Sony VAIO VGN-NS325J/S 15.4-inch Budget Laptop PC

Oct 14 2009 - Sony's VAIO VGN-NS325J/S may not be the latest laptop computer but it offers a surprising value. The reason is that Sony has discontinued the NS series laptops and the prices have plummeted on existing stocks. For roughly $550 to $600, one can get Sony's previous laptop with features that match most of the competitors models but with a wider range of peripheral connectors and better styling. It still retains one of the biggest flaws of no HDMI video output but for many this isn't an issue considering its cost.

Oct 14 2009 - Sony's VAIO NS series of low cost laptops have been on the market for some time. The problem is that compared to many other companies, Sony is not known for value. In fact, the NS325J/S model originally sold for anywhere from $700 to $850 making it a good deal more expensive. Now Sony has discontinued the series in favor of the NW models and prices have dropped to a much more reasonable $550.

In terms of the base specifications, the VGN-NW325J/S has similar specs to other budget laptops in the under $650 price. This includes an Intel Pentium Dual-Core T4200 processors, 3GB of DDR2 memory, 250GB hard drive, dual layer DVD burner and Intel GMA 4500MHD integrated graphics. This means that the performance is pretty much what one can expect from its competition. It should run just about any applications save games and video editing without too much difficulty.

What separates the VAIO NS325J/S from the other budget laptops is the number of peripheral ports that it provides. Many companies will remove some peripheral ports in order to reduce costs. In comparison, Sony includes a FireWire port for connecting to digital video camcorders and an ExpressCard/34 slot for wireless modems and other expansion possibilities. Since it is an older design though, it lacks the HDMI video connector for use with HDTVs and digital monitors that is becoming more commonplace.

Another nice feature is that the VAIO NS325J/S has more networking features. This includes an 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi adapter for high speed wireless that many companies are not including in their budget laptops. It also has a dial-up modem that some still require in order to get online or use when no other network connection is available.

This is probably one of the few times that consumers will find a true laptop system from Sony for just over $500.