Dell XPS M1730

Reviews say the Dell XPS M1730 is a fantastic laptop for 3D gaming. It includes an Nvidia video card in its base configuration, and can be customized to use up to two cards. All configuration options include 2.4 to 2.8… GHz Penryn processors, which Dell advertises can be overclocked. Reviewers praise the glossy 1920 x 1200-pixel 17-inch widescreen display. That can be a disadvantage for office work (where some people prefer a non-widescreen display that isn't as glossy), but otherwise this laptop can handle any task. The M1730 laptop is not very portable, since it weighs 11 pounds. It comes in red or blue.

Reviews all point to the Dell XPS M1730 as a top-notch mobile gaming machine and a great desktop-replacement laptop in general. Expensive even in its base configurations, the laptop can be optioned with a wide range of options, including dual video cards. The 17-inch widescreen display is widely praised, as is overall performance, though the screen may be a little too glossy for brightly lit offices. If watching multimedia is more important to you than gaming, the Acer Aspire 8920G (*est. $2,500) costs a bit more, but includes a Blu-ray player, multi-channel surround sound and a widescreen 18.4-inch screen. It's not as great for gaming, but the Acer is a solid performer in all other aspects. You can get a Blu-ray player on the Dell XPS M1730 for $400 more, but it still won't have the Acer's multi-speaker sound system.

While reviews for the Dell XPS M1730 are a little older, more current reporting says that nothing now available usurps its standing as the best gaming laptop. It earns rave reviews from NotebookReview.com, an impressive and respected source for laptop computer reviews, and Editors' Choice awards from several other well-regarded publications, including CNet, PC Magazine and Laptop magazine. Though it's a difficult read, the review at NotebookCheck.net is worthwhile for its comprehensive testing.

Strength :
* Gaming performance
* Display quality
* LED backlit keyboard
* Quiet operation

Weakness :
* Bloatware
* Expensive
* Massive power supply
* 11-pound weight

Acer Aspire 8920G

Experts say look elsewhere if gaming is your top priority, but that all other users, and especially those that want a great multimedia (DVD and Blu-ray) experience, should be pleased with the Acer Aspire 8920G. The 18.4-inch widescreen provides a perfect 16:9 aspect ratio for viewing high-def video content, and there's a built-in Blu-ray player. The built-in 5.1-channel virtual sound system and well-placed built-in speakers provide the best integrated audio of any laptop. If you prioritize gaming over Blu-ray, the Dell XPS M1730 (*est. $2,000 and up) is recognized as one of the top performers in that regard, though the upgrades needed for the very best performance can add up quickly.

We saw lots of feedback for the Acer Aspire 8920G laptop, and most of it is positive. Notebookcheck.net has the most comprehensive testing, but can be difficult for many to decipher. Among mainstream reviewers, Laptop magazine does a commendable job, while PC Magazine and Computer Shopper weigh in with their own credible efforts. TrustedReviews adds a viewpoint from across the pond.

Strength :
* 1080p resolution screen
* Built-in Blu-ray player
* 5.1-channel speakers
* Solid performance

Weakness :
* Expensive
* Only average gaming performance
* No built-in TV tuner
* Nine-pound weight

Lenovo ThinkPad T61

Multiple reviewers select the solid Lenovo ThinkPad T61 as the best laptop for business users. Performance is superb in tests, and the laptop runs cool. Rugged construction adds a little to the cost, but ensures that the T61 can stand up to the rigors of the road. Lenovo has the highest reliability and customer support ratings in all large surveys of laptop owners. Unfortunately, the company has cut the ThinkPad T61's warranty from three years to one.

Most reviews for the Lenovo ThinkPad T61 cover the now-discontinued 14.1-inch version. However, most comments apply equally to the current version with its improved 15.4-inch display. NotebookReview.com, a highly regarded reviewer of laptop computers, does look at the larger-screened ThinkPad T61.

Strength :
* Good keyboard
* Rugged construction
* Integrated fingerprint reader
* 6.7 pounds

Weakness :
* Short battery life
* One-year warranty

Apple iPod nano

There's no shortage of reviews for Apple iPod nano, and most top reviewers have weighed in on it. Nicely detailed write-ups can be found at CNet.com, PC Magazine and Laptop magazine. Consumer Reports weighs in as well, though its review offers far less discussion than most. Amazon.com, meanwhile, boasts the most user opinions.

