Compare Prices : HP Compaq 530

Review summary: At a bargain price, you get more than you're paying for with the HP 530. The budget machine performs well and looks twice as expensive than it actually is. Added to this, it has a 15.4-inch widescreen display and built-in Wi-Fi and is perfect for ...

Pros: Decent performance ; bargain price ; nice design

Cons: Poor 3D and battery life ; limited expansion ; quite possibly the most awful touchpad in the world, ever

Verdict: Although it has a lowly specification, the HP 530 does the best with what it's been blessed with and can turn in some relatively impressive results. Its battery isn't up to life on the go, though, and its lacking in ports

Review summary: The HP's keyboard is a joy to use - it's one of the system's highlights

Pros: Competitive price ; Great keyboard ; Strong build

Cons: Basic feature set ; Short battery life

Verdict: What really makes this machine great value for money is the sheer quality of the keyboard and overall design. This is a notebook that you'll simply enjoy using either at home or on the road. We can't say fairer than that

Review summary: HP currently sell more notebooks worldwide than any other company and taking one look at the HP 530 you can see why. This device has been designed to meet a specific price point and audience.

Pros: Impressive features list, Good value for money, Superb value, Satisfyingly well built, Comfortable to use

Cons: Stingy memory, Lacking in raw power

Verdict: It may have a low system spec but it's cheap and has excellent usability

Review summary: The HP 530 (£329 inc. VAT) has been specifically designed as an entry-level laptop, so you won't find many frills. It has a neat and crisp design that is attractive, if a little minimalist.

Pros: Strong build, Good keyboard, Handles well

Cons: Limited battery life

Verdict: At this price point, it's impossible to ignore how usable and versatile this laptop is