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Sony Vaio VGN-Z Series

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21VN/XProcessor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8400, Intel Core 2 Duo P8600, Intel Core 2 Duo P8700, Intel Core 2 Duo P8800, Intel Core 2 Duo P9500, Intel Core 2 Duo P9600, Intel Core 2 Duo P9700
Graphics Adapter: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 4500MHD, NVIDIA GeForce 9300M G, NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 13.30 inch
Weight: 1.5kg, 2kg
Price: 1300, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 2000, 2100, 2400, 2500, 2650, 3000, 3500, 4000 euro
Average Score: 85.08% - good
Average of 37 scores (from 47 reviews)
price: 57%, performance: 80%, features: 81%, display: 78%, mobility: 80%, workmanship: 82%, ergonomy: 64%, emissions: 45%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11VN

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11VNNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z11VN
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.30 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2500 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z11VN (Model)

Pricecompare

Average Score: 86.25% - good

Average of 4 scores (from 6 reviews)

 

Reviews

70% Sony Vaio Z11 13in laptop
Source: Reg Hardware English Archive.org version

We like the Vaio Z11's performance, portability and connectivity, but we were disappointed with the battery life - especially because its dual-GPU set-up is supposed to improve it. If battery life doesn't matter to you, you have deep pockets and you want a full-gamut RGB screen, there's a lot of to appreciate here. But more mainstream users can find better value machines out there.


70%, Leistung gut, Mobilität mäßig, Preis mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/28/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 50% performance: 80% mobility: 60%

Foreign Reviews

Tuschkästen
Source: c't - 23/09 German
Comparison, online available, Long, Date: 11/01/2009
Rating: performance: 60% features: 40% display: 80% ergonomy: 70% emissions: 70%
90% Scharf, schnell, schick und sicher
Source: PC Professionell German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/01/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% performance: 90% features: 90% mobility: 90% ergonomy: 80%
Rauschender Alleskönner
Source: c't - 20/08 German
Single Review, , Long, Date: 10/01/2008
Rating: performance: 60% features: 80% display: 90% mobility: 90% ergonomy: 80% emissions: 40%
90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11VN
Source: Notebookjournal German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 08/25/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 70% performance: 90% features: 50% display: 70% mobility: 70% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 70% emissions: 40%
95% Sony Vaio VGN-Z11VN
Source: PC World Italia Italian IT→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 08/22/2008
Rating: Total score: 95%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z530N

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z530NNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z530N
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1500 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 80% - good

Average of 2 scores (from 2 reviews)

 

Reviews

80% Sony VAIO VGN-Z530N/B 13.1-inch Ultraportable Laptop
Source: Comp Reviews English Archive.org version
Sony's VAIO VGN-Z530N/B is the least expensive model in their Z series ultraportables, but that still comes with a high price tag. For this price, you get a system that has a high level of performance with dedicated graphics and excellent battery life. Be aware though that the system does not have an XP downgrade feature even though Sony advertises such a feature.
4 von 5, Leistung sehr gut, Preis schlecht, Mobilität gut
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 09/16/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 40% performance: 90% mobility: 80%
80% Sony VAIO Z Series (VGN-Z530N)
Source: Laptop Mag English Archive.org version
Light, speedy, and long-lasting—not to mention secure and good-looking—are the attributes we look for in ultraportables, and the VAIO Z series has them all. We’d like to see a faster boot time (or maybe the addition of Splashtop for quicker access to the Web) and slightly bigger touchpad buttons. Overall, though, we would be glad to use this notebook on a daily basis. If you can do without an optical drive, the Lenovo ThinkPad X200 is even faster and feels sturdier. But if you want a DVD drive for installing software, burning video, or watching movies, this is the machine to get.
4 von 5, Display gut
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 08/28/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% display: 80%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WNNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2100 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z11WN (Model)

Pricecompare

Average Score: 84.1% - good

Average of 10 scores (from 11 reviews)

 

