Top 5 Desktop Replacement Notebooks

While there are a number of "gaming" notebooks on the market, the majority of them are still using graphics processors that are based on the older Direct X 9 technology. Toshiba instead uses a new GeForce Go 8700M that supports Vista's new Direct X 10 graphics. This makes it more future proof in terms of graphics. Beyond the graphics, the system also comes with a large amount of storage space thanks to its two drives and six total USB ports. This definitely is a notebook that can replace a desktop system, but still be carried about.

Dell has certainly added a lot more color to their notebook lineup. The Inspiron E1720 comes in a choice of eight different colors. Beyond this external design, the notebook also comes with some significant upgrades. The new Centrino Duo chipset boosts processor performance and bus speeds and brings with it the draft 802.11n. Direct X 10 graphics let it handle some gaming and graphics. Of course, users can always customize it to suit their budget and needs. One other optional feature that can really help those who travel frequently but need to stay connected is the choice of a cellular modem from one of three different wireless carriers.

HP's Pavilion dv9575nr doesn't look any different from previous dv9000 notebooks, but it has some significant internal upgrades. While most desktop replacements aim to be a gaming or general purpose, HP has designed theirs to be media based. This includes a high definition TV tuner along with the Vista Home Premium features to make it capable of being a portable entertainment center. Plenty of hard drive space, memory and solid Direct X 10 graphics make this well suited for just about any other task one might have for it as well.

Those looking for a desktop replacement notebook specifically for gaming and don't want to break the bank buying one of those prestige systems should take a look at the Area-51 m9750. The highly customizable system features the very fast but Direct X 9 only GeForce Go 9750 graphics. If that isn't enough for you, it is always possible to have a second one installed for an NVIDIA SLI setup. While still somewhat expensive, it still comes with a much more affordable price tag than most of the other gaming specific notebooks.

If you aren't looking to do a mobile home theater platform or PC gaming, then a more general purpose desktop replacement is something you might be interested in. Sony's VAIO VGN-AR520E is certainly more affordable than many of these dedicated systems but still provides a solid all around computing experience. It comes with a large 200GB hard drive space for storing data, 2GB of RAM for smooth computing and even a dedicated Direct X 10 graphics processor for that casual PC game every now and then.