2. Classifying The Fujitsu Lifebook P1510D

As the table below shows, we classify portable computers with great care. Unlike many manufacturers and product reviewers we don't call everything a "notebook." That's because we believe you should be able to tell something about the portability of a portable computer without having to look up size and weight details in a features table. Sure, we give you the details, but we also include significant size and weight information in such descriptive terms as "standard laptop" or "ultra lightweight laptop."

By MobilityGuru's classification system, the 9.3" x 1.46" x 6.57", 2.2 pound Fujitsu Lifebook P1510D clamshell/tablet laptop is an ultra-lightweight laptop. However, every time I pick it up, balance it on my palm and use either the keyboard or stylus for input, the P1510D says to me "I'm almost a PDA." A look at the photos below should help you understand why.

Fujitsu's Lifebook P1510D ultra-lightweight laptop in tablet orientation.

If you need help visualizing the P1510D's size, try the next image on for, well... size. That's a genuine U.S. dollar bill. Yes, the dollar has been shrinking in value for some time, but it's still about 6" long by 2.5" wide.

Fujitsu's Lifebook P1510D ultra lightweight laptop and a real U.S. dollar bill.

Okay, so the Lifebook P1510D isn't pocket size, but it is representative of a general effort by mobile PC manufacturers to get more computer into a smaller package. Heads up: If you're looking for a real Windows XP computer in a PDA form factor, stay tuned. We'll review one for you soon.