Just because Microsoft decides to come out with a new operating system doesn't mean you suddenly have a fortune to spend on a new computer that supports it. No worries. We chose six Vista systems that promise to be good enough for all your daily chores--and then some--for less than $1,500. These are a step up from the value systems but not quite the screaming multimedia machines you'll find in your neighbor's tricked-out basement. This way, you can afford to stay on top of the latest OS and not have to dip into your kids' college funds.
 
Each of these mainstream models combines portability, decent performance, and plenty of creature comforts such as webcams, fingerprint readers, and multimedia controls. And each shows that "mainstream" does not equal "dull": Wide screens and sleek designs are the rule, not the exception.
 
With weights ranging from 5.3 to 7.2 pounds, these entries are heavier than the thin-and-light models designed for road warriors, but they are still plenty portable. The feature lists should satisfy most notebook buyers: Each notebook offers a widescreen LCD (15.4 inches in most cases), powerful dual-core processor, DVD burner, plenty of hard drive space (100GB to 240GB), and one version or another of Windows Vista.
 
The integrated graphics chips from Intel in two of the six systems tested are capable of handling Vista's slick Aero effects but aren't designed for 3D gaming. The other four notebooks can handle the latest titles, but only at lower resolutions and with the eye-candy settings turned down. Nevertheless, if you need a laptop for work and play, one of these mainstream entries is sure to please. 


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