CNET editors' review

The good: 17-inch wide-screen display; very good performance with games and 2D business applications; comparatively lightweight; quality speakers; runs Windows XP Media Center; features double-layer DVD burner.

The bad: TV tuner is external; unlike some other multimedia systems, can't play audio or video without booting up; many user complaints about WUXGA resolution.

The bottom line: The Dell Inspiron 9300 packs advanced multimedia features and blazing performance for gaming and home or business applications.

Read CNET's review of the Dell Inspiron 9300

Note: This product is part of the Dell Inspiron 9300 series product series. See all products in the Dell Inspiron 9300 series.

CNET editors' review

The good: Sublime Apple design; lighter than other comparably sized laptops; motion sensor protects hard drive; 512MB of RAM standard; scrolling trackpad; built-in wireless and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR; illuminated keyboard.

The bad: Expensive; features an older G4 processor, not a G5; only 90 days of toll-free telephone support.

The bottom line: The foxy Apple 17-inch PowerBook delivers the performance and the features most users will need, but it's more expensive than a similarly outfitted Windows laptop.

Read CNET's review of the Apple PowerBook G4 (17-inch)

Note: This product is part of the Apple 17-inch PowerBook series product series. See all products in the Apple 17-inch PowerBook series.

CNET editors' review

The good: Attractive design; big, comfortable keyboard; decent display; good multimedia features, including a double-layer DVD burner and a remote control; plays discs and music without booting the OS.

The bad: No TV tuner; average battery life; mediocre gaming performance.

The bottom line: Don't want an enormous desktop replacement but long for solid entertainment and computing features and performance? The affordable and well-designed HP Pavilion dv4000 delivers.

Read CNET's review of the HP Pavilion

CNET editors' review

The good: Excellent, sturdy design; very good performance and battery life; wide-screen display; integrated WWAN modem; strong security features.

The bad: Loaded configurations are expensive; lacks a double-layer DVD burner.

The bottom line: With an exceptional design, competitive features, innovative connectivity, and solid performance and battery life, the ThinkPad Z60t is versatile enough for home and business users at home or on the road.

Read CNET's review of the Lenovo ThinkPad Z60t (2GHz) Intel M 760

Note: This product is part of the Lenovo ThinkPad Z60 series product series. See all products in the Lenovo ThinkPad Z60