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Apple MacBook Pro MC372LL/A 15.4-Inch Laptop

2010-12-15T15:26:00.000-08:00

Apple MacBook Pro MC372LL/A 15.4-Inch Laptop
From Apple Computer

Price:

Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The new MacBook Pro 15-inch models set all-new benchmarks for Mac notebooks. The 15-inch MacBook Pro feature Intel Core i5 processors, which boost performance up to 50 percent(1) and reach Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.33GHz. Next-generation NVIDIA graphics bring high performance to everything from 3D games to photos and videos. And the built-in battery lasts up to 10 hours (8 to 9 hours on the 15-inch models).(2) (1) Up to 50 percent faster compared with previous-generation MacBook Pro. (2) Testing conducted by Apple in March 2010 using preproduction 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo–based 13-inch MacBook Pro, 2.66GHz Intel Core i7–based 15-inch MacBook Pro, and 2.53GHz Intel Core i5–based 17-inch MacBook Pro. Battery life depends on configuration and use. See www.apple.com/batteries for more information. The wireless productivity test measures battery life by wirelessly browsing various websites and editing text in a word processing document with display brightness set to 50%.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #63 in Personal Computers
Brand: Apple
Model: MC372LL/A
Dimensions: 12.00 pounds
CPU: Intel Core Duo 2.53 Hz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 15.4

Features

2.53GHz Intel Core i5
500 GB Hard Drive, 8x DVD/CD SuperDrive, 4GB DDR3 RAM
15.4 inch LED-backlit display, 1440-by-900 resolution
Intel HD Graphics and NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M with automatic graphics switching and 256 MB dedicated graphics memory
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard Operating System

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Updated with Intel's Core i5 processor and next-generation NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics, the 15-inch Apple MacBook Pro is faster than ever and will keep you working longer away from power cords with an enhanced battery life of up to 9 hours of battery life. As with previous models, the new MacBook Pro features a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, creating a thin and light mobile computing workhorse (less than 1 inch thin and just 5.6 pounds) that's also highly durable. And it includes a 15.4-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) as well as a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple's Multi-Touch technology.

The 15-inch unibody MacBook Pro (see larger image).

Now faster than ever with a Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics, and automatic graphics switching (see larger image).

The MacBook Pro also offers excellent graphics flexibility with two video processors--the discrete NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M processor (with 256 MB of GDDR3 video memory) for heavier workloads and an integrated Intel HD Graphics processor for better battery life on the go. And the new automatic graphics switching feature determines which graphics processor an application needs and switches instantly between the processors.

It comes pre-loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard operating system--an operating system custom-designed for the advanced technology inside--and it also comes with the iLife '09 suite of applications, including iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, and iTunes.

Specification Highlights

15.4-inch LED-backlit glossy widescreen displaywith edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass (1440 x 900-pixel resolution).
2.53 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor for smart performance with a Turbo Boost maximizing speed when you need it the most for demanding applications like Aperture 3 or Final Cut Pro (3 MB shared L3 cache).
Dual graphics processors with automatic switching between NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M (with 512 MB of GDDR3 video memory) for demanding applications and integrated Intel HD Graphics (with 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory) for power savings.
500 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB installed RAM (1066 MHz DDR3; supports up to 8 GB)
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer DVD support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Built-in iSight camera for video chatting
Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice and cell phones
Two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port
SD card slot
Mini DisplayPort video output with optional adapters for DVI, VGA, dual-link DVI, and HDMI output
Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control with support for inertial scrolling, pinch, rotate, swipe, three-finger swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities
Full-size backlit keyboard
Stereo speakers with subwoofers
Dimensions: 14.35 x 9.82 x 0.95 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 5.6 pounds
Up to 8-9 hours of battery life
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard
Meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements

What's in the Box
MacBook Pro, display cleaning cloth, 85W MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, power cord, software DVDs, printed and electronic documentation

The ports on the left side of the 15-inch MacBook Pro.

Key Features

Enjoy a processor Turbo Boost and automatic switching to the fast NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics processor when using processor-intensive applications like Aperture 3 or Final Cut Pro.

New Intel Core i5 Processor

The new Intel Core i5 processor boosts performance up to 50 percent over the previous generation. Based on Intel's latest 32-nanometer process technology, the Core i5 also offers Intel's Turbo Boost feature. If you're using processor-intensive applications like Aperture 3 or Final Cut Pro that would benefit from an extra performance kick, Turbo Boost dynamically increases the speed of one or both cores.

Built-in Hyper-Threading allows two threads to run simultaneously on each core, so Mac OS X recognizes four virtual cores instead of just two. When you're running multiple applications at once, the Core i5 processor spreads tasks more evenly across a greater number of cores--so you can get more done, faster.

And unlike systems that connect memory to the processor through a separate controller, the new MacBook Pro uses an integrated memory controller to connect memory directly to the processor. With faster access to memory, each core gets right to work on your data, rather than waiting for it to arrive.

Next-Generation Graphics

The latest MacBook Pro features the new NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics processor--the fastest graphics ever in a Mac notebook. With 48 processing cores and 256 MB of dedicated video memory, this graphics processor delivers even more horsepower than the previous generation. And you don't have to sacrifice efficiency for speed: The NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M is up to 30 percent more energy efficient than its predecessor. For even greater power savings, the MacBook Pro also includes integrated Intel HD Graphics.

Also new is the MacBook Pro's breakthrough automatic graphics switching technology, enabling you to switch graphics processors on the fly to give you performance when you need it (when you're playing the latest 3D game, for example) and better battery efficiency when you don't (such as when you're reading email). Whether you're using applications like Aperture, Motion, or Final Cut Pro or just surfing the web, your MacBook Pro always knows which processor to use. You don't have to log out, shut down, or change your preferences.

The beginning of every MacBook Pro--a precisely machined, single block of aluminum.

Unibody Design

Traditionally, notebooks are made from multiple parts. With the MacBook Pro all of those parts with just one part--the breakthrough unibody enclosure. Every MacBook Pro starts its life as a single block of aluminum, which is precisely machined into the basic unibody design. Another pass and the unibody takes shape. Another, and the integrated keyboard emerges. When you pick up a new MacBook Pro, you immediately notice the entire enclosure is thinner and lighter. And it feels strong and durable--perfect for life inside (and outside) your briefcase or backpack.

LED-Backlit Display

LCD displays typically use cold cathode fluorescent lamps, or CCFLs, to create light and project a picture onto a screen, and this creates two problems--the lamps require more space and they take more time to warm up to full brightness. The MacBook Pro uses LED backlight technology to create the same amount of brightness in less space. And unlike fluorescent lamps, an LED backlight reaches maximum brightness instantly. Finally, a new, smaller iSight camera is concealed behind the display for quick access to video chats and snapping pics for uploading to social networks.

The entire trackpad is the button, so you can click anywhere.

Additionally, conventional CCFL displays use mercury to create a backlight and arsenic to prevent irregularities in the glass. The LED-backlit display on the MacBook Pro, on the other hand, is both mercury- and arsenic-free. LED backlight technology also conserves energy: This display requires up to 30 percent less power than a CCFL display.

Buttonless Multi-Touch Trackpad

With no button on the durable glass trackpad, there's more room to track and click--left, right, center, and everywhere in between. Without a separate button, the spacious trackpad gives your hands plenty of room to move on the large, silky glass surface. It also incorporates Multi-Touch gestures--including swipe, pinch, rotate, and four-finger swipe--and even more natural inertial scrolling--an intuitive way to scroll through large photo libraries, lengthy documents and long web sites. If you're coming from a right-click world, you can right-click with two fingers or configure a right-click area on the trackpad.

Long-Lasting Battery

The new energy-efficient architecture in every MacBook Pro, along with automatic graphics switching, gives you dramatically longer battery life. On a single charge, the battery in the new 15-inch MacBook Pro lasts up to 8 to 9 hours. And you'll get up to 1000 full charge and discharge cycles--that's nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. Advanced chemistry and Adaptive Charging allow the battery to maintain charging capabilities longer and determine the optimal way to charge the battery's cells. Because the battery lasts up to five years, MacBook Pro uses just one battery in the same time a typical notebook uses three. That makes for less waste. And that, in turn, makes for one environmentally friendly battery.

Environmental Considerations

Apple has worked hard to eliminate many of the toxins that are a common part of computer manufacturing. Apple engineers removed the majority of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from circuit boards, internal cables, connectors, insulators, adhesives, and more in the MacBook Pro.

Because Apple makes both the hardware and the software for the MacBook, they're designed to work together to produce a smarter product that uses less electricity. For instance, to reduce energy consumption, the hard drive spins down automatically when inactive. MacBook Air also decides which processor--CPU or GPU--is best suited to efficiently perform a task. The LED-backlit display in the MacBook Pro is another feature that plays an important part in conserving energy, consuming 30 percent less power than conventional LCD displays. And the display is designed to dim when you enter a darkened room.

The MacBook Pro meets the stringent low power requirements set by the EPA, giving it ENERGY STAR qualification. ENERGY STAR 5.0 sets significantly higher efficiency limits for power supplies and aggressive limits for the computer's typical annual power consumption.

Also, every MacBook Pro model has earned the highest rating of EPEAT Gold. The Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, or EPEAT, evaluates the environmental impact of a product based on how recyclable it is, how much energy it uses, and how it's designed and manufactured.

Pre-Loaded with Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife '09

Every Mac comes with Mac OS X Snow Leopard, the world's most advanced operating system, and iLife, Apple's innovative suite of applications for managing photos, making movies and creating and learning to play music. Snow Leopard builds on a decade of OS X innovation and success with hundreds of refinements, new core technologies and out of the box support for Microsoft Exchange. iLife features iPhoto, to easily organize and manage photos; iMovie with powerful easy-to-use new features such as Precision Editor, video stabilization and advanced drag and drop; and GarageBand which introduces a whole new way to help you learn to play piano and guitar.

Installed software

Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard (includes Time Machine, Quick Look, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row, Xcode Developer Tools)
iLife '09 (includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, iWeb, iDVD)

Customer Reviews

Solid, Beautiful Laptop
Been running my new MacBook Pro for about 4 weeks now and it's handled just about anything I've thrown at it. Primarily used for web development and digital photography, there's very few hiccups found on this machine. Apple's software, as always, is solid and full featured, but not necessarily deep with customization.

Pros:
+Incredibly slim and light
+Beautiful screen
+Games modestly
+Works right out of the box with no junkware

Cons:
- Gets INCREDIBLY hot, it will burn you if you game on your lap
- For the hardware it's pricey, but you pay for the entire package

Love it.
I've been waiting for an eternity (feels like it anyway) to get a laptop. I'm glad it waited, this one is great. So far, I have no complaints. The battery holds up well, it's built very solidly, and runs fast.

Yes, the screen is glossy, but I haven't found it to be annoying in the slightest.

Yes, it gets warm after using it for a while, but not too bad, and the aluminum body seems to be good at dissipating the heat.

And yes, I was stressed out about spending so much, but now that it's all over, I zero regrets.

I love it.

Toshiba Satellite A505-S6004 TruBrite

2010-12-05T15:24:00.000-08:00

Toshiba Satellite A505-S6004 TruBrite 16.0-Inch Laptop (Black/Silver)
From Toshiba

List Price:	$769.99
Price:	$623.95

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Beach Camera

Average customer review:

Product Description

For all you want to see, hear and experience, the Satellite A505 laptop delivers serious style, luxurious entertainment and punched up performance across a broad, brilliant HD TruBrite display. Tap into major horsepower for fast multi-tasking, innovative A/V advancements to amplify your media, plus a suite of user-inspired features to keep you more mobile, productive and creative. Or break free, wirelessly, as you connect, browse, share and chat face-to-face—better than ever. Unlike others in its class, this PC rocks premium components and a glam look, yet won't slam your pocketbook. Yes, it's a great big high-def world out there. And the Satellite A505 laptop let's you roll with it.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #118 in Personal Computers
Color: Black/Slver
Brand: Toshiba
Model: PSAT6U-009001
Dimensions: 1.61" h x 15.10" w x 10.20" l, 6.48 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i3 2.13 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 2
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 16

Features

2.13GHz Intel Core i3-330M Processor
4GB 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM Memory
500GB Serial ATA Hard Disk Drive (5400RPM); DVD SuperMulti Drive with Labelflash
16" CCFL (16:9) 1366x768 Display; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator HD
Window 7 Home Premium 64-bit

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Toshiba Satellite A505: 16-Inch Screen for Mobile HD Entertainment

Replace your desktop PC with the Toshiba Satellite A505-S6004, which features a 16-inch diagonal HD TruBrite widescreen LED-backlit display, touchpad with multi-touch control, and a dual-layer DVD±RW drive that burns CDs and offers Labelflash print functionality. The bright 16-inch LCD (1366 x 768) offers a true 16:9 aspect ratio and 720p native high-definition resolution, and the A505 is great for using as a media center with the touch-sensitive media keys placed above the keyboard. And it's sure to stand out in the crowd thanks to the stunning Fusion Finish in Quantum Black.

The A505's brilliant high-gloss Fusion finish in Quantum Black is sure to turn heads.

The 16-inch A505 has a 104-key keyboard (with 10-key pad) and lighted, touch-sensitive multimedia controls (see larger image).

Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

HP Pavilion DM3-1140US 13.3-Inch Laptop

2010-11-30T15:22:00.000-08:00

HP Pavilion DM3-1140US 13.3-Inch Laptop (Silver)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$940.00
Price:	$624.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Buy.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want full PC performance optimized for mobility, the HP Pavilion dm3 Entertainment series delivers in a surprisingly affordable, minimalist design. and palm rest covers are made of brushed aluminum in Modern Argento gray, while its bottom casing is a magnesium alloy.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #131 in Personal Computers
Color: Aluminium
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WA733UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.23" h x 9.06" w x 12.83" l, 4.21 pounds
CPU: Pentium 1.3 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 1
Display size: 13.3

Features

Intel Pentium Processor SU4100 (1.3 GHz, 2 MB L2 Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 DIMM) (expandable to 8 GB)
320GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA)
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, * Up to 9.5 Hours of Battery Life
13.3? Diagonal High-Definition LED HP BrightView Widescreen, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD

HP Pavilion DV6-2170US 15.6-Inch Laptop

2010-11-15T15:21:00.000-08:00

HP Pavilion DV6-2170US 15.6-Inch Laptop (Black)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$1,137.00
Price:	$1,049.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by ForrestComputer

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want an all-in-one performance notebook with rich multimedia features, the HP Pavilion dv6 Entertainment series delivers excellent mobile performance that looks as great as it runs. Powered by the latest processor and graphics technologies, it delivers the features you need to support your digital lifestyle.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #525 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WA778UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.33" h x 10.15" w x 14.90" l, 6.34 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i5 2.26 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 15.6

Features

Intel Core i5-430M processor with 2.26GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53 GHz
4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 DIMM) (expandable to 8 GB)
500GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA), LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, * Up to 8 Hours of Battery Life
15.6" Diagonal High-Definition LED HP BrightView Display (1366x768), Intel HD Graphics with up to 1696MB Total Available Graphics Memory

Samsung R530 15.6-Inch Laptop (Red)

2010-11-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Samsung R530 15.6-Inch Laptop (Red)
From Samsung IT

Price:

Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

With a glass-like finish over a rich red-black gradation, the feature-rich Samsung R530 notebook’s style gives you a hint of what’s to come when you push the power button. The 15.6 inch LED-backlit 16:9 widescreen LCD gives you bright, colorful high-definition images and HD audio, for a rich gaming experience. You’ll speed your way around applications with Windows 7, and you’ll control it all with a full size isolation-type keyboard with integrated 17-key numeric pad. The touchpad’s lighted edges add even more style. And the R530 fits your busy lifestyle, with a 4-hour battery and a weight of just 5.5 lbs.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #171 in Personal Computers
Color: Red
Brand: Samsung
Model: R530-RED
Dimensions: 10.50" h x 14.90" w x 1.17" l, 5.51 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz
Hard Disk: 320GB
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 15.6

Features

2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
4GB DDR3 Memory; 320GB Hard Drive
High-quality sound with two 1.5W stereo speakers and SRS HD sound effects
15.6" LED-backlit 16:9 Widescreen LCD Display; Intel GMA 4500MHD
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
As affordable as it is powerful, the ultra-stylish Samsung R530 notebook PC is ideal for viewing HD video, managing digital music, editing photos or playing immersive PC games on the go. Featuring a glass-like finish over a rich red-black gradation, its 15.6-inch LED-backlit LCD gives you bright, colorful high-definition images. The 16:9 widescreen displays widescreen DVD movies with no black bars, and gaming is equally impressive with HD audio to enhance your experience. It also offers easy productivity with a full-sized isolation-type keyboard with integrated 17-key numeric pad and lighted edges on the touchpad for added style and ease of viewing in low-lit situations.

It's powered by the 2.2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 processor, which boosts speed, reduces power requirements, and saves on battery life. It also offers a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed and 2 MB L2 cache. With the HDMI A/V output, you can connect the R530 to a compatible HDTV to display your creations to a larger audience. And you'll be able to connect to the Internet as well as home and business networks with the integrated Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n).

The feature-rich, nicely priced Samsung R530 offers a stunning, glass-like finish over a rich red-black gradation.

Key Features

More Style, Less Fuss
The high quality craftsmanship of the R530 extends as much to its exterior as to its high performance inner workings. Buit to withstand bumps and knocks, the R530 comes with a robust, durable casing designed to keep its contents safe and sound as well as reduce the risk of scratches and fingerprints. And its ergonomic, stylish design makes it as eye-catching as reliable. .

Isolation Keyboard with Numeric Pad
The isolation-type keyboard makes it easier to IM, email and check out all your favorite Web sites. And working with Excel spreadsheets and playing video games is even easier thanks to the expansive 17-key numeric keypad.

HD Optimized Graphics Performance
With a 16:9 aspect ratio, you'll get sharper, brighter images and the most accurate representation of HD video content and games. So you can watch true HD movies in 16:9 widescreen format that fits the full size of the screen, without any black bands. See images that are fine tuned with the sharpest details and boldest colors on a 14-inch HD LED display.

Simple Data Sharing
With a host of advanced connectivity tools--including a 3-in-1 memory card reader and three USB 2.0 ports--you can seamlessly move data from your digital camera, camcorder, MP3 player or mobile phone straight to your notebook. Plus, with both HDMI and VGA video outputs, you'll be able to connect to external monitors and HDTVs.

Digital LiveCam
With the integrated webcam keep in touch by videoconferencing or live messaging. You'll enjoy the resolution and image quality of a still camera with the high frame rates of a video camera.

Fast Connectivity
The R530 incorporates advanced communication technologies, including a Wireless-N (802.11b/g/n) connectivity to provide high-speed access to the Internet and your data anytime, anywhere.

TCO Certified
This notebook has been awarded the leading environmental and usability standard--TCO 3.0 certification--and is ECO RoHS compliant. As well as being ergonomically designed for optimum ease of use and performance, Samsung netbooks are also completely mercury free and consume significantly less power thanks to their LED backlit displays. Their ultra-lightweight, robust and compact design also offers other "green" advantages, as less power is used in the manufacture and usage phases of their product life.

