You get many choices with the Sony laptop VAIO line of computers. Choose from small, portable models for the frequent traveler, mid-range laptops for general business use or powerful multimedia machines with robust graphics capability. The large number of models in their line means that you will find one with the features you need.

The Sony VAIO notebook line contains a wide variety of models. Notebook computers, or laptops, are made in the following categories:

1. Ultraportable laptops, including the SZ, TZ and UX series of VAIO Notebooks, are the smallest with a display of less than 14 inches, but they sacrifice some features or performance to achieve a weight of less than four pounds.

2. Thin and light laptops weigh from four to six pounds, have a display of 12 to 14 inches and generally are more power than ultraportables.

3. Mid-size or mainstream laptops weigh from six to eight pounds and have a screen from 14 to 15.4 inches.

4. Desktop replacements, including Sony's AR series, have the most power but are also the heaviest at over 7.5 pounds; they have 17- to 20-inch screens.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare Sony VAIO notebooks to find the best match for your business needs

Distributors for Sony VAIO may not sell every model, but you can find information on each model at the Sony VAIO official site. Look for reviews written by consumers who own the various models.

I recommend: Visit the Product Adviser section or use an interactive comparison tool to narrow your choice of model at Sony Electronics Inc., the VAIO laptop official website. Read Sony VAIO notebook reviews at Laptop Magazine, published by Bedford Communications, Inc., to learn pros and cons, product specs and detailed information.

Buy a new VAIO laptop from Sony VAIO distributors

Sony VAIO distributor websites provide information about the products they sell. Visit several sites to compare features and prices.

I recommend: Shop for Sony VAIO notebooks at CDW Corporation, where you can view at 360 degree product tour of many of the laptops they sell. Browse Sony VAIO laptops by series, choose from several extended warranty options or take advantage of various product rebates at PC Connection, Inc. Choose several Sony laptops, set up a side-by-side comparison that lists product features and specifications in a chart form and purchase your select model at Best Buy for Business.

Find refurbished Sony VAIO laptops online

Vendors service and repair refurbished laptops to restore them to the manufacturer's quality standards. Open box laptops may be new or returned items. Companies test to make sure they are fully functional and have all the accessories. Both come with a warranty.

I recommend: Browse through a large selection of refurbished VAIO notebooks at Overstock.com, where you can narrow your search by price, screen size, hard drive capacity, memory or CPU speed. Choose from many models of refurbished and open box VAIO laptops at Tech for Less LLC.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you take your new Sony VAIO notebook computer out of its box, plug it in and allow the battery to charge fully before unplugging it. Read the instructions to find out how long, and plan ahead so you can keep it plugged in for that length of time.
• •  If you find a laptop's touch pad hard to use, purchase a USB mouse to use with your laptop. USB mice come in wireless and corded varieties, and you can buy them wherever you buy computers and computer accessories.