Gateway 450X

WHAT ELSE: With a case the color of elephant hide, the 450X is no beauty, but it's easy to tote considering that it has a 15-inch screen--it weighs only 6.2 pounds without the power adapter--and it's a pleasure to use. With FireWire and TV-out ports, the 450X can serve as a digital editing station capable of sending images to a larger monitor. The unassuming light-gray keyboard offers effortless typing, and four application launch buttons are centered at the top for quick access to files or programs. Memory and storage are easy to reach. The power pack's external LED lets you quickly check remaining battery life.

On the downside, the 450X's audio abilities are disappointing: Typical for a notebook, the built-in speakers on the front sound a little thin compared with even a mediocre set of desktop speakers. Also, the 450X has no dedicated CD playback controls. Aside from its combination drive and FireWire port, it boasts no special multimedia powers.

Gateway's printed manual is scrupulously detailed, attractive, and easy to navigate. Model-specific electronic help, on the other hand, is almost nonexistent.

UPSHOT: The 450X doesn't play around with fancy case colors--it's all business, superfast, and a battery-life trouper. Small companies and individuals who don't mind shelling out a little more for a high-performance portable will like this all-around fine notebook.