Touchy

Computing today relies a lot on mousing. With a notebook, all you get is a touch pad or pointing stick. Unless you plan on traveling with a mouse, test the notebook's input device for comfort and responsiveness. Some touch pads include extra features, such as a dedicated area for scrolling. We've never been big fans of those little pointing sticks tucked in the middle of the keyboard, because precision is tough and the little nubs wear off, requiring replacement.