HP Compaq nx6325

This dual-core Compaq laptop delivers strong multitasking performance and impressive battery life, all wrapped up in a simple but elegant charcoal-on-black design.

The nx6325 should serve as a good mainstream machine for business users, due to its generous 80GB hard drive and integrated fingerprint reader. Its AMD Turion 64 X2 processor trails the Intel alternative in terms of single-application productivity performance, but seems to match up nicely when it comes to multitasking.

Although not a widescreen, this Compaq’s 15-inch display is good for DVD viewing, while its keyboard is responsive and comfortable, and its price tag remains in reasonable territory for most small business users.

Processor: 1.6-GHz AMD Turion 64 X2
Hard Drive: 80GB (5,400 RPM)
RAM: 512MB (Expandable to 2GB)
Display: 15-inch 1024×768
Built-in Wireless: 802.11a/b/g, Bluetooth 2.0

Weight: 6.0 lbs.

Price: $1,249*