IBM ThinkPad T23

WHAT ELSE: Identical in appearance to the last several generations of T series notebooks, the T23 boasts the same beveled black case, solidly constructed keyboard, comfortable mouse buttons, and fire-engine-red eraserhead that ThinkPad fans already recognize. An S-Video port lets you connect the notebook to a television set. IBM's ThinkLight, a small LED mounted on the screen frame, helps make the keyboard visible in dark rooms. The UltraPort, a modified USB connection located atop the screen under a small rubber plug, accepts any of four small, extra-cost devices sold by IBM: a basic digital camera, a Compact Flash card reader, an infrared port (each priced below $100), or a digital microphone ($199). IBM now provides two USB ports, in place of the previous model's one.

ThinkPad T laptops are no longer the lightest portables to carry a 14.1-inch screen. Several competing 5-pound Windows laptops, including those in the Acer TravelMate 600 series, now offer screens just as big; and Apple's 5.3-pound PowerBook G4 beats them all with a whopping 15.2-inch screen. Overall, however, the T23 offers a higher level of design sophistication and more small luxuries than the others.

UPSHOT: For businesses and well-heeled individuals who prefer the eraserhead pointing device and can afford a top-of-the-line lightweight laptop, the T23 is a best-of-breed winner.