Alienware M11x Review

The good: Solid gaming performance in a very compact form; improves on the original Core 2 Duo version; automatic Nvidia Optimus graphics switching; impressive built-in audio.

The bad: The Core i7 ULV processor is still slower than normal Core i7 processors; higher-end configs get too expensive; no optical drive for installing games.

The bottom line: Equipped with Nvidia Optimus technology and new Core i5 and i7 processors, the updated 11.6-inch Alienware M11x has improved performance, but it takes a small step forward, not a quantum leap.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Review

The good: Thin and sturdy with a rock-solid feel and clean design, the ThinkPad X1 stands out from other ThinkPads. Its backlit keyboard, fast Core i5 CPU, fast-charging battery, and low-light Webcam are also pluses.
The bad: The integrated battery doesn't last as long as we would expect, and the Gorilla Glass-covered screen produces a lot of glare. For a thin laptop, the X1 isn't as lightweight as it could be, thanks to its dense construction.
The bottom line: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 is the thinnest ThinkPad ever made, and it's a slim, cleanly designed 13-incher worth a look for business travelers--but it's not as thin as a MacBook Air, and its battery life isn't as good, either.

Asus U31JG A1 Review

The good: The 13-inch Asus U31JG-A1 has a good combination of performance and portability, along with strong graphics performance and a solid battery life.

The bad: The design of the U31JG isn't anything to write home about; the plastic keyboard isn't very comfortable; and the laptop uses a last-gen Intel Core i3 processor, so it's already out-of-date.

The bottom line: For $829, the 13-inch Asus U31JG-A1 is a rock-solid compact laptop with a good combination of CPU, graphics, and battery life. However, at this point, we'd hold off on buying one until it gets upgraded with a second-gen Intel Core i-series CPU.

Dell Latitude 2120 Review

The good: The Dell Latitude 2120 packs a standard set of Netbook components into a rugged body with a rubberized finish. Welcome options include an HD display and a touch screen.

The bad: With more powerful ultraportables available for less, any Netbook over $400 is a tough call.

The bottom line: The standard Netbook platform is feeling pretty stale these days, and this too-expensive Dell Latitude 2120, while capable, doesn't do much to stand out.

Dell Latitude 2120 Laptop Computer (Intel Intel Atom Dual Core N550 250GB/2GB)

 

Toshiba Satellite E305-S1990 Review

The good: A standout keyboard and touch pad, solid specs, Blu-ray drive, and Intel Wireless Display make the Toshiba Satellite E305-S1990X stand out from the pack--and as a bonus, the retail bundle includes the necessary Netgear box for Wi-Di.

The bad: The E305 lacks dedicated graphics, and its Webcam isn't HD.

The bottom line: The Best Buy-exclusive Toshiba Satellite E305-S1990X is a heck of a 14-inch laptop, offering a rock-solid combination of specs and design for a reasonable price.

Alienware M14x Review

The good: The Alienware M14x, Dell's latest Alienware laptop, manages to pack amazing performance into a smaller-than-expected body with plenty of configuration options.

The bad: High-end configurations can be insanely expensive, and Alienware's laptop design is overdue for a refresh.

The bottom line: It's tough to find mobile PC gaming in a package that's neither too big nor too small. The Alienware M14x comes very close, with plenty of component options and a size that's hefty, but not backbreaking.

Toshiba Satellite L655-S5161 Review

The good: The 15-inch Toshiba Satellite L655-S5161 is a good entry point for midsize laptops with Intel's second-gen Core i-series processors, and we've always liked the company's sleep-and-charge USB ports.

The bad: The design is strictly no-frills, and there are no high-speed data ports, such as USB 3.0 or eSATA. Plus, we hate the shortened spacebar on the keyboard.

The bottom line: Though not particularly inspiring, the basic 15-inch Toshiba Satellite L655 has a current-gen CPU and can be found for around $600, making it a worthwhile budget choice.