BenQ PE8720

Advantages: Very cheap, very reliable, you probably wont run out for a long time!
Disadvantages: Can get damaged quite easily, no CD-cases to protect them

...Intro Recordable and re-writable CD's are one of the most popular forms of storage nowadays for computers, and this is no doubt down to the inevitable gradual-distinction of floppy disks, and the slump in prices for CDs. Nobody seems to use floppy disks anymore, they are too unreliable and can hardly fit any data too (1.44 MB usually) and when you compare this to the 700MB or so that CD's can hold, you can see why these are more popular. CD's can last over a hundred years too (according to the BenQ website) - if they are kept in the perfect conditions. Where I got them & price I decided to purchase these BenQ CD-R's as I felt that 100disks which hold 700MB, for only £10, is a really good price. This works out at about 10p per CD, which isn't bad at all! It sounds ridiculous that you can pay a couple of quid for a few floppy... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Speed, attractive, good tech. support
Disadvantages: old burning software

...If you are looking for an external CD-RW, BenQ's USB2.0 (USB 1.1 compatible) is a solid piece of equipment at a reasonable price for external drives. 52 speed CD write (providing your media and computer support this), 32 speed CD re-write and a 52 speed CD Rom drive. It's a nice looking drive and doesn't look out of place sitting next to your computer. BenQ even provide two vertical stands so it can be fitted into the smallest of spaces by standing it on it's side. Simply plug and burn! Set up is quick and simple. A floppy disc contains the drivers, but you don't need this if you are running Windows ME/2000/XP. Simply connect to power, connect with USB Cable (Supplied) and windows will install the driver. Within seconds you are up and running. Bundled software is the excellent Nero Express v5.5.10.26, which is a bit dated but I... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Looks good, Fast, Cheap, Great graphics
Disadvantages: Flimsy feel, not enough RAM

...BenQ? Had you heard of them a few months ago? Well I hadn’t. BenQ are new to Europe although they are well established in the Middle East. If you hadn’t heard of them before Euro 2004 you must do now! When I saw this laptop for an insanely low price a few months ago I was a little skeptical, but after days of research I couldn’t find anything to compete with it, and became more confident about BenQs reputation. So I went ahead and bought it, and I can honestly say this was the best thing I have ever spent £850 on! The laptop comes with the Centrino 1.4Ghz which is approximately equivalent to the P4 2.2Ghz, with the benefits of greatly increased battery life. BenQs quoted life of 6h is not far off from the actual 5 hours that you get from the battery. It also comes with all the standard bits: DVD/CD-RW drive, 256Mb... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful