The HP Pavillion dv6-3120us
In my continuous search  for the perfect, not-that-expensive laptop for the end of 2010, I find that there are quite a few models that are worth it in terms of price and what it offers.

I have been always skeptic of AMD processors, as I've had desktop models myself with that processor that wasn't quite as efficient as Athlon or Intel.

But I was pleasantly surprised with the AMD Turion II Dual Core Mobile Processor, they have certainly come a long way, the way it can be expandable to 8GB RAM and 2.6 Ghz makes it compete with the new i5 Intel processors and not stay out of the run.

When I first saw the design of this laptop, I imagined a 'pretty' design like Dell and at the same time it doesn't have anything to envy to a Macbook. This model is good for games and entertainment in general, but after trying it, it's perfect for work use, especially if you work in the Graphic Design or Animation field.

It took me a while to get used to the keyboard and the touchpad because they went overboard with the sensitivity, but if it annoys you, you can always go to the Control Panel and customize it as you wish.

It comes with Windows 7 64-bit premium so it supports the Adobe CS5 programs with ease. Another great thing is that it has 4 USB ports!  An additional HDMI and a VGA port enables you to integrate it with your digital camera and it doesn't even work a sweat as the data transfer rates run smoothly.

Some could still say that a 500 GB hard drive and 4GB of RAM can be relatively modest for a high-performance computer that should serve well for design purposes, but guess what; if you look for something wayyy less expensive than a Macbook but that encompasses its main qualities, this is it.

Even the price is similar to affordable Dell laptops at $529 on Amazon with free shipping.

HP Pavilion dv6-3120us 15.6-Inch Laptop PC - Up to 5.25 Hours of Battery Life (Champagne)