Hewlett-Packard's mainstream Pavilion dv6700t laptop computers are solid notebooks that are available at very reasonable prices. The baseline dv6700t retails for around $600, although you'll need to spend a little more if you want to make your machine the sort of powerful, versatile computer that will serve you well for years to come.

These laptops are powered by a 1.86GHz Intel Pentium T2390 dual-core processor and 1GB of DDR2 memory. This combination is a bit underwhelming for mainstream notebooks, but HP gives you the option of upgrading either or both. Stepping up to the entry-level Core 2 Duo processor, the 2.0GHz T5750, will add $75 to the computer's price and doubling the memory to 2GB will add $50, but these two upgrades will really beef the performance of the dv6700t and aren't outrageously expensive.

Storage starts out at 120GB on a 5,400rpm hard drive, which is an adequate amount for most users. If you're planning on storing a lot of multimedia files on this laptop computer, however, you may want to upgrade here as well; you can step up to a large 250GB drive for an affordable $25.

The optical drive on these laptop computers is a robust LightScribe SuperMulti DVD writer. It lets you burn CDs, DVDs, and dual-layer DVDs; what's more, it allows you to imprint your own monochromatic labels on the upper surface of compatible media. These disks are a little more expensive than traditional media, but they look quite professional when finished. These systems also offer the ability to upgrade the optical drive to include the ability to play Blu-ray discs, but it's an expensive option.

The 15.4-inch widescreen display delivers crisp text and bright colors thanks to its deep 1280X800 resolution. Graphics processing is integrated on these laptop computers, however, meaning the graphics chip shares video memory with the main system RAM. HP does, however, offer the option of stepping up to the Nvidia GeForce 8400M GS with 256MB of discrete video memory for a reasonable price; doing so is a worthwhile move for gamers and heavy graphics users.

Connectivity includes three USB ports, a FireWire port, and an ExpressCard/54 slot. There's also a 5-in-1 media card reader that lets you easily transfer files and photos by popping in the flash card from your PDA or digital camera.

These laptop computers can get online via modem, network interface, or 802.11b/g wireless. You can upgrade to the new faster wireless n protocol for $35 or add both 802.11n and Bluetooth for $60.

Other upgrade options include a webcam for video chatting and a fingerprint reader for added security, either of which can be added to the dv6700t for $25.

The software bundle features full versions of some decent multimedia applications, including HP's own PhotoSmart Essentials and muvee autoProducer Basic edition. You also get Microsoft Works 9.0, but only a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office.

The baseline price of the HP Pavilion dv6700t is quite reasonable, although you'll probably spend some extra money getting these laptop computers up to the speed that you desire or need.


Pros: Low baseline price, excellent optical drive
Cons: Upgrades add up

Warranty
1 year, limited