The two main lines of Dell laptop computers are the Inspiron, which is oriented at the consumer market, and the Latitude, which is aimed at business users. The Latitudes are actually quite similar to the Inspiron models, at least in terms of hardware. The Latitude models include the D-A10, the D-510, and the X1. These models of Dell laptop computers come with a Pentium M processor, and screen sizes range from 12.1 inches to 15.4 inches.

You can choose your Windows operating system--Professional or Home XP. The standard hard drive is 60 GB, but you can get Latitudes equipped with 120 GB drives. Latitudes feature a full array of ports and slots, and get standard modem, audio, VGA, and SDI/O ports. Corporations seem to enjoy the workhorse performance and sleek design of the Latitude D-610 model.

With an advanced docking station and a sophisticated media module, the D-610 rates highly, particularly for its price. You can upgrade your D-600 to Centrino caliber, or you can equip your computer with Dell's TrueMobile WiFi card, which supports 802.11a/b/g. The Latitude D-600 series computers are easy to maintain and upgrade, and you can get long-term warranty packages at discount when you order bulk shipments.

The D-600 models include wireless antennae, built-in Bluetooth personal area network capabilities, and a number of exceptional docking stations. Despite its relatively small (14 inch) display, the Latitude D-600 is eminently readable. The only major problem (which reviewers point to time and again) is the awkward hand rest.