Dell Vostro 1310 in Laptops

Dell has opted for a more capable array of components in our review unit, however. An Intel Core 2 Duo T8100 processor operates at 2.1GHz and, combined with the 2GB of memory, it scored a solid 1.03 in our benchmarks. If performance is crucial, then processor options stretch right up to the 2.5GHz T9300 part, but that does come at a hefty £190 premium.

The rest of the specification is eminently sensible. A 160GB hard drive is definitely on the generous side, and the slot-loading DVD writer adds a welcome touch of class to proceedings. The welcome addition of Draft-N wireless networking and Gigabit Ethernet round off the package nicely.

The cherry on the top is the comprehensive support package. Any business will appreciate the peace of mind that comes from the one-year next-business-day on-site warranty. If that's not comprehensive enough, you can always expand the warranty to three years or opt to upgrade to Dell's business-centric telephone support, dubbed Pro Support.

Even in its most meagre specification, the Dell Vostro 1310 is a superb business laptop. It's affordable, well built and has clearly been designed with a keen eye on its intended audience. But, to label it a business laptop is almost to deny the breadth of its appeal. In fact, it would be as comfortable in a home environment as any consumer portable. This alone is enough to earn it a well-deserved Recommended award.

Author: Sasha Muller