Need Recommendation: Small & Fast Laptop

Hello,

I need some assistance choosing a new laptop. My basic requirements are SMALL and FAST.

I will be using it for internet, streaming videos, editing RAW images, Microsoft Word/Excel/PowerPoint. I am looking for a laptop that won't slow down to a halt when I am running programs simultaneously or when I open up RAW image files.

Please see the specs below for more information. I am looking recommendations from a few price points: $500, $800, and $1,000. I want to be sure I get a good deal, but also a system that will last.


1. Budget: $500-$1,100

2. Screen Size: Between 11" and 15", preferably 13" - (Need to have)

3. Resolution: no preference

4. Size/Weight: Ultra Portable

5. Battery life:5 hours + (Nice to Have)

6. Gaming/Video Editing/Music Editing: None

7. Photo Editing: Some, RAW via Photoshop

8. Capability to run Software simultaneously: Yes - Word, Excel, PP, Internet, Photoshop

9. Hard Drive: 250 GB - 1 TB

10. Life of laptop: 3-5 years

11. Optical Drive: no preference

12. Brands: no preference

13. Country: USA

14. Operating System Needed: Windows 7 Home or Professional

15. Productivity/Other Software Needed: none


Thanks in advance for your help!
- Laura

Check out the new ultrabooks on the market. They're on the higher end of your price range but they're powerpackers.

Ultrabooks are set to be big within the next few months (you can bet most venders will have them out before the holiday season). As for prices you can expect around $800 for a minimum (core i5, hybrid storage, 4Gb RAM) system. If you can wait till after the holidays prices (usually) drop down to include the more powerful systems under a grand.

I agree, I you are thinking of getting one of these compare it to an equally priced macbook air first. Generally you will find that the ultrabook is a better value but do consider software as well, I've heard final pro cut is a sweet program.