The Fujitsu LifeBook P2000 is decidedly different from most ultraportables. Rather than saving space and weight by making the system thin, Fujitsu has reduced its depth instead. Whereas the other six ultraportables in this roundup have a very flat look, measuring roughly 1 by 10.5 by 9 inches (HWD), the P2000 is stocky and stunted, measuring 1.6 by 10.6 by 7 inches.

Also unlike most ultraportables, the reason for the P2000's stockiness is that it accommodates a DVD/CD-RW drive. The modular bay can also hold a floppy disk drive (included with the system) or a second battery ($129). The hitch is that because the system isn't as deep as others, its display is smaller than normal, measuring only 10.6 inches diagonal.

Using the 933-MHz Transmeta Crusoe TM5800 processor, the system isn't particularly fast. Also, the P2000's wireless range was the poorest of this roundup—110 feet. Given its thickness, the keyboard should be a bit heftier and more responsive, though its pointing stick is effective, letting you select desktop icons simply by tapping on its head. Overall, the P2000 is impressive for a system that weighs 3.3 pounds and sells for $1,748.

Technical Support
Warranty, 1 year (parts and labor); 3-year warranty, $179.95. 1 year on-site service, $49.95; 3 years, $149.95. Toll-free technical support, 24/7.