Lenovo ThinkPad T61 (Core 2 Duo 2GHz, 1GB RAM, 80GB HDD, Vista Business)

Intro: This configuration of the Lenovo ThinkPad T61 is a 5.3-pound, mainstream consumer notebook computer.Compared to other mainstream notebooks on the market, it is midpriced at around $1,225.Has Wi-Fi (wireless connectivity) built-in.

Noteworthy Features: Has a plug-in module media bay, which is somewhat more favorable than some similarly priced notebooks.Also, this notebook comes with Microsoft Windows Vista business and Microsoft Windows Vista OS, which is somewhat more favorable than some similarly priced notebooks.The CD-RW/ DVD-ROM combo is housed in a modular plug-in drive bay, which is more upgradeable and gives you more options than an integrated drive.

Weaker Features: Has a CD-RW/ DVD-ROM combo removable disc drive, which is somewhat less favorable than some similarly priced notebooks.Also, this notebook has only a 80GB hard drive, which is somewhat smaller than some similarly priced notebooks.For example, the ASUSTek Asus M70SA-A1, a -pound notebook at around $1, 270, has a 320GB hard drive.Shared video memory has a negative impact on system performance which may be okay for users with more modest graphics needs.Users with more demanding needs should look to a graphics solution that brings its own muscle.

Suitability: Suited for those who just need a basic notebook.Bring along your favorite movies and watch them on your laptop with the included DVD player.This notebook also has a CD recorder, allowing you to compile your own mp3 CDs or video CDs.Comes with advanced word processing software; it comes with plenty of features for most writers.Get status reports while on business trips by using this notebook?s built-in Wi-Fi modem to connect to wireless networks in airports and hotels.

Value: In general, this notebook has great features for the money.

Suggestions: (1) Given this device's Wi-Fi capability, you may want to get a wireless access point for your home, so that you can browse the Internet more conveniently from any room.(2) Using this PC's Firewire (1394) port, you can connect to many digital videocameras and other equipment to rapidly upload data to the notebook hard drive.

Vista capable: The Windows Vista Capable logo identifies hardware that delivers the Windows Vista experience at a minimum.