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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.

Upgrade Windows XP to Windows 7

It's a painful install since Microsoft provides no direct upgrade path, but we can help.

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Reviews

  • Lenovo ThinkPad X200

    It lacks some basic features you may require — touch pad, optical drive — but the 12.1-inch ThinkPad X200 offers strong performance and the longest battery life we've seen.

  • Asus Lamborghini VX5

    Asus' Lamborghini VX5 is a luxury laptop, with a luxury price to match — thankfully justified by the quality of the laptop and package. If you've got a wad of cash burning in your pocket, and don't mind a little luxury, the VX5 might be for you.

  • 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.

  • Samsung N110

    An easy-to-use netbook with a long battery life, but there are cheaper options.

  • Sony Vaio W

    Attempting to create a premium-priced version of a netbook, Sony has added an HD display to the Vaio W. It's an attractive step-up package, but the internal components are the same as are in cheaper models.

  • Dell Mini 10v

    Dell's Mini 10v keeps a lot of the features of the more expensive Mini 10, while dropping the price to AU$549. It's one of only a handful of AU$600 netbooks that doesn't look and feel especially cheap.

  • Samsung NC10

    The NC10 betters previous Samsung netbooks with a built-in HSDPA SIM card reader and the portability this provides. Optus wireless broadband bundles seem like excellent value.

  • Acer Aspire 5536

    The Acer Aspire 5536 is a little light on battery, but it's a good all-rounder for anyone seeking an affordable laptop with a big screen and keyboard.

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Features

  • Laptops with long battery life

    Unless you're buying a desktop replacement, battery life is arguably the key consideration in any notebook purchase. CNET.com.au gives you our top long-lasting models.

  • Is Apple behind the laptop curve?

    As good as Apple laptops are, Windows-based PCs do have a few leading-edge features not found in MacBooks.

  • The five most beautiful laptops

    Forget the 50 most beautiful people — check out these foxy laptops.

  • Contrasting Windows: New feature comparison

    Since 2002 when Microsoft introduced Windows XP, its operating system upgrades have caused a wide range of reactions. In this chart, we compare the major features in each OS and look at Windows' progress over the years.

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DIYs and How-to

  • Mac Starter Kit: Must-have apps

    Out of the box, a new Mac is loaded with cool apps to get you started, but it doesn't come with everything you'll need. Check out our round-up of apps that Mac users count on every day and aren't included in the initial set-up.

  • Windows Starter Kit: Must-have PC apps

    Bought a new PC but hate the bloatware it comes with? We've sourced the best free Windows apps to increase your productivity.

  • 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.

  • 101 software tips, tweaks and tricks

    Our insider secrets will help you master your PC and its most important applications.

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Downloads

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The Explain Series

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Videos

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Image Galleries