HP puts desktop replacement on a diet: the dv8000
HP puts desktop replacement on a diet: the dv8000
The dv8000 really shines in the design department. At 7.5 pounds (8.6 with its AC adapter), it's about 2 pounds lighter than the zd8000 and 1 to 2 pounds lighter than the Dell, the Sony, or the Fujitsu. The dv8000 still has a 17-inch wide-screen display (which still looks a bit dim), a great keyboard with a separate number pad, and a full (and nicely laid-out) set of features and connections. Here are some highlights:
* Instant-on, which HP calls QuickPlay
* Remote control that fits in the PC Card slot
* Hard drive capacity up to 240GB
* Double-layer DVD burner with LightScribe
* 6-in-1 media card reader
* Four USB 2.0, 1 FireWire, S-Video out
* One year of standard tech support, which is not to be taken lightly, now that Dell's skimping with a 90-day plan.
On HP's site this morning, we're seeing the Pavilion dv8000 start at $899 after rebates. A fully loaded version will probably put you closer to $1,500 or more. HP will start shipping the dv8000 on November 9, 2005, and we'll have our full review up well before then.
* Note: these numbers reflect pricing at the time of review; these laptops are likely less expensive now.