Notebook review:

Vaio VGN-AR11S is not only the first notebook to use an integrated Blu-ray drive. But also the first notebook we’ve seen that uses a 1080i-capable display with HDCP decoding capability, giving it full high-definition readiness. So attractive.

With HD DVD finally making its debut last month in Toshiba’s Qosmio G30, we didn’t have to wait too long to see Blu-ray hit back. This month sees Sony introduce both the VAIO RC-204 PC and the VAIO VGN-AR11S – the first notebook to include the next-generation format drive. While the industry is still split, it’s the high-end consumers that are initially being targeted, with both the Qosmio and AR11S being flagship products.

The VGN-AR11S’s excellent storage options are cemented by the integrated Blu-ray drive on the left side of the notebook.

You won’t want to carry this notebook very far. At 3.8kg, it’s more suited to a sedentary existence, and an appalling 1hr 37mins of VGP-BPS2C battery life under light use is an inevitable result of the large, bright screen and the relatively small sony VGP-BPS2C battery.

In a word, this is an excellent introduction to the world of Blu-ray and high-definition video. Sony’s done well to squeeze this nextgeneration technology into an attractive, compact device. What’s less clear-cut is the price point. At just shy of two grand, it’s a lot to shell out for functionality that’ll be significantly cheaper in less than a year’s time. Buy now and you’ll be the talk of the hi-def town – just don’t think what else you could have bought with your hard-earned cash instead.

It’s absolutely hard to fault such a well-built and good looking laptop. Sure, we only managed a VGP-BPS2C battery life of just two hours, but the size and weight of the machine aren’t designed for mobile travel, so we’re not too concerned.