Reviews

100% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B
Source: The Insider English Archive.org version
Compact ultra-portable laptops tend to throw up as many compromises as solutions but the VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B is simply an amazing laptop. The keyboard can feel cramped at times but the individually mounted keys, which punch their way through the body of the chassis, have a fantastic typing action. When on the move you can switch between dedicated and integrated graphics, with the difference being an extra three hours in battery life. It has everything the average traveller needs, including a DVD rewriter built into its compact frame. Sony has set a new benchmark in ultra-slim laptops and one it may find difficult to beat itself.
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 07/21/2009
Rating: Total score: 100% price: 80% performance: 100% features: 80% mobility: 100% ergonomy: 80%
84% Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN/B review
Source: CNet English Archive.org version
The Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN/B is beautifully designed and reassuringly robust. It marries a decently sized 13.1-inch screen with good portability, and has the advantage of integrated 3G/HSDPA support. There are some downsides, though, including a meagre two USB ports. It's also packed with pre-installed software, such as Skype and Google Earth, much of which is eminently removable. Despite these niggles, however, this is a superb ultra-portable laptop. If you can afford it, you won't be disappointed.
84, Mobilität 80
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 02/19/2009
Rating: Total score: 84% mobility: 80%
Sony - Vaio VGN-Z11WN/B review
Source: IT Reviews English Archive.org version
The screen of this notebook is superb and the overall design standards and capabilities are high. If you can afford it, the Vaio Z is an outstanding machine.
Display sehr gut, Preis sehr gut
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 12/01/2008
Rating: price: 90% display: 90%
90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B 13.1in Notebook
Source: Trusted Reviews English Archive.org version
As a portable notebook for the power user we can think of little better than the Sony VAIO Series Z. It delivers prodigious processing power and very good battery life in a machine that's exceedingly portable and very useable thanks to its sumptuous high resolution display and wonderfully tactile keyboard. Like most VAIO machines it is pricey, but if you're a demanding user then the price is well worth it.
(von 10): 9, Ausstattung 9, Leistung 8, Preis 8
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/17/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 80% performance: 80% features: 90%
90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B notebook
Source: Pocket Lint English Archive.org version
The Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B is a stunning notebook for anyone who needs performance and battery life from their portable. Sure, you're paying for these features but there currently isn't another notebook on the market that can touch for the VAIO for portability.
9 von 10, Mobilität gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 10/31/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% performance: 40% mobility: 80%
90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B 13.1in Notebook
Source: Trusted Reviews English Archive.org version
As a portable notebook for the power user we can think of little better than the Sony VAIO Series Z. It delivers prodigious processing power and very good battery life in a machine that's exceedingly portable and very useable thanks to its sumptuous high resolution display and wonderfully tactile keyboard. Like most VAIO machines it is pricey, but if you're a demanding user then the price is well worth it.
(von 10): 9, Preis 8, Leistung 8, Ausstattung 9
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/31/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 80% performance: 80% features: 90%
90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B review
Source: Techradar English Archive.org version
The Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B is an excellent laptop, and the all-day battery life is truly surprising for such a powerful machine. If you can afford the high price tag, it's one of the best laptops around.
4.5 von 5, Verarbeitung sehr gut, Mobilität gut, Leistung gut, Display sehr gut, Preis schlecht
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 10/26/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 40% performance: 80% display: 90% mobility: 80% workmanship: 90%
67% Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B
Source: PC Pro English Archive.org version
A couple of months back we took a tentative first look at Sony's forthcoming range of business ultraportables, the Z-series, in PC Pro's blogs. Now, finally, we can stop gazing adoringly at the press photos, as Sony has sent us the first VGN-Z11WN/B in the UK. Sony's Z-series is an ultraportable to aspire to, but it's not without its faults
4 von 6
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 09/01/2008
Rating: Total score: 67%

