Making use of Intel's Smart Response Technology, Lenovo configured a 64GB SSD to operate as cache for a higher-capacity (but much slower) 1TB, 5400-rpm mechanical drive. This configuration allows the system both to start up faster (boot time is just 21.7 seconds) and to run storage-intensive tasks much faster. A high-definition (720p), 1.0-megapixel webcam is built into the Y580's display bezel, and Lenovo bundles some fun recording software, as well.

With all its powerful components, it's no wonder that the Y580 falls short on our battery test: It delivered a little less than 4.5 hours of use, a significantly shorter life than what other notebooks we've tested recently have delivered. That might be enough juice to get light users through the day, but you won't want to travel far without a heavy power adapter nearby; there's  a good chance you'll need it.

If you're looking for an even better deal, Lenovo's scored a whopping 117 on our Worldbench 7 benchmark, and it's priced at just $799. True, the processor and graphics card powering the U410 are a little weaker than what you'll find in the Y580, and you'll give up the Blu-ray drive and the beautiful 1920-by-1080 display (the U410's maximum resolution is 1366 by 768 pixels). The flip side of these compromises is that the U410 outlasted the Y580's battery by an hour, and it consumed far less power while plugged in, too. If you're looking for a mean green machine, and you don't plan on playing hard-core games, the U410 would be a great choice--and it costs about $300 less than the Y580.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Y580 stands out as packing a punch while remaining economical. It has the on-the-go power for games, programs, and media. If its short battery life and crushing weight don't dampen your enthusiasm, the IdeaPad Y580 will make you happy.