Just about every major reviewer likes the Apple iPod nano. The latest update adds some nifty features, like a Genius function which can create a playlist of 25 songs based on the genre of one song. Also new are "shake-to-shuffle" and a tilt-sensor screen. Features are still skimpy compared to some competing MP3 players, and some basics -- such as an FM tuner -- are missing. Users also have to upgrade to the latest version of iTunes because it's the only one that's compatible with Genius playback, and it has to be activated in iTunes for the feature to work on the player. If you are not committed to iTunes, critics say the Creative Zen (*est. $70 for 2 GB) is worth a serious look. It costs less, has features that the iPod nano lacks (like an FM tuner) and is available in a wide variety of capacities (from 2 GB to 32 GB) to fit your budget and music library.

Strength :
* Good sound
* Fun colors
* Good video display, considering the screen size

Weakness :
* iTunes 8 is required
* No FM radio
* Won't work with some older third-party accessories

Sandisk Sansa Fuze iPod nano

Lots of reviewers have published their take on the SanDisk Sansa Fuze. CNet.com, PC Magazine and PC World all provide testing-backed commentary. Consumer Reports also delivers sound testing, but falls short in the commentary department. Go to Amazon.com if you want to see how owners react to the Fuze once they get it home.

For those searching for a less expensive or more feature-packed alternative to the Apple iPod nano (*est. $140 for 8 GB), reports say that the SanDisk Sansa Fuze delivers on both scores. The nano is certainly a better performer than the Fuze when it comes to video quality, and that's even ignoring the fact that video files (and photo files) need to be converted using included software before viewing on the Fuse. On all other scores, however, the Fuze holds its own and sometimes even excels. Audio quality is excellent -- so much so that better-quality headphones are a worthwhile investment. Battery life is good. The feature lineup includes an FM tuner and voice recording. You can expand the player's memory via the memory card slot, and tunes stored on external cards are integrated into the player's library. While all reviewers still rate the iPod nano as a superior MP3 player, they also say that the Fuze's value and performance is hard to ignore.

Strength :
* Good value
* Good audio quality
* Lots of features

Weakness :
* Poor display
* Video and photo files need conversion

Creative Zen iPod nano

Most major reviewers do a very credible job reporting on the Creative Zen. CNet.com, PC Magazine and PC World all offer reporting and useful opinions based on hands-on testing. Consumer Reports provides the least insight, but its ratings are backed by well-regarded testing as well. Lots of user reviews can be read at Amazon.com.

While it's not exactly an iPod killer, the Creative Zen gets a thumbs-up from reviewers for doing a lot of things right, and if you aren't already committed to iTunes, the Zen is a less expensive alternative to the iPod nano (*est. $140 for 8 GB). Audio quality is excellent and video quality on the 2.5-inch screen is very good, though you'll have to convert videos using included software before viewing. The feature lineup includes an FM tuner, voice recording and support for music subscription services. There's also an expansion slot for microSD memory cards, though the tracks stored on external cards aren't integrated with the libraries stored in the player's internal memory. Memory capacities from 2 GB through 32 GB are available. However, while the Creative Zen is a great choice for many, especially PC users, it can't quite match the seamless user experience of the Apple iPod nano.

Strength :
* Lots of features
* Good sound
* Good video quality
* Less expensive than iPod nano

Weakness :
* Videos must be converted before playback
* Battery life shorter than claimed

Apple iPod classic

Because this year's changes to the iPod classic were subtle, many top reviewers haven't bothered to update their coverage. However we did find excellent reporting at CNet.com and Macworld, and an incredibly long and detailed report at iLounge.com, an iPod-centric website. Consumer Reports also includes the latest iPod classic in its most current ratings, though discussion is very sparse. Amazon.com has a good selection of user reviews.

Apple has trimmed down the iPod classic line to one model, and added a few nifty features as well. Those include a Genius feature that can create a 25-song playlist based on a selected song. Voice recording has also been added, but you'll have to spring for your own compatible microphone. There's still no FM radio, however, and you'll need to upgrade to iTunes 8. Thanks to its wonderful user interface, the iPod classic is a great choice for someone looking for a high-capacity MP3 player, but there's little reason for someone who's perfectly happy with their existing iPod classic to upgrade. PC users may also want to consider the Microsoft Zune (*est. $230 for 120 GB) as an alternative; the user experience is not quite as nice -- but its not bad either -- and the Zune has lots of nifty features of its own, including some basic ones missing on the iPod classic.

Strength :
* Huge capacity for music and video
* Easy-to-use interface and software
* New features work and are worthwhile
* Good video performance

Weakness :
* Non-user-replaceable battery
* Requires upgrade to iTunes 8

Microsoft Zune iPod

While the first Microsoft Zune met lots of scorn from reviewers, more recent models have received widespread coverage and much more favorable -- even glowing -- evaluations. Good destinations for reports include CNet.com, PC Magazine and Laptop magazine. Consumer Reports comes through with its typical well-balanced ratings, but much less critical discussion. User reviews can be found at Amazon.com.

The consensus among professional reviewers is that the Microsoft Zune offers more features than the Apple iPod classic (*est. $230 for 120 GB), such as wireless syncing and sharing. Other positives include an FM tuner and a more ample video screen. There's also support for a music subscription service, but you are tied into the Zune Marketplace for that. You are also limited to the Zune Marketplace for music download purchases. Experts say that if you are choosing between the iPod classic and Zune for your high-capacity MP3 player, the Zune deserves serious consideration, and might be a better choice if you don't already have a collection of music on iTunes. However, they also say that there are no reasons for iPod users -- especially those with extensive iTunes libraries -- to run out and buy a Zune.

Strength :
* Audio quality
* Wireless syncing and sharing
* FM radio

Weakness :
* Battery life could be better
* Included earbuds aren't great
* Only subscription option is Zune Marketplace

SanDisk Sansa Clip iPod

The SanDisk Sansa Clip MP3 player has been well reviewed both here and abroad. Among U.S. reviewers, it earns the most praise from CNet.com, which backs its rating with a well-detailed review. PC Magazine is a little less effusive, but still largely positive in its testing-backed report. For views from the rest of the world, reports at Australia's GoodGearGuide.com and Britain's TrustedReviews.com are very well done.

Those looking for a cheap MP3 player that still provides decent sound and features will be hard pressed to find a better alternative than the SanDisk Sansa Clip, experts say. Sound quality is surprisingly good, especially considering its small size and tiny price tag. Features include an FM tuner that you can record from, a voice recorder and a clip, which makes it a great companion for the gym or for jogging. The tiny OLED screen can't display video or photos, but makes navigating through menus and tracks easy. The SanDisk Sansa Fuse (*est. $60 for 2 GB) costs more, but it has more capacity and has a larger 2-inch screen; it also plays videos (but not very well, say experts).

Strength :
* Inexpensive
* Lightweight
* Good sound quality
* Good file support

Weakness :
* So-so FM tuner
* Poor-quality included earbuds

Pure Digital Flip Mino camcorder

If you want a simple-to-use camcorder you can slip into your pocket, reviewers overwhelmingly recommend the Pure Digital Flip Mino. It shoots mediocre video (good enough for a YouTube clip, reviews say, but you wouldn't want to videotape your wedding on it) and it is devoid of all but the most basic features. But experts and users love its simplicity; they say it's so easy a child can easily master it. The Mino uploads video directly to YouTube, MySpace or AOL -- unlike its biggest competitor, the Creative Vado (*est. $85), which will upload directly to either YouTube or PhotoBucket. Experts say the Vado shoots slightly worse video than the Mino and has even fewer features. Reviews also say the Mino's footage looks slightly better than that of Flip's other mini-camcorder, the Flip Ultra (*est. $130), which has a thicker housing to accommodate AA batteries (the slim Mino runs on an internal rechargeable battery, like an iPod).

CamcorderInfo.com has by far the most comprehensive review of the Pure Digital Flip Mino, covering every aspect of the camcorder and rating it against dozens of other camcorders on the market. The review at PC World is briefer, but it helpfully compares the Mino directly against the Creative Vado. Reviews at CNet, PC Magazine and Macworld test the Mino and compare it with the Flip Ultra. We also found useful user reviews at Amazon.com.

Strength :
* Incredibly easy to use
* iPod-sized
* Direct upload to YouTube, MySpace or AOL

Weakness :
* Mediocre video
* Far fewer features than a regular-size camcorder

Canon ZR900 camcorder

If you're in the market for a full-size, standard-definition digital camcorder, critics say the Canon ZR900 is the best value. Reviews say it offers fewer features than some more expensive camcorders in its class. However, compared to mini camcorders like the Pure Digital Flip Mino (*est. $150), the ZR900 is laden with features, including a microphone jack. The ZR900 also performs better than mini models in tests, recording nice sound and a non-jittery picture on its miniDV tapes. Experts and users both say the ZR900 is easy to use, but some find it shoots poorly in low light. The ZR900 is very similar to the Canon ZR950 (*est. $260), which omits the microphone jack but adds the ability to shoot still photos. Neither Canon model performs as well as the Panasonic PV-GS320 (*est. $465) in tests, but the Canons are far less expensive and easier to find at retail.

