Editors' rating: 7.9, very good

The good: Newly redesigned Inspiron line adds Centrino Duo CPUs and color choices; highly configurable with plenty of networking options; discrete graphics option; excellent battery life.

The bad: Not as radically reengineered as Dell's new XPS laptop; low starting price, but everything from the Webcam to Bluetooth costs extra.

The bottom line: Dell's retooled Inspiron line introduces the new 14-inch Inspiron 1420 laptop, which benefits from an internal and external makeover. The wide-ranging configuration options mean that virtually any mainstream user can find a system to fit their budget.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/dell-inspiron-1420/4014-3121_7-32486109.html

Full review: http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/dell-inspiron-1420/4505-3121_7-32486109.html

LapWorks AluminumDesktop Stand

A laptop stand may not be the most obvious computing accessory on your must-have list, but having the right stand can make your laptop much more usable, especially in office situations.

Editors' rating: 8.5, excellent

The good: Folds flat for easy transit; six levels of height adjustment; rotating base.

The bad: Slightly awkward for 17-inch laptops.

The bottom line: We've seen few stands as flexible and portable as the LapWorks Aluminum Desktop Stand.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/notebook-accessories/lapworks-aluminum-desktop-stand/4014-6459_7-32496131.html

Full review: http://reviews.cnet.com/notebook-accessories/lapworks-aluminum-desktop-stand/4505-6459_7-32496131.html