Laptop computers are usually compromised in one way or another. Either they're too bulky or too flimsy or they lack the necessary features. It's a tough job fitting the functionality of a desktop PC into the space offered by a laptop machine. But various manufacturers are getting closer to portable perfection.

That's not to say that this Acclaim is the perfect laptop - it's not - but it certainly offers most of the features that you'd want in a package that can easily slip into a briefcase. The dimensions are respectable for a start - 269 x 242 x 25mm - and the machine weighs in at 1.9kg. It's a tough piece of kit, too, with a magnesium alloy casing that gives it good torsional strength and (hopefully) some protection against knocks.

Inside the case of our test machine was a 1GHz Pentium III processor, but slower options (down to 700MHz Celeron) are also available. 64MB is the standard memory count, but our test machine had 192MB, of which 8MB was used by the onboard graphics adapter - so don't expect massive 3D gaming power here. The potential maximum of 576MB of system memory is worth considering, though, as many ultra-portable machines have limited expansion options in this area.

The display itself is a 12.1-inch TFT panel running at 1024 x 768. It's a good quality screen with bright colours and sharp detail. There's a spacious 20GB hard drive, too, with options ranging from 10GB up to 30GB. Surprisingly for a machine of this size, the CD-ROM drive is built-in, but the floppy drive is external, plugging in via one of the unit's three USB ports.

Yes, three of them. Connectivity is definitely a plus point with this machine. You also have an IEEE1394 FireWire connector, a 56kbps internal modem and a 10/100Mbps Ethernet socket, plus built-in 802.11b wireless networking capability. There's no docking station supplied as standard, but ACi can provide one to match specific requirements (i.e. serial and parallel ports) for £129 + VAT.

Couple that lot with a battery that lasts around two and a half hours and a lifetime RTB warranty (labour only - parts cover is for the first 12 months), and this becomes an appealing proposition.

ACi - Acclaim features - Verdict

There's not a lot wrong with this machine. It would make an excellent business laptop, combining portability with power, features and robust build quality. The only thing that slightly lets it down is the price - similar machines are available from other companies for less. However, you should compare warranty and option details before deciding that one machine is cheaper than another for your specific needs.

ACi - Acclaim price

£1,399 + VAT (DVD upgrade £199 + VAT, CD-RW upgrade £179 + VAT)

ACi Ltd: 020 8830 1958