Back when Lenovo computers were labeled IBM, they had the biggest brand name in the PC world. Now Lenovo's releases struggle alongside those from Dell, HP and other netbook manufacturers to avoid seeming like interchangeable commodities. To distinguish its netbooks from competitors', Lenovo now focuses on speed. Its latest mini-laptop, the $315 S10-2, lets you skip login passwords with a built-in webcam that IDs your face. And if you want to avoid the boot-up process entirely, you can forgo the traditional power button. Press a special "Quick Start" key and within 10 seconds, you can check e-mail, listen to music or use Skype to make a call. The S10-2 also has a "rescue system" in case you find yourself suddenly despairing over corrupted files. At 2.2 pounds, the S10-2 is light and compact, though as with most netbooks, its chunky battery ensures that it won't be confused for its sleeker, thinner cousin, the MacBook Air. It comes in white, gray, pink or black. For an additional monthly fee, you can add 3G service so you can go online anywhere there's a cell signal.
Price: $315
Weight: 2.2 lb.