In its latest issue, Consumer Reports' look at 24 laptops, 14 desktops and six all-in-ones features the thinnest (Macbook Air by Apple), smallest (Asus Eee PC), and largest laptops (HP Pavilion HDX Entertainment Notebook) ever tested, along with laptops and desktops of unprecedented processing speed. Even component integration is getting extreme, as more manufacturers stuff computer circuitry into monitors to create sleek, one-piece desktops. CR also found basic budget computers and more powerful workhouse- and high-end models that would be fine choices for most people.

Consumer Reports' recommendations for laptops for basic needs includes two models by Lenovo the ThinkPad T61, $950 and the ThinkPad R61, $870, Toshiba's Satellite A215-S5818, $750, and the Dell Inspiron 1525, $675.

Consumers in the market for an inexpensive desktop should consider the Lenovo 3000 J200, $580. For more features and performance, consider these two models by HP the Pavilion m9100t, $970 or the Pavilion a6250t, $825, and Dell's Inspirion 530S, $860.

The report which includes comprehensive Ratings and buying advice for tech-support services, desktops, laptops, all-in-ones, and monitors are available in the June issue of Consumer Reports, on sale May 6.

The reports are also available to subscribers at www.ConsumerReports.org.