CNET editors' review

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

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

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

Read CNET's review of the Dell Inspiron 9300

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

CNET editors' review

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

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

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

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

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

CNET editors' review

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

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

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

Read CNET's review of the HP Pavilion