Hi-Grade Notino D2200-01 review

At 1.95kg, the D2200-01 is at the heavier end of the ultra-portable notebook market, but the price makes it a tempting choice. The pink chassis isn't going to be to everyone's taste, but it also comes in white.

The 12.1in glossy screen has a resolution of 1,280x800 and, although it struggles a little with reproducing a full array of blue tones, it's evenly lit so colours are consistent across the screen. Our greyscale test showed a small amount of banding, but this isn't noticeable in general use. The display is relatively sturdy: there's some flexibility, but nothing too unnerving.

The chassis feels similarly well made, barely flexing under pressure, and the keyboard remains firm when typing. Its keys are a decent size, but are a little unresponsive. The touchpad responds well but the buttons below it need a firm push, which makes them uncomfortable to use. The bottom of the chassis becomes quite warm, though it wasn't uncomfortable when we used it on our lap for long periods. It's a quiet notebook until you use the DVD drive, which whirrs loudly when reading a disc.

The 120GB hard disk offers plenty of storage, while a 1.86GHz Intel T2350 processor and 2GB of RAM handle Vista Home Premium well. The T2350 is from Intel's older Core Duo range, though, and we'd expect a current model at this price. With Intel GMA950 graphics built in, the D2200-01 failed our Call of Duty 2 test, so it is unsuitable for modern 3D gaming.

You'll find a single D-sub output for connecting an external monitor, while the S/PDIF output will allow you to use most surround-sound systems. The built-in 1W speakers produce enough volume for music and movies but have a harsh, tinny sound.

The Notino has an internal 802.11b/g wireless card but no Bluetooth. An ExpressCard/54 slot, three USB2 ports and a single four-pin FireWire 400 port should provide enough expansion. There's also an SD card slot for quick transfer of photos, music or documents.

Hi-Grade claims the four-cell battery will keep you up and running for two and half hours, but in our tests the D2200-01 managed only one hour and 53 minutes. An eight-cell battery is available as an upgrade for £95.

A more responsive keyboard and trackpad buttons - plus a longer-lasting battery - would make this a four-star notebook, but overall the D2200-01 isn't exceptional. A good alterative is Samsung's Q45 (Shopper, November 2007). It costs £76 more than the Notino, but has a very responsive keyboard, a battery life of a whopping four hours and nine minutes, and the DVD drive is far quieter when reading discs. Its sleek, stylish looks will also make you the envy of other commuters when you work on the train or plane.