Compare Prices : HP Compaq Presario CQ70

Review summary: Priced at just $529.98 (list), the Compaq Presario CQ60 (420us) is easily one of the most affordable 15-inch notebooks around. This no-frills system won't wow you with multimedia features (it lacks an HDMI port and a webcam, among other things), and ...

Pros: Very affordable. 16:9 aspect display. Manageable weight

Cons: Sluggish performance. Short on features. Does not support draft-n Wi-Fi

Verdict: The Compaq Presario CQ60 (420us) lacks some of the features found on other 15-inch models, and its performance is nothing to write home about, but bargain hunters will love its sub-$500 price tag.

Pros: Very inexpensive ; includes separate number pad

Cons: Slow performance compared with other entry-level laptops ; poor battery life

Verdict: As stripped-down as a laptop gets, the Compaq Presario CQ60-215DX is saddled with slow performance and a weak battery. There are better entry-level options out there.

Review summary: The CQ70-116 is a sturdy, minimalist, desktop-replacement laptop with a 17-inch screen and a remarkably low price tag. A slow processor and poor graphics mean this isn't a laptop for gamers, but those seeking a general-purpose machine will find that ...

Pros: Large screen ; decent keyboard ; good build quality ; low price

Cons: Poor graphics ; slow processor ; slightly temperamental touchpad

Verdict: If you're after a general-purpose laptop and won't be running games or processor-intensive applications, such as video-editing software, the HP Compaq Presario CQ70-116 delivers the goods at an outstandingly low price