Laptop Ratings: The latest models are impressive

If a new notebook computer is on your shopping list, check our latest laptop Ratings (available to subscribers), where you'll find out everything you need to know about 35 models, including a great Sony system and the latest MacBooks.

That 13-inch Sony, the highest-rated Windows-based laptop in our Ratings, weighs only 3.3 pounds, yet has a battery life of 6¼ hours. Although it's pricey at $1,800, that's still the best ratio of battery life to weight we've seen. Battery life for other brands is getting better, too, we found. Eight of the new models, including at least one in every size category, lasted at least 5 hours on a charge.

The new MacBooks are available in 13.3- and 15.4-inch sizes. The larger one is tops in its class. If you're looking for a MacBook bargain, consider the classic White MacBook; Apple recently reduced its price to $1,000.

For help getting started, take a look at our Laptop Buying Guide, where you'll find advice on what size is best for you, what computer features are important, and more.

—Donna Tapellini

Comments

[BILL D]

I AM LOOKING FOR SOME ADVICE. I AM A TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION TEACHER THAT IS LOOKING FOR AN EASY TO USE AND INEXPENSIVE, AROUND $5-600.00 RANGE LAPTOP FOR POWER POINT PRESENTATIONS, PHOTO SHOP,ELECTRONICS WORKBENCH AND BASIC STAMP ELECTRONIC PROJECTS ALONG WITH WORD AND EXCEL. I WOULD LIKE WIRELESS INTERNET, BLUE TOOTH GOOD BATTERY LIFE, AND QUIET OPERATION. GOOD TECH SUPPORT AND WARRANTY. I’M NOT MUCH INTO GAMING, BUT I’M SURE THAT THE GAMING FEATURE WILL PROBABLY AID WITH MY POWER POINT PRESENTATIONS. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY AND ALL ADVICE DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE ARE SO MANY LAPTOPS ON THE MARKET, AND THEY ALL SAY THAT THEY ARE THE BEST.
P.S ANY OPINIONS ABOUT VISTA VS XP? WHICH IS BETTER?
SINCERELY
BILL D

[lori kroll]

I am looking for a laptop to replace out desk top at home. I keep all of my digital photos on my computer. What features should I focus on when reviewing your laptop recommendations to get the best laptop for viewing photos (and playing video games)? Thanks.

[Jerry S.]

I am thinking of a getting a Laptop computer and want to find out what is the best computer for the best price.Considering a 16" screen.Thanks.

[Jane]

Can I still buy an XP sytem laptop that is not becoming obsolete?

[deedee burke]

I have recently purchased a laptop its a medion akoya p6611 it has 16'high def wide screen,intel centrino processor, vga webcam and mic., digital 320 gb hard drive, 3 gb ddr2 sdram, samsung 8x multi standard dvd/cd re writer with dvd ram and dual layer disc support,intel wireless wi fi link 5100 agn, biometric fingerprint reader, and i would like to know if the 699.00 i paid for it was a good deal or shoukld i return it and gat another brand for cheaper? thank you

[Casey K]

I personally thinking of Netbook or Nettop. The size is small, 8.9" screeen. Easy to carry :)