HP Pavilion dv6-6173cl

HP Pavilion dv6-6173cl

The HP Pavilion dv6-6173cl ($949.99 list at Costco) is one of the most powerful laptops you'll find for less than $1,000. This 15.6-inch desktop replacement pairs a high-end, quad-core Intel Core i7 CPU with a midrange AMD Radeon graphics processor. The Radeon HD 6670M graphics feature 1GB of dedicated video memory and can churn out playable if not elite frame rates. The Radeon graphics can also be switched off in favor of integrated Intel graphics for longer battery life. In addition, the Pavilion dv6-6173cl boasts a stellar aluminum design and a well-rounded feature set that includes Beats Audio and Intel Wireless Display 2.0 (WiDi 2.0). Plus, as a Costco exclusive, it comes backed with a two-year warranty - double that of the average consumer laptop coverage. If you are looking for a versatile laptop for home use, the Pavilion dv6-6173cl will satisfy most if not all of your needs. It's not as thin and sleek as the Dell XPS 15z (Microsoft) ($999, 4 stars), but the HP Pavilion dv6-6173cl clearly outclasses it in performance. Like the Dell XPS 15z, the dv6-6173cl features a brushed aluminum enclosure, though instead of MacBookian silver, the Pavilion dv6's aluminum is a deep brown color that HP refers to as "dark umber."