especially when watching DVD movies (check out the Dolby speaker setup!)
Dell Inspiron 1420
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What is it: One of the new Inspiron models from Dell.
Who's it for: People looking for a value notebook but won't settle for a "white [generic] notebook."
Wallet magnet: Intel Centrino technology; Windows Vista Home Premium OS; built-in Webcam; WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0; 120GB HDD and 2GB RAM; pleasant-to-use keyboard layout.
On second thought: Dull design; so-so battery life.
What's in the box: Dell Inspiron 1420 notebook PC; CD software and manual; power adapter.
Tech Times' verdict: Value for money, this Dell works best in and out of the classroom.
Axioo Zetta TEC
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What is it: A new laptop model from a relatively new notebook manufacturer based in Singapore.
Who's it for: People looking for a value-notebook that's far from a generic OEM brand.
Wallet magnet: Perfect size and weight; Intel Core 2 Duo processor; 13.3" TFT screen; WiFi, Ethernet 10/100/1000, 56K modem and Bluetooth 2.0; built-in 1.3MP webcam; 160GB HDD plus 2GB RAM.
On second thought: Axioo?
What's in the box: Axioo Zetta TEC notebook; CD software and manual; power adapter.
Tech Times' verdict: Great size and weight make this notebook a perfect companion in school.
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