Sony VAIO TXN15P/W (Core Solo 1.2 GHz, 1 GB RAM, 80 GB HDD)

Pros: Size, Lightweight, Inbuilt Optical Drive, Stunning Battery Life, Very Bright and Crisp Display

Cons: None (Of course there are trade offs, but they are worth it for mobile professionals)

Summary: I had the option between a Dell D420, XPS M1210 and the Sony TX. In built Optical Drive was a must have for me so out went the D420 (anyways, with it's non glossy screen, it wasn't my choice). I actually went ahead and bought the XPS M1210 because of the great performance it offer with its top of the line components. I was also sceptical of the performance of the Sony TX due to it's Core Solo Processor and slower 4200 rpm hard disk.

After using the Dell XPS M1210 for two weeks, i chanced to have a hands on experience with the Vaio TX. Here are my reflections:

1. Screen: The TX Screen is one of the best out there. It is so bright and so crisp. In spite of it being only 11.1" in size, the text was outstandingly crisp. The Dell XPS on the other hand had a lousy screen in comparision. Trying to use the XPS in daylight was difficult even with the brightness set to maximum. In contrast, the VAIO TX Screen is very readable at around of 75% of the brightness.

2. Size: The XPS M1210 looks too huge when placed against a TX. It is also much heavier. The Vaio TX is a pleasure to work on your lap. Vaio is also much smaller in dimensions. It looks very good too. The Dell 1210 looks cheap compared to the TX.

3. Performance: I use the machine for regular office work, net surfing and the occassional movies while travelling. I did not find any substantial difference in these tasks between the two machines.

4. Battery Life: While the Dell gives me aroung 5.5 hrs on battery, the TX gives me around 8 hours!!! I can almost use it the entire day without needing a charging point.

5. Price: The Sony TX is definately very high priced. Almost 1.5 times the cost of the Dell 1210.

I have the choice to return either the Dell or the Sony by next week. I am going to keep the TX and return the 1210. Inspite of the slower processor (which makes no difference in the kind of work that i do anyway), the great life, portablity and stunning looks make it a winner for me. I wouldn't mind spending a couple of hundred dollars more on the Sony TX. In the past one week, I have found myself working much more on the TX, carrying it along with me everywhere I go (can't do that with heavier systems). I have also not found any flex problems on the screen and I feel it won't break unless one is really careless with it.

I hope this review helps mobile professionals looking for an ultraportable. For other resources hungry tasks, look at other core 2 duo systems. Sony SZ maybe...