The Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz Macbook is a very impressive laptop indeed.

Made by Apple, it possesses all the qualities you would expect from a computer made by the Californian super-company; Good looks, powerful specs, and an innovative design.

I was initially concerned that the Macbook wouldn't be able to handle graphic intensive applications like Photoshop and iMovie very well, and would take an age to complete mundane processor intensive challenges. However, i'm pleased to report that Apple's product exceeds all my expectations. In fact, the speed of the macbook is only a little behind that of my powerful desktop iMac.

I don't really want to get into a Mac vs PC debate with this - basically I use both, and each has their benefits and downsides. However, if you are a Mac person, then I would highly recommend this model.

The design is very good, although the white interior, track-pad and screen surround can get dirty very quickly - nothing a weekly wipe-down with a soft damp cloth can't fix though.

The Macbook as a whole is well built - and although it doesn't look to substantial, is made from high grade plastic and can withstand a knock or two.

The innovative 'Magsafe' power adapter is an exceptional piece of design. Basically, the power attachment which goes into the Macbook itself is only connected to the computer by magnetism. Therefore if you trip over the lead - the power