5. PC Specialist Optimus IV

• Reviewed on: 11 January 13
• RRP: £799 inc VAT
• Rating:

A laptop costing around £800 obviously isn’t going to provide the same sort of gaming horsepower as rivals that cost £1000 or more. However, the Optimus IV is a good all-round entertainment laptop that can also handle more than a spot of casual gaming action at price that’s hard to beat.

4. Samsung Series 7 Chronos

• Reviewed on: 4 June 13
• RRP: £599.95 inc VAT
• Rating:

With the Series 7 Chronos, Samsung has turned its talents to making a commoditised version of the Apple MacBook Pro. It has much of the same technology inside, and borrows heavily in certain design cues, but using cheaper materials to allow a lower price. Where the entry-level 15in MacBook Pro costs a handsome £1549, the Samsung can be had for £900. The screen is in some ways better (unless you specifically order an anti-glare for the Mac, at an extra £120) although build quality and ease of use trail some way behind the MacBook.

3. Toshiba Satellite P845t-101

• Reviewed on: 1 April 13
• RRP: £749 inc VAT
• Rating:

Mobility clearly isn't a strong point with the Toshiba Satellite P845t-101, and the touchscreen is likely to get only occasional use. However, the Satellite performs well enough for undemanding users and is a good choice for anyone that wants a versatile laptop for use at home or in the office.

2. Lenovo IdeaPad Z500 Touch

• Reviewed on: 30 May 13
• RRP: £790.48 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Lenovo IdeaPad Z500 Touch does have some rough edges – we'd happily trade the touch-screen for full-HD screen or a fast internal drive. Even so, the Z500 Touch is a well-built desktop replacement machine that could earn its keep for entertainment at home or more demanding work in the office.

1. Chillblast Genesis Mini

• Reviewed on: 26 March 13
• RRP: £699 inc VAT
• Rating:

It’s not the all-out guns-blazing gaming rig that Chillblast claims, but the Genesis Mini does provide very respectable gaming performance for a laptop that costs just £700. The 11.6in screen won’t appeal to everyone, but it does mean that the Genesis Mini is a good option for people who want a light, portable laptop that still provides enough power for some gaming action.