Sony VAIO VGC-RC204

It's worth considering that you'll be wasting the RC204's capabilities if you partner it with anything other than a monitor capable of displaying high-definition content - the A-Listed Philips 200W6 will handle up to 720p. If you want to take advantage of true 1080p resolutions, you'll need a TFT capable of handling 1,920 x 1,080 pixels or more.

While the specification and design are largely irreproachable, it's also an expensive option. Much of that is due to the inclusion of the optical drive, so you'd better be sure you need it. But if it's within your budget, and you're looking for a video-editing PC that's fit for a multitude of other purposes, it's beautifully implemented.

Author: Dave Stevenson