Foreign Reviews

47% Test: Sony VGN-Z11WN
Source: PC Welt German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/20/2008
Rating: Total score: 47% price: 4% performance: 86% features: 69% mobility: 78% ergonomy: 30%
83% Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN
Source: ZDNet German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, , Short, Date: 10/24/2008
Rating: Total score: 83% performance: 80% features: 90% display: 80% mobility: 80% workmanship: 80% emissions: 40%
100% Sony Vaio VGN-Z11WN
Source: PC Magazin - 11/08 German
Single Review, , Very Short, Date: 10/16/2008
Rating: Total score: 100% performance: 80% mobility: 90%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z17GN

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z17GNNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z17GN
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 3000 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z17GN (Model)

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Average Score: 90% - very good

Average of 1 scores (from 3 reviews)

 

Reviews

Sony VAIO VGN - Z17GN/B, it's pure class
Source: PC Authority English Archive.org version
It’s testament to its fine design that despite these faults, the Z-Series is an alluring prospect for the frequent and deep-pocketed traveller. But the VGN-Z17GN/B’s battery life lags behind that of the Lenovo ThinkPad X300, and the lack of Blu-ray and SSD options will disappoint those looking for the ultimate do-it-all luxury ultraportable.
Mobilität mangelhaft
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/02/2009
Rating: mobility: 50%
90% Sony VAIO Z Series - VGNZ17GN Explored
Source: Hardware Zone English Archive.org version
From its arrival to our labs to the time where we had to pack it up for return, the Sony VAIO VGN-Z17GN has definitely lived up to our expectations. Its sleek design and attractive looks helped cement our opinion of this drool-worthy notebook, though we would like to point out that it's not 100% perfect (close though). From its cylindrical spine to the isolated keyboard design to the carbon fiber casing, the VGN-Z17GN is well, one heck of a notebook. We're still none too happy about the flimsy feeling screen, but with care, accidents can be avoided. Performance too is another good thing the VGN-Z17GN has in its favor. Our benchmarks showed the unit getting pretty decent scores with a slight oddity with regard to the Quake 4 benchmark.
4.5 von 5, Display schlecht
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 09/25/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% display: 40%

Foreign Reviews

Milyen jó a VAIO?
Source: Prohardver.hu HU→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/07/2009
Rating: price: 30% performance: 90% display: 60% workmanship: 80%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11MN/B

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11MN/BNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z11MN/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8400
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1600 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z11MN/B (Model)

Pricecompare

Average Score: 95% - very good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Foreign Reviews

95% Next-Generation-Notebooks
Source: PC Games Hardware - 11/08 German
Comparison, , Length Unknown, Date: 10/16/2008
Rating: Total score: 95% price: 40% performance: 80% mobility: 80%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21MN/B

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21MN/BNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z21MN/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1700 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

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Average Score: 84.5% - good

Average of 2 scores (from 3 reviews)

 

Reviews

83% Sony Vaio VGN-Z21MN/B
Source: PC Pro English Archive.org version
It wasn't long ago that we looked at Sony's gorgeous, if pricey, VGN-Z11WN/B ultraportable, but now we've sneaked an exclusive first glance at its forthcoming replacement. The VGN-Z21MN/B is, to all intents and purposes, the big brother of Sony's 11.1in VGN-TT11WN/B. The 314 x 210 x 33mm dimensions conceal a generous 13.1in display and belie a headline grabbing weight of just 1.43kg.  Sony's 13.1in Z-series redefines the ultraportable template, and justifies every single penny of its sizable price tag.
5 von 6, Preis sehr gut
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 10/16/2008
Rating: Total score: 83% price: 90%

Foreign Reviews

86% Kleine Geräte, große Wirkung
Source: Connect - 2/09 German
Comparison, , Long, Date: 03/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 86% performance: 81% features: 75% mobility: 94%
Sony Vaio Z (Z21) recensione
Source: Notebook Italia Italian IT→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 05/15/2009
Rating: performance: 90% display: 90% mobility: 90%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11XN

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z11XNNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z11XN
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2400 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z11XN (Model)

Pricecompare

Average Score: 100% - very good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Foreign Reviews