Key Specifications

15.6-inch LED-backlit glossy display (1366 x 768) for native 720p HD viewing. The LED-backlit display offers higher brightness and more vivid color, providing greater viewing angles and better text legibility. LED technology enables thinner screens, and require less energy for longer battery life. And a 16:9 ratio means you can watch DVD movies and fill the screen without any annoying black bars.
2.20 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 processor with 2 MB L2 cache and 800 MHz front side bus (FSB) (Learn more)
320 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB of RAM (DDR3)
Integrated Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics
8x SuperMulti DVD drive with double layer support
1.3-megapixel webcam integrated into the bezel
Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for ultra-fast connectivity to home and business networks.
Three USB 2.0 ports with one slot that charges your peripherals even if the netbook is in sleep mode.
3-in-1 memory card reader (SD, SDHC, MMC)
Fast Ethernet (10/100) for wired networking.
HDMI output lets you connect to an HDTV for full 1080P high-definition video and sound. A standard analog VGA video output is also included.
Headphone jack as well as mic input
Kensington lock compatibility
Full-sized 88-key keyboard
Lighted touchpad for added style and easier viewing in the dark
Built-in stereo speakers (1.5 W x 2) with HD Audio and SRS 3D Sound Effect capabilities.
Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium.
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
Standard 6-cell battery
Dimensions: 14.9 x 10.5 x 1.42 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 5.5 pounds
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor

What's in the Box
This package contains the Samsung R530, 6-cell rechargeable battery, AC adapter, power cord, printed user manual

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4274 15.6-Inch Laptop

2010-10-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4274 15.6-Inch Laptop - 8+ Hours Battery Life
From Acer

List Price:	$599.99
Price:	$499.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Electronica Direct

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer AS5810TZ-4274 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Pentium Processor SU2700, Windows Vista Home Premium with Service Pack 1, 15.6" HD Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset, 3072MB DDR3 1066MHz Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 320 GB SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive, Acer Crystal Eye Webcam, 5-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, 2nd Generation Dolby Sound Room Audio Enhancement, 802.11b/g/Draft-N Wi-Fi CERTIFIED, 4 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI Port, Convenience Buttons- Multi-gesture Touchpad, Acer PowerSmart Technology, Acer Backup Manager, Touchpad-lock, 6-cell Li-ion Battery (5600 mAh), 8+ hours battery life, 5.3 lbs. | 2.4 kg (system unit only), Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite (60-day insert)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #149 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Acer
Model: AS5810TZ-4274
Dimensions: 1.16" h x 14.90" w x 10.20" l, 5.30 pounds
CPU: Intel Core Solo 1.3 GHz
Memory: 3MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 1
Display size: 15.6

Features

1.3 GHz Intel Pentium SU2700 Processor
3072MB DDR3 1066MHz RAM
320 GB SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive
Windows Vista Home Premium (SP1), Over 8 Hours of Battery Life (6-Cell 5600 mAh)
15.6" HD CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Averaging more than 8 hours of battery life, the Acer Aspire Timeline notebook PC series makes "all day computing" a reality. You'll be able to remain productive as you work remotely from 9 to 5 without ever stopping to plug in and recharge, or keep yourself entertained throughout an entire coast-to-coast flight without worrying whether you'll make it to the end of your movie. The thin and light Timeline 5810 (model AS5810TZ-4274) is made for modern mobile work and play with its 5.3-pound weight and thin measurements--less than one-inch thin at its slimmest point and just over an inch at its thickest.

At its slimmest point, the Acer Timeline measures less than 1 inch thin and the AS5810 weighs just 5.3 pounds.

Averaging more than 8 hours of battery life, the Acer Timeline sets a new standard for value, mobility and productivity.

Glossy clean FineTip keyboard in water lily design offers new typing experience.

The high-definition, 15.6-inch CineCrystal LED backlit widescreen display (16:9 ratio) offers 33 percent more energy savings than traditional notebook screens. And it's one of the first notebooks to feature the new ultra-low voltage Intel Pentium SU2700 processor, which uses just 10 watts of power while providing high=end computing resources. Additionally, the Timeline 5810 includes an 8x Super Multi optical drive with dual-layer burn support.

A Multi-Gesture Touchpad enables you to pinch, flick and swirl your fingers across the touchpad for more natural photo and video viewing as well as intuitive navigation of websites. The Multi-Gesture Touchpad allows you to scroll, zoom in and out and flip through web pages, photos, spreadsheets and more. An integrated Acer Crystal Eye webcam delivers smooth video streaming and high quality images for online chats and business video conferences, even in low-light situations.

Providing an elegant, high-tech design, a stylish brushed aluminum finish provides solid protection to the display and internal components, and the system is also lead- and mercury-free--making it easier to recycle. In addition, Acer has incorporated Intel's Laminar Wall Jet technology for the first time, directing air flow in parallel layers, to keep the notebook significantly cooler.

Key Features

15.6-inch LED-backlight widescreen display with 1366 x 768-pixel resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio and 200-nit high brightness (Learn more)
Energy efficient, single core 1.3 GHz Intel Pentium SU2700 processor with ultra-low voltage for extended battery life (Learn more)
320 GB hard drive
3072MB DDR3 1066MHz Memory
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD with up to 1700 MB of shared video memory and support for DirectX 10 games (Learn more)
Multi-gesture touchpad supporting circular-motion scrolling, pinch-action zoom, page flip (Learn more)
Thermal-efficient cooling innovation ensures the notebook achieves comfortable skin temperature during use. (Learn more)
Crystal Eye webcam supports Acer PrimaLite technology, which consists of a premium sensor, firmware and lenses to provide superior video performance under low-light conditions. A built-in digital microphone helps keep background noise levels low and minimizes echoes.
8x DVD Super Multi drive with double-layer support. (See speeds)
Backup Manager software and easy launch backup key for scheduled and as-needed backups of your most important digital files. (Learn more)
Draft-N Wi-Fi wireless networking (802.11a/b/g/n) with SignalUp technology for enhanced antenna efficiency
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000)
5-in-1 memory card reader
HDMI (with HDCP) and VGA video output
Stereo speakers with Dolby Sound Room audio enhancementtransforms the experience of movies, music, and games.
Energy-sipping laptop thanks to low-power components and efficient technologies. (Learn more)
Windows Home Vista Premium operating system (Learn more)
Up to 8 hours of battery life with Acer PowerSmart Manager enabled and depending on configuration
Dimensions: 14.9 x 10.2 x 0.97/1.16 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 5.3 pounds
Warranty: One-year parts and labor limited warranty with concurrent International Traveler's Warranty

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
With its integrated Draft-N Wi-Fi networking capabilities, this laptop provides up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range using 802.11n-compatible routers as you would with 802.11g networks. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found at Wi-Fi hotspots and in older home routers) as well as 802.11a networks (which has a higher throughput, but more limited range--great for closed office environments). This notebook also provides ultra-fast Gigabit Ethernet networking (10/100/1000).

4 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
1 HDMI output for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video via a single cable
Analog video output: 1 VGA
5-in-1 card reader compatible with MultiMediaCard, Secure Digital card, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO and xD-Picture Card
1 headphone/line-out jack (with SPDIF digital audio support), 1 microphone jack
10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet

What's in the box
This package contains the Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4274 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions

It also comes with the following software: McAfee Internet Security Suite (trial version); CyberLink PowerDVD; Google Desktop; Acer Backup Manager; Acer GridVista; Acer PowerSmart Manager

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4433 15.6-Inch HD Display Aluminum Laptop

2010-10-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4433 15.6-Inch HD Display Aluminum Laptop - Up to 8 Hours of Battery Life
From Acer

List Price:	$649.99
Price:	$642.57 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4433 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Pentium Processor SU4100, Windows 7 Home Premium, 15.6- Inch HD Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR3 1066MHz Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 320GB SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive, Built-In Webcam, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, 2nd Generation Dolby Sound Room Audio Enhancement, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11b/g/Draft-N, 4 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI Port, Convenience Buttons- Multi-Gesture Touchpad, Acer PowerSmart Button, Touchpad-lock, 6-cell Li-ion Battery (5600 mAh), Up to 8 hours of battery life, 5.3 lbs. | 2.4 kg (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite (60-day insert)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #224 in Personal Computers
Color: Aluminum
Brand: Acer
Model: AS5810TZ-4433
Dimensions: 1.16" h x 14.90" w x 10.20" l, 5.30 pounds
CPU: Pentium 1.3 GHz
Hard Disk: 320GB
Display size: 15.6

Features

1.3GHz Intel Pentium SU4100 Processor
4GB DDR3 1066MHz Memory
320GB SATA Hard Drive; 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive
15.6" HD Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit Display; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
Windows 7 Home Premium; Up to 8 Hours of Battery Life

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ: All-Day Performance

Enjoy the freedom to roam all day long with the full-sized Acer Aspire Timeline 5810TZ featuring a 15.6-inch HD LED-backlit display. Averaging more than 8 hours of battery life, you'll be able to remain productive as you work remotely from 9 to 5 without ever stopping to plug in and recharge, or keep yourself entertained throughout an entire coast–to-coast flight without worrying whether you'll make it to the end of your movie.

At its slimmest point, the Acer Timeline measures less than 1 inch thin and the AS5810 weighs just 5.3 pounds.

Averaging more than 8 hours of battery life, the Acer Timeline sets a new standard for value, mobility and productivity (see a larger schematic of all ports).

The thin and light Timeline 5810 (model AS5810TZ-4433) is made for modern mobile work and play with its 5.3-pound weight and thin measurements--less than one-inch thin at its slimmest point and just over an inch at its thickest. The high-definition, 15.6-inch CineCrystal LED backlit widescreen display (16:9 ratio) offers 33 percent more energy savings than traditional notebook screens. And unlike other smaller Acer Timeline models (such as the 1810 and 3810), the 5810 includes a dual-layer DVD burner (that also writes CDs).

Key Features

15.6-inch LED-backlit widescreen display with 1366 x 768-pixel resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio and 200-nit high brightness. The LED backlight technology is 33 percent more energy efficient than standard CCFL LCD screens.
Energy efficient, 1.3 GHz Intel Pentium SU4100 processor with ultra-low voltage for extended battery life. The dual-core SU4100 has a has a power consumption rating of just 10 watts, a fast 800 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and 2 MB L2 cache.
320 GB SATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB of installed DDR3 RAM with 1066 MHz speed (maximum)
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD with up to 1700 MB of shared video memory and support for DirectX 10 games.
8x SuperMulti DVD±R/RW drive can also write to CD, DVD-RAM, and dual-layer (DL) DVD±R discs--which can hold up to 8.5 GB of data.
Multi-gesture touchpad supporting circular-motion scrolling, pinch-action zoom, page flip (Learn more)
Thermal-efficient cooling innovation ensures the notebook achieves comfortable skin temperature during use. (Learn more)
Crystal Eye webcam supports Acer PrimaLite technology, which consists of a premium sensor, firmware and lenses to provide superior video performance under low-light conditions. A built-in digital microphone helps keep background noise levels low and minimizes echoes.
Acer Backup makes it easy to back up your data without a hassle. Duplicate files to another location quickly and easily with a single press of the Acer Backup Key.
Stereo speakers with 2nd generation Dolby Sound Room audio enhancement transforms the experience of movies, music, and games.
Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for ultra-fast connectivity to home and business networks.
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000)
Four USB 2.0 ports
HDMI port (with HDCP support) for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video via a single cable. Also includes standard analog VGA video output.
Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader compatible with Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard (MMC), Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO), xD-Picture Card (xD)
Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium.
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
Pre-loaded software includes Microsoft Works SE 9.0 for word processing and spreadsheet work. Enjoy a 60-day trial version of Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007.
8+ hours of battery life from 6-cell battery (5600 mAh)
Dimensions: 14.96 x 10.19 x 1.16 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 5.3 pounds
Warranty: One-year parts and labor limited warranty with concurrent International Traveler's Warranty
Energy Star compliant
Acer PowerSmart Adapter stops consuming energy when the battery is fully charged, providing a 66 percent energy savings over typical adapters.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Acer Aspire Timeline AS5810TZ-4433 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions

It also comes with the following software: McAfee Internet Security Suite (trial version); CyberLink PowerDVD; Google Toolbar; Acer Recovery Management; Acer GridVista; Microsoft Works; Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 Trial (60 days); Norton Online Backup

Acer Aspire AS1410-2039 11.6-Inch Black Laptop

2010-10-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

Acer Aspire AS1410-2039 11.6-Inch Black Laptop (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From Acer

Price:

$466.96

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Beach Audio

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer Aspire AS1410-2039 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Celeron Processor 743, Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, 11.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset, 2048MB DDR2 667MHz Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 250 GB SATA Hard Drive, Acer Crystal Eye Webcam, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, Dolby Sound Room Audio Enhancement, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N, 3 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMIPort, Multi-gesture Touchpad, 6-cell Li-ion Battery (4400 mAh), up to 6-hours of battery life, 3.08 lbs. | 1.4 kg (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration / Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite (60-day insert)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #595 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Acer
Model: AS1410-2039
Dimensions: 1.18" h x 11.22" w x 8.03" l, 3.08 pounds
CPU: Intel Celeron 1.3 GHz
Memory: 2GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 250GB
Processors: 1
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 11.6

Features

1.3GHz Intel Celeron 743 Processor
2048MB DDR2 667MHz Memory
250GB SATA Hard Drive, 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N wireless
11.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display
Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, Up to 6 Hours of Battery Life

Customer Reviews

Perfect laptop for a Perfect price
As a small internet business owner, I needed a laptop that is portable and reliable. I originally started looking at the 10" netbooks, but found them to be too small and I hated that they only ran the Windows 7 Starter version which has some major restrictions. This 11.6" laptop has a decent size screen and a nice size keyboard. I was deciding between this and the HP, but when you customize the HP to have all the same specs as this Acer, the cost was over $800 so this became a no-brainer.

I've had my Acer for about 1 month now and it is great. Windows 7 takes a little getting used to, but I've had no issues with it at all. I hooked it up to a wireless network printer without incident and it wasn't loaded with a ton of garbage-ware. My only issue was that it only comes with the student/home trial version of MS Office, and I am an Outlook user. The entire office suite is expensive, so instead I tried Mozilla Thunderbird which is free and it works just as well as Outlook. Once my trial period for the MS Office software is up, I will purchase it for only $149 and keep Thunderbird as my email client which will save me a pretty penny.

Amazon had this laptop out to me in 3 days with free shipping (HP charged $35 for shipping).

If you are looking for a "net-book" with all the capabilities of a regular sized laptop, I highly recommend this Acer.

Even Better Than I Expected
I have begun traveling more often for work, and though I like my Dell Laptop (Latitude D620) it is heavy, too large to use on an airplane and battery life leaves a lot to be desired. I initially looked at the Dell Inspiron 11z but reviews say the track pad is terrible and the 6 hour battery is huge and extends below the bottom of the back.

Then I found the Acer Aspire 1410. It has a screen that is the same size, a larger hard drive, and wireless n instead of just b & g. So basically I got more, all at a lower price. And the 6 hour battery doesn't ruin the nice slim profile of the machine.

My plan was to just use this when traveling, primarily for web based apps (google docs and gmail, which work on and off line) and light stuff. But I've found that it runs everything including much heavier applications very well. Videos look great and it makes for a great entertainment machine on the road. Office works well, I've used the Gimp to edit photos and I've played some games.

There wasn't much crud to uninstall and I've been very pleased with Windows 7. The machine boots quickly and I'm up and running in no time. Wireless is great, the sound is good and I love the display. I usually dim it down when on the road to maximize battery life, but it still looks pretty good. When hooked up to power, it can be very bright and looks very good.

I'm not crazy about the glossy screen, though I'm getting used to it. I don't like the glossy black of the case either and am looking for a skin. As of right now it's a fingerprint magnet and looks like I rubbed a stick of butter all over it.

But it runs all my apps great and has exceeded my expectations for such a compact and affordable machine. I find that I'm using it all the time, not just when I travel. It's awesome how light and compact it is but still doing everything I need.

Fantastic netbook
Considering the specs, that it comes with Win 7 Home Premium, and the price, this is a fantastic little machine. I wanted to use this for a perhaps slightly different purpose than most netbook users. I am a photographer and really wanted the ability to check photos in the field. Making sure things are in focus, for example, is often important because I do a lot of macro photography. It's impossible to really tell on a camera LCD how the image has turned out. I own an older laptop, but it's just too darn heavy to lug around all the time. I was a bit worried that the resolution of a 10-inch netbook would be too low to see good detail but with this netbook and its bright, higher-res screen, the details are all visible and the photos look great. Not that it would replace my desktop, but that's not its intended purpose. That said, it's useless in full sunlight but if you can find any sort of shady spot, it's pretty good. A lot of my work is done indoors anyway. I've found I have to crank up the screen brightness outdoors and that helps a lot. That probably would affect battery life, but I don't anticipate running out of power on a typical shoot anyway.

Of course, I've only had the thing for one day, so I can't comment yet on reliability. It does run pretty fast and boots up quickly, so no complaints on performance. I don't intend to put Photoshop on it since I just want it for review purposes and Windows Photo Viewer is perfectly adequate for that. Unfortunately, my camera uses Compact Flash cards and there's no built-in reader for them, so I have to use an external USB reader. One more thing to carry, but I can live with it. Not a huge amount of crapware on this machine and what there was was easily removed.

The only other con (common to all netbooks) is that there's no CD/DVD writer. I have yet to figure out how I'd restore the system without one if the hard drive ever had to be replaced. Apparently there's some way to use a USB thumb drive but haven't figured that out. I just decided to order a USB CD/DVD writer. Don't think I'll need it much but it will just make life easier - not only for disaster recovery but for any software installations I might do.

All in all, I'm pretty happy so far.

Dell Inspiron 1470 14-Inch Laptop

2010-10-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Dell Inspiron 1470 14-Inch Laptop (Cherry Red)
From Dell Marketing USA, LP

List Price:	$709.99
Price:	$549.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The new thin and light Inspiron 14 laptop has stepped it up a notch by combining powerful mobile and entertainment features inside a smart design and colorful options. While the new Inspiron 14 has reached new heights, its price hasn’t. You can find what you want in the Inspiron 14 with the flexibility to make it your own. *Based on Dell Lab testing. Battery life varies by configuration, operating conditions and other factors. Maximum battery capacity decreases with time and use.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #178 in Personal Computers
Color: Premium Cherry Red Finish
Brand: Dell
Model: i1470-2932CRD
Dimensions: 1.04" h x 9.55" w x 13.30" l, 4.40 pounds
CPU: Pentium 1.3 GHz
Memory: 4GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Display size: 14

Features

1.3GHz Intel Pentium SU4100 Processor
4GB Memory
320GB Hard Drive, DVD±R/RW Optical Drive
14.0" Display, Intel Media Accelerator X4500HD Graphics
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit), *Up to 5 Hours 29 Minutes of Battery Life

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Stay connected wherever you roam with the Dell Inspiron 1470 laptop in red, which features bright, vivid 14-inch LCD screen and long-lasting 6-cell battery--over 5 hours of continuous use. Weighing just under 5 pounds, it's a great choice for both work and play with the screen's high-definition resolution and included DVD drive (which can also burn dual-layer DVD and CD media). It's powered by the dual-core Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) Intel Pentium SU4100 processor for a good balance of energy efficiency and multitasking capabilities.

Learn more about Windows 7 Home Premium below.

The Dell Inspiron 1470 in red.

Other features include a 320 GB hard drive, 4 GB of installed RAM, 54g Wi-Fi networking, 7-in-1 memory card reader, ExpressCard 34 slot, Intel GMA X4500HD graphics with video memory shared with the system, and pre-loaded Microsoft Works.

Key Features

14-inch LED-backlit TrueLife widescreen display with 1366 x 768-pixel resolution (Learn more)
Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium. (Learn more)
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
Energy efficient, dual core 1.3 GHz Intel Pentium SU4100 processor with ultra-low voltage for extended battery life (Learn more)
320 GB hard drive
4 GB of installed RAM with 800 MHz speed (expandable to 8 GB)
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500HD graphics with up to 1750 MB of dynamically shared memory allocated by the system (Learn more)
1.3 megapixel webcam
8x multi-format DVD drive supports reading/writing of CD-R/RW, DVD±R, DVD±RW, DVD±R DL, and DVD-RAM
54g Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g)
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000)
Built-in stereo speakers
Pre-loaded software includes Microsoft Works 9.0 for word processing and spreadsheet work and McAfee SecurityCenter for anti-virus protection (with 30 days of updates)
Dell DataSafe Online backup service offers data protection by enabling customers to back up data to a safe, remote storage site using a broadband connection. Dell DataSafe Online is easy, flexible and secure. After setup, it will automatically back up data and help protect against software, hardware and catastrophic failure.
With Dell Remote Access you can easily access photos, music, movies and more on your home system using another Internet-connected computer.
Dell Support Center: This centrally located, easy-to-use application provides personalized support resources. Conveniently located on your PC's desktop with quick links to service, support and system resources. Helps keep your system up-to-date and running efficiently through automated fixes for common configuration issues.
Over 5 hours of battery life with included 6-cell battery
Dimensions: 13.3 x 9.4 x 1.5 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 4.96 pounds
Warranty: One-year with 24x7 technical support

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
This notebook has an integrated 54g wireless LAN that's fully compatible with 802.11b/g wireless networks as well as Fast (10/100) Ethernet networking. It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard card slot (replacing the PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. It comes with the following external connectors:

3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
Analog video output: 1 VGA
1 ExpressCard/34 slot
7-in-1 memory card reader compatible with Secure Digital, Secure Digital High Capacity, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, and more
1 headphone jack, 1 microphone jack
RJ-45 port for Ethernet

What's in the Box
This package contains the Dell Inspiron 1470 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions

ASUS UL30A-A2 Thin and Light 13-3-Inch Silver Laptop

2010-10-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

ASUS UL30A-A2 Thin and Light 13-3-Inch Silver Laptop - 12 Hours of Battery Life (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

Price:

Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

Weighing less than 4lbs and measuring less than an inch thin, the new ASUS UL30A is a harmonious blend of form and function. Powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo ultra-low voltage processor, it boasts an impressive 16-hour battery life for all-day computing. It also sports user-centric features such as a multi-gesture touchpad and provides an impressive multimedia entertainment experience with Altec Lansing speakers and SRS Premium Sound. All of these features and more are shrouded in a robust brushed aluminum lid that not only looks magnificent, but also helps in maintaining the notebook’s stylish exterior day after day. ASUS notebooks come with ASUS’ 360 service program that includes a 2 year global warranty, one month zero bright dot guaranty, free two-way shipping and twenty-four hour tech support seven days a week. Plus it comes with a FREE One Year Accidental Damage Warranty protecting your notebook from drops, fire, spills and surges.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #147 in Personal Computers
Color: Silver
Brand: Asus
Model: UL30A-A2
Format: CD
Original language: English
Dimensions: .98" h x 9.28" w x 12.90" l, 3.74 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 1.3 GHz
Memory: 4GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 13.3

Features

1.3GHz Intel SU7300 Core 2 Duo Processor
4GB of DDR3 RAM, 2 slots, 4GB Max
500GB SATA Hard Drive (5400 RPM)
13.3" HD LED LCD Display, Intel GMA 4500MHD, 0.3M Webcam, Wi-Fi 802.11 bgn
Windows 7 Home Premium Operating System (64 bit), *12 Hours of Battery Life

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Free yourself from power cords and start exploring with up to an amazing 12 hours of all-day battery life with the ASUS UL30A-A2, thanks to its Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300 processor and 13.3-inch LED-backlit display, which combines vibrant visuals with advanced energy efficiency. This stylish, ultra-portable notebook features a brushed aluminum lid that not only looks magnificent, but also helps in maintaining its stylish exterior day after day. The UL30A also features a multi-gesture touchpad, which enables you to intuitively zoom in or out of pictures via pinching, or navigate up and down pages by sliding your finger.

Learn more about Windows 7 Home Premium below.

13.3-inch LED-backlit HD high definition display with a 16:9 aspect ratio.

An all-day computing companion, the ASUS UL30A provides up to 12 hours of battery life.

The chiclet style keyboard and spacious keys allow for a comfortable typing experience and also prevents dust buildup.

Experience FastBoot, the unique performance boost for Windows 7 made possible by ASUS's close partnership with Microsoft. With ASUS exclusive FastBoot technology, this Windows 7-enabled ASUS notebook starts up in a staggering 30 seconds.

Compact and under 1-inch thin, you can fit the UL30A virtually anywhere--freeing space for books, files, or whatever else you need to enjoy a spacious workspace. The UL30A includes Altec Lansing speakers plus SRS surround for a virtual home theater experience on the go, as well as an HDMI port for connecting to an HDTV at home. You'll be able to store all of your favorite applications, most important documents, and large video and audio libraries with the generous 500 GB hard drive. Other features include 4 GB of DDR3 RAM (maximum capacity), integrated webcam, Draft-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n), Intel GMA 4500MHD integrated video graphics, and multi-format memory card reader.

Now there is an even bigger reason to get the UL Series by ASUS. Adding to a whole trophy case of awards is the latest 2009 Editor's Choice Award by Engadget. Voted by Engadget's editorial staff as LAPTOP OF THE YEAR, the UL series is the ultimate companion for your mobile computing needs.

And where some PC manufacturers only offer 1 year of warranty service, the ASUS UL30A comes standard with a 2-year global ASUS 360 warranty as well as 1 year of Accidental Damage Warranty (ADW).

Key Features

High-gloss 13.3-inch LED-backlit HD high definition display with 1366 x 768 resolution (16:9 aspect ratio) that uses less energy and still gives you an immersive cinematic experience (Learn more)
Up to 12 hours of battery life from 8-cell battery (5600mAh)
Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium. (Learn more)
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
Chiclet style keyboard and multi-touch trackpad for comfortable and intuitive use (Learn more)
ASUS IceCool Technology for cool-to-the-touch palm rest
Exclusive Express Gate feature enables ultra-fast boot so you can connect to the web in just 10 seconds
Energy efficient, dual core 1.3 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo SU7300 processor with ultra-low voltage for extended battery life (Learn more)
500 GB SATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB of installed DDR3 RAM (1066 MHz; 2 x SODIMM slots; 4 GB maximum capacity)
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD integrated video processing
0.3-megapixel webcam for connecting with friends and family over video chats
ASUS SmartLogon facial recognition system detects your face and logs on automatically
Draft-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n)
HDMI high-definition audio/video output allows a single cable to transmit uncompressed high-definition video to your digital TV or LCD
Altec Lansing speakers enhanced with SRS Premium Sound for home theatre quality acoustics (Learn more)
ASUS Super Hybrid Engine for extended battery life
Dimensions: 12.9 x 9.28 x 0.98 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 3.74 pounds (with battery
Warranty: 2 year global warranty and 1 year accidental damage warranty (Learn more)

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
With its integrated Draft-N Wi-Fi networking capabilities, this laptop provides up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range using 802.11n-compatible routers as you would with 802.11g networks. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found at Wi-Fi hotspots and in older home routers). This notebook also provides Fast (10/100) Ethernet networking.

3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
1 HDMI output for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video via a single cable
Analog video output: 1 VGA
5-in-1 memory card reader compatible with Secure Digital (SD), MultiMedia Card (MMC), Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, and xD Picture Card
1 headphone jack (S/PDIF digital audio output), 1 microphone jack
10/100 Fast Ethernet

What's in the box
This package contains the ASUS UL30A-A2 notebook PC, AC adapter, rechargeable 8-cell battery, and user manual

Acer Aspire AS1410-2497 11.6-Inch Blue Laptop

2010-09-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

Acer Aspire AS1410-2497 11.6-Inch Blue Laptop - Up to 6 Hours of Battery Life (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From Acer

Price:

$464.89

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Electronica Direct

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer Aspire AS1410-2497 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Celeron Processor 743, Windows 7 Home Premium, 11.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset, 2048MB DDR2 667MHz Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 250GB SATA Hard Drive, Acer Crystal Eye Webcam, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, Dolby Sound Room Audio Enhancement, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N, 3 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI Port, Multi-gesture Touchpad, 6-cell Li-ion Battery (4400 mAh), up to 6-hours of battery life, 3.08 lbs. | 1.4 kg (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite (60-day insert)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #176 in Personal Computers
Color: Blue
Brand: Acer
Model: AS1410-2497
Dimensions: 1.18" h x 11.22" w x 8.03" l, 3.08 pounds
CPU: Intel Celeron 1.3 GHz
Memory: 2GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 250GB
Processors: 1
Display size: 11.6

Features

1.3GHz Intel Celeron 743 Processor
2048MB DDR2 667MHz Memory
250GB SATA Hard Drive, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N
11.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
Windows 7 Home Premium, Up to 6 Hours of Battery Life

Customer Reviews

Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A

2010-09-25T15:09:00.000-07:00

Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop
From Apple Computer

List Price:	$1,099.00
Price:	$1,089.00

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by DataVision Computer Video

Average customer review:

Product Description

MacBook Pro brings high performance and precision design to everyone. Every new MacBook Pro features a breakthrough, long-lasting battery that delivers up to 7 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge and can be recharged up to 1000 timesâ€”nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. The new LED-backlit display has a 60 percent greater color gamut than that of previous generations, giving you richer, more vibrant colors. Every MacBook Pro features the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding graphics experience for everyday tasks. Power your way through the latest 3D gamesâ€”including Call of Duty and Quakeâ€”and enjoy improved graphics performance with iWork, iLife, and everything you do in Mac OS X. And with the latest 2.26GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, itâ€™s the most powerful Mac notebook ever. All in a precision aluminum unibody enclosure thatâ€™s less than an inch thin.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #101 in Personal Computers
Brand: Apple
Model: MB990LL/A
Dimensions: 8.00 pounds

Features

Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
2.26 GHz Core 2 Duo Processor
160 GB Hard Drive, DVD/CD SuperDrive, 2 GB DDR3 RAM
13.3 inch LED Display, NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard Operating System

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Amazon.com has certified this product is Frustration Free. A Frustration-Free Package is easy-to-open and comes without hard plastic "clamshell" casings, plastic bindings, and wire ties. It's designed to be opened without the use of a box cutter or knife and will protect your product just as well as traditional packaging during shipping. Products with Frustration-Free Packaging can frequently be shipped in their own boxes, without the need for an additional shipping box. Learn more about Frustration-Free Packaging.

Featuring a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, the MacBook Pro is thinner and lighter than its predecessor as well as stronger and more durable. But Apple didn't stop innovating with the body's design. The MacBook Pro also includes a new 13-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) as well as a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple's Multi-Touch technology.

The 13-inch unibody MacBook Pro (see larger version).

This 13-inch MacBook Pro (model MB990LL/A) also now includes Apple's innovative built-in notebook battery for up to 7 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge without adding thickness, weight or cost. Using Adaptive Charging and advanced chemistry first introduced with the 17-inch MacBook Pro the built-in battery delivers up to 1000 recharges before it reaches 80 percent of its original capacity--nearly three times the lifespan of conventional batteries.

Under the hood, the MacBook Pro is powered by a powerful 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor (with 3 MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz front-side bus), which runs applications faster and more efficiently as well as helps to reduce power requirements and save on battery life. And video is powered by the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding everyday graphics experience with up to a 5x performance boost.

Other hardware features include a 160 GB hard drive, 2 GB of installed RAM (which can be upgraded to 8 GB), an 8x combo Superdrive (for burning dual-layer DVDs as well as CDs), built-in Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), FireWire 800 port, Mini DisplayPort video output (for DVI and VGA connections), and a Secure Digital card slot for easy access to digital photos and audio stored on SD and MMC memory cards.

The Unibody MacBook Pro Design
Traditionally notebooks are made from multiple parts. With the MacBook Pro all of those parts with just one part--the breakthrough unibody enclosure. Every MacBook Pro starts its life as a single block of aluminum, which is precisely machined into the basic unibody design. Another pass and the unibody takes shape. Another, and the integrated keyboard emerges. When you pick up a new MacBook Pro, you immediately notice the entire enclosure is thinner and lighter. And it feels strong and durable--perfect for life inside (and outside) your briefcase or backpack.

Off-the-shelf lithium-ion cells come in fixed, cylindrical shapes. The 13-inch MacBook Pro is powered by custom-made, ultrathin lithium-polymer batteries.

The standard aluminum electro-static trackpad has been replaced with a new glass Multi-Touch trackpad, which provides 40 percent more tracking area than before. Use two fingers to scroll up and down a page. Pinch to zoom in and out. Rotate an image with your fingertips. Swipe with three fingers to flip through your photo libraries. Swipe with four fingers to show your desktop, view all open windows, or switch applications. The entire trackpad surface is also a button, allowing you to both track and click virtually anywhere on the trackpad. And you can easily enable multiple virtual buttons in software, such as right-clicking.

The keyboard has also been improved, with the rigid aluminum keyboard webbing cut precisely to hold the keys, which are curved to perfectly fit fingers. And it's illuminated, so when you're in low-light settings, such as airplanes or conference rooms, you can always see what you're typing.

The 13-inch display is made of edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass for a smooth, seamless surface and features LED backlighting for brilliant instant-on performance that uses up to 30 percent less energy than its predecessor. The ultra-thin displays provide crisp images and vivid colors which are ideal for viewing photos and movies

Long-Lasting Battery
The 13-inch MacBook Pro now includes a newly engineered lithium-polymer battery that that lasts up to 7 hours on a single charge thanks to advanced chemistry, intelligent monitoring of the system and battery, and Adaptive Charging technology. The battery is built right into the computer, eliminating the space-consuming mechanisms and housings that standard removable batteries require. This non-removable battery also provides a longer battery lifespan of up to 1000 recharges--meaning fewer depleted batteries and less waste, which is better for the environment.

Giving it a lifespan of up to 1000 recharges required breakthroughs in battery technology. Apple electro-chemists developed advanced chemistry that maintains the battery's charging capabilities longer than ever. And while most notebooks wear down their batteries by charging them at a constant rate, the 13-inch MacBook Pro takes a different approach. Using an Apple-developed technology called Adaptive Charging, a microchip on the battery constantly communicates with the computer to determine the optimal way to charge its cells, adjusting the current up and down depending on a variety of conditions. Combined, these advancements offer a dramatic improvement in battery lifespan: more than three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries--up to five years.

Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
Experience improved energy efficiency, expanded wireless connectivity, and amazing battery life with the 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, which has a super-fast 1066 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and an large 3 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)

The hafnium-infused circuitry--which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors--conserves even more energy, giving you more time away from the wall outlet. With 3 MB of shared L2 cache, data and instructions can be kept close to the two processor cores, greatly increasing performance and allowing the entire system to work more efficiently. And, because the processor cores share the L2 cache, either can use the entire amount if the other happens to be idle.

Video Processing & Output
The MacBook Pro delivers both powerful graphics performance and long battery life via the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding everyday graphics experience with up to a 5x performance boost. Power your way through the latest 3D games--including Call of Duty and Quake--and enjoy improved graphics performance with iWork '09, iLife '09, and everything you do in Mac OS X. The power-saving NVIDIA integrated graphics processor also keeps you up and running throughout the day, with up to 7 hours of battery life.

The MacBook Pro includes a next generation Mini DisplayPort, which delivers a pure digital signal that can drive up to a 30-inch widescreen display. The Mini DisplayPort is ultra-compact at just 10 percent the size of a full DVI connector, and is compatible with Apple's 24-inch Cinema Display. Adapters are also available for using VGA, DVI/HDMI and Dual-Link DVI displays

Hard Drive and Memory
The 160 GB Serial-ATA (SATA) hard drive (5400 RPM) quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to USB 2.0. The 2 GB of PC3-8500 DDR3 RAM (two SO-DIMMs of 1024 MB) has an industry-leading 1066 MHz speed, and the RAM capacity can be increased to 8 GB.

Wireless Connectivity
The built-in 802.11n wireless networking provides up to five times the performance and twice the range of 802.11g, but it's also backward-compatible with 802.11a/b/g routers, enabling you to communicate with the a wide variety of Wi-Fi resources. It works seamlessly with the new AirPort Extreme with 802.11n. Use the built-in Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your PDA or cell phone, synchronize addresses, or download pictures from your cell phone. You can also use a wireless headset for iChat audio chats and VoIP calls as well as quickly share files with a colleague.

Video Conferencing with Built-in iSight
Artfully placed in the glass display is an iSight camera, which enables easy video conferencing as well as allows you to snap pictures of yourself and create video podcasts. Using the iChat AV application, video conferencing is integrated into your iChat buddy list, so initiating a video conference is a breeze. iChat also lets you hold audio chats with up to 10 people and provides high-quality audio compression and full-duplex sound so conversation can flow naturally. For video podcasting, you can record a short clip using the iSight camera, then use iWeb to create a video blog entry or post your GarageBand-recorded podcast.

Other Features

Two USB 2.0 ports (up to 480 Mbps), one FireWire 800 (up to 800 Mbps), SD card slot
Mini DisplayPort compatible with DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI connectors (all optional)
Dual display and video mirroring: Simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display and up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on an external display, both at millions of colors
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with the following write speeds: 8x DVD±R; 4x DVD±R DL (double layer); 4x DVD±RW; 24x CD-R; 10x CD-RW
Built-in full-size backlit keyboard with 78 (U.S.) or 79 (ISO) keys, including 12 function keys and 4 arrow keys (inverted "T" arrangement)
Internal omnidirectional microphone and built-in speakers
Combined optical digital output/headphone out with selectable analog audio line in (minijack)
Kensington lock slot
Measures 12.78 x 8.94 x 0.95 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 4.5 pounds (including battery)

Environmental Considerations
Apple has worked hard to eliminate many of the toxins that are a common part of computer manufacturing. Apple engineers removed the majority of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from circuit boards, internal cables, connectors, insulators, adhesives, and more in the MacBook Pro.

The MacBook Pro meets the stringent low power requirements set by the EPA, giving it ENERGY STAR certification. MacBook also meets the latest efficiency requirements of ENERGY STAR Version 5.0 Specification for Computers before its July 2009 effective date.

The MacBook Pro has also earned the highest rating of EPEAT Gold. The Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, or EPEAT, evaluates the environmental impact of a product based on how recyclable it is, how much energy it uses, and how it's designed and manufactured.

Pre-Loaded with Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife '09
Every Mac comes with Mac OS X Snow Leopard, the world's most advanced operating system, and iLife, Apple's innovative suite of applications for managing photos, making movies and creating and learning to play music. Snow Leopard builds on a decade of OS X innovation and success with hundreds of refinements, new core technologies and out of the box support for Microsoft Exchange. iLife features iPhoto, to easily organize and manage photos; iMovie with powerful easy-to-use new features such as Precision Editor, video stabilization and advanced drag and drop; and GarageBand which introduces a whole new way to help you learn to play piano and guitar.

Installed software

Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard (includes Time Machine, Quick Look, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row, Xcode Developer Tools)
iLife '09 (includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, iWeb, iDVD)

What's in the Box
MacBook Pro, display cleaning cloth, 60W MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, power cord, install/restore DVDs, printed and electronic documentation

Customer Reviews

Switched from Windows: More good than bad. Great hardware
This is my first Mac computer. My first four computers ran Win 3.1, Windows 95, XP, and Vista (from about 1995-present). I have quite a lot of time spent on each of them. Switching from Windows to Mac is not difficult, but it can be a bit frustrating for a week or so. There are Windows features that you will miss, but they are mostly overcome by overall advantages in my opinion.

I've spent two weeks with this machine now. If I had written this review after one day, I would have probably stated that I regretted the switch to Mac. After getting more proficient with the machine and realizing how well it works, I would definitely recommend it to a friend.

This review is going to be a mix of my impressions of both the hardware and the Mac operating system from a new Mac user perspective.

The only difference between my machine and the one on this product page is that I ordered directly from Apple and upgraded the hard drive to 250GB (from the 160GB base option). I am using 2gb of ram and the lower-end processor.

My Mac OS impressions:

The biggest thing I missed from Windows at first was the task bar. Mac uses the "dock" to replace the task bar. The dock is kind of like the quick launch toolbar in Windows spread out across the entire bar, with large icons. Having used windows with a task bar for the past 13 years, I missed the ability to see all open programs and switch between them with the task bar. The dock has a tiny dot below the icon on running-programs, but nothing else to separate it from other program and folder icons. The dock is not nearly as useful for multitasking as the task bar.

The saving grace that rescues the Mac from awkward app-switching while multitasking is called expose. Expose is activated by either pressing a key or using a multitouch gesture (four-finger swipe). Expose uses the entire screen to display all open windows and allow you to switch between them. It's like alt+tab on steroids. Having used the machine for a couple weeks, I miss using expose when I use my Windows machine. As much as I hated the dock at first, I have to give the advantage to the Mac for managing multiple windows while multitasking.

The controls for open-windows are quite different than in MS-Windows. In Mac, there is a resize, hide, and minimize button instead of maximize, minimize, restore, and close. To close an app on the mac you need to use a menu command or keyboard shortcut. The Mac resize button kind of works like restore/maximize, only it's a bit more awkward. A commenter here pointed out that it resizes the window for ideal viewing without using the entire screen. I find myself resizing windows by dragging corners more than I ever did on a Windows machine. I really miss the ability to maximize, if for no other reason but to avoid distractions. The green resize button may be better on an enormous monitor, but not on a 13" notebook. When you minimize or hide an app on the Mac, it is only available from the dock and is hidden from expose. I'll give the window size-management advantage to Windows in this contest. The windows system is just easier and more logical in my opinion. It isn't a deal-breaker, but I do miss the Windows "window controls." If you are a frequent user of the F11 key while web browsing in Windows you'll have to kiss that feature goodbye. Neither Firefox nor Safari will go full-screen.

