14. Conclusions And Recommendations

While expensive, the Qosmio G25-AV513 is the most impressive MCE laptop we've seen to date. It offers great standalone capabilities and integrates nicely with an entertainment center for home theater viewing and listening. The bundled software, dual wireless and wired networking capabilities, and TV/DVD handling and display features, offer great value and good capabilities for this type of machine.

In addition to its MCE functionality, the Qosmio G25 is a very good general purpose computer. The G25's scores in our office, component and graphics tests all show that the Qosmio can readily handle a range of applications.

Of course, there are always things that could be improved. We wish that Toshiba would include the mini-jack to optical adapter necessary to bridge the gap between their notebook and an entertainment center. However, with such parts available on the market for as little as $5, we can't really beat them up too much for leaving this out of the retail accessories package (though finding one can be a challenge.)

We're also mystified as to the appeal and usability of the QosmioPlayer TV and CD/DVD software. It offers a dumbed-down version of what Windows Media Center does very nicely, with no perceptible benefits or value added.

Regardless of these issues, the Qosmio G25 is a solid, well-made, if heavy notebook. Its great A/V and general computing capabilities mean it can find a nice home for itself in an office, dorm room, or living/family room. It handles the roles of Windows desktop and multimedia center with equal facility, making it a very nice addition to the computer stable for those who can read its price tag without blanching.