HP Pavilion g6z-2200
The HP Pavilion g6z-2200 may be a low-priced budget system but, for $454, it's rich in amenities. The AMD-powered 15.6-inch system offers a solid Windows 8 experience, comes with a boisterous Dolby sound system, and packs in a cozy full-size keyboard complete with number pad.
Pros: Good performance for price; Multiple color options; Comfortable keyboard; Quality speakers; Optical drive included Cons: Below-average battery life; Lackluster graphics performance The Verdict: The HP Pavilion g6z provides a solid Windows 8 computing experience, good sound and fun color options for a budget-friendly price.
The HP Pavilion g6z-2200's rounded corners give the body a softer, more approachable look than some other notebooks on the market, such as the Acer Aspire V5-571-6869. The sparkling black lid on our unit sports a glossy finish, as does the bezel and keyboard deck, which sparkles differently depending on the lighting. For $25 more, you can choose from four other color options, including bright purple, ruby red, winter blue and linen white.
Dolby's integrated Advanced Audio speakers sit just above the keyboard, and the elongated silver power button is situated in the upper left corner. We love the Pavilion g6z's smooth exterior, but the shiny plastic does little to hide fingerprint smudges.
Measuring 14.8 x 9.6 x 1.2-inches and weighing 5.2 pounds, the g6z fit comfortably on our lap and is lighter than Acer's Aspire V3-551-8458 (5.4 pounds). HP's 4.6-pound Pavilion Sleekbook 15z-b000 weighs less but lacks an optical drive.
The HP Pavilion g6z-2200 may be a low-priced budget system but, for $454, it's rich in amenities. The AMD-powered 15.6-inch system offers a solid Windows 8 experience, comes with a boisterous Dolby sound system, and packs in a cozy full-size keyboard complete with number pad.
Pros: Good performance for price; Multiple color options; Comfortable keyboard; Quality speakers; Optical drive included Cons: Below-average battery life; Lackluster graphics performance The Verdict: The HP Pavilion g6z provides a solid Windows 8 computing experience, good sound and fun color options for a budget-friendly price.
The HP Pavilion g6z-2200's rounded corners give the body a softer, more approachable look than some other notebooks on the market, such as the Acer Aspire V5-571-6869. The sparkling black lid on our unit sports a glossy finish, as does the bezel and keyboard deck, which sparkles differently depending on the lighting. For $25 more, you can choose from four other color options, including bright purple, ruby red, winter blue and linen white.
Dolby's integrated Advanced Audio speakers sit just above the keyboard, and the elongated silver power button is situated in the upper left corner. We love the Pavilion g6z's smooth exterior, but the shiny plastic does little to hide fingerprint smudges.
Measuring 14.8 x 9.6 x 1.2-inches and weighing 5.2 pounds, the g6z fit comfortably on our lap and is lighter than Acer's Aspire V3-551-8458 (5.4 pounds). HP's 4.6-pound Pavilion Sleekbook 15z-b000 weighs less but lacks an optical drive.