100% Sony Vaio VGN-Z11XN
Source: PCM Dutch NL→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 11/06/2008
Rating: Total score: 100%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z590

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z590Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z590
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1700 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z590 (Model)

Pricecompare

Average Score: 90% - very good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Reviews

90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z590
Source: PC Mag English Archive.org version
No other ultraportable line captures the essence of thinking outside the box like Sony's. It was the first to introduce a sub-4-pound ultraportable with an optical drive and discrete graphics. Its keyboard, first seen on the VAIO VGN-X505ZP, was mimicked on Apple's MacBook, and the VAIO VGN-SZ170P was switching between two different graphics solutions long before anyone had heard of switchable graphics. Sony squeezes an amazing amount of cutting-edge technology into the Sony VAIO VGN-Z590, a 3.2-pound ultraportable.
4.5 von 5, Leistung gut, Mobilität sehr gut, Display gut, Leistung sehr gut, Preis schlecht
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/06/2008
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 40% performance: 80% display: 80% mobility: 90%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21ZN/X

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21ZN/XNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z21ZN/X
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 4000 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 85.67% - good

Average of 3 scores (from 4 reviews)

 

Reviews

90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z21ZN/X notebook
Source: Pocket Lint English Archive.org version
There’s no doubt the Sony VAIO Z-series is expensive; too expensive for the regular consumer, and for most those extra tenths in performance, features, mobility will be impossible to justify. The fact remains, however, that it’s also one of the best laptops we’ve ever seen. It offers a perfect blend of performance and mobility, proving everything a laptop should be. It allows you to take it with you everywhere you go, without making compromises over your regular desktop PC. It’s everything a laptop should be.
90
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 06/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 90%

Foreign Reviews

Sony VAIO VGN-Z21ZN
Source: Tom's Hardware German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 03/11/2009
Rating: price: 50% performance: 90% features: 80% mobility: 80% workmanship: 70%
80% High-Speed-Notebook
Source: Chip.de - 2/09 German
Single Review, , Very Short, Date: 01/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 60% performance: 90%
87% Sony Vaio VGN-Z21ZN/X
Source: Chip.de German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 12/16/2008
Rating: Total score: 87% price: 53% performance: 100% features: 99% display: 96% mobility: 76% ergonomy: 75% emissions: 40%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z598U

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z598UNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z598U
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 2kg
Price: 3500 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

 

 

Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X

Specifications

Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/XNotebook: Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2000 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 86.5% - good

Average of 2 scores (from 2 reviews)

 

Reviews

90% Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X review
Source: Techradar English Archive.org version
  Sony VAIO Z31 is powerful, portable and usable – this may be the best ultraportable you can buy. Sony's VAIO Z-series offers some of the most complete ultraportable laptops currently available. Its latest model, the VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X, is a powerful machine that also boasts a wealth of impressive features. The Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X is one of the best laptops we've seen for a while. Combining power, portability and usability completely and effortlessly, we have no qualms in recommending it as the best ultraportable currently available.
90
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/03/2009
Rating: Total score: 90%
83% Sony VAIO VGN-Z31VN/X
Source: PC Pro English Archive.org version
The Sony VAIO Z-series is one of the smallest laptops we've ever seen, but it still tries to cram in everything you'd expect on a full-size notebook. Its 1.47kg weight is far less than most notebooks, and it's light enough to barely be noticeable when slung in a bag. The 33mm thickness is another reason why the Z-series is ideal for frequent travellers, as long as you've got a well-padded bag for added protection. An ultraportable without compromise: plenty of power, great battery life and superb design.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 05/25/2009
Rating: Total score: 83%

 

Sony VAIO VGN-Z31MN/B

Specifications

Sony VAIO VGN-Z31MN/BNotebook: Sony VAIO VGN-Z31MN/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1700 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

 

Foreign Reviews

Ohne Netzteil durch den Tag
Source: c't - 14/09 German
Comparison, , Long, Date: 07/01/2009
Rating: performance: 40% display: 90% mobility: 90% emissions: 30%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z41MD/B

