ell Inspiron i1464-4382OBK

The Dell Inspiron i1464-4382OBK ($749.98 list) is a well-balanced, mainstream laptop that should hold wide appeal for Staples shoppers perusing the shelves for a modern, versatile laptop. Its 14-inch display and sub-five-pound weight mean the laptop is big enough for use as your primary computer and light enough for daily travel. The Inspiron i1464-4382OBK is built on Intel's latest mobile platform, featuring the new Core i3 processor and integrated Intel GMA HD graphics. It doesn't offer blazing performance, but it is competitive among similarly-priced laptops and should stand the test of time better than a model based on older technology. In addition to the laptop's size and weight, we also like its sleek yet understated design and the surprisingly big sound that the speakers emit. The Inspiron i1464-4382OBK's merely average battery life won't help the laptop win any converts, but there are ways to fix that on Dell's Website (you can upgrade to a bigger battery and Core i5 processor for $100 more). Whether shopping for the home, small office, or college campus, the Dell Inspiron 1464-4382OBK deserves a spot on your short list. As such, it earns our Editors' Choice for budget laptop.

Dell, Inc.

http://www.dell.com

• Price as Tested: $749.98 List
• Type: General Purpose
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
• Processor Name: Intel Core i3 330M
• Processor Speed: 2.13 GHz
• RAM: 4 GB
• Weight: 4.8 lb
• Screen Size: 14.1 inches
• Screen Size Type: widescreen
• Graphics Card: Intel GMA HD
• Storage Capacity: 500 GB
• Networking Options: 802.11n
• Primary Optical Drive: Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW