While everyone is arguing over which B30,000 ultrabook to get, you might have missed out on how insanely cheap entry-level laptops have become. Lenovo S300 is one such PC, with enough power to get work done, but not much multimedia oomph.

Plugged:
· Nice keyboard design and spacing, accurate and easy to type on.
· Lots of ports, whether it’s USB 2.0 and 3.0, HDMI and a card reader.
· The One Key Recovery button allows you to back up your system to an image file and restore it, create a bootable recovery disc or reboot your computer to system recovery mode.
· Although the speakers are located underneath, the sound is pretty loud and clear.

Bugged:
· The track pad is not located at the center often leading to mixed up left and right clicks.
· Although it is designed to be portable, it feels both heavy and a bit flimsy.
· Shut down takes a bit longer than expected.
· Screen sharpness (1366x768 pixels) and clarity isn’t the best.
· You often need to refresh the wireless network list for your desired connection to show up.

Verdict:
If you don’t mind the weight, and can get used to the off-center track pad, the Lenovo S300 is one solid budget laptop. Perfect for basic operations like web browsing and all the usual Microsoft Office duties. But if you’re looking to do more heavy tasks like Photoshop, gaming and video editing, then the screen’s lack of clarity and the CPU’s low specs means the S300 doesn’t quite measure up.

Specs:
Intel Core i3 1.6GHz, Windows 7 Home Premium, Intel HD Graphics 3000 4GB DDR3 RAM, 720p HD integrated webcam, HDD 500GB, battery life 5 hours

B13,990. Available at Lenovo retailers nationwide, try 4/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., Bangkok, 02-640-7000.