The Best Vista Notebooks

The new version of Windows can be a challenge for some notebooks to run. Our tests will point you to the laptops with the power to handle Vista. Carla Thornton; testing by Thomas Luong

Right now could be a great time to splurge on a laptop, given that many come with Microsoft's Windows Vista operating system to sweeten the deal. But is the new OS reason enough to jump now, or should you hang on to your trusty Windows XP laptop for a while longer?

To find out, we rounded up 15 Vista-equipped laptops from Acer, Asus, Dell, Fujitsu, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, Micro Express, and Toshiba, in two categories: desktop-replacement models powerful enough to serve as your Primary PC, and ultraportables weighing less than 5 pounds. We tested speed and battery life and carefully evaluated screens, keyboards, and other vital features.

The best five notebooks in each category and awarded Best Buys:
1. HP Pavilion dv9000t
2. Dell XPS M1210
3. Micro Express NP5760
4. Acer Aspire 9810-6829
5. Toshiba Satellite P105-S6217