Hi-Grade Notino C2200 review

The Notino C2200 is the only machine in this test to use an Intel Celeron-M processor, rather than its higher-powered sibling, the Pentium-M. Unfortunately, this also makes it the slowest.

The Hi-Grade includes a 'combo' CD writer/DVD-ROM drive, and has all the features of Intel's Centrino technology built in. That means 802.11b/g wireless networking, plus a host of power-saving features that boost battery life. The rest of its spec is pretty standard for machines of this price: 512MB of double data-rate (DDR) memory and a 40GB hard disk. As well as an analogue VGA monitor connection, the Hi-Grade also has an S-Video port, enabling you to hook it up to a TV. The 12in display is bright and clear - but like the MV, it's susceptible to glare from overhead lighting.

The looks of the Hi-Grade can be summed up as grey and industrial - something that will appeal to the corporate market. However, the case gives the machine a feel of solidity, and its overall build quality is high. One exception to this is the keyboard, which is both cramped and suffers from a clicky feel. If you have large hands, you'll need a larger laptop.

Most of the Hi-Grade's expansion options are external, but it's worth noting that you can increase the RAM to 1GB. There are two USB 2 ports, plus one FireWire connector for hooking up devices such as a digital video camera. Battery life is decent at one hour and 38 minutes. At 1.9kg it's also light and easy to carry around.

Compared to the Pentium-M processors of its rivals, the performance of the Hi-Grade's Celeron-M is disappointing. It still managed a creditable 64.11 on our 2D tests, though, making it suitable for everyday office tasks. As with all the other machines in this test, the Hi-Grade wouldn't run our Doom 3 games test due to its low-power built-in Intel graphics chipset.

Overall, the Hi-Grade seems deliberately designed not to stand out. It's well made and solid. Six months ago, it would have been a serious contender for an award. But now that Pentium-M-based machines have dropped into this price range, it's outclassed.