
Compaq Presario V3197TU
This is a budget laptop with a difference. Unlike other value –based laptops it offers an unbeatable combination of good looks, great connectivity and excellent sound playback. The fact that it is Windows Vista ready and ships with a Dual-layer DVD drive only adds it’s to its appeal. Priced at Rs. 38,000 it’s a steal!
Click here for our detailed review on this beauty.

Dell Inspiron 9400.
It’s been nearly a year since Dell introduced this powerhouse of a laptop. Since then it has become the standard for others to emulate. Dell has not been sitting idle though. It has retained the 17-inch screen which has a native HD capable resolution of 1,920 X1200 (WUXGA) and has upgraded its CPU to a Core2Duo processor—the T7200 (clock speed of 2 GHZ) which is one of the fastest mobile CPUs around. Graphics is still handled by the GeForce 7900 GS Go system. The sound is taken care of by an internal 2.1 with an integrated subwoofer. In terms of expansion options, Dell has made no changes. The Inspiron 9400 offers FireWire, S-Video out and 4 USB 2.0 ports. Storage has been upgraded and now is handled ably by a fast 7200 120 GB HDD. With prices starting at Rs. 78,000 this is indeed a tough act to follow.