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z41MD/BNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z41MD/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8700
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1800 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 71% - average

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Foreign Reviews

71% Subnotebook Sony Vaio VGN-Z41MD/B im Test
Source: PC Welt German DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 07/30/2009
Rating: Total score: 71% price: 40% performance: 95% features: 97% mobility: 74% ergonomy: 30%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z31ZN

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z31ZNNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z31ZN
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9600
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2650 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 80% - good

Average of 2 scores (from 2 reviews)

 

Reviews

80% Sony Vaio VGN-Z31ZN
Source: V3.co.uk English Archive.org version
Sony's ultraportable Vaio range has long been a popular choice for business users requiring a light yet powerful laptop. The VGN-Z31ZN is the latest in Sony's line-up and does not buck the trend in terms of performance or portability. With a two-toned grey chassis it is an instant eye-pleaser, while its miniscule dimensions (31.4cm wide x 32cm deep x 3.3cm thick) and weight of just 1.5kg make it the perfect travel companion. A highly portable laptop that performs well, but it is by no means cheap.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 08/17/2009
Rating: Total score: 80%
80% Review: Sony Vaio VGN-Z31ZN
Source: Computing English Archive.org version
Sony's ultraportable Vaio range has long been a popular choice for business users requiring a light yet powerful laptop. The VGN-Z31ZN is the latest in Sony's line-up and does not buck the trend in terms of performance or portability. A highly portable laptop that performs well, but it is by no means cheap.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 08/17/2009
Rating: Total score: 80%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG/B

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG/BNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9700
Graphics Adapter: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 4500MHD
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1800 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 90% - very good

Average of 2 scores (from 2 reviews)

 

Reviews

80% Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG/B review
Source: Electricpig English Archive.org version
The top notch Sony Vaio Z series is trying to make its way as the go-to laptop for busy business bods and media junkies. But can this slimline Vaio win us over and convince us to ditch our 13-inch MacBook Pro? Read our Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG/B review and we’ll reveal all. The closest a PC laptop gets to matching a MacBook Pro.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/20/2010
Rating: Total score: 80%
100% Sony VAIO VGN-Z51WG/B
Source: PC Pro English Archive.org version
The Sony VAIO VGN-Z51WG/B is the latest update to a range that's currently under threat in the catwalk stakes from Dell's gorgeous Adamo. But anyone familiar with the Z-series will be glad to hear that, physically, Sony hasn't changed a thing. It mightn't boast the wow factor it once had, what with the seemingly never-ending slew of slimline competitors, but it's still impressive to behold. Light yet powerful, gorgeous yet practical, it's the best all-round ultraportable Sony has produced.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/20/2009
Rating: Total score: 100% price: 83% performance: 100% features: 100%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WGNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9700
Graphics Adapter: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 4500MHD
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 83% - good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Reviews

83% Sony VGN-Z51WG review
Source: It Pro English Archive.org version
In today's cut-price age is there a place for a full-on no-compromise high cost ultra portable? We weigh up the Sony Vaio VGN-Z51WG in this review. The Sony VGN-Z51WG is a very fine machine, offering a well built chassis, and great looks, while the excellent performance is married to great battery life. The inevitable high price is its only significant down side.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 10/29/2009
Rating: Total score: 83%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z790

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z790Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z790
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8800
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1300 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 90% - very good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Reviews

90% Review: Sony Vaio VGN-Z790, VGN-Z750
Source: Geekmontage English Archive.org version
This Sony Vaio VGN-Z790 is a powerhouse. It is one of the fastest laptops that I have ever seen for its size. There are many 13” laptops such as the Dell XPS13, but it is not nearly as light as this product. All in all we are extremely pleased. This laptop definitely lived up to its name, as the executive laptop. We would have liked a better video card as this card is a little out of date now.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/11/2009
Rating: Total score: 90%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z890

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z890Notebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z890
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8800
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1300 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 84% - good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Reviews

84% Review: Sony Vaio VGN-Z890, VGN-Z820
Source: Geekmontage English Archive.org version
Overall we were very pleased the Sony Vaio VGN-Z890. It is one of the fastest mobile laptops for its weight-class and size. We were extremely pleased with the keyboard and design. This laptop was very similar to its predecessor, and we had to dock points for that. Due to the fact that this laptop is still an excellent choice for executive, and travelers.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/22/2009
Rating: Total score: 84%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z56GG

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z56GGNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z56GG
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9700
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M G
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 80% - good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Reviews

80% Sony VAIO VGN-Z56GG/B, the best ultraportable Sony has produced to date
Source: PC Authority English Archive.org version
The VGN-Z56GG/B outstrips the best of the netbook and ultraportable worlds for longevity, but can also switch gears and assume desktop duties with its reserves of power. With Intel's mobile Core i7 looming large, it might not be long before an even more flexible successor arrives. But right now, if your budget can stretch to it, the Z Series remains as good a laptop as we've had the pleasure of using.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 02/04/2010
Rating: Total score: 80%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51MRG/B

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z51MRG/BNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z51MRG/B
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8700
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 1800 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section

Pricecompare

Average Score: 80% - good

Average of 1 scores (from 1 reviews)

 

Foreign Reviews

80% Обзор ноутбука Sony VGN-Z51MRG/B
Source: Retera RU→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 01/27/2010
Rating: Total score: 80% performance: 50% display: 49% mobility: 61% emissions: 52%

 

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21VN/X

Specifications

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21VN/XNotebook: Sony Vaio VGN-Z21VN/X
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P9500
Graphics Adapter: NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS
Display: 13.10 inch, 16:9, 1600 x 900 pixels
Weight: 1.5kg
Price: 2500 euro
Links: Sony homepage
 Sony notebook section
 Vaio VGN-Z21VN/X (Model)

Pricecompare

 

Reviews

Sony Vaio Z11 VGN-Z21VN/X and TT11VN/X:
Source: Bright Hub English Archive.org version
As with most cases, we can not conclude our comparison with "go for this". If you are working with Office documents, Internet, if you do not place heavy demands on multimedia tasks such as video editing and finally if portability is your utmost priority, then go for the T11 VN/X. If performance is your top priority, then go for the Z21 VN/X.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 05/11/2012

 

Comment

Sony: Sony Corporation is one of the largest Japanese electronics companies. The company was founded in 1946 under a different name and initially produced rice stoves. The company launched the first transistor radio. In 1958, the company was renamed Sony. Sony is a combination of the Latin word sonus (sound) and the English word sonny (little boy). Today, its core business is consumer electronics. The company is engaged in the development, design, manufacture and sale of electronic equipment, instruments, devices, game consoles and software. Sony operates in the following segments: Gaming and Network Services, Music, Images, Home Entertainment and Sound, Imaging Products and Solutions, Mobile Communications, Semiconductors, Financial Services and Others.


Only some 3D games with very low demands are playable with these cards.

NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS: Compared to the 9300M G, the GS has only 8 unified shaders but a higher clock rate. Therefore, the performance should be similar according to Nvidia. Supports 
Hybrid-SLI (GeForceBoost and HybridPower) with Nvidia 9100M G and PureVideo HD (VP3).

Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 4500MHD: Onboard (shared Memory) GPU built in the GM45, GE45 and GS45 chipset (Montevina). Because of two more shaders and a higher core clock, much faster than the old GMA X3100. Still not advisable for gamers (DirectX 10 games not playable or only with very low settings). The integrated video processor is able to help decode HD videos (AVC/VC-2/MPEG2) , e.g., for a fluent Blu-Ray playback with slow CPUs.

NVIDIA GeForce 9300M G: Enhanced 8400M GS chip, which is manufactured in 65nm and shows slightly better performance due to a few minor optimizations.

» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Graphics Cards and the corresponding Benchmark List.


Intel Core 2 Duo: This is the Core Duo and Core Solo successor with a longer pipeline and 5-20% more speed without more power consumption. As an addition to the Core Duo design there exists a fourth decoder, an amplified SSE-unit and an additional arithmetical logical unit (ALU).

The Core 2 Duo for laptops is identical to the desktop Core 2 Duo processors but the notebook-processors work with lower voltages (0.95 to 1188 Volt) and a lower Frontside bus clock (1066 vs 667 MHz). The performance of equally clocked notebooks is 20-25% lower than Desktop PCs because of the lower Frontside bus clock and the slower hard disks.

P9500:

The P9500 is a fast middle class dual core CPU for laptops and basically a Core 2 Duo T9400 with only 25 Watt TDP.

P8600:

Fast but still not overpriced dual core CPU. For most games and multimedia applications sufficient and due to the 25W TDP even for smaller notebooks useable.

P8400:

Middle class dual core CPU with a TDP of 25 Watt. For high end gamer the performance could be not sufficient (for class 1 graphic cards).

P9600:

The P9600 is a middle class dual-core CPU of the Core 2 Duo line and similar to the T9550 (except for the lower TDP of 25 vs 35W). The performance of the P9600 should be sufficient for most applications and games of 2009.

P8700:

Mid-range dual core processor with 3 MB level 3 cache and a TDP of 25 Watt.

P9700: Very fast dual core CPU and due to the 28 Watt TDP also power efficient. Compared to other P-models, the P9700 offers the full 6MB level 2 cache.

P8800: Mid-range dual core processor with 3 MB level 3 cache and a TDP of 25 Watt.

» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Processsors.


» To find out how fine a display is, see our DPI List.


No weight comment found (one expected)!


85.08%: This is an above-average rating. Nevertheless, it should not be forgotten that about one fifth of all tested models receive a better rating.

» Further information can be found in our Notebook Purchase Guide.

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Devices from a different Manufacturer and/or with a different CPU

Sony Vaio VGN-Z21VN/X
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GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P8800
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GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P9600
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Sony Vaio VGN-Z21ZN/X
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P9500
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Sony Vaio VGN Z11MN/B
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P8400
Sony Vaio VGN-Z17GN
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P9500
Sony Vaio VGN-Z11VN
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P9500

Devices with the same GPU and/or Screen Size

Sony Vaio VGN-Z598U
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P9500, 2 kg

Devices with the same GPU

Asus UV6
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P8600, 12.10", 1.9 kg
Asus U6V
GeForce 9300M GS, Core 2 Duo P8400, 12.10", 1.6 kg

Devices with Same Screen Size and/or Weight

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Sony Vaio S-VJS131X0111B
HD Graphics 520, Core i7 6500U, 13.30", 1.05 kg
Sony Vaio S-VJS131X0211B
HD Graphics 520, Core i5 6200U, 13.30", 1.05 kg
Sony Vaio VJ-S13-1X0111B
HD Graphics 520, Core i7 6500U, 13.30", 1.1 kg
Sony Vaio Z 13-1X0211S
Iris Graphics 550, Core i5 6267U, 13.30", 1.2 kg
Sony Vaio Fit multi-flip SV-F13N1X2E/S
HD Graphics 4400, Core i7 4500U, 13.00", 1.4 kg
Sony Vaio Pro SVP1321M2E
HD Graphics 4400, Core i5 4200U, 13.30", 1 kg
Sony Vaio SV-F13N1Y9E/S
HD Graphics 4400, Core i7 4500U, 13.30", 1.2 kg
Sony Vaio SV-P1321SCXS
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Sony Vaio SV-P1321WSNB
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Sony Vaio Notebooks bei Geizhals.at/eu
Sony Notebooks im Notebookshop.de

Sony Vaio VGN-Z Serie
Sony Vaio VGN-Z Serie
Stefan Hinum, 2008-09-24 (Update: 2012-05-26)