Dell Inspiron 5150

The 5150's connections cover most of the usual bases, including two USB 2.0 ports, an S-Video-out port for attaching a TV, and a FireWire port for fast digital video downloads. Our test unit came with the WordPerfect Productivity Pack. Consumers with older printers might miss having a parallel port; the Inspiron 5000 line is one of the few in the Inspiron series with no docking option, though Dell does offer a basic port replicator for $119.

The keyboard is firm and steady, with a good layout and oversize mouse buttons, but you get only one programmable quick-launch button and nothing for scrolling pages. The Inspiron 5150's stereo speakers are loud and clear enough to let you watch DVD movies without headphones, but the notebook has no audio controls other than the dual-function <Page Up> and <Page Down> keys, which double as volume buttons when used with the <Function> key.

Upgraders handy with a screwdriver will appreciate the 5150's removable hard drive and accessible memory compartment, and the notebook comes with good documentation. The software-based help is mostly generic information that doesn't directly apply to this model, but the printed manual is thorough and attractive.

Upshot: Anyone who tends to stay put could be happy with this heavy-duty performer, but mobile professionals might find it too bulky.

Carla Thornton