Consumer Reports offers by far the best review of the Canon ZR900. Although it provides few details about the camcorder, the ZR900 is rated against 15 other current SD camcorders based on expert testing. ConsumerGuide.com does not appear to have tested the ZR900 extensively, and its review is largely a litany of features. The Canon ZR900 has accumulated a few reviews at Amazon.com and CameraWorld.com, where consumers describe their experiences with this model.

Strength :
* Good-quality footage in well-lit situations
* Inexpensive
* Easy to use
* Good image stabilizer reduces hand shake

Weakness :
* Video not as good in dim light

Sanyo Xacti VPC-E1 Underwater camcorder

On dry land, the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E1's video quality is about on par with the much cheaper Pure Digital Flip Mino (*est. $150). But the VPC-E1 can do one thing most camcorders can't: It can film underwater, to a depth of 5 feet. Experts say the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E1's underwater video and audio are startlingly vivid. Unlike the bulky waterproof housings you can buy for some camcorders -- which can leak, users say – the E1 is streamlined, easy to handle and truly waterproof in tests. Reviewers say the Sanyo VPC-E1 shoots better still images than most camcorders, and they note its ability to import video directly into iTunes (so you can carry your videos around on your iPod). The Sanyo VPC-E1 has been on the market longer -- and is recommended more often -- than its main waterproof competitor, the Panasonic SDR-SW20 (*est. $330). However, both camcorders are very similar, and both perform similarly in tests.

Videomaker offers the best review of the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E1, thoroughly testing every feature and including underwater video for readers to view. Tests at Laptop magazine, CNet and The New York Times concisely cover the important points about the E1. Amazon.com's user reviews are a good way to find out how the E1 performs, including its underwater performance.

Strength :
* Waterproof to 5 feet
* Impressive underwater sound
* Better still photos than most digital camcorders
* Imports video directly to iTunes

Weakness :
* Mediocre performance on dry land
* Expensive, considering the video quality

Samsung LN52A650 LCD TV

We found reviews for the Samsung LN52A650 at CNet.com, which tests and rates the LCD TV. Although editors don't review the Samsung TV alongside others, the uniform ratings system enables you to compare results. Consumer Reports also includes this TV in its latest roundup. We found user ratings at Amazon.com.

Experts are near unanimous in their praise of the 52-inch Samsung LN52A650. Many say that it produces one of the best pictures of any LCD TV. Blacks are impressive, shadow detail is good and colors are very accurate. The TV is packed with features, including 120Hz image processing that's described as very good; an InfoLink feature that gathers news, weather, sports and other information from the Internet; and a distinctive Touch of Color (ToC) bezel that marries a red effect to the traditional black. The TV set's shinier-than-normal LCD screen helps improve picture quality, but is more prone to reflections from room lighting. A step-up version, the Samsung LN52A750 (*est. $2,190) adds an integrated woofer for better sound and 1GB of pre-loaded content, such as artwork and recipes. Picture quality is equally great, but some question whether the add-ons are worth the price premium.

Strength :
* Great black levels and shadow detail
* Near perfect color
* Distinctive styling
* Lots of features

Weakness :
* Screen is more reflective than most
* Viewing angle shallower than some other LCD TVs
* Remote can be awkward to use

LG 47LG60 LCD TV

Though user reviews remain scarce, lots of experts have weighed in on the 47-inch LG 47LG60. CNet.com is one of the most prolific reviewers of LCD TVs, and one of the more critical when it comes to this TV. Sound & Vision and PC Magazine, on the other hand, bestow Scarlet with praise and awards. The most in-depth review can be found at Ultimate AV, though non-technophiles might find themselves overwhelmed with information.

Black levels that are lighter than the very best performers leave some reviewers lukewarm, but others heap nothing but praise on the distinctively styled LG 47LG60 HDTV. Nicknamed Scarlet by the maker, the bright red cabinet and piano-black bezel make a statement even when this 47-inch TV is turned off. But color also lies at the heart of what makes the 47LG60 so noteworthy -- as in accurate colors and near-perfect grayscale, either out of the box or after some tweaking. Speaking of tweaking, tons of video controls will keep fiddlers obsessed for hours. Outstanding signal processing for HD and SD material is another strong plus. Among other LCD TVs in the same class, the Samsung LN46A650 (*est. $1,515) has better black levels, but a more reflective screen that could be a problem in some well-lit rooms. The Sony KDL-46XBR6 (*est. $2,120) delivers strong picture quality with great black levels and a more matte screen, but some question whether the performance is worth its price premium.

