Gateway has been churning out some impressive, low cost notebook computers of late and the 6839b continues the trend.

It’s exclusive to Tesco but, at £600, sounds like a computer without much clout. This isn’t the case though and what we have here is a Vista Home Premium notebook with a high-quality chassis at a bargain price.

An Intel Core 2 Duo T5300 processor, running at 1.73GHz, powers the MT6839b and a generous 2GB of memory means lots of programs can be run at the same time. A 160GB hard disk provides ample storage.

This combination of hardware means Vista runs very smoothly and has the power to handle just about any software application with ease.

One area the notebook doesn’t perform well in is in gaming. Intel's integrated graphics just isn't powerful enough to run the latest troop of 3D games. It can handle Vista’s 3D flip function, though.

The 15.4in widescreen display has a glossy coating to improve contrast. It also proudly boasts ‘Ultrabright Widescreen’ and, while evenly lit, the screen is actually a little dimmer than on more expensive notebooks.

The left side of the notebook is home to a multi format DVD writer and cooling vent that keeps the unit noticeably cool and quiet.

The right side houses four USB ports, network and modem sockets, a memory card reader that caters for SD, MMC, Xd Picturecard and Sony Memorystick but not Compact Flash. There’s also a Firewire port that makes it easy to connect a digital camcorder.

Wifii and Bluetooth technology are hidden inside for connecting to the internet and other devices wirelessly. The only features missing are a TV tuner and webcam; corners cut to keep the price down.

Solid construction and a low price don’t usually go hand in hand, but Gateway has fitted a firm keyboard, responsive trackpad and a steady screen hinge in the MT6839b. A wide, brushed aluminium wrist-rest panel below the keyboard adds a touch of class to the whole outfit and also keeps the top sturdy when typing.

To get working straight away, Gateway has included a small software package that consists of Microsoft Works 8.5, which is fine for basic word processing, and Cyberlink Power2Go for DVD burning.

At 2.8kg (3.3kg including the power supply) it’s not a notebook to carry around for long periods of time but battery life is great. It lasted two hours playing back a DVD with the screen set to full brightness and much longer when word processing, or if the screen’s brightness is turned down.

For those looking to move to Vista without upgrading an older computer, the MT6839b is a great buy. We tested the cheaper MT6825b two months ago, which sports the same design but isn’t as powerful.

The MT6839b only includes a one-year warranty, which is a little stingy, but for £600 it’s still excellent value for money.

Vista compatible: Yes