Sony VAIO TT Blu-ray ultraportable reviewed

Turns out you can build a pretty good laptop for more than four grand. LaptopMag.com has the first full review of the new Sony TT series ultraportable, and it doesn't disappoint. The latest low-voltage Core 2 Duo processor, a Blu-ray drive, dual 128GB SSDs and six-hour-plus battery life in a 2.8-pound package adds up to an Editors' Choice for the high-end VAIO VGN-TT198UBX.

Curiously though, the VGN-TT198UBX only gets 4 out of 5 stars, in part because of the price, but LaptopMag.com also notes that "watching Blu-ray movies on a n 11.1-inch display isn't very enticing," performance on benchmarks was only average, and the integrated Intel graphics was "predictably weak" on 3D gaming tests. As the review states, you can get a version of the TT series without the Blu-ray drive and SSDs starting at $2,095, but you'll also have to settle for a slower processor and less memory.

"In general, though, we prefer the Sony VAIO Z series, because it's only about half a pound heavier while offering discrete graphics and a larger screen and keyboard," LaptopMag.com concludes.

CNET.com's Crave blog has also posted its first impressions of the VGN-TT198UBX.

Hands-on coverage of the  Sony VAIO VGN-TT198UBX

• Read LaptopMag.com's review (4 out of 5 stars)
• Read Crave's first impressions of the Sony TT series