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Laptop lowdown: 25 things you need to know to buy the perfect notebook

In the market for a new notebook? Check out our list of 25 things you need to consider before you hit the shops.

Acer Extensa 5635Z

The Extensa is a business laptop with no particular frills. That's not a bad thing per se, but it's tough to get too excited about it, either.

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Reviews

  • Lenovo ThinkPad T400

    Lenovo's ThinkPad T400 is another fine entry into its portfolio, but be prepared to spend extra to get the features you need.

  • Trend Micro AntiVirus plus AntiSpyware 2010

    Going by older detection and removal numbers, Trend Micro AntiVirus plus AntiSpyware offers competent if basic security protection. However, so do many free competitors. This year, we recommend giving Trend Micro AntiVirus plus AntiSpyware 2010 a pass.

  • Microsoft Windows 7 (Home Premium)

    Windows 7 is more than what Vista should have been — it's where Microsoft needed to go. How much damage Vista did and whether Windows 7 is enough for people to finally abandon Windows XP are questions that nobody has the answers to right now.

  • Microsoft Windows 7 (Professional)

    Windows 7 looks like the operating system that we've all been waiting for. Despite its imperfections, it shows a lot of promise for the future while presenting a stable platform that can compete comfortably with OS X.

  • Compaq Presario CQ61-217

    The Compaq Presario CQ61-217 adds a little bit of extra quality to the sub-AU$1000 market, though sacrifices on its network capability. For AU$799 though, it's a steal, and if you're not concerned by some of the lacking components, this one's a good buy.

  • Microsoft Windows 7 (Ultimate)

    Windows 7 looks like the operating system that we've all been waiting for. Despite its imperfections, it shows a lot of promise for the future while presenting a stable platform that can compete comfortably with OS X.

  • HP Pavilion DV2 1001AU

    For a 12-inch laptop we'd expect more performance and features than we're getting, but there are obviously compromises to be made in making ultrathin affordable.

  • Norton Internet Security 2009

    Norton Internet Security 2009 hits all the right security notes and its superior protection technologies might even win back some jaded anti-Symantec folks, though the lack of adequate technical support may continue to frustrate.

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Features

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DIYs and How-to

  • Xbox Live: FAQ about gaming online

    This resource rounds up answers to all the questions we are frequently asked about gaming online with Xbox Live, from getting connected to games, membership, points and more.

  • XP to Vista: How to transfer your data

    In this quick guide we'll show you how to transfer your files and settings from an aging Windows XP computer to a new Vista machine.

  • Speed up Vista

    Whether you upgrade an older PC to Windows Vista or have bought a new PC with Vista installed, you might think the operating system doesn't run as quickly as it should.

  • The best ways to back up your data

    Backing up your hard drive is something you should do regularly, but because of forgetfulness, the unpleasantness, or just plain laziness, you put it off. Before you know it, the drive takes a dive, and all your files are gone for good.

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Downloads

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The Explain Series