The Compaq CQ50 is an affordably priced laptop priced around $500.00. The laptop has an AMD Turion X2 QL-60 Dual Core Mobile processor, at 2 GHz, which actually fails in performance when compared to the Intel Core 2 Duo. For a little more money a consumer could get far better performance. The standard memory of 2 GB and a maximum of 3 GB will allow it to run Vista easily enough and is average for its class and price. The equipped hard drive is a SATA 4200 at 200 GB and will suffice for most common home and business users. The laptop is missing ExpressCard slots which makes expanding the laptop’s abilities difficult; in addition the laptop does not have a Firewire connection either.

The graphics surpass those of most average integrated chip sets by supporting up to 1.4 GB of video memory but with the less than perfect processor this will yield moderately better graphics. A saving grace for graphics is the BrightView technology that helps to reduce glare. The installed DVD-RW is a LightScribe enabled optical drive and capable of creating DualLayer DVDs. The Even though the Compaq CQ50 lacks a few ports, it still has many common interfaces such a s 3 USB, a VGA, HD D-Sub, 10/100Base-TX Ethernet and a 5 -in-1 memory card reader.

The laptop weighs in at about 6 1/2 pounds making it mid-weight but highly durable. The construction is sound and keyboard is comfortable to use. The track pad and mouse buttons are a bit stiff but useable. Overall performance is good for the average internet browser and email user but any advanced user needing to run multiple applications for extended periods of time will need to think twice. The 6 cell lithium ion battery should last for approximately 2 hours, but will depend upon what applications are running. The Compaq CQ50 comes with Vista Home Premium installed as well as Norton Home Security (60 day trial), and an HP suite of support and help software.

The Compaq CQ50 is a good buy but in order to get the lower price sacrifices in performance and usability have been made.

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