Choosing a laptop computer can prove to be a daunting task if you are not a computer expert (and maybe even if you are). When shopping for a laptop this year I shopped both in store and online, because without seeing the laptop in person, comparing it with other laptops, it is difficult to judge the quality of performance. I would go into Circuit City or Best Buy and write down the model numbers of the one I was interested in, and then go home and try to get a better deal online.

 After looking at Gateways, Acers, HP and Compaqs, I immediately fell in love with the Toshiba Satellite A135 line. The TruBrite screens really stand out in a row of laptops, the picture is very crisp and bright.

 I eventually purchased the A135 S4467. It has:

• 15.4" Tru Brite Screen
• Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
• Processor speed = 1.6 ghz 
• 1024 mb (1 gb) Ram
• 160 storage capcity
• Windows Vista Home Premium
• Built in wireless
• DVD+R (burns DVDs and CDS)

The retail price on these ranges from around $850 (with rebates) to $1000.

I have been extremely satisfied with the performance of this laptop. After a little more than a month I have mastered (and come to appreciate) the Vista operating system. The media center is awesome! It acts kind of like a tivo allowing you to digitally record TV and then watch it later sans commercials. I love that, I always get compliments on the laptop, wherever I go people are amazed by its beauty. =)

I only have a couple of cons to report:

1. The battery which is included with the unit is a little small - it will power the laptop for around 1 hour. Bigger batteries are sold seperately, but can be costly, its a good idea to have 2 so you can switch out for extended use.

2. The outer case is a beautiful deep  blue that shimmers in the light, only problem - any time you touch it, it leaves a smudged fingerprint. I dont know what they were thinking..

3. The microsoft office 2007 is only a trial, you have to purchase the software to use Word, powerpoint and etc after 30 uses. The upgrade costs around $130. That is definately not cool.

Other than that I think its a perfect laptop at a good price. If you have any questions or feel that something is missing from this review, please feel free to contact me.

 Update 7/07: I have used the laptop almost daily for the past six months, It has worked brilliantly, the only new problem I can report is that the battery charger can get super hot if you leave it plugged in for a long period of time.

If you found this review to be helpful, please click on YES below - I would really appreciate that!