16. Conclusions

With the exception of battery life, the four computers discussed in this article perform more or less equally. So, if you want to buy an ultra lightweight laptop consider the other features and related issues I've discussed here. Most of the strengths and weaknesses of small laptops grow out of what makes them so desirable, their size and weight.

Toshiba's Libretto U100-S213 is a very nicely built, ultra lightweight laptop with lots of features and very good battery life. It suffers from some limitations due to its small size, including a small keyboard and keys, use of a joystick instead of a touchpad and such a small screen that it's difficult to read very sharp fonts when the display is set for optimal resolution. If you can live with these limitations and you want a laptop that isn't all that far from being a PDA, the U100 could be just the answer for you.

If, on the other hand if the Libretto won't work for you and you still want super small, consider the Fujitsu Lifebook P1510D. Whether you go for the model with basic stylus input or the Microsoft Tablet PC version, you'll find that a number of the limitations of the Libretto disappear. The only problem with the Lifebook is its lack of a built-in or dedicated DVD drive. Consider using the higher capacity, higher weight 56 Wh battery Fujitsu makes for the P1510D.

If you want lightweight and not so small, but want a dedicated/built-in DVD drive go for the Sony VAIO VGN-TX670P. It's the lightest of the four laptops when the weight of the DVD drive is included. With its larger keyboard and touchpad as opposed to joystick the TX670P overcomes some of the limits that small size imposes on the Toshiba and Fujitsu ultra lights.

Finally, if you can live without a fully integrated DVD drive, the Dell Latitude X1 may be the ultra for you. It's slightly larger keyboard may make the difference between real and ersatz touch typing. And, without the DVD drive, the Latitude X1 weighs only .3 pound (132 g) more than Toshiba's Libretto U100-S213 without its DVD drive. As with the Fujitsu Lifebook, consider using the Latitude's higher capacity, higher weight 54 Wh non-standard battery.