Review: Sony VAIO FZ

Our review version of the FZ, priced starting at $1,199.99 with Intel graphics, has the following specifications:

• Screen: 15.4-inch screen WXGA (1280 x 800) with XBRITE-ECO (glossy finish)
• Processor: 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T7300
• Hard Drive: 200 GB hard drive (SATA, 4200RPM)
• Memory: 2GB RAM (PC5300, 667 MHz, DDR2 SDRAM) -- 4GB max memory
• Optical Drive: DVD+-R Double layer / DVD+-RW Drive (Blu-ray drive optional)
• Ports and Slots: Three USB 2.0, one FireWire 400 port, one ExpressCard 34, one S-Video, one VGA, one MemoryStick Pro reader, one SD card reader, headphone / line-out, microphone-in, modem, 10/100 Ethernet
• Wireless: Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n)
• Graphics: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100 (NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT available)
• Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium
• Dimensions: 14.0" x 10.2" x 1.4" (Width x Depth x Height)
• Weight: 5.75 pounds

Conclusion

The Sony VAIO FZ is a nice looking notebook with a solid set of features that are sure to appeal to people looking for a full-featured notebook with clean lines. While the entry-level version of the FZ with integrated Intel graphics lacks the power for serious gaming, even the Intel chipset provides enough performance for a mobile multimedia center. The optional NVIDIA graphics, blu-ray and HDMI make the FZ a perfect HD powerhouse. If Sony could only find a way to fix the annoying AV Mode button error, remove some of the bloatware, and improve battery life the FZ would be nearly perfect.

Pros

• Simple design with clean looks
• Fast Core 2 Duo processors and up to 4GB of RAM provide plenty of system performance
• Screen has excellent horizontal viewing angles
• Solid build quality and sturdiness
• Stays cool and makes little noise
• Good keyboard if you don't mind flat keys

Cons

• Useless AV button
• Too much bloatware installed
• Poor battery life
• Only three USB ports.