For around $600 you can expect to find an Intel Core i3, Pentium or AMD E-Series processor with integrated graphics, 2GB to 4GB of RAM, a 320GB or larger hard drive, a DVD burner, and around 4 hours of battery life. Toshiba Satellite L655-S5161 A second-generation Core i3 processor gives the Satellite L655 strong overall performance, decent graphics, and good battery life for a relatively low price. This 15-inch system is a good entry point for midsize laptops and can be found for just under $700, making it a worthwhile budget choice. Its connectivity options are on the bare bones side, as it doesn’t have Bluetooth, USB 3.0, or eSATA. It does, however, offer 802.11n Wi-Fi, three USB 2.0 ports, an SD card reader, HDMI and a DVD drive. Additional views:

Samsung RV511 This 15-inch notebook has plenty to offer for its $550 price tag: a stylish design, Core i3 processor, 6GB of RAM, a dedicated graphics card, a 500GB hard drive and good build quality. In terms of ports you’ll find two USB 2.0, VGA, HDMI, headphone and microphone jacks, and a card reader joining the power jack on the RV511-A01’s left edge. The DVD burner and another USB 2.0 port can be found on the right. Additional views:

HP Pavilion G6x The HP Pavilion g6x offers a snappy Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM and roomy 500GB hard drive. It has a sturdy, attractive design with a comfortable keyboard and offers really solid performance for the everyday user without having to spend a lot of money. Its SRS Labs stereo speakers sound surprisingly good for a budget notebook. This 15-inch budget notebook packs a DVD drive and a decent array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, HDMI, a media card reader and three USB 2.0 ports. You can get the G6x in an assortment of colors such as charcoal grey, pacific blue, sonoma red and others. Additional views:

MSI CR650 This 15-inch (1366x768) system is powered by AMD’s E-350 APU and 3GB of RAM, which should offer plenty of performance for standard usage and remain light on power consumption with an 18W TDP. Price range: $470