Strength :
* Great color
* Great HD and SD image processing
* Lots of picture controls
* Distinctive styling

Weakness :
* Black levels poorer than other high-end TVs
* Styling might not appeal to everyone

Vizio SV470XVT LCD TV

CNet.com has one of the best reviews of the 47-inch Vizio SV470XVT. The report clearly identifies pluses and minuses, and the set's Editors' Rating accurately puts it in context against what else is available. PC World also weighs in on this LCD TV, but its review is not nearly as informative. HDTVSolutions.com and HDTVExpert.com don't cover the Vizio SV470XVT, but do weigh in on its smaller-sized line-mate, the 42-inch Vizio SV420XVT, which should perform similarly.

Reviewers say that the 47-inch Vizio SV470XVT is an excellent all-around performer and an impressive value. It's loaded with features normally reserved for LCD TVs costing considerably more, including a 120Hz refresh rate and associated signal processing technology to smooth out motion in movies. While that feature isn't appreciated by everyone, and its implementation isn't entirely successful here, colors are accurate, and a wide range of picture controls lets viewers customize the image. With four HDMI inputs, connectivity is first-rate as well. The biggest negative is black levels that don't compare well to some high-end sets, such as the Sony BRAVIA KDL-46XBR6 (*est. $2,120) or the Samsung LN46A650 (*est. $1,515), but this Vizio LCD TV sells for considerably less.

Strength :
* Good value
* Good colors
* Lots of features
* Advanced signal processing

Weakness :
* Unimpressive black levels
* Motion-smoothing technology not completely successful
* Limited off-angle viewing

Samsung LN40A550 LCD TV

Consumer Reports offers the best expert review of the Samsung LN40A550, though discussion is not deep and you need to be a subscriber to read the editor's opinions. User reviews at sites like Amazon.com are extensive and impressive. Other screen sizes in the series have also done well in reports. For example, the 46-inch Samsung LN46A550 scores highly at PC World for its great image quality and is complimented at CNet.com for its balance of price and performance.

Expert and user reports on Samsung's Series 5 TVs, including the 40-inch LN40A550, are very positive. Many say these TVs strike an excellent balance between performance and value. Black levels are not quite as deep as those on the very best LCD TVs, but they are close and notably better than on less expensive options. If you have a little more to spend, Samsung's step-up LN40A650 (*est. $1,230) offers slightly better picture quality and striking styling, plus some high-end ex

Strength :
* Very good color and black levels
* Easy to use
* Excellent value

Weakness :
* Sound quality isn't the best
* Lacks some high-end features

AOC Envision L32W761 LCD TV

We found the best review of the AOC Envision L32W761 in Playback magazine, which looks at the TV in a comparison of three budget-priced 32-inch LCD TVs. Few other professionals have written reviews of this set, but there's a good amount of user feedback at a few sites, including Staples.com.

Reviewers and users compliment the 32-inch AOC Envision L32W761 for delivering good performance at a great price. Picture quality is described as surprisingly good, especially considering its price, but some user adjustments may be needed for things to look their best. The viewing angle is pretty good, making it a nice fit for family viewing. The sound is not terrific, but that's a common complaint with lots of TVs in this -- and other -- screen sizes. If you have a larger budget, the 32-inch Samsung LN32A450 (*est. $650) is a standout performer in almost all regards, but it costs more.

Strength :
* Excellent value
* Good picture quality
* Good viewing angle

Weakness :
* Picture requires some user adjustments for best quality
* Sub-par audio quality
* Few features

Samsung LN19A450/LN19A451 LCD TV

When it comes to small-screen LCD TVs, the best source for opinions are the user-review sites and discussion forums. Sites like Amazon.com, BestBuy.com and Buzzillions.com have unedited reports on how happy buyers are with a TV after the sale. These sites have already accumulated feedback on the Samsung LN19A450, part of the company's new line of Series 4 LCD TVs.

The 19-inch Samsung LN19A450 (in white as the LN19A451) is small, but the image is first-rate. Sized well for a bedroom, office or kitchen counter, the hidden speakers contribute to the small LCD TV's sleek look, but the "thin" sound they produce is the main complaint that a few express. If you want an even more striking design, the Samsung LN19A650 (*est. $375) brings the distinctive Touch of Color (ToC) bezel of Samsung's well-regarded Series 6 sets to a 19-inch screen size, but lacks the other high-end features found in the big-screen (40 inches and up) members of this series.

Strength :
* Good image with many picture controls
* Easy to set up and use
* PC input and QAM-compatible digital tuner
* Available with either black or white frame

Weakness :
* Sound quality not the best
* Stand does not tilt


Source : http://www.consumersearch.com