Sony VAIO VGN-SZ791N

The SmartWi wireless utility is a quick diagnostic tool for toggling such options as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS functionality, and integrated wireless WAN (through Sprint Mobile Broadband). A goofy little Wi-Fi antenna that sprouts from the side of the notebook provides a slight barrier between the keyboard and display, and may guard against minor dings and nicks.

The 13.3-inch screen (with crisp 1280-by-800-pixel-resolution) is vibrant and easy to view from various angles. Though not as gorgeous as its sibling, the backlit VAIO VGN-TZ295N, the VGN-SZ791N does the job. The display's aluminum backing gives the notebook a substantial feel, as does the smooth metallic wrist rest.

Unfortunately, the keyboard is uses a shallow plastic casing that cheapens the typing experience. At least the keys are sufficiently far apart that you won't slip and hit the wrong key.

The laptop's worst feature is its mouse. Huge gaps act as trenches between the loosely fitting left- and right-mouse buttons  and the case. While trying to left-click, I occasionally caught my finger in the chasm.

A power management toggle lets you switch between speed and stamina modes (the latter promising to support 3.21 hours of work). Such toggling is handy for simple settings, but why must the laptop restart?

The SZ791N's power is undeniable, but the keyboard and the mouse buttons raise questions about component quality. And considering Sony's $2500 asking price, we can't help but wish for a little more.