So, the last big name has fallen. HP gave out in April 2008, and both Dell and Toshiba's resistance crumbled by the autumn. But it's taken Sony until the middle of 2009 to produce what it confesses to be a netbook, the VAIO Mini W Series.

Well priced, with a robust chassis and touchscreen option that make it a good choice for classroom use, and any one else wanting a netbook that's a little bit different

Sleek and professional, the Hp Mini 5101 is another attractively pitched netbook that can't shake its very poor battery life. When will manufactuers learn that battery life is all-important to netbook success?

It’s lovely to look at, with a full size keyboard and glorious screen. See why the Benq Joybook Lite U121 is one of the best rated in our latest netbook roundup

A very likeable all-in-one – albeit limited in its usefulness beyond basic functions. Read our review of Shuttle's new all-in-one X50

Stunning design goes hand in hand with fine usability, but the non-replaceable battery and high price count against the Eee PC 1008HA Seashell

Looks, features, value: this is the first nettop we’ve seen to genuinely appeal in all the key areas

Asus' new Eee PC 1004dn steps up in style and features, boasting a DVD-writer, expresscard slot and scrabble-tile keyboard

An impressive touchscreen all-in-one PC for an equally impressive price, but the single-core Atom holds it back

This impressive ultraportable fills a narrow but significant niche between the MacBook Air and Lenovo X300

We're worried about the damn hot operating temperature, but otherwise we're blown away by this mini notebook.

A retrograde step from its predecessor, but a super low price makes this dinky PC very desirable

An inexpensive laptop that, when it comes to style and quality, more than punches above its weight

Slim, good-looking and affordable – and you can even work outside in sunlight. Just note the niggles.

Beautifully designed with excellent battery life and generous features – but it’s expensive.

The most fully-featured notebook we’ve seen, but price will determine just how desirable this stylish notebook really is.

Windows SideShow is a fascinating distraction, but even without the supplementary screen the W5fe is impressive.

Incredible design and amazing battery life makes the G118 a tempting mobile option.

An impressive attempt at a good-value portable PC, but the ergonomics let it down.

A laptop of luxury, but practicality suffers and you pay a hefty premium.