Windows Explorer is "replaced" with an app called Finder. Finder is kind of like the start menu and an explorer window all rolled up into one. Compared with older versions of Windows, finder is adequate but Vista's explorer is quite a bit easier and more logical to use. I prefer Vista's preview pane to Mac's coverflow. I miss the "up folder" button. I have found myself mostly using the view that puts files, folders and apps into a column view for easiest computer browsing, and it just isn't as elegant as Windows Vista. The lack of a maximize button has caused frustration especially in the finder, because the finder likes to stay in a very small window unless you drag the corners.

The Safari web browser is nice and quick and has a decent security reputation. I have been switching back and forth between Safari and Firefox. Firefox has crashed a couple of times and I really like being able to use multitouch gestures with Safari, so I'm leaning toward making Safari my main web tool. Reading RSS feeds, and the bookmark toolbar are really well done in Safari. Browsers are so personal that it's difficult to recommend one over the other, but as a Firefox user in Windows I think I have high standard and Safari has met or exceeded them.

I absolutely hate the iPhoto app. Iphoto does not allow you to organize and browse your photos in folders. It imports your pictures and sorts them itself based on time/date stamps on the photos. This works fine for personal vacation snapshots but it completely mixed up the rest of my images. Folders that were neatly organized for work projects, and fun web clippings, and adult stuff were all shuffled into one big mess after I imported my image collection. I ended up just deleting all of them and not using iphoto at all. Right now I'm just using Finder to browse my photos and the preview app to view them. Light editing work isn't possible in the preview app and I still haven't decided what to use for a basic photo editor yet. Vista's photo app is junk but it's still superior to iPhoto if you like to keep your photos organized using your own folder system. I know people who love iphoto. It comes down to whether you want the ability to organize your collection yourself. If you have a big mess of photos, you'll love iphoto's ability to organize them via event and face recognition.
Edited to add: you can organize your photos into "albums" after you import them into iPhoto, but be prepared to spend a lot of time reorganizing everything. Even after you organize into albums, the main library screen gives you views of your entire collection (perhaps things you don't want everyone to see).

I have not used Garage Band or iMovie yet. I'll update later when I get a chance.
Edited to add: I played with garage band a bit and it's pretty powerful. It allows you to import and export AAC and MP3 tracks and record sound in multiple tracks. Very easy to use. The only other audio app i've ever used is audacity and I much prefer Garage Band. I haven't used any of the music lessons it offers yet but plan to soon.
I played with iMovie for a few minutes and it seems pretty nice and very intuitive. I actually don't mind Windows Movie Maker, which is included with Vista. I would not consider it a big step up from Win Movie Maker, but it's a nice app.

The mail, calendar, and address book apps are basic but work very very well. The address app will import common file types easily. It will sync with yahoo out of the box. Address book will only sync with Google contacts if you own an iPhone or iPod Touch.

Everyone has an opinion about iTunes. I'm a big fan of it. It's exactly like the windows version only it runs a bit faster without the bugs. If you have an iPhone or iPod touch, the Windows-iTunes bug with time/date being wrong after the computer sleeps is not an issue on the Mac.

Time machine is the Mac's backup app. It is amazing and very simple. I'm using an external drive plugged into my Apple Airport wireless router, as a backup disk. My wireless disk showed up on my desktop instantly once I plugged it into the router. Time machine noticed the external drive right away and went to work backing up my files (after asking permission of course). Now my machine automatically backs up any changes every hour as long as I'm in range of my wireless access point. Time machine is a big load off my mind. If I ever have a drive failure or my computer is destroyed I have an exact backup of everything without remembering to backup my files. Vista will backup according to a set schedule, but it lacks the ability to easily look through backups for specific files. Time machine is wonderful and make wireless backup effortless.

The Mac disk utility is almost as good as the one in Vista and it's easier to use. It's far superior to the one in XP. I used it to format my external wireless drive because the Mac router couldn't read NTFS formating (although the computer can read NTFS drives via USB for some reason).

The graphics control software is a joy to use. When I plug in my external monitor it immediately extends my desktop to the new monitor. Adjusting everything from resolution to rotation couldn't be any easier.

Boot camp is a utility that allows you to create a partition and install Windows as a secondary boot system (you need to own or buy a legal single-disk 32bit copy of either Windows XP or Windows Vista). When you start up the boot camp utility, it gives you a choice between using either 5 or 32 GB of space for the Windows partition. I learned the hard way that Windows XP SP3 won't fit into 5GB. You need to give it at least the 32 GB (which left me with almost exactly 200GB on my "250" GB drive). Installing Windows using the Boot Camp utility is very very easy. Once you get Windows loaded, your OSX install disk makes quick work of installing drivers for all of your laptop's hardware. It's too bad that Nvidia and HP aren't as good at putting together easy Windows driver packages as Apple. In order to boot into Windows, you simply press the "option" key during bootup and it allows you to choose which OS to run. Windows XP absolutely screams on this hardware.

The hardware:

The hardware is where this computer really shines.

The biggest advantage is stability. My last computer purchase was a vista machine. To say that I had stability and hardware compatibility issues with my HP Vista desktop is an understatement. The main reason I turned to mac for this purchase was the fact that the hardware, drivers, and software are made for each other. This machine has ran flawlessly for the past two weeks. I did have two crashes of the Firefox browser while watching Flash video, but only the browser went down rather than the entire system.

I have connected an external monitor, camera, ipod, USB drive, and router to this machine. All of the drivers were already installed and everything has "just worked." The hardware is a joy to use when it just works. It is difficult to put into words how happy I am with the lack of effort in using this machine.

The speed isn't blazing-fast but it runs very well, even with many many apps and windows running. My Vista desktop has similar specs, but my new Mac feels slightly faster.

One outstanding productivity feature of this machine is the touch pad. I honestly prefer it to using a mouse for office and browsing tasks. I can't say enough good things about the multitouch gestures. Two finger scrolling, two finger right-click, three finger forward and back in Safari, and four finger expose make this machine feel like like it is part of you. Having the entire surface of the touchpad as the button is brilliant, especially for drag and drop operations. The large size of the touchpad makes it very precise.

The keyboard is really nice. At first I thought the keys were a bit soft and the travel was too shallow, but I quickly got used to it and now prefer it to my more "clicky" desktop keyboard. I don't know how I lived this long without a backlit keyboard. The backlight is more useful than I thought it would be.

The display is beautiful. It has good color, a wide viewing angle, and is plenty bright for indoor environments. I would prefer that the screen wasn't glass, but the reflections aren't as bad as I feared. If there is a bright light source behind you, you'll need to angle the screen to reduce the glare but it's workable.

The DVD drive is a DVD drive. It feels slow and makes a lot of noise. I've never owned an optical drive that I considered fast and quiet, and this one isn't any exception. It works well, but isn't anything special.

The battery life is incredible. The seven hour battery life is not an exaggeration if you are using the computer for light browsing and office apps. Expect about 4-5 hours if you're using it for heavy web browsing and a bit of media. Listening to music with the display off would easily last over the advertised 7 hours. Streaming high definition video on netflix using wireless will knock it down to at or below three hours. I haven't watched DVD movies on battery power but I expect it to barely get you through a single two hour film with a bit left over.

The size and weight are ideal for portability. 4.5lbs doesn't exactly feel light until you compare it to similarly spec'd machines that weigh a full pound (20%) more. I wouldn't want a larger machine if I had to lug it around much.

The speakers are quite good for a small light machine. Don't expect much bass, but the sound is very clear with good mids and highs. The speakers are plenty loud for listening to podcasts or music in a semi-quiet medium sized room or office. I won't need to pack external speakers for use in my hotel room when I travel, like my last laptop.

The "magsafe" power adapter is more than just a gimmick, and more than just a way to avoid tripping and breaking your machine. The "power brick" itself is a lot smaller than my last dell laptop. It's exactly the same size as the USB wall adapters that used to be included with ipods. The cord is 6ft long and the brick includes fold-out wings to wrap the cord around. It is very well thought-out for travel. With the cord wrapped up and the plug folded into the body, the power brick only takes up about 2.5" x 3" x 1" in your bag. When you are using it at home or at the office there is an included 6ft extension cord for the power brick so you aren't as tethered to your desk.

The computer runs very cool compared to most laptops. Also, there are no vents where super-heated air blows out. While I'm sure it uses a fan, I've never audibly actually heard it run or felt a stream of warm air from it. I think it may vent through ports and the keyboard but it runs cool enough that you don't notice it. Edited to add: it does get rather warm when watching high resolution video, but stays quite cool when web browsing or using normal office apps. Even when very warm, the fan is still quiet (the only way to actually hear the fan is to hold it near your ear).

The only drawback to the hardware compared to Windows machines is the fact that there is no option to hibernate when closing the lid. It sleeps when you close the lid but it still is using a small amount of power. If you're only going to be away for a couple hours this isn't an issue, but you must completely shut down when on battery power if you're going to be away much longer.

This machine is a lot more expensive than similarly spec'd Windows machines but I feel that it's worth the money. I'm a very satisfied Mac switcher.

Macbook graduates to PRO status!
Well I must say I am very happy i did not buy apple's first iteration of the 13" aluminum macbook last year b/c they really got it right the second time around upgrading it to a macbook pro! Its nice to have that "pro" stamp on a 13" now! Apple has listened to their customers adding almost everything we have asked for and more, and managed to reduce the price! Thanks Apple!

CHANGES FROM LAST YEAR
- $100 less
- 13" aluminum macbooks became macbook pros
- 2.53Ghz up from 2.4GHz dual core
- 4GB RAM up from 2GB
- led display has 60% greater color gamut than previous model
- new advanced built-in battery that lasts up to 7 hours vs 4hrs
- FireWire is back (after all the complaints of first model)
- SD card slot (replaces express card slot)
- new models now come with iLife '09
- separate digital audio input is gone
- new model uses the same integrated mic and headphone port as the iPhone

PROS
- finally a price cut with a performance upgrade! i knew apple could do it. i was tired of paying for aesthetics and not performance.
- new Snow Leopard Operating System comes pre-installed! Same great ease of use with much faster performance!
- much better lcd screen! inline with the pro models...still glossy and still some glare but much nicer!
- backlight keyboard on all 13" models now! ( i really enjoy this as it can be controlled from low to high)
- battery life is significantly better than last year.( i get about 6 hours w/ regular use not the 7hrs that is reported)
- the computer is designed beautifully truly a head turner.
- iLife 09 suite is superb for pictures, movies, and music. Good software really does sell hardware.
- SD card slot accepts SDHC, which goes up to 32GB and works like a charm. (can boot from SD card as well)

CONS
- aluminum outer casing does dent easily if dropped. (buy a soft case for it!)
- power cord is short and does not reach as many places as I would like...must sit very close to power outlet.
- battery can't be removed easily
- SD card sticks about half way out of slot. eye sore.
- blu-ray option would have been nice but understandable given licensing fees. (many blurays are offering digital copies which help)

Taking into consideration all the great improvements over last year with a nice price cut I can now truly recommend this near perfect Macbook Pro!

What a great machine!
I want to break this into TWO reviews. One about Mac in general (specifically OS X) and one about THIS computer.

Mac in general:
I was raised in a PC household. Dad worked with old-school technology in the 70s and 80s, and was serious about PCs. As a Linux / UNIX admin (and former Windows server admin), I am just used to working on PC gear. Since I can generally figure it out or reinstall, it was never a problem. Then I met Mac. Gone are the days of rebooting and trying to fix driver conflicts. Gone are the days of vague error messages. I love the simplicity and the way OS X just... WORKS. Aside from Office, everything you need is included right in it. If I can make the switch from PC to Mac, so can you. And I'm not just spitting the propaganda that the "I'm a Mac, I'm a PC" commercial does. It really is that solid of a technology. I am a Mac, even though I'm paid to be a PC from 8-5.

And this product in particular:
I've used a 2005-era 20" iMac at work, plus my wife has had a MacBook (plastic white) for a while. I, being the computer geek, kept buying random cheap PC laptops and netbooks, hoping to find a simple solution. Sadly, I was just wasting more time trying to install OS_X86 or make the software do what I wanted. I had a Ghost image of my PC laptop so that I could restore it every 6 months when the XP began slowing down. Buying this Mac was a luxury, but was much needed for my own sanity!!

On a side note, I love Apple's ability to create products that solve problems, and their ability to charge almost a fair price for them. For example, the 500gb airport / backup is *almost* worth it to me, and will likely become worth it sometime soon. The same applied for this MacBook. I drooled for months at the unibody and waited for the new product line. I wholeheartedly believe that this exact model is the best laptop ever made. While it seems painful to pay a bit more than a PC laptop, look at what you're getting. Comparable hardware in a PC laptop (I priced out a few Dell laptops with the same specs) and this one is really a good price.

I upgraded mine with Crucial's 4gb RAM and stuck in a 500gb SATA drive. I can run 3 VM desktops (Fedora 11, Ubuntu, and Windows) simultaneously on VMware and... well, I see the performance issue, but I can still function. The battery is good too. While I'm getting more like... 5 hours of battery life, I'm also running the keyboard backlight and screen on bright all the time.

I love my new MacBook Pro 13. This thing is solid and light and absolutely beautiful. Fast, functional, and suits all my technology needs. Don't underestimate iPhoto's ability to sort photos by faces. I had an UNMANAGEABLE amount of photos... imported them in and POP! All done. Duplicates ignored, sorted by the embedded date, including videos. My iPhone photos (where I allowed the GPS to store data) show up on a map at the exact point where the photo was taken. Yeah, this is cool stuff. And face recognition works.. "pretty well". It gets me and my toddler confused, but in all fairness, she looks a lot like me. I just wish it was a *bit* smarter, but it's still a feature I'd miss if I didn't have it.

This laptop is the last one you'll ever need, at least for the next couple of years. I will not let mine out of my site. Buy one!!

Apple MacBook Pro MC024LL/A

2010-09-20T15:06:00.000-07:00

Apple MacBook Pro MC024LL/A 17-Inch Laptop
From Apple Computer

Price:

Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The new MacBook Pro 17-inch model sets all-new benchmarks for Mac notebooks. The 17-inch MacBook Pro feature Intel Core i5 processors, which boost performance up to 50 percent(1) and reach Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.33GHz. Next-generation NVIDIA graphics bring high performance to everything from 3D games to photos and videos. And the built-in battery lasts up to 10 hours (8 to 9 hours on the 17-inch model).(2) (1) Up to 50 percent faster compared with previous-generation MacBook Pro. (2) Testing conducted by Apple in March 2010 using preproduction 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo–based 13-inch MacBook Pro, 2.66GHz Intel Core i7–based 15-inch MacBook Pro, and 2.53GHz Intel Core i5–based 17-inch MacBook Pro. Battery life depends on configuration and use. See www.apple.com/batteries for more information. The wireless productivity test measures battery life by wirelessly browsing various websites and editing text in a word processing document with display brightness set to 50%

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #122 in Personal Computers
Brand: Apple
Model: MC024LL/A
Dimensions: 11.00 pounds
Hard Disk: 500GB
Display size: 17

Features

2.53GHz Intel Core i5
500 GB Hard Drive, 8x DVD/CD SuperDrive, 4GB DDR3 RAM
17 inch LED-backlit display, 1920-by-1200 resolution
Intel HD Graphics and NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M with automatic graphics switching and 512 MB dedicated graphics memory
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard Operating System

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Updated with Intel's Core i5 processor and next-generation NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics, the 17-inch Apple MacBook Pro is faster than ever and will keep you working longer away from power cords with an enhanced battery life of up to 9 hours of battery life. As with previous models, the new MacBook Pro features a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, creating a thin and light mobile computing workhorse (less than 1 inch thin and just 6.6 pounds) that's also highly durable. And it includes a 17-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) as well as a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple's Multi-Touch technology.

The 17-inch unibody MacBook Pro (see larger image).

Now faster than ever with a Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics, and automatic graphics switching (see larger image).

The MacBook Pro also offers excellent graphics flexibility with two video processors--the discrete NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M processor (with 512 MB of GDDR3 video memory) for heavier workloads and an integrated Intel HD Graphics processor for better battery life on the go. And the new automatic graphics switching feature determines which graphics processor an application needs and switches instantly between the processors.

Specification Highlights

17-inch LED-backlit glossy widescreen displaywith edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass (1920 x 1200-pixel resolution).
2.53 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor for smart performance with a Turbo Boost maximizing speed when you need it the most for demanding applications like Aperture 3 or Final Cut Pro (3 MB shared L3 cache).
Dual graphics processors with automatic switching between NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M (with 512 MB of GDDR3 video memory) for demanding applications and integrated Intel HD Graphics (with 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory) for power savings.
500 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB installed RAM (1066 MHz DDR3; supports up to 8 GB)
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer DVD support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Built-in iSight camera for video chatting
Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice and cell phones
Three USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port
ExpressCard/34 slot
Mini DisplayPort video output with optional adapters for DVI, VGA, dual-link DVI, and HDMI output
Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control with support for inertial scrolling, pinch, rotate, swipe, three-finger swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities
Full-size backlit keyboard
Stereo speakers with subwoofers
Dimensions: 15.47 x 10.51 x 0.98 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 6.6 pounds
Up to 8-9 hours of battery life
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard
Meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements

What's in the Box
MacBook Pro, display cleaning cloth, 85W MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, power cord, software DVDs, printed and electronic documentation

The ports on the left side of the 17-inch MacBook Pro.

Key Features

Enjoy a processor Turbo Boost and automatic switching to the fast NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M graphics processor when using processor-intensive applications like Aperture 3 or Final Cut Pro.

New Intel Core i5 Processor

Next-Generation Graphics

The latest MacBook Pro features the new NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M discrete graphics processor--the fastest graphics ever in a Mac notebook. With 48 processing cores and 512 MB of dedicated video memory, this graphics processor delivers even more horsepower than the previous generation. And you don't have to sacrifice efficiency for speed: The NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M is up to 30 percent more energy efficient than its predecessor. For even greater power savings, the MacBook Pro also includes integrated Intel HD Graphics.

The beginning of every MacBook Pro--a precisely machined, single block of aluminum.

Unibody Design

LED-Backlit Display

The entire trackpad is the button, so you can click anywhere.

Buttonless Multi-Touch Trackpad

Long-Lasting Battery

The new energy-efficient architecture in every MacBook Pro, along with automatic graphics switching, gives you dramatically longer battery life. On a single charge, the battery in the new 17-inch MacBook Pro lasts up to 8 to 9 hours. And you'll get up to 1000 full charge and discharge cycles--that's nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. Advanced chemistry and Adaptive Charging allow the battery to maintain charging capabilities longer and determine the optimal way to charge the battery's cells. Because the battery lasts up to five years, MacBook Pro uses just one battery in the same time a typical notebook uses three. That makes for less waste. And that, in turn, makes for one environmentally friendly battery.

Environmental Considerations

Pre-Loaded with Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife '09

Installed software

Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard (includes Time Machine, Quick Look, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row, Xcode Developer Tools)
iLife '09 (includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, iWeb, iDVD)

Customer Reviews

Solid laptop, incredible performance, worth the cost
I finally made the decision to get rid of my two laptops (an HP envy, and a 13" macbook pro) in favor of this 17" macbook pro with a dual boot setup using Boot Camp. Initial impressions: The best choice I've ever made. Here's the whole thing broken down:

THE SIZE
This thing is pretty beastly, but it's not unwieldy. You definitely feel its size the second you pick one up, or move it around, but you'll quickly get over that once you open it up and turn it on. The keyboard is super expansive, the screen is unbelievable (more on that later) and you can still stay mobile with this thing if you really need to. It's not something you can easily move around with 1 hand from room to room, but if you're like me, and do most of your work at a desk, then this is a great choice to make. (Note: I also own an iPad, which is a fantastic pair with this thing, since it does about 90% of what I do on-the-go as far as mobile computing goes.)

THE SCREEN
So I mentioned already that you'll most likely fall in love with this thing like I did when you open it up and turn it on. It has the highest PPI (pixels per inch) of all the apple laptops they sell and it shows. I actually am considering not even hooking this up to my external monitor anymore, because of how brilliantly sharp it is. Colors really pop and text is easy to read. Also, since it's 17", you get a better-than-HD 1920x1200 resolution. My work is in development, so this is really a major selling point for me. I need to be able to manage all my windows in Xcode and Interface builder without tons of overlap and clicking between browsers, my chat windows and my code.

