Computing On the Go
New laptops for every purpose.
Published May 2007
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BUY A REPRINTThey're not just for traveling anymore. Notebook computers are becoming the tool of choice for business users, wherever they happen to be working. The research firm Gartner predicts that by 2009, more than half of all PCs sold will be portables, and small-business buyers--who crave on-the-go flexibility for themselves and their employees--are leading the charge, says Gartner analyst Leslie Fiering. These days, it's easy to find business-ready laptops from big manufacturers for less than $600. But for those who want something more specialized and powerful, there's a slew of new choices. Here are six that stand out.
Best for… Taking abuse
General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) GoBook XR-1
What it is: A nearly indestructible notebook that meets U.S. military standards.
What's cool: It can survive 26 drops from three feet, as well as extreme high and low temperatures, rainstorms, and other hazards of mobile computing. It weighs only 6.8 pounds, which is quite light for a fully ruggedized notebook. It has a built-in global positioning system.
Drawbacks: Even though the GoBook is larger than the typical laptop--11.8 by 9.65 inches--its display is a relatively small 12.1 inches and can be difficult to read in sunlight. The GoBook will not support Windows Vista (NASDAQ:MSFT) until the end of 2007.
Price: Starts at $4,195.
Best for… Working while the computer's off
Asus W5fe
What it is: A notebook computer with two screens--a standard display and another 2.8-inch screen on the outside of the case.
What's cool: That secondary screen can be set to show whatever data you want, even when the computer is turned off--a useful tool for checking your calendar and e-mail. It comes with a built-in Web camera and weighs less than four pounds.
Drawbacks: The second display gives the computer a small hump, making it bulkier than other notebooks. Plus, an extra screen doubles your odds of having a technology breakdown (though the computer comes with a two-year limited warranty).
Price: $2,199 for a machine with 1.5GB RAM and a 160GB hard drive.
Best for… Traveling really light
OQO Model 02
What it is: A one-pound portable computer that runs Windows.
What's cool: Despite its small size, the OQO has features that match mainstream Windows notebooks, including a hard drive of up to 60 gigabytes, a 1.5-gigahertz processor, and built-in Wi-Fi. You can get it installed with an optional cellular modem as well. The casing is made of magnesium alloy, which will help protect the computer if you drop it.
Drawbacks: The display is only five inches across, and even though the OQO is bigger than a BlackBerry (NASDAQ:RIMM), you'll still have to type with your thumbs. The display also lacks the high resolution typical of bigger laptop displays. And there's a four- to 10-week waiting list to get one.
Price: $1,499 to $1,849, depending on configuration.
