Toshiba Satellite M645-S4116

Toshiba Satellite M645-S4116

Boasting lots of RAM and a new processor from Intel's second-generation Core (aka "Sandy Bridge") family, the Toshiba Satellite M645-S4116 ($879.99 direct) is not hurting for performance potential. If you're looking for capabilities that also extend to the more intense graphics realm, or for outstanding battery life, you won't find them on this laptop. But the M645-S4116 is able in many situations, and could be a fine choice if making those small compromises is no problem for you. The all-black M645-S4116 bears Toshiba's Fusion finish, a texture to the plastic used on the lid and around the keyboard to reduce smudging and fingerprints; this gives it an attractive look, if not the most eye-catching you'll find. The keyboard is of the conscientious chiclet style used on higher-end Toshiba laptops, and is relatively comfortable, with the keys offering a soft but efficient typing experience. The 14-inch widescreen maxes out at a resolution of 1,366 by 768, a generic but workable display for this system. The laptop weighs about 4.8 pounds, coming in only slightly heavier than our current Editors' Choice for mainstream laptops, the Asus U41JF-A1 ($857 street, 4.5 stars). Based on the Sandy Bridge processing platform, the M645-S4116 is intended for use in a wide variety of everyday tasks, with a focus on media chores.