Fujitsu LifeBook S6510

The $2519 (as of 11/30/07) FPCM43353 configuration of the S6510 comes standard with a 2.4-GHz Core 2 Duo T7700 processor and an extra-big 4GB hunk of main memory. Despite those impressive components, the S6510's performance was only so-so. Its WorldBench 6 Beta 2 score of 74 was slightly better than the average mainstream laptop's score of 72, so the S6510 should be plenty fast enough to handle most applications. However, it lagged behind a Lenovo ThinkPad T61p with the same processor and only half the RAM by 9 percent (the ThinkPad earned a score of 81).

The rest of the design is attractive overall. Among the minor drawbacks are weak-sounding speakers and two ugly rear screws. Hard-drive size tops out at our test unit's 120GB, and the laptop lacks an ExpressCard slot, offering only the old PC Card slot. But in the "pros" column, the S6510 feels sturdy and has a nice spill-resistant keyboard. The keyboard features Fujitsu's handy shortcut buttons that double as a security panel. Front-mounted status lights dedicated to each of the two batteries make tracking usage a snap, too. The bottom of the laptop has a connection for a port replicator ($199 extra) and a removable dust filter. Applications are not included.

With its reasonable weight and a screen just small enough to clear a reclining seat back, the Fujitsu LifeBook S6510's physical attributes will please all but the most persnickety ultraportable fan. If getting maximum performance bang for your buck is just as important to your business, however, keep looking.

--Carla Thornton