THE KEYBOARD
If you've used a macbook pro keyboard in the past year or so, you'll feel right at home with this thing. I will say this as a negative, however: It's not super comfortable on your arms right past your wrist, because the sharp edges of the laptop dig into your skin after a while.

THE PERFORMANCE
I copied over my entire OS/settings to this new macbook pro and ran some field tests to see how fast this thing is in comparison to my old macbook pro--and it screams. An iPhone/iPad project that takes 5-10 seconds to build on my old machine (core 2 duo) takes a fraction of that time here. The i5 is most definitely a step up from previous core 2 duos. I finally have a laptop I can stick Windows 7 on that is as good as a dedicated Windows machine can do. (Being able to have this 1 comp to run both environments is great!)

BATTERY LIFE
I will have to come back and update on battery life, but I can tell you that it's worlds better than my HP. That was similarly spec'ed and barely worked 2 hours on the go. This one so far is looking like 6 hours with wifi and full brightness. They have it rated at 8-9 hours, but I'm sure that's with brightness turned down and not full use the whole time. Truthfully, anything better than 2 hours with this kind of power is great for me.

TOUCHPAD
Again, if you've used a recent MacBook Pro, this is essentially identical. The biggest change here is that you can now use "inertial" scrolling, so that you can just flick your fingers to scroll long pages, and it will keep scrolling until it slows to a stop. This is very similar to the iPhone scrolling of long pages, or if you've used a Magic Mouse, it does the same thing.

Also, of note, is that of all the new copy cat glass track pads, I haven't used one that works as well as these. Even inside Windows, it performs real well and you feel productive with it. I've used other PC's with the no-button glass touchpad, and it makes me want to throw them across the room after a few minutes..

OTHER THOUGHTS/CONCERNS
While I'll keep this at 5 stars, this isn't necessarily a perfect computer. I have a few gripes with it, but they aren't really deal breakers and all the other pros make up for them so well that I'm okay with it. For starters, this has three USB ports (the 15 and 13 model only have 2) but unfortunately they are literally all lined up next to each other. If you have any kind of a fat usb device, you're out of luck for placing anything next to it.

Also, you'll most likely need to buy the mini-display port to HDMI converter because while Apple loves mini-display port, the rest of the world is just now using HDMI as its standard. You can find one here on amazon for real cheap (<$10). I take this as a con simply because you'll need to (most likely) always carry around an adapter or two to hook up to most projects or tv's or monitors.

VIDEO PERFORMANCE
I haven't yet tested any games or anything but it'll run HD videos so smoothly and they look *fantastic* on this screen. Seriously--I thought my old macbook pro 13 looked good running HD, but this computer puts it to shame. I can't wait to try out some games on here. (Valve is coming to the mac soon! And of course Blizzard makes all their games for mac os as well, so what more do you really need? :) )

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you're looking to spend this amount of money on an apple, and don't mind the bigger size of this thing, then go for it. You won't regret it. I'm so happy to be using this coming from the two laptops I had to previously carry around everywhere. Having everything in 1 device, with this much power, and with this great of a battery life, is a blessing.

UPDATE - JUNE 10, 2010
I've had this laptop for some time now, and thought I'd go ahead and update on some of the things I promised I would earlier in the review. As some other reviewers have pointed out, I'm not quite sure how Apple managed to get 8 or 9 hours out of 1 charge, unless they were using it with all its wireless signals off and on very low brightness. But the battery life is still good--I can stay unplugged for 5+ hours if need be.

Computer games on here run really well. Valve is indeed on the Mac now, and here to stay. The games work and look great! If you're a casual computer gamer, and like to play things like Half Life or Portal, Civilization, etc etc, then this computer will easily suit your need.

Finally, I don't know how I missed this is in my first review, but the sound is really very good. It comes with a subwoofer inside, and can produce incredibly loud sound without distortion.

One Heck of a Personal Laptop
Purchased: 4/15/10 (Mac Connection)
Shipped: 4/16/10 (via UPS)
Delivered: 4/21/10

My previous laptops:
Dell Inspiron 6400
Dell Inspiron 8600

Before I settled on the MacBook Pro, I also eyed the HP Envy 15 and Dell Studio XPS 16. While those laptops provided a better array of basic specifications (i.e. processor, hard drive, graphics card, optical drive) at a lower price, I was drawn to the portability and battery life that the MacBook Pro offered even as a "large" laptop. Small nitpicks such as the HP Envy 15 lacking a backlit keyboard and the Dell Studio XPS 16 utilizing a last-gen graphics card also helped sway my decision. (note: I am aware that the Mobility Radeon HD 4670 slightly outperforms the GeForce GT 330M. However, it requires more power and is not used in an 'automatic graphics switching' setup.)

---edit// (Added May 6, 2010)
On May 5, 2010, HP officially introduced the Envy 14 (replaces the Envy 13) and 17 models with a mid-to-end-of May release date. Two of the caveats addressed with the new models are the backlit keyboard and the option to turn off the discrete graphics card (though, not automatically).
---

HARDWARE:
There is no denying the solid design and appealing aesthetics involved with the MacBook Pro's construction. Simply put, the look, feel, and refinement of the laptop's aluminum unibody enclosure is second to none. It is thin, light, and it feels durable/sturdy. The 17-inch LED display delivers crisp pictures and an enjoyable video-viewing experience. Furthermore, the resolution (1920-by-1200) provides great real estate that should be well appreciated by users who require or enjoy organizing multiple windows and applications on the screen simultaneously. Unfortunately, Apple opted not to implement an IPS LED screen for the 2010 hardware refresh. Considering the price, I highly expected the new MacBook Pros to receive the IPS treatment since the iMac line recently incorporated it. The keyboard is top-notch. It is comfortable and it supplies a decent amount of feedback while typing. The multi-touch trackpad is absolutely brilliant. It is a joy to use and its convenient functions streamline the overall experience and laptop's "ease of use". While the three USB 2.0 slots are sufficient (not to mention, really close together), it is disappointing that Apple did not upgrade the hardware to utilize USB 3.0. People speculate that Apple will instead be implementing Intel's 'Light Peak' technology rather than USB 3.0 in the near future. For now, the FireWire 800 port will have to do. The lack of a Blu-Ray optical drive was not too big of a deal for me but I understand it can be an issue for other consumers considering the price of the laptop.

PERFORMANCE:
A majority of other reviews I read centered on the Core i7 processor rather the Core i5. It is safe to say that the Core i5 is more than enough for my needs and, most likely, a majority of other users'. It smoothly and effectively handles multiple applications and activities. I experienced no performance degradation while carrying a video chat, jamming to music, checking e-mail, browsing the web, and chatting online at the same time. Moreover, I encoded video and music files with ease while working with other applications. For users who regularly use processor-intensive applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Aperture 3, the Core i7 would be more suitable. I do not play computer games so I will not discuss the Intel HD graphics or GeForce GT 330M in that respect. All I can say is that it does the job perfectly well when watching high-definition video clips, movies, or Flash-based video. The 500GB hard drive is great for storage but the 5400-rpm specification is underwhelming. I still wonder how a laptop in such a price bracket comes standard with just a 5400-rpm hard drive. I expected at least a hybrid 128GB SSD + 250GB 7200-rpm hard drive setup as "standard". Shame.

BATTERY LIFE:
Let's just start with the numbers. I get about 4-6 hours (well, 6 hours if I am very battery conscious) on a daily basis. This involves general tasks such as e-mailing, chatting, music listening, and web browsing with the occasional video viewing. The screen's brightness is usually between 45-60% and the keyboard backlighting is not used. Now, these are commendable numbers by any means considering the size of the laptop. However, it is an absolute letdown when Apple claims one can squeeze up to 9 hours on a single charge. I even emulated the "test settings" Apple used to achieve those battery life numbers. I barely squeezed out 6 hours with about 4% remaining.

VERDICT:
Great personal laptop with a few subjective issues concerning the purported battery life and price-to-hardware/performance ratios.

OFF-TANGENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
If you decide to purchase an AppleCare Protection Plan to extend your MacBook Pro's warranty/support, look on eBay. You can easily find a legit AppleCare for less than half the price that Apple lists. If you are looking for a backpack to carry your MacBook Pro in, I highly recommend the Incase Nylon Backpack (CL55092 09).

Love it but there are some things you should know....
This is my second 17" MacBook Pro. I had the last generation in a 2.93GHZ CPU. My first one had a SSD drive, this one does not. I updated my first one to 8GB of RAM, this one still has 4GB, and I won't be in a rush to update it. BTW, my first MBP was stolen.

If you can stand the weight, and don't let the other reviewers fool you. Yes you get a nice 17" full HD display, but it is very heavy. I'm 6'4" and have a Brenthaven backpack and Brenthaven carry all. You will need some protection for this thing, because if you drop it, it is heavy enough to break itself. The folks at Brenthaven were great. After my first MBP was stolen they sent me not one but two replacement sleeve at no charge. Did I say it was heavy? It is really heavy. Try to carry it around all day and you will start think that small is beautiful.

We have two 13" macs in the house. A unibody MacBook--the best selling laptop ever, and the newer 13" MacBook Pro--fast becoming the most popular laptop ever. Both of these are outstanding computers--probably better machines. They are lighter and more fun to use.

Let me say a few words about speed. I love fast machines. But get serious, even the slowest Mac is fast as heck. The only reason for getting a really fast machine is if you do video editing, and perhaps professional graphics people who deal with huge photoshop files--if you don't then don't delude yourself into thinking you need a really fast machine. Even so, these other machines will do whatever you want.

I would have bought the new 13" or perhaps the 15" if I didn't have all the accessories for the 17". While this 17" is good for what I wanted--Video editing in the field. It is not very good for every day use. I'd recommend the 13" or 15" or even the MacBook Air for most people. I compromised and bought this and a new iPad. So I have something for general use to carry around, and a blazing fast laptop.

I bought each machine with the glossy display. I like the rich colors and most of the time I don't use it in places with lots of reflections. I could have changed to a mat display and did not. Mainly because I felt the glass display was mechanically stronger, and I don't intend to lose this laptop--I'll have this one for ten years or more.

What else? Well so far in general use, I don't find it to be any faster than my older one. I have not tried ripping a DVD to MP4 yet, that will probably be faster. The truth is, this MBP and the last generation are both darn fast machines. Either will blow your mind with how fast they are.

I did not get a SSD drive this time, because on my old machine, it was lightning fast when I bought it, but not much faster than a hard drive after a year's use. Why pay for something that will just keep getting slower? By the way, I do not recommend the APPLE SSD's. I love SSD's. I'm hooked. I'll just wait and try to find one that works better than the stock Apple Toshiba SSD's.

As for the extra memory. Unless you are a power user, the 8GB or ram is a bit of overkill. I'll probably update my memory when I have some spare cash and another machine to move the present 4GB of RAM into. I do think the combination of a fast SSD and 8GB of Ram will prevent swapping from taking place which will probably improve the longevity of a SSD.

As for this product or any of the Apple products, what sold me on these machines, is the touchpad. I had enough of pushing my pointer over to the side to find a scroll bar and move down the screen--it is tedious. The Apple touchpad interface ALONE, is the worth the purchase of one of these machine. It is so fast, so easy, so natural--so "got to have it and can't stand the old way any more".

The other essential feature is a backlit keyboard. Don't get a Mac without that feature.

Battery life. I was getting 5-6 hours on my old 17" MBP. I can't say how long the new one will last, supposedly it gets 8 hours. That great, but rarely will I need that. Just be glad that Mac batteries last longer than you will need them.

I was a long time Windows user and computer builder--since 1983. I've been working with computers since the PDP-11 and used DOS, Windows, Unix, Linux, and OS-X. I've built dozens of computers for myself. I paid $1000 for one the first 386 motherboards!

While the new versions of Linux come close, no one has a better operating system than Apple. Anyone who has switched will agree with me. I switched over when Apple went to Intel CPU's. These have been some of the happiest years in my life. No more viruses. I rarely have to reboot my machine. My Apple desktops have been running without rebooting for many months. My Mac Mini have not been shut off more than three times in three years.

Rebooting? Once in a while you will have to reboot this system for an Apple update. Never will you have to reboot for any other application. You might have to shut down Firefox, or some application to update hat one application--but you will not have to reboot to update an application or most Apple updates. How great is that? The one time I thought my system was locked up--guess what it was? My cordless mouse needed new batteries. This kind of reliatble computer problem I love. Apple computers don't have problems.

OS X is a customizable as you like, or leave it alone right out of the box--it is nearly perfect.

So think about what you want. If you want a good laptop--get the 13"; need a bigger screen, get the 15". Think you are big enough to carry the 17", or using it mostly at home--get the 17" but be wary. I tried using my 17" in bed and found it uncomfortable. It is heavy enough, even with a folded up blanket under it, to hurt your chest if stood in edge to see the keyboard. It is too big for 95% of the people. If you get one, you will start thinking about getting a MacBook Air or iPad. You will be happier with the 13".

One final thing: Get AppleCare's extended warranttee on eBay for half the price.

Acer AS5740-6025 15.6-Inch Laptop

2010-09-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

Acer AS5740-6025 15.6-Inch Laptop (Blue)
From Acer

List Price:	$679.99
Price:	$637.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Buy.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer AS5740-6025 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Core™ i5-430M Processor 2.26GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53GHz, Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, 15.6" HD Acer CineCrystal™ LCD Display, Mobile Intel HM55 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR3 1066MHz Dual Channel Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator HD, 500GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, Acer InviLink™ 802.11b/g/Draft-N Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™, Gigabit Ethernet, High Definition Audio Support, Built-In Webcam, 4 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI™ Port, Convenience Features- Multi-Gesture Touchpad, Acer Backup Manager, Touchpad-lock, 6-Cell Lithium-Ion (4400 mAh), 6.16 lbs. | 2.8 kg. (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite Trial (60-day trial),

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #130 in Personal Computers
Color: Blue
Brand: Acer
Model: AS5740-6025
Dimensions: 1.50" h x 15.10" w x 9.90" l, 9.60 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i5 2.26 GHz

Features

2.26GHz Intel Core i5-430M Processor with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53GHz
4GB DDR3 1066MHz Dual Channel Memory
500GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive
15.6" HD Acer CineCrystal LCD Display; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator HD
Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit); 802.11b/g/Draft-N Wi-Fi Certified

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Acer Aspire 5740: Multimedia Powerhouse

Enjoy a portable theater experience with the Acer Aspire 5740 (AS5740-6025) PC laptop, which features a 15.6-inch CineCrystal display with a fast response time so that fast action moves seamlessly across the screen and a 16:9 aspect ratio--perfect for viewing content created for the widescreen. The two built-in speakers produce vividly realistic audio thanks to the Dolby Home Theater technologies, and you can connect the laptop to your own home theater receiver for 5.1-channel surround sound with the audio line-out jack with S/PDIF support. You'll also be able to connect this laptop to your HDTV via the HDMI port.

The Acer AS5740 with blue Gemstone design (see larger image).

Enjoy cinematic brilliance on the 15.6-inch HD Acer CineCrystal widescreen LCD display with a true 16:9 aspect ratio and Intel integrated graphics delivering crystal-clear images and brilliant color for today's best entertainment (see larger image).

See a larger schematic image with all the ports.

Burn through the hottest new digital media, content creation and advanced 3D gaming with the breakthrough performance of the Intel Core i5 processor--with 4-way multitasking processor power to work on four tasks simultaneously. A Multi-Gesture Touchpad enables you to pinch, flick and swirl your fingers across the touchpad for more natural photo and video viewing as well as intuitive navigation of websites. Other features include ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, an integrated webcam for video chats, and a SuperMulti optical drive that's compatible with double-layer DVD discs.

Toshiba Satellite M505D-S4000 TruBrite

2010-09-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

Toshiba Satellite M505D-S4000 TruBrite 14.0-Inch Laptop (Black)
From Toshiba

List Price:	$699.99
Price:	$590.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Buy.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

Offering generous features, solid performance and great portability, the Satellite M505 laptop is ideal for on-the-go entertainment, work and learning. So you’ll stand out while moving out, it sports a classy upscale look that includes a brilliant Fusion Finish, along with a color-matched interior and keyboard. And so you can multitask while staying connected, it also offers excellent processing power, battery life rating and a great standard communications package. As for fun, it combines a stunning 14-Inch diagonal HD display for more vibrant media presentations—enjoy DVDs, home video and more, along with exciting casual gaming. New Toshiba productivity apps help simplify your day. Select models let you brush the future (and more freedom) with a touch-screen display. And with eco-conscious design and manufacturing built into every computer, this laptop makes for one very uplifting experience.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #207 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Toshiba
Model: PSMLYU-00D002
Dimensions: 1.55" h x 13.50" w x 9.14" l, 5.16 pounds
CPU: AMD Turion 64 X2 2.3 GHz
Memory: 2000MB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 1
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 14

Features

2.3GHz AMD Turion II Dual-Core Mobile M520 Processor
4GB 200-Pin DDR2 SO-DIMM Memory
500GB Serial ATA Hard Disk Drive (5400RPM); DVD SuperMulti Drive with Labelflash
14" LED (16:9) 1366x768 Display; ATI Radeon HD 4200 Graphics
Window 7 Home Premium 64-bit

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Toshiba Satellite M505D: Easy Portability with 14-Inch HD Screen

Combining great portability, generous battery life and modern style in a slim, eco-smart package, the Toshiba Satellite M505D-S4000 is sized to travel while providing powerful computing resources for all of your needs--work, learning and play. The 14-inch LED-backlit display offers TruBrite technology for optimal image clarity and a 1366 x 768 resolution for extra desktop working space and a widescreen aspect ratio for watching letterboxed DVDs--as well as native 720p high-definition resolution for watching downloaded HD movies and TV shows.

Made for mobility, this Toshiba M505 features a 14-inch high-definition screen and a one-click Eco Utility for improved energy management.

The M505's brilliant high-gloss Fusion finish with a Sonic pattern in black onyx is sure to turn heads.

Playback of music and video is a breeze with the lighted, touch-sensitive multimedia controls.

This laptop comes with a unique LED keyboard with backlighting that lets you keep typing in low lighting conditions.

Thanks to the built-in webcam and Toshiba Face Recognition software on this machine, you'll enjoy a more convenient way to communicate, log on or share your laptop among the family. Other high-tech features include a power-saving Eco Utility to help reduce power consumption based on your needs, USB Sleep-and-Charge port, a hard drive impact sensor that protects your data, and a dual-layer DVD±RW drive that burns CDs and offers Labelflash print functionality. And it's sure to stand out in the crowd thanks to the stunning Fusion Finish with Sonic pattern in Black Onyx.

HP Pavilion DV4-2160US 14.1-Inch Laptop

2010-09-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

HP Pavilion DV4-2160US 14.1-Inch Laptop (Digital Plaid)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$1,035.00
Price:	$752.00

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by LAVATRON

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want an all-in-one performance notebook with rich multimedia features, the HP Pavilion dv4 Entertainment series delivers mobile performance that looks as great as it runs. Powered by the latest processor and graphics technologies, it delivers optimal mobile performance to support your lifestyle.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #231 in Personal Computers
Color: Digital Plaid
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WA683UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.34" h x 9.45" w x 13.15" l, 5.20 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i5 2.26 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 14.1

Features

Intel Core i5-430M processor (2.26GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53 GHz)
4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 DIMM) (expandable to 8 GB)
320GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA), LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, * Up to 4.25 Hours of Battery Life
14.1" Diagonal WXGA HD HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1280 x 800), Intel HD Graphics with up to 1696MB Total Available Graphics Memory

Acer Aspire Timeline AS1810T-8638 11.6-Inch HD Display Black Laptop

2010-08-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Acer Aspire Timeline AS1810T-8638 11.6-Inch HD Display Black Laptop - Over 8 Hours of Battery Life
From Acer

Price:

$644.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Electronica Direct

Average customer review:

Product Description

Acer Aspire Timeline AS1810T-8638 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel Core2 Duo Processor SU7300, Windows 7 Home Premium, 11.6 inch HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR2 667MHz Memory, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, 320GB SATA Hard Drive, Integrated Acer Crystal Eye Webcam, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, 2nd Generation Dolby Sound Room Audio Enhancement, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11b/g/Draft-N, Bluetooth 2.1+ EDR, 3 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI Port, Convenience Buttons- Multi-Gesture Touchpad, 6-cell Li-ion Battery (5600 mAh), 8+ hours of battery life, 3.08 lbs. | 1.4 kg (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee Internet Security Suite (60-day insert)

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #144 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Acer
Model: AS1810T-8638
Dimensions: 1.18" h x 11.20" w x 8.03" l, 3.08 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 1.3 GHz
Memory: 4GB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 1
Display size: 11.6

Features

1.3GHz Intel Core2 Duo SU7300 Processor
4096MB DDR2 667MHz Memory
320GB SATA Hard Drive, Intel WiFi Link 1000 802.11b/g/Draft-N, Bluetooth 2.1+ EDR
11.6" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit Display, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD
Windows 7 Home Premium, 8+ hours of battery life

Customer Reviews

A great computer doesn't have to be big!
Let me preface this review by stating I am not a computer/tech person. I am a 35 yo housewife and nursing student who needs something that is powerful (fast), small, light and handy that I can take with me everywhere I go. My first stab at reaching that goal was a 10.1" Acer Aspire One over a year ago. I got some good use out of it but grew tired of the limitations and slow speed compared to an awesome desktop at home (my husband IS a computer/tech guy). So I'd been waiting for an 11.6" model to hit the market that actually had true notebook features - not the lame atom processors, etc. It's finally here.

