When my old Toshiba laptop died (after many years of good use I spilled Pepsi on the keyboard and that was it) I went in to a computer-parts store nearby. The computer-geek behind the counter said to me, "You can't go wrong with Toshiba or Compaq". And he was right.

I had hoped to find a Compaq since I would rather buy American. A few years ago, Toshiba was found to have sold submarine secrets to the Soviet Union, and I didn't like that. But for the money, the Toshiba blew every other laptop away. I bought the 2100CDT on the basis of:

1) the active-matrix screen
2) the 64mb of RAM
3) the little toggle mouse, which I far prefer to the touchpads
4) Toshiba's record of reliability
5) The 400mhz processor and
6) price, price, price.

Almost a year later, I am still very happy with my computer. If I were buying another computer, I would look at Toshiba first. If nothing else, today's laptop ought to have at least 64mb of RAM and an active-matrix screen. And I would try to get a voucher for Windows Me, which I hear is much more stable than Windows 98. Overall, steer clear of the generic brands and shell out the little bit extra for the RAM and the brand. The money spent is well worth it.



Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 1400
Operating System: Windows
Processor: AMD K-2
Processor speed: 301-400
Screen Size: 12"
RAM: 64
Internal Storage: CD-ROM
Hard Drive (GB): 4-6