IBM Notebook

IBM notebook computers, such as the ThinkPad T43, are well-known as sturdy business machines. The T43 ThinkPad, for instance, may not have an extremely wide LCD or a bright screen like the Sony XBrite, but this laptop offers a host of essential features. Mobile business travelers, airplane riders, and others searching for a solid workhorse notebook can do a lot worse than the ThinkPad T43.

Standard specs include an Intel Pentium M processor, 512 MB of RAM, 60 GB of hard drive space, a pretty nice graphics card by ATI, and all the ports you would expect on a standard advanced IBM machine. This model comes with a six cell battery, but unless you're going to enslave your notebook to your desktop, you might as well invest in the nine cell extended life battery that comes optional with the T43.

One of the best things about this IBM notebook is its display, which is built like a titanium enhanced fortress to prevent damage from abuse. It is also readable when tilted, so you don't have to look at the notebook straight on to get a really clear view. The keypad is easy to use and conservatively designed. If you bump up to the IBM ThinkPad R50, you can even get an LED to illuminate your keyboard in the dark.

IBM ThinkPad notebooks, as a rule, offer ideal security protection. While standards like the T43 may not have a multicard reader, you won't find dead pixels in the display. Whereas the IBM T42 had some problems with ghosting, the T43 does not. All told, if you are in the market for a solid laptop, the T43 is a safe bet. However, it is recommended that you test the standard wireless card upon delivery.