Description: This configuration of the Lenovo ThinkPad T60 is a 6-pound, mainstream notebook computer. Compared to other mainstream consumer notebooks on the market, it is expensive at around $1,885. Has Wi-Fi (wireless connectivity) built-in. Features ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 graphics with 128MB of video RAM.

Pros: Has a plug-in module media bay, which is somewhat more favorable than some similarly priced notebooks. Also, this notebook has 1400 x 1050 native screen resolution, which is higher than some similarly priced notebooks. The DVD? RW(? R DL) / DVD-RAM is housed in a modular plug-in drive bay, which is more upgradeable and gives you more options than an integrated drive.

Cons: Has only 512 MB RAM, which is considerably less than some similarly priced notebooks. For example, the Lenovo ThinkPad T61 , a 6-pound notebook at around $1, 980, has 4 GB RAM. Also, this notebook only has a Core Duo processor, which is somewhat less efficient than some similarly priced notebooks. For example, the HP Business nc8430 , a 6-pound notebook at around $1, 810, has a Core 2 Duo processor.

Suitability: Suited for those who just need a basic notebook. Store massive amounts of data on DVD using the DVD burner included in this laptop. Comes with office-grade word processing software -- fine for most serious business or academic document authors. With 128MB of dedicated video RAM, this machine will do OK with some games and multimedia applications, but will fall short of satisfying the serious gaming enthusiast. Make your home movies more impressive by using the bundled video software to edit material uploaded from a digital camcorder. Get status reports while on business trips by using this laptop’s built-in Wi-Fi modem to connect to wireless networks in airports and hotels.

Value: Notwithstanding its expensive price, this notebook has great features for the money. However, if you were to judge strictly by how large the screen is, the average price of general-purpose products with a similar screen size is considerably less -- in fact around $1,356.

Suggestions: (1) Given this device's Wi-Fi capability, you may want to get a wireless access point for your home, so that you can browse the Internet more conveniently from any room. (2) To get the most out of this computer's Bluetooth capability, you could have a Bluetooth-enabled headset, handheld or other device, and be able to link it wirelessly to your computer within a range of 20-or-so feet inside the same room.