The V131's $800 price for our test configuration looks even better when you consider that the V131 runs the professional version of Windows 7. Microsoft Office 2010 Starter is on hand, and as is the norm with Vostro machines, you'll find a relatively junk-free software array--just a few useful utilities and Trend Micro's Security Agent trial. The Dell webcam application is one of the better examples you'll see, and digitalPersona is included to take care of the software end of the biometrics.

The Vostro V131 is going to draw a lot of attention solely because of its low price. But it's no good grabbing someone's attention if you can't impress them. The V131 should have no problem doing that.