Sony's VAIO systems are laptops with sleek design and, often times, a much larger price tag than their more traditional counterparts. The VGN-FZ series of laptop computers does offer attractive design, but the prices are quite reasonable this time.

We took a look at a Sony VAIO VGN-FZ190 CTO which starts out well equipped at $1,200. At that price, Sony packs in an Intel Core 2 Duo T7100 processor with twin 1.8GHz processing cores and a decent 1GB of speedy 667MHz DDR2 memory. This central power gives you enough oomph to run the included Windows Vista Home Premium edition operating system.

These laptops feature a large 15.4-inch widescreen display that delivers excellent images thanks to its 1280x800 resolution and XBRITE Hi-Color technology. With NVIDIA's GeForce 8400M GT graphics on board, these laptops actually have game. These graphics feature 256MB of dedicated video memory and offer DirectX 10 support for the latest games.

The hard drive starts out at a modest 100GB in a 5,400rpm drive. These VAIO systems support up to 250GB drives, so you can really boost the storage space if you need more elbow room. The default optical drive is a rather basic combination DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive that can burn CDs and play DVD movies, but can't handle any DVD writes. You can upgrade to a Dual Layer DVD writer for only $30, letting you burn traditional DVDs as well as 8.5GB DVD DL media and DVD-RAM disks.

Or, you can add a DVD writer with Blu-Ray capabilities to your VGN-FZ. These drives handle all the same DVD writing and can also play high definition DVD movies and even burn Blu-Ray disks, but they add over $400 to the price tag. The NVIDIA graphics also includes an HDMI output port, so you can play Blu-Ray DVDs on your home theater HDTV with this option as well.

Connectivity is cutting-edge on these VAIO laptops. In addition to a modem and network interface, the built-in wireless supports 802.11a/b/g and the new faster Wireless N, so you'll be able to connect at any WiFi hotspot you come across.

There is a built-in camera and microphone, so you can videoconference or video chat without having to pick up any other accessories. And the AV Instant Mode lets you watch a DVD, listen to music or view photos without having to boot up the entire laptop.

Even with the 15.4-inch widescreen, these laptops weigh in at much less than six pounds, making them easier to port around than the average mid-range laptop. And the just VGN-FZ looks great, with their trim design and silver coloring with a black or white keyboard.

For the price, you get an excellently performing laptop with all the style that Sony is known for. Users who want a sleek and fairly slim portable with a nice widescreen display should definitely consider the Sony VAIO VGN-FZ line of laptop computers.


Pro: Nice price, great core power, Blu-Ray option
Con: Some components basic, Blu-Ray upgrade expensive

Warranty
1-year limited