What I like:
-quiet
it is super quiet, fan noise barely audible

-screen is really sharp
the definition and clarity of the screen/graphics are great; color is vivid as well

-keyboard
full size, and also quiet with low profile keys

-handy buttons
there are a lot of handy one-touch type features like one that will black out the screen (could be used to thwart that nosy neighbor in the seat next to you, as well as being a great power saver during downtime)

-setup was easy
it is pretty self explanatory: put battery in, plug in, turn on, follow instructions, uninstall pre-installed garbage.

-speed
it boots up quickly and switching windows or webpages is almost instantaneous

-touch pad
it is matte, slightly textured, and makes for easy use with average sensitivity. It also has some neat extra features where using different strokes across or in a circular motion will switch between windows and zoom in or zoom out... there are several of these and I don't know them all yet. Also, it is not so sensitive that if your thumb pad rubs over it while typing the cursor will jump around - I've had that problem before and I'm glad I don't have it now!

-surfaces
the inside surface hand rest, aside from the touch pad, appears to be a brushed metal type that does not show fingerprints (nice). The outside is typical onyx - it's black with a little bit of barely noticeable sparkly-ness if you look closely.

I have not used the Bluetooth feature yet... need to set that up for my Blackberry Storm. Also am ordering a BT mouse but have seen so many mixed reviews about the available models so will need to do more research.

The computer comes well packaged and had no signs of damage. However, I think the cold made all the sticky plastic protectors leave a gummy residue on the case. It was easy to peel it off though -but initially alarming just the same.

No case or cover - it came with a fabric cover that is similar to the stuff that's used on the bottom of box springs. So if you get this computer, you might as well order a bag/sleeve at the same time.

Windows 7 - works like a charm.

Weight - it's light and easy to handle.

The bottom line: I love it and would highly recommend it. Thanks for reading my review!

Addendum: I wanted to mention how long the battery lasts. I am notorious for rapid battery consumption on all devices (have to take cords with me always) ---this computer is changing that. I take it to school and it is on from 1:30-8:00 intermittently running MS office apps like Word, Excel and Powerpoint, plus an internet browser (I use Firefox). The use is not constant, but it's still on and ready the whole time. I don't even bother taking the cord with me, becuase on average after this usage I still have between 70-75% battery remaining when I get home! Amazing!

A perfect replacement for a laptop
I got this for my daughter who is in college. She did not want to carry the bulkier Macbook Pro. She needed a Netbook variety for her daily use. After extensive research, I decided it was better to to go with something that she can use beyond her undergradtuate years. I ordered the blue color. This had the perfect combination of technical and functional specifications.

The product was on pre order for three weeks. Amazon mentioned that it will arrive by Dec 1st and it arrived on Nov 17th. Amazon does set low expectations and tries to beat it :)

Now to the product itself - the quick setup guide said it will take 30 minutes to set it up. It took less than 10. Windows 7 was up and running in a jiffy. Prompted me to select the netowrk. (which was refreshing for a change, as I expect this behaviour generally from only Apple products).

The processor speed is awesome and can do more than traditional office productivity and web browing activities. Loaded statistics software and it blazes. My daughter will be using it for running complex complex graphics and stats algorthims for her neuro research projects.
The keyboard, screen is beautiful. The fullsize keyboard has lots of one touch special funtions that makes navigation easy. I miss the trackball. I have not gotten used to the touchpad. The pinch and swivel motions does not feel natural to me (I am not an iPhone user).
The screen is sharp. HD like quality. It is not full matt screen, as one can still see reflection. The web camera is OK.
The laptop has enough ports for normal use - USB, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jacks etc.
Battery - it is close to the advertised life. Gave me about 6 1/2 hours of moderate to heavy use. Still new, want to test it further before making judgement on this. Still a vast improvment over traditional laptops.

Weight is just awesome. The specs of this power netbook puts in the laptop class and still it weighs less than half. Of course, if you add an external DVD drive, it will increase it somewhat. Still this is a sleek, clean, light yet powerful Netbook!!

excellent multi purpose use
Plenty of power and memory. Windows 7 runs extremely well. Set up was a breeze. This computer is faster and more powerful than my desktop. Good things do come in small packages. The screen is quite easy to view despite the small size. It's lightweight and easy to carry with me. That was a concern since my old laptop was very heavy and burden to take along. It also runs very cool and doesn't burn my lap as many laptops are prone to do.

The only negative is the the sounds from the speakers is quite weak. I usually use headphones to listen to sound since with any background noise the speakers are inadequate.

Toshiba Satellite U505-S2005 TruBrite 13.3-Inch Laptop

2010-08-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

Toshiba Satellite U505-S2005 TruBrite 13.3-Inch Laptop (Black/Brown)
From Toshiba

List Price:	$799.99
Price:	$749.95

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Beach Camera

Average customer review:

Product Description

Lightweight, exceptionally stylish and offering great battery life rating,6 the Satellite U505 laptop is a no-compromise PC delivering performance, portability and multimedia features. Built with energy-smart Toshiba technology, it has a distinctive 13.3-Inch diagonal display, giving you ample room to work and—unlike others in it’s category—a DVD player for watching movies, listening to music or sharing work. It has a compact chassis, weighs in at under 5 pounds and is set off by a beautiful textured finish, which makes it easy to use in cramped quarters, while making for some very admiring looks. Excellent communications options enable real-time face time even when you’re away. New Toshiba Bulletin Board and ReelTime productivity apps help simplify your day. And extras like a TouchPad with Multi-touch Control let you do more with less effort. Wherever you want to go, whoever you want to impress, this PC is there for you.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #363 in Personal Computers
Color: Black/Brown
Brand: Toshiba
Model: PSU9BU-00F004
Dimensions: 1.50" h x 12.50" w x 9.08" l, 4.74 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i3 2.13 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 1
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 13.3

Features

2.13GHz Intel Core i3-330M Processor
4GB 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM Memory
500GB Serial ATA Hard Disk Drive (5400RPM); DVD SuperMulti Drive with Labelflash
13.3" CCFL (16:9) 1280x800 Display; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator HD
Window 7 Home Premium 64-bit

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Toshiba Satellite U505: Travel Light with Exceptional Style and Solid Performance

Weighing less than 5 pounds, the ultra-portable Toshiba Satellite U505-S2005 notebook PC packs in an extraordinary amount of power and productivity into its elegant, compact package. The 13.3-inch widescreen display offers TruBrite technology for optimal image clarity and a 1280 x 800 resolution for extra desktop working space and a widescreen aspect ratio for watching letterboxed movies. And this lightweight chassis is sure to stand out in the crowd thanks to the beautiful, textured finish with a Matrix pattern in Luxe Brown.

Lightweight, exceptionally stylish and offering great battery life, the 13.3-inch diagonal Satellite U505 is a no-compromise laptop delivering performance, portability and powerful multimedia features to accelerate your on-the-go lifestyle.

The Satellite U505 is designed with a compact, lightweight chassis set off by a beautiful, textured finish with a Matrix pattern in Luxe Brown.

Thanks to the built-in webcam and Toshiba Face Recognition software on this machine, you'll enjoy a more convenient way to communicate, log on or share your laptop among the family. Other high-tech features include a touchpad with multi-touch control, power-saving Eco Button to help reduce power consumption based on your needs, USB Sleep-and-Charge port, a hard drive impact sensor that protects your data, and a dual-layer DVD±RW drive that burns CDs and offers Labelflash print functionality.

HP G71-340US 17.3-Inch Black/Silver Laptop

2010-08-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

HP G71-340US 17.3-Inch Black/Silver Laptop - Up to 4 Hours of Battery Life (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$779.99
Price:	$570.00

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by RedCore Computer

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want to connect and manage everyday computing tasks with an elegantly minimalist desktop-replacement notebook, the HP G71 series delivers at a great value. Powered by Intel processor and graphics technologies, the G71 includes essential features to enhance your PC experience and life.Watch full-screen HD TV and movies with the 17.3-Inch diagonal display’s 16:9 aspect ratio. Enjoy your photos and videos on HD TVs with the HDMI port (cable sold separately). Enter data quickly with the numeric keypad. Look good on the go with award-winning, high-gloss HP Imprint finish. Get online more quickly with Windows 7 and high-speed wireless LAN. Create personalized, silkscreen-quality DVD and CD labels with LightScribe. Chat face to face with the HP Webcam and mix it up with YouCam’s fun special effects.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #93 in Personal Computers
Color: black,silver
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: VM114UA#ABA
Dimensions: 8.07" h x 5.35" w x 1.65" l, 6.72 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz
Memory: 4GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 17.3

Features

2.2GHz Intel Core2 Duo T6600 Processor (2MB LS Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
4 GB DDR2 RAM (2 Dimm), Max supported 8 GB
320GB (5400RPM) SATA Hard Drive, LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support
17.3 Diagonal HD+ High-Definition HP LED BrightView Widescreen Display
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, *Up to 4 Hours of Battery Life
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD (shared) with up to 1.7 GB total available graphics memory

HP G71-340US 17.3-Inch Black/Silver Laptop

2010-08-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

HP G71-340US 17.3-Inch Black/Silver Laptop - Up to 4 Hours of Battery Life (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$779.99
Price:	$570.00

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by RedCore Computer

Average customer review:

Product Description

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #93 in Personal Computers
Color: black,silver
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: VM114UA#ABA
Dimensions: 8.07" h x 5.35" w x 1.65" l, 6.72 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz
Memory: 4GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 17.3

Features

2.2GHz Intel Core2 Duo T6600 Processor (2MB LS Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
4 GB DDR2 RAM (2 Dimm), Max supported 8 GB
320GB (5400RPM) SATA Hard Drive, LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support
17.3 Diagonal HD+ High-Definition HP LED BrightView Widescreen Display
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, *Up to 4 Hours of Battery Life
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD (shared) with up to 1.7 GB total available graphics memory

ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-A1 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop

2010-08-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-A1 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop (Blue)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

Price:

Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The ASUS G51JX is one of the newest notebooks from the Republic of Gaming(ROG) Notebook line. Powered by Intel’s i7-720QM Core i7 processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M graphics card, the ASUS G51JX offers users a completely new class of physical gaming interaction for a more realistic and dynamic experience. The NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M also features 1GB GDDR5 VRAM, which performs significantly better than the standard DDR2 and DDR3 video memory. With a 3DMark score of 11,000+ the performance of the ASUS G51JX is a leap from the other 15-Inch mainstream notebooks that produce scores ranging from 2000 to 3000. The G51JX also supports 3D gaming surround audio in the form of EAX Advanced HD 4.0 audio technology. This technology detects in-game environments and actions to provide corresponding 3D sound effects. It can provide up to an additional 64 sound effects from the sound library, producing ultra-realistic spatial effects in more than 300 supported games. Equipped with an illuminating chiclet keyboard, the G51JX enables gamers to control the brightness of the keyboard to cater to their needs. This provides gamers with an added advantage over their opponents, and allows them to continue to dominate even in the dark, like that of LAN party environments. The G51JX also features Windows 7 Home Premium 64 Bit Operating System. The notebook comes with the ASUS 360 service program that includes a 2 year global warranty, one month zero bright dot guaranty, free two-way standard shipping, twenty-four hour tech support seven days a week, and a one year accidental damage warranty, protecting the notebook from drops, fire, spills and surge. The package contains a 2 year warranty card, notebook, gaming backpack, and gaming mouse.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #72 in Personal Computers
Color: Blue
Brand: Asus
Model: G51JX-A1
Original language: English
Dimensions: 1.60" h x 10.30" w x 14.60" l, 7.26 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i7 2.8 GHz
Memory: 6MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 500GB
Processors: 4
Display size: 15.6

Features

Intel Core i7-720QM Processor 1.6GHz with turbo boost up to 2.8GHz
6GB DDR3 1066MHz DRAM, 2 slots, 8GB Max
500GB Hard Drive (7200 RPM); Super Multi Optical Disk Drive; Wi-Fi 802.11bgn; Bluetooth
15.6-Inch Full HD 1920x1080 LED LCD Display; 2.0MP Webcam; NVidia GTS 360M Graphics Engine with 1GB GDDR5 dedicated VRAM
Backlit Chiclet Keyboard; Free Gaming Backpack and Gaming Mouse

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Gain the Unfair Advantage

Now is the time to pulverize your competition. The Republic of Gamers (ROG) G51Jx-A1 notebook offers stutter-free visuals and sizzling performance that take gaming to the next level of realism. Featuring an Intel Core i7 processor, ASUS Dedicated Graphics Engine powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M graphics card, 6GB of DDR3 system memory, and an illuminated gaming keyboard, the G51Jx unleashes an array of features to tackle today’s most demanding games.

The G51Jx is specially designed for a better Windows 7 experience with exclusive time-saving utilities that get you to the battlefield faster than ever before. Take advantage of premium multimedia or master your favorite game with a vibrant 15.6-inch LED-backlit Full HD widescreen. The G51Jx does it all with theatre-like cinematics.

The most thoughtful notebook warranty package is icing on the cake.

Most other brands only offer 1 year of warranty service, and can charge up to $100 for an additional year. ASUS G51Jx comes standard with a 2-Year Global Warranty and more*:

Thirty-days flawless display guarantee

Free two-way standard shipping

24-hour tech support seven days a week

Plus ASUS Accidental Damage Protection: The ASUS G51Jx is also protected with a One Year Accidental Damage Warranty protecting the notebook from drops, fire, spills, and surge.**

Key Features

Blisteringly fast ASUS DGE powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB DDR5 for unprecedented visual clarity and remarkable gaming performance
Intel Core i7 quad core processor 720QM with Turbo Boost Technology to boost base speed from 1.6GHz to a maximum Turbo Boost speed of 2.8GHz
Brilliant 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit widescreen for immersive cinematic experience with resolution up to 1920 x 1080
ASUS Super Hybrid Engine that innovatively saves battery life and boosts performance
6GB of DDR3 RAM for smooth computing with Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
64-bit Windows 7 Home Premium for a faster and more reliable operating system
500GB 7,200RPM hard drives for fast, convenient storage and access to all your documents and entertainment
Wi-Fi networking (802.11 b/g & draft 2.4GHz n) with the Latest Bluetooth connectivity (v2.1)+EDR to game wherever you go
Integrated 2 megapixel webcam and Digital Array Mic for video chatting with your friends and family
Illuminated gaming keyboard with numeric keypad gives you complete control in any lighting environment
EAX Advanced HD Audio + CMSS Sound Effect with Altec Lansing speakers for premium gaming sound
ASUS Infusion Design casing technology for resilient beauty
Exclusive ASUS Express Gate enables ultra-fast boot so you can connect to the web in under 10 seconds
ASUS SmartLogon: facial recognition system detects your face and logs on automatically
Complimentary Republic of Gamers backpack and gaming mouse
Warranty: 2 year ASUS 360 global warranty and 1 year Accidental Damage Warranty with 30-day Flawless Display Guarantee

Learn More

Uncompromised Performance for the Next-Gen Gamer

The ROG G51Jx’s ASUS DGE, powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M GPU with 1GB of DDR5 VRAM, offers remarkable performance gains over previous generations. With the GeForce GTS 360M GPU, enhanced with NVIDIA PhysX technology, you’ll experience dynamic forces of nature, massively destructible environments, and hyper-realistic gameplay.

The NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M GPU is built for performance and speed to provide premium power for even the most demanding mobile gamer. Unlock the power of its processor core with NVIDIA CUDA to get the most out of the visual capabilities and features built into Windows 7 and deliver incredible performance improvements over traditional CPUs.

The G51Jx also features a fast 500GB 7,200RPM SATA hard drive to store your movies, games, and pictures while on-the-move. With a 7,200RPM hard drive you get quicker access speeds, and faster transfer rates than standard 5,400RPM hard drives so you wait less, and do more.

Enjoy Vibrant Media

With the portable ROG G51Jx notebook, you can bring the latest HD media to life wherever you go. Featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD widescreen (1920 x 1080) and NVIDIA PureVideo HD technology, enjoy an immersive experience with sharp images, smooth video transitions, and brilliant clarity.

The G51Jx is complemented with Altec Lansing speakers and EAX Advanced HD 4.0 so you can hear every detail and enhanced acoustics. With many scenarios to choose from, the EAX Advanced HD 4.0 engine will render the environment your gaming character is in and bring you the most surreal gaming experience.

Also loaded with CMSS-3D technology, audio channels will appear to come from above and around for a full surround sound experience. And with HDMI connectivity, the G51Jx doubles as your personal all-in-one media center.

Aggressive Styling

Strike fear in the hearts of your opponents with the clawed design of the ROG G51Jx.

Its spacious illuminated gaming keyboard gives you the competitive advantage when others are fumbling for keys in the dark, and keeps you a step ahead of the game.

The G51Jx goes beyond the conventional and features a complimentary Republic of Gamers backpack and Razor optical mouse for the complete gaming package.

The Republic of Gamers (ROG) is the leading brand in PC gaming innovation. Birthed from the finest ASUS products dedicated to our gamers across the world, ROG is now a signature for highly innovative, gamer-centric notebooks, video cards, and motherboards.

Through extensive research and development, ROG products feature not only superior graphics, design, and performance but specialize in delivering unique features that optimize them for the highest level of gaming at the best value.

Built with one of the World’s Best Notebook Processors

Stay ahead of the curve and enjoy extreme gaming with Intel’s leading-edge processor and some of today’s most powerful components. One of the first ROG notebooks to incorporate the Intel Core i7 720QM quad-core processor, the G51Jx outperforms and outclasses other notebooks for an immersive gaming experience.

With massive memory bandwidth that delivers the ultimate in HD computing, hardcore multi-taskers will rejoice with Intel Turbo Boost Technology –accelerating performance from 1.6GHz to 2.8GHz.

The G51Jx gives you all the power you need to create digital video, 3D animation, or effortlessly play adrenaline-filled games.

ASUS Makes Your Windows 7 Experience Better

Recently rated #1 in consumer reliability among Windows-based PCs by RESCUECOM, SquareTrade, and PCMag.com, ASUS gives you the peace of mind you deserve every time you start your G51Jx notebook. †

ASUS worked extensively with Microsoft to develop time-saving features like FastBoot technology –reducing the time needed for startup and shutdown –and LocalMe –a GPS-like application. And, thanks to Windows 7’s enhanced power management, you can enjoy unplugged gaming longer.

Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network to share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music, and watch, pause, rewind, and record TV. †† Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium.

† According to RESCUECOM's consumer reliability report Q1 2009 and Q2 2009. Rated number 1 Windows-based PC maker in PCMag.com’s Service & Reliability Report 2009. Rate number 1 PC brand according to SquareTrade, the leading direct-to-consumer warranty company (for more information visit http://www.squaretrade.com/pages/laptop-reliability-1109/ ).

†† Internet access required. Free TV content varies by geography. Some content may require additional fees.

**ASUS 360* -- 2 Year Global Warranty**

ASUS complimentary notebook care package.

ASUS 360 offers a level of coverage that would add hundreds of dollars to the price of competing laptops:

Two year global warranty

Thirty days flawless display guarantee

Two way free standard shipping

24/7 tech support

ASUS ADW -- 1 Year Accidental Damage Warranty

Accidents happen. But when they happen to your ASUS notebook purchased in the US or Canada, you have extra protection. Whether your notebook is damaged by accidental spills, drops, electrical surges, or fire, ASUS will fix it or replace it for you during the first year after purchase.**

Warranty covering accidental drops, spills, power surges, and fire damage

One-way shipping (from ASUS to the user) at no additional cost

24 hour toll-free phone support

One incident covered per notebook

What's in the Box

ROG G51Jx-A1

Deluxe Republic of Gamers Backpack

Deluxe Optical Gaming Mouse (By Razor)

AC Adapter

6 cell Battery Pack

Warranty Information Card

Specifications

Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)

Display: 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit Widescreen (1920 x 1080)

CPU: Intel Core i7 processor 720QM (1.60GHz Quad-Core)

Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB DDR5 VRAM

Wireless: 802.11 b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) with Bluetooth v2.1 +EDR

LAN: 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet

Memory: 6GB DDR3-1066 RAM, 4 x SODIMM Sockets (up to 8GB)

Storage: 500GB 7,200RPM hard drive

Optical Drive: DVD Super Multi Double Layer Drive

Camera: 2.0 Megapixel

Speakers: Altec Lansing speakers

Microphone Digital Array Microphones

Card Reader: 1 x 8-in-1 card reader (MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory stick/MS Pro/MS-Duo/MS-Pro Duo)

Input/Output: 1 x Mic-in, 1 x Headphone-out, 1 x VGA port/Mini D-Sub 15-pin for external monitor, 4 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x IEEE 1394 port, 1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert, 1 x HDMI, 1 x eSATA, 1 x Express Card 34/54

Battery Pack: 6 cell

Dimensions: 14.8 x 10.4 x 1.4~1.6 inches (WxDxH)

Approximate Weight: 7.27 pounds (with 6 cell battery,1xHDD)

Color: Blue

*For notebooks purchased on or after Sept. 10, 2007. The ASUS 360 Notebook Service Program and Accidental Damage Warranty covers “ASUS” brand notebooks only, and does NOT extend to: “Built on ASUS,” “ASMobile,” “Powered by ASUS,” the Eee PC, or some other models. These retailers are currently among the companies that do NOT participate in the ASUS 360 Notebook Service Program and Accidental Damage Warranty: Best Buy, MicroCenter, and The Source by CircuitCity in Canada. Limit of one claim per notebook for Accidental Damage Warranty. ASUS reserves the right to discontinue this program and to modify the terms and conditions thereof at any time. ASUS Accidental Damage Warranty Program starts from the date of your ASUS notebook purchase, when all the requirements are met.

**One incident covered per notebook

All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. Product may not be exactly as shown in photos. Celeron, Celeron Inside, Centrino, Centrino Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel Viiv, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, Viiv Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, and Xeon Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

Check Out Other ASUS Notebook Computers and Accessories

ASUS UL50VT-A1 Thin and Light Laptop
Want more power and storage space? Check out the UL50Vt-A1 with a switchable NVidia G210M Graphics Engine and a 500GB Hard Drive.

ASUS Eee Top ET2002-B0017
Need a sleek and stylish PC for the family? Check out the ASUS ET2002 All-in-One Desktop PC.

ASUS VW246H 24-Inch Widescreen LCD Monitor
The VW246H delivers vibrant images with exceptional features such as HDMI input and Full 1080p resolution.

ASUS Skype Video Phone Touch SV1TS
A truly revolutionary technology, the ASUS Skype Video Phone Touch allows you to make unlimited video Skype calls at a touch without a computer or additional hardware or software.

Customer Reviews

Solid, Awesome performance
Yeah, I guess you could be upset that you didn't get some complimentary swag or whatever with this machine, but I didn't buy it for swag.

Let's get down to business, shall we?

Pluses: Gorgeous, smooth graphics in Star Trek Online, DDO, Champions Online and Team Fortress 2 with the sliders cranked just shy of the max. EAX sound is amazing: even sounds decent out of the built-in speakers (really rocks with my headphones though). CPU performance and multitasking is sweet and responsive. I have multi-surfed Word, Visual Studio and Photoshop CS with no lag or issues.

More ports than you can shake a stick at: plenty of USB, eSATA, FireWire (1394) and even HDMI (which outputs to full 1080p if that floats your boat). Bluetooth devices are easily paired. Amazing Windows 7 performance (rates a 5.9 Windows Experience out of the box, with 6.6s in graphics, before any tweaking)

This thing is a sweet PC for money.

Cons: Runs hot. Be sure to keep side vents for cooling free. Might be worth investing in a cooling mat for this bad boy. Also, can we please not pre-install a bunch of crap on our new, high-performance gaming machines? I had to uninstall a bunch of cheesey ASUS games and stuff before I could really get down to business.

Very Nice
I did a bit of research and this laptop seemed pretty highly anticipated by those looking to buy and well received by the few that already had them. I also saw that it seemed most of the initial shipment came with 1333MHz DDR3 ram instead of 1066. I opened mine up and it does have 1333MHz. A supply issue I guess. Very nice considering it's a $150+ upgrade on some websites.

I installed Borderlands and it seemed like a dog at first, then I realized I didn't have the AC adapter plugged in. It automatically goes to a power saver mode when only on battery (of course) and it makes a big difference. Once plugged in I put all the settings on high except for anti-aliasing at 4 instead of 16 and resolution at native 1920x1080 it ran a little slow. Frame rate was around 30 usually. Fine for most games but not a FPS. At 1280x720 the frame rate was in the 50s. I played for about an hour and it was running very hot so I stopped for a while. I bought this laptop to replace an older Dell laptop I had because I burned out the vid card on the Dell, so I was a bit worried, maybe needlessly.

The keyboard is fine but the keys are real slippery, could use some kind of texture or concave shape. They are lighted which will be very useful (hit Fn+F4 when you 1st get it, mine were turned off).
Could use a USB in the back (I like to use a cooling pad) but it has 2 on each side near the front which is nice.
Lights on the lid are annoying. The side ones turn off in battery mode, I'll have to look into a setting to turn them off all the time. The logo light in the center of the lid never turns off.
I like the physical switch for wireless and bluetooth.

No dead pixels, I'll be looking close for 30 days but I hope to not have to RMA. Nice warranties on this thing, definitely a selling point. Watch out if you try to buy an ASUS from Best Buy --they do not honor all the standard ASUS warranties, I think the accident insurance. Because Best Buy wants to sell you their own insurance for $179.

The thing I don't like the most about this laptop is the screen size. Not the resolution but the actual physical size. There is approximately a 3/4 inch bezel on the sides and bottom and nearly 1 1/4 inch at the top. This makes the laptop less attractive visually also, like it's chunky and thick. The large top bezel is likely because of the webcam which I will never use. The screen could easily be 16+ inches which would help lots with the high resolution. At 1920x1080 for a laptop you need all the size you can get. Text at 100% is tiny but mine shipped at 125% so that's smart on their part. I primarily use it for painting in Photoshop and Painter so the high resolution is great. Trying to show someone text on the screen is difficult when they can't read it unless they are real close.

One other thing I didn't like was 40+GB of pre-installed software. Why anyone would want all this crap is beyond me. I was going to wipe and reinstall but there is the quick start OS which I need to look into and see if that will be wiped and if there is any difficulty reinstalling it. I pretty much always plan on wiping a new computer but most people wouldn't so that is a factor.

I got my backpack and mouse, I see some others didn't.

Oh yeah it's not black, even the darkest part of the lid is a dark blue.

So:
+Free ram upgrade
+speedy
+lighted keys
+wireless switch
+free backpack and mouse
-slippery keys
-physical screen size
-bloatware

All in all very happy with it.

Fantastic
I can't say enough good things about this machine. Yes, the "gameboy" packaging is a bit garish and it is a fingerprint magnet, but it's what's on the inside that counts. The ultra-high-density screen is amazing. Speed is incredible and the features can't be beat for the money. As an IT professional, I have dealt with Asus' technical support in the past and have found them to be outstanding. The free accidental breakage coverage is unprecedented. Get yours now!

ASUS UL20A-A1 Thin and Light

2010-08-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

ASUS UL20A-A1 Thin and Light 12.1-Inch Silver Laptop - 7.5 Hours of Battery Life (Windows 7 Home Premium)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

List Price:	$599.00
Price:	$581.03 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The new ASUS UL20A is a harmonious blend of form and function. Powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo ultra-low voltage processor, it boasts an impressive 7.5-hour battery life for all-day computing. It also sports user-centric features such as a multi-gesture touchpad and provides an impressive multimedia entertainment experience with Altec Lansing speakers and SRS Premium Sound. All of these features and more are shrouded in a robust brushed aluminum lid that not only looks magnificent, but also helps in maintaining the notebook’s stylish exterior day after day. This notebook comes with a 1 year global warranty, one month zero bright dot guaranty, free two-way standard overnight shipping and twenty-four hour tech support seven days a week. Plus it comes with a FREE One Year Accidental Damage Warranty protecting your notebook from drops, fire, spills and surges.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #114 in Personal Computers
Color: Silver
Brand: Asus
Model: UL20A-A1
Original language: English
Dimensions: 1.20" h x 9.20" w x 11.90" l, 4.18 pounds
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 1.3 GHz
Memory: 2GB SDRAM
Hard Disk: 250GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 12.1

Features

1.3GHz Intel SU7300 Core 2 Duo Processor
2GB of DDR2 RAM, 2 Slots, 4GB Max
250GB SATA Hard Drive (5400 RPM), No Optical Drive
12.1" WXGA LED LCD Display, Wi-Fi 802.11 bgn, 0.3M Webcam
Windows 7 Home Premium Operating System (64 bit), *7.5 Hours of Battery Life

ASUS U30JC-A1 13.3-Inch Laptop

2010-08-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

ASUS U30JC-A1 13.3-Inch Laptop (Silver)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

Price:

$1,029.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by ForrestComputer

Average customer review:

Product Description

13.3" / HD (1366 x768) (LED) / i3-350M (2.26GHz) / 4G DDR3 / NV G310M 512MB DDR3 VRAM / 320G 5400RPM / Super Multi / Windows 7 Home Premium (64bit) / 802.11 bgn / 0.3 MP / 8 cell 5600mAh

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #116 in Personal Computers
Color: Silver
Brand: Asus
Model: U30JC-A1
Dimensions: 1.20" h x 9.52" w x 13.12" l, 4.80 pounds
CPU: Intel Core Duo 2.26 GHz
Memory: 4MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 320GB
Processors: 2
Display size: 13.3

Features

Intel Core i3-350M Processor (2.26 GHz)
NVIDIA® GeForce® 310M Graphics Engine with 512MB DDR3 Dedicated VRAM with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology
4GB of DDR3 1066MHz DRAM (2GB x 2 slots), 4GB Max; Wireless 802.11 b/g/n
320GB Hard Drive (5400 RPM); Super Multi Optical Disk Drive; Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit) Operating System
13.3-Inch HD (1366x768) LED Display; 0.3MP Webcam; HDMI Port; 8 cell 5600mAh battery

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Optimized Performance for up to 9.5 hours of Unplugged Mobility

The sleek 13.3-inch U30Jc has incredible features that go far beyond the capabilities of standard entertainment notebooks. Start smart with it’s all new Intel® Core™ i3 processor thatis smarter and faster with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology for enhanced multitasking. Plus, the U30Jc features NVIDIA® GeForce™ graphics with NVIDIA Optimus™ Technology that seamlessly transitions between powerful NVIDIA graphics and Intel embedded graphics to give you smart visual performance or battery-savings when you need it.

At less than 4.5-pounds and only 1.5-inches thin, its unique and lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere you go. With full HD playback capability and HDMI connectivity, you can easily enjoy the big screen experience on any HDMI-ready HDTV or home theater setup.

Here are a few more reasons why you should be consider the ASUS U30Jc as your next mobile warrior notebook:

The NotebookReview.com gives the ASUS U30Jc its coveted Editor's Choice Award. See what they had to say about it: “Overall the ASUS U30Jc is a solid sub-$1000 notebook with good performance, very good battery life, and an appealing design aesthetic....the U30Jc is easily one of my favorites...”

The popular HotHardware.com awards ASUS U30Jc its prestigious Editor's Choice Award. See what they had to say about it: “ASUS really executed well on the U30Jc, from the gorgeous design... not to mention the power-saving and intelligent NVIDIA Optimus solution. A Five-star machine at a reasonable price...”

Key Features

Up to 9.5 hours of battery life for all-day unplugged freedom¹(Learn more)
The new Intel Core i3-350M dual core processorgives you smarter multitasking performance (Learn more)
Thin and light design only 1.5-inches thin and dressed in brushed aluminum for on-the-go portability (Learn more)
13.3-inch HD LED-backlit widescreen for crisp visuals that don’t compromise battery life (Learn more)
NVIDIA GeForce 310M Graphics 512MB DDR3 VRAM delivers great HD entertainment performance (Learn more)
NVIDIA Optimus Technology automatically and seamlessly transitions between powerful NVIDIA graphics and energy-efficient Intel onboard HD Graphics to suit the task at hand (Learn more)
4GB DDR3 RAM for increased multitasking speed (Learn more)
High-speed wireless N networking (802.11 b/g/n @ 2.4GHz) (Learn more)
SuperMulti DVD drive to enjoy your favorite movies where you want (Learn more)
HDMI output for easily streaming HD video and audio to a compatible HDTV or external display (Learn more)
Altec Lansing speakers with SRS Premium Sound for resounding acoustics (Learn more)
Multi-touch trackpad lets you intuitively navigate through web pages, documents, and pictures (Learn more)
Chiclet keyboard for increased typing precision and comfort (Learn more)
Express Gate for instant access to internet, music, Skype, and more in seconds
Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit for a faster and more reliable operating system (Learn more)
Eco-friendly EPEAT and Energy Star certified
2 year global warranty and 1 year Accidental Damage Warranty

ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-X3 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop

2010-08-01T14:51:00.000-07:00

ASUS Republic of Gamers G51JX-X3 15.6-Inch Gaming Laptop (Blue)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

List Price:	$1,199.00
Price:	$1,163.03 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

The ASUS G51JX-X3 is one of the newest notebooks from the Republic of Gaming(ROG) Notebook line. Powered by Intel’s i5-430M Core i5 processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M graphics card, the ASUS G51JX-X3 offers users a completely new class of physical gaming interaction for a more realistic and dynamic experience. The NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M also features 1GB GDDR5 VRAM, which performs significantly better than the standard DDR2 and DDR3 video memory. With a 3DMark score of 11,000+ the performance of the ASUS G51JX-X3 is a leap from the other 15-Inch mainstream notebooks that produce scores ranging from 2000 to 3000. The G51JX-X3 also supports 3D gaming surround audio in the form of EAX Advanced HD 4.0 audio technology. This technology detects in-game environments and actions to provide corresponding 3D sound effects. It can provide up to an additional 64 sound effects from the sound library, producing ultra-realistic spatial effects in more than 300 supported games. Equipped with an illuminating chiclet keyboard, the G51JX-X3 enables gamers to control the brightness of the keyboard to cater to their needs. This provides gamers with an added advantage over their opponents, and allows them to continue to dominate even in the dark, like that of LAN party environments. The G51JX-X3 also features Windows 7 Home Premium 64 Bit Operating System. The notebook comes with a 1 year global warranty, one month zero bright dot guaranty, free two-way standard shipping, twenty-four hour tech support seven days a week, and a one year accidental damage warranty, protecting the notebook from drops, fire, spills and surge.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #194 in Personal Computers
Color: Blue
Brand: Asus
Model: G51JX-X3
Original language: English
Dimensions: 1.60" h x 10.30" w x 14.60" l, 7.26 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i5 2.53 GHz

Features

Intel Core i5-430M Processor 2.26 GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53 GHz
4GB DDR3 1066MHz RAM, 2 SODIMM Slots; 8GB Max
500GB Hard Drive (7200 RPM); Super Multi Optical Disk Drive; Wi-Fi 802.11 bgn
15.6" Full HD 1920x1080 LED LCD Display; NVidia GTS 360M Graphics Engine with 1GB DDR5 dedicated VRAM
Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit) Operating System; Bluetooth; 2.0MP Webcam; Backlit Chiclet Keyboard

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Gain the Unfair Advantage

Now is the time to pulverize your competition. The Republic of Gamers (ROG) G51Jx-X3 notebook offers stutter-free visuals and sizzling performance that take gaming to the next level of realism. Featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, ASUS Dedicated Graphics Engine powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M graphics card, 4GB of DDR3 system memory, and an illuminated gaming keyboard, the G51Jx unleashes an array of features to tackle today’s most demanding games.

The G51Jx is specially designed for a better Windows 7 experience with exclusive time-saving utilities that get you to the battlefield faster than ever before. Take advantage of premium multimedia or master your favorite game with a vibrant 15.6-inch LED-backlit Full HD widescreen. The G51Jx does it all with theatre-like cinematics.

The most comprehensive notebook warranty package is icing on the cake:

One year global warranty

Thirty-days flawless display guarantee

Free two-way standard shipping

24-hour tech support seven days a week

Plus ASUS Accidental Damage Protection: The ASUS G51Jx is also protected with a One Year Accidental Damage Warranty protecting the notebook from drops, fire, spills, and surge.**

Key Features

Blisteringly fast ASUS DGE powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 360M 1GB GDDR5 for unprecedented visual clarity and remarkable gaming performance
The new Intel Core i5-430M processor with Turbo Boost Technology for smart multitasking performance that adapts to your needs (Learn more)
Brilliant 15.6-inch Full HD LED-backlit widescreen for immersive cinematic experience with resolution up to 1920 x 1080 (Learn more)
ASUS Super Hybrid Engine that innovatively saves battery life and boosts performance
4GB of DDR3 RAM for smooth computing with Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
64-bit Windows 7 Home Premium for a faster and more reliable operating system
500GB 7,200RPM hard drives for fast, convenient storage and access to all your documents and entertainment
Wi-Fi networking (802.11 b/g & draft 2.4GHz n) with the Latest Bluetooth connectivity (v2.1)+EDR to game wherever you go
Integrated 2 megapixel webcam and Digital Array Mic for video chatting with your friends and family
Illuminated gaming keyboard with numeric keypad gives you complete control in any lighting environment
EAX Advanced HD Audio + CMSS Sound Effect with Altec Lansing speakers for premium gaming sound (Learn more)
ASUS Infusion Design casing technology for a resilient and unique look
Exclusive ASUS Express Gate enables ultra-fast boot so you can connect to the web in under 10 seconds
ASUS SmartLogon: facial recognition system detects your face and logs on automatically
Warranty: 1 year ASUS 360 global warranty and 1 year Accidental Damage Warranty with 30-day Flawless Display Guarantee

HP Pavilion dv4-2173nr

2010-07-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

HP Pavilion dv4-2173nr 14.1-Inch Laptop - Black
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$958.32
Price:	$749.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Description

For those who want an all-in-one performance Laptop with rich multimedia features, the HP Pavilion dv4-2137nr Entertainment laptop delivers mobile performance that looks as great as it runs. Powered by the latest processor and graphics technologies, it delivers optimal mobile performance to support your lifestyle.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #17 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WA696UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.34" h x 9.45" w x 13.15" l, 5.20 pounds
Hard Disk: 500GB
Display size: 14.1

Features

Intel Core i5-430M processor 2.26GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.53 GHz; Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium Edition with up to 4.5 hours of battery life
4GB DDR3 System Memory (2x2048MB) (expandable to 8GB); 500GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA); LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support; 5-in-1 memory card reader
14.1 Inch Diagonal WXGA HD HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1280 x 800); Intel HD Graphics with up to 1,696 MB Total Available Graphics Memory; Integrated webcam and built-in microphone
10/100 Base-T network interface; Built-in Wireless 802.11b/g/n WLAN; 3 USB 2.0, 1 HDMI port
Altec Lansing with SRS Premium Sound; HP Mobile Remote Control

Compaq Presario CQ61-410US 15.6-Inch Laptop

2010-07-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Compaq Presario CQ61-410US 15.6-Inch Laptop (Black)
From Hewlett Packard

List Price:	$591.00
Price:	$434.43

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by greatfun4u

Average customer review:

Product Description

For those who want everyday computing capability at a great value, the Compaq Presario CQ61 series Notebook PC delivers in style. Balancing mobility and performance needs at 5.90 lbs (the CQ61 is powered by AMD processor and ATI graphics technology along with these essential features: 15.6” Diagonal High-Definition HP BrightView display for full-screen views, Integrated high-speed wireless LAN enabling connectivity within hot spots, Altec Lansing speakers delivering smooth audio performance

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #180 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WA974UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.38" h x 9.93" w x 14.89" l, 9.00 pounds
CPU: AMD Sempron 2.1 GHz

Features

AMD Sempron Processor for Notebook PCs M120 ( 2.1 GHz, 512KB L2 Cache)
2GB DDR2 System Memory (2 DIMM) (expandable to 4 GB)
250GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA), LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support
Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit, * Up to 4.25 Hours of Battery Life
15.6" Diagonal High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1366x768)
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4200 Graphics with 128MB Display Cache Memory with up to 1022MB total graphics memory

ASUS Republic of Gamers G73JH-A2 17-Inch Gaming Laptop

2010-07-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

ASUS Republic of Gamers G73JH-A2 17-Inch Gaming Laptop (Black)
From ASUS Computer International Direct

List Price:	$1,599.00
Price:	$1,551.03 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Average customer review:

Product Description

Take a giant leap ahead of the competition with the ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) G73JH gaming notebook. The G73JH takes the latest games to the next level of realism with Full HD graphics at a blistering fast framerate. Featuring an Intel Core i7 quad-core processor, graphics powered by an extremely powerful DirectX 11-enabled ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870 graphics processor with 1GB GDDR5 VRAM, and 8GB DDR3 of system memory, the G73Jh-A2 unleashes its hypersonic performance to render today’s and tomorrow’s most demanding games with ease.The G73Jh-A2 boasts 1TB of 7200RPM hard disk space (500GB x 2), high-speed wireless N (802.11 b/g/n @2.4GHz), ASUS CPU Level Up performance boost, Bluetooth v2.1, HDMI connectivity, a 2.0Mp camera, DirectX 11 support, and Altec Lansing speakers with EAX Advanced HD 4.0 sound. With a 3DMark06 score of 13,667 the G73Jh-A2 will help you obliterate your competition.Also included are a complimentary Republic of Gamers backpack and ROG laser gaming mouse (3200 DPI). The G73JH comes with a 2 year ASUS 360 global warranty and 1 year Accidental Damage Warranty with 30-day Flawless Display Guarantee.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #37 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Asus
Model: G73JH-A2
Dimensions: 2.30" h x 12.80" w x 16.60" l, 8.00 pounds
CPU: Intel Core i7 1.6 GHz
Memory: 8GB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 1TB
Processors: 4
Display size: 17.3

Features

1.6GHz Intel i7-720QM Quad-Core Processor
8GB DDR3 1066MHz; 4 SODIMM Sockets; up to 8GB
1TB (500G 7200RPM x2) HDD; Super-Multi DVD Drive; 802.11 b/g/n
17.3-Inch Full HD LED Display; ATI 5870 Graphics with 1G GDDR5; 2.0M Webcam
Windows Home Premium 64-bit Operating System; Gaming Backpack and Mouse Included

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
The Stealth Fighter of Gaming Laptops

Take a giant leap ahead of the competition. The Republic of Gamers (ROG) G73Jh gaming notebook takes the latest games to the next level of realism with Full HD graphics at a blistering fast framerate. Featuring an Intel Core i7 processor, graphics powered by an extremely powerful DirectX 11-enabled ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870 graphics processor with 1GB GDDR5 VRAM, and 8GB DDR3 of system memory, the G73Jh-A2 unleashes its hypersonic performance on your demand to render today’s and tomorrow’s most demanding games with ease.

This subtle yet imposing gaming machine was inspired by the hard lines and silent, cool, efficiency of a stealth-fighter jet, with a matte black finish and aft-venting cooling system that keeps it running cool and quiet. Plus, its 17.3-inch Full HD widescreen lets you experience the latest blockbuster movies. The G73Jh-A2 breaks away from the routine, of traditional gaming laptops with built-in overclocking feature through the exclusive ASUS CPU Level Up technology and the Power4Gear Hybrid utility –instantly giving you extreme power with a push of a button.

Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

Experience ASUS FastBoot Technology, the unique performance boost for Windows 7 made possible by ASUS's close partnership with Microsoft. With exclusive ASUS FastBoot Technology, this Windows 7-enabled ASUS notebook starts up in a staggering 30 seconds.The ASUS G73Jh is also protected with a One Year Accidental Damage Warranty protecting the notebook from drops, fire, spills, and surge.**

The G73Jh-A2 also boasts 1TB of 7200RPM hard drives (500GB x 2), high-speed wireless N (802.11 b/g/n @2.4GHz), ASUS CPU Level Up performance boost, Bluetooth v2.1, HDMI connectivity, a 2.0Mp camera, DirectX 11 support, and Altec Lansing speakers with EAX Advanced HD 4.0 sound. With a 3DMark06 score of 13,667* the G73Jh-A2 will help you obliterate your enemies.

The Republic of Gamers (ROG) is the leading brand in PC gaming innovation. Birthed from the finest ASUS products dedicated to our gamers across the world, ROG is now a signature for highly innovative, gamer-centric notebooks, video cards, and motherboards. Through extensive research and development, ROG products feature not only superior graphics, design, and performance but specialize in delivering unique features that optimize them for the highest level of gaming at the best value.

Key Features

Stealth fighter inspired designwith rear venting thermal design for minimum frontal heat signature (Learn more)
Intel Core i7-720QM Quad Core processor with Intel Turbo Boost Technology to boost base speed from 1.6GHz to a maximum Turbo Boost speed of 2.8GHz (Learn more)
ASUS CPU Level Up and Power4Gear Hybrid to save battery life and delivers extreme performance on-demand (Learn more)
Brilliant 17.3-inch Full HD LED-backlit widescreen for an vibrant and immersive cinematic experience with resolution up to 1920 x 1080 (Learn more)
Latest and best mobile graphics processor powered by ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5870 with 1GB GDDR5 VRAM for unprecedented gaming performance with DirectX 11 support (Learn more)
64-bit Windows 7 Home Premium for a faster and more reliable operating system
8GB of DDR3 RAM for ultra-fast gaming and multitasking computing (Learn more)
1TB (2x 500GB) 7,200RPM hard drives for fast and convenient storage for all your games and media (Learn more)
High-speed Wi-Fi networking (802.11 b/g/n @2.4 GHz) + Bluetooth v2.1
Integrated 2.0 megapixel webcam and Digital Array Mic for video calls with your friends and family
Illuminated and slanted ergonomic gaming keyboard with numeric keypad gives you complete control in any lighting environment for comfortable gaming hours-on-end (Learn more)
Altec Lansing speakers and EAX Advanced HD Audio to bring out the best in environmental simulation in surround sound technology (Learn more)
Complimentary Republic of Gamers backpack and 3200DPI laser gaming mouse
Warranty: 2 year ASUS 360 global warranty and 1 year Accidental Damage Warranty with 30-day Flawless Display Guarantee

Toshiba Satellite T115D-S1120 LED TruBrite

2010-07-24T14:46:00.000-07:00

Toshiba Satellite T115D-S1120 LED TruBrite 11.6-Inch Laptop (Black)
From Toshiba

List Price:	$449.99
Price:	$399.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by J&R Music and Computer World

Average customer review:

Product Description

Satellite® T115 Series laptops are ultrathin PCs built for your life on the go—and on a budget. Our thinnest, lightest Satellite® models yet, they offer the battery life rating and lightweight portability you want, with performance you’d expect from bigger machines. So they have horsepower to handle the day’s tasks or evening’s entertainment, plus a great communications package to keep you effective, online and in touch. And with the 11.6" LED-backlit display and ultraportable design it fits your lifestyle and into spaces other PCs can’t. Power-efficient processors are ideal for students or fast-moving pros who want long battery life rating. New Toshiba productivity applications—Bulletin Board and Reeltime™—help simplify your day. And a comfort-driven, eco-focused design not only earns major props from people, but our planet too.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #154 in Personal Computers
Color: Black
Brand: Toshiba
Model: PST1LU-001002
Dimensions: 1.35" h x 11.30" w x 8.30" l, 6.90 pounds
CPU: AMD Athlon 1.6 GHz
Memory: 2000MB SODIMM
Hard Disk: 250GB
Processors: 2
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 11.6

Features

1.6GHz AMD Athlon Neo MV-40 Processor
2GB 200-Pin DDR2 SO-DIMM Memory
250GB Serial ATA Hard Disk Drive (5400RPM); 802.11b/g wireless LAN
11.6" LED (16:9) 1366x768 Display; ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics
Window 7 Home Premium 64-bit

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description

Toshiba Satellite T115D: Ultra-Thin Portability with Long Battery Life and 11.6-Inch Screen

Built for your everyday life on the go, the affordable Toshiba T115D laptop (model T115D-S1120) with 11.6-inch screen is Toshiba's thinnest and lightest Satellite model yet, offering the performance, flexibility and functionality you expect in a standard-sized laptop but in a highly portable and efficient package. Featuring a power-efficient AMD mobile processor and Windows 7, the T115D powers up quickly from standby mode and provides energy saving enhancements that deliver up to 5.5 hours of battery life. It's also been given a number of comfort-driven, eco-focused design elements that are capped by the stunningly stylish Fusion finish in Nova Black.

Weighing just 3.5 pounds, the ultrathin Toshiba Satellite T115D features a 11.6-inch LED backlit screen and up to 5.5 hours of battery life.

The full-sized keyboard makes it comfortable for extended on-the-go typing.

The Satellite T115D is engineered to feature the comfort and convenience of a standard laptop yet in an ultra-thin package. It features a full-sized keyboard and full-sized touchpad with multi-touch capabilities, enabling greater flexibility to browse and control what's happening on-screen with gesture commands--including two-finger pinch, swipe, rotate and scroll. It's also been designed to be environmentally conscious with a power-efficient, mercury-free LED backlit display that also provides brilliantly colorful imagery for photos and video thanks to the native HD TruBrite screen.

HP ENVY 17-1011NR

2010-07-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

HP ENVY 17-1011NR 17.3-Inch Laptop
From Hewlett Packard

Price:

$1,649.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Availability: Not yet released
Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #164 in Personal Computers
Color: Gray
Brand: Hewlett-Packard
Model: WQ831UA#ABA
Dimensions: 1.52" h x 10.83" w x 16.38" l, 7.50 pounds
Battery type: Lithium Ion
Display size: 17.3

Features

Intel Core i7-720QM processor 1.60GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.80 GHz; Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
Laser-etched aluminum finish in carbon relic; HP TrueVision HD Webcam with integrated microphone; 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader
Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 connector); Wireless LAN 802.11b/g/n WLAN & Bluetooth
1 SuperSpeed USB 3.0: Three USB 2.0, 3rd port shared with eSATA; mini-Display port; 1 HDMI; 1 Headphone-out/Microphone-in combo jack
17.3 inch diagonal Full HD Ultra BrightView Infinity LED Display; SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with Double Layer Support; Beats Audio and HP Triple Bas
ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 Graphics with up to 4091MB total graphics memory with 1GB dedicated

Apple MacBook Pro MC375LL/A

2010-07-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

Apple MacBook Pro MC375LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop
From Apple Computer

List Price:	$1,499.00
Price:	$1,419.99

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Ships from and sold by Fragrance Gift Shop

Average customer review:

Product Description

Carved from a single block of aluminum, the MacBook Pro is a true engineering achievement. Its patented unibody enclosure is the product of precise machining. The new energy-efficient architecture in the MacBook Pro, gives you dramatically longer battery life. On a single charge, the battery in the new 13-inch MacBook Pro lasts up to 10 hours, and you’ll get up to 1000 full charge and discharge cycles — that’s nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. MacBook Pro gives you more options for high-performance graphics, starting with the new NVIDIA GeForce 320M integrated graphics processor in the 13-inch model. It’s up to 80 percent faster than the previous generation and is even more energy-efficient for everyday tasks like writing email and surfing the web. Every MacBook Pro has a pristine LED-backlit display with wide-angle viewing and a color gamut usually seen only on a desktop display. So whether you’re watching a movie or making one, you’ve got the perfect canvas. The ultrathin, seamless glass enclosure makes the display strong and durable. And because it’s power efficient and free of mercury and arsenic, this display is greener than ever. The 13-Inch MacBook Pro has advanced Intel Core 2 Duo processors. It also comes standard with a large hard drive offering up to 250 or 320GB of storage capacity, so there’s plenty of room for your photo libraries, video projects, and files. And of course all MacBook Pros come standard with Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard Operating System and iLife.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #79 in Personal Computers
Brand: Apple
Model: MC375LL/A
Dimensions: 9.00 pounds
Hard Disk: 320GB
Display size: 13.3

Features

2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
320 GB Hard Drive, 8x DVD/CD SuperDrive, 4GB DDR3 RAM
13.3 inch LED-backlit display, 1280-by-800 resolution
NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor with 256 MB of shared memory
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard Operating System

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Combining advanced NVIDIA integrated graphics technology along with an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, the 13-inch Apple MacBook Pro is faster than ever and will keep you working longer away from power cords with an enhanced battery life of up to 10 hours of battery life. As with previous models, the new MacBook Pro features a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, creating a thin and light mobile computing workhorse (less than 1 inch thin and just 4.5 pounds) that's also highly durable. And it includes a 13.3-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) as well as a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple's Multi-Touch technology.

The 13-inch unibody MacBook Pro (see larger image).

The new energy-efficient architecture in the 13-inch MacBook Pro gives you up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge (see larger image).

With 4 GB of memory and a 320 GB hard drive now standard, this is the most powerful 13-inch MacBook Pro yet. It also comes pre-loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard operating system--an operating system custom-designed for the advanced technology inside--and it also comes with the iLife '09 suite of applications, including iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, and iTunes.

Specification Highlights

13.3-inch LED-backlit glossy widescreen displaywith edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass (1280 x 800-pixel resolution).
2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo dual-core processorwith 3 MB shared L2 cache for excellent multitasking
NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor with 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory.
320 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB installed RAM (1066 MHz DDR3; supports up to 8 GB)
8x slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer DVD support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Built-in iSight camera for video chatting
Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice and cell phones
Two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port
SD card slot
Mini DisplayPort video output with optional adapters for DVI, VGA, dual-link DVI, and HDMI output
Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control with support for inertial scrolling, pinch, rotate, swipe, three-finger swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities
Full-size backlit keyboard
Stereo speakers with subwoofers
Dimensions: 12.78 x 8.94 x 0.95 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 4.5 pounds
Up to 10 hours of battery life
Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard
Meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements

What's in the Box
MacBook Pro, display cleaning cloth, 85W MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, power cord, software DVDs, printed and electronic documentation

The ports on the left side of the 13-inch MacBook Pro.

Key Features

The Intel Core 2 Duo processor and NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics are a great match for Apple's iMovie.

A New Standard for Performance and Portability

The new 13-inch MacBook Pro features advanced NVIDIA integrated graphics technology along with a faster Intel Core 2 Duo processor. That makes for the ultimate combination of performance, portability, and battery life--up to 10 hours--without adding an ounce to the slimmest, lightest MacBook Pro.

With the 1066 MHz frontside bus and 3 MB of shared L2 cache of the Intel Core 2 Duo processor, all your applications will run faster and more efficiently than you thought possible. The 13-inch MacBook Pro also features the new NVIDIA GeForce 320M integrated graphics processor with 48 processing cores--three times as many as before. This results in a huge difference when using 3D games and graphics-intensive applications. And when you're not, you'll benefit from a new energy-efficient architecture that uses up to 40 percent less power for everyday tasks like writing email and surfing the web.

The beginning of every MacBook Pro--a precisely machined, single block of aluminum.

Unibody Design

LED-Backlit Display

The entire trackpad is the button, so you can click anywhere.

Buttonless Multi-Touch Trackpad

Long-Lasting Battery

The new energy-efficient architecture in every MacBook Pro, along with automatic graphics switching, gives you dramatically longer battery life. On a single charge, the battery in the new 13-inch MacBook Pro lasts up to 10 hours. And you'll get up to 1000 full charge and discharge cycles--that's nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. Advanced chemistry and Adaptive Charging allow the battery to maintain charging capabilities longer and determine the optimal way to charge the battery's cells. Because the battery lasts up to five years, MacBook Pro uses just one battery in the same time a typical notebook uses three. That makes for less waste. And that, in turn, makes for one environmentally friendly battery.

Environmental Considerations

Pre-Loaded with Mac OS X Snow Leopard and iLife '09

Installed software

Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard (includes Time Machine, Quick Look, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row, Xcode Developer Tools)
iLife '09 (includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, iWeb, iDVD)

Customer Reviews

Amazing Laptop
This is my first Mac ever, and I absolutely love it. The only downside is the high price, but this laptop is certainly worth the price you pay. The trackpad is amazing, and the aluminum unibody is so nice. The keyboard feels so good to type on, and the backlit keys look awesome. I won't get into the software too much, but Mac OSX is so user-friendly and the programs that come on it are fantastic.

Just Awesome! I'm loving this machine
I just got my new Macbook Pro MC375LL and I'm loving it, though if you're a Mac user you definitely have better review than mine as I just switched to Mac from Windows, now I really wonder why have I been using Windows all these years, for more than twenty years I've been switching laptops and desktop computers every 3-6 months, not because I like doing that (it sure hurt my pocket) but I really can't stand a slow machine and every single laptop (from HP, Toshiba, Dell, Sony and the last one I was using before switching to this one was IBM Thinkpad T61 with powerful CPU (or that's what I thought until it started crawling everytime I ask to run an App.) have to wait for 15 min to have full start up with few items in startup line, here, I only touch the power button and wait for 30 Sec!
anyway, as I said, I can't give a great technical and detailed review since I'm new to this machine but my advice to Windows users! switch to Mac today and don't waste your time and money upgrading your Windows laptop,

if you buy this laptop you better get the Case Shell just to keep it Scratch and Dent free!

Like many things California, simply awesome
I am an experienced computer user that has been using PCs since grad school in the mid 1980s. I remember passing on buying one of the early Macintoshes via the student discount and using an IBM AT or Korean Leading Edge PC to write many of my papers in one of my universities' "computer clusters".

I've had good PCs at work, but again, the hair on the dog gets pretty long when the upgrade cycle for your machine is 24-36 months, by the time you get past the 18 month mark, your machine starts slowing down from IT patches and software upgrades...

As far as my personal life goes, I've always lived on the trailing edge of technology as far as computers go, and stuck with PCs even though I experimented with OSes - I've tried Linux, and I stuck with OS/2 until IBM gave up on it when it released the Warp version.

My first personal PC was a PS/1, and then I had a clone box that I swapped out the MOB 1x... when that died, I got a cheap Compaq/HP laptop that started blank/blue-screening < 1 year (I only paid $400 for it). I replaced that with a Toshiba Satellite Vista laptop, again around the same price, and less than 6 months or so similar issues - sticking keys, having to constantly download OS and software patches, mysterious system lockups that required hard reboots, USB devices disappearing and not being recognized for no good reason...

I've also spent 1000s on software and hardware upgrades during all of the years I've owned PCs.

Anyway, as an avid music listener/musician, I've had an iPod since 2007, and absolutely love it, and when the Toshiba started electronically farting with stuck keys, I thought "Why not Apple?" Yes, its more expensive, but you get what you pay for, and I've been very pleased with this machine. Quality just permeats the product. It boots and shuts down much faster than a PC, and seems fairly crash proof. There are differences in the way you do stuff in Windows vs. MacOS, and those take a little getting used to. I definitely think the MacOS handles music (I also bought the machine for Garage Band and I use a third party software called Band in a Box) and media much much better than Windows does.

We'll see about reliability issues, but so many of the Mac users I talked to noted they'd had their machines for years and they were still going strong, and Macs actually still fetch decent used prices on eBay, that says a lot right there, whereas you can't give a used laptop or PC away. I figured why not drop $1500, because if the machine lasts more than 3 years, that's about what I'd be spending on a new laptop on a year basis ($500+$500+$500) with all of the aggravations of moving files, software, etc. built in.

If you are coming over from Windows, you are going to love not having to screw with USB drivers anymore to have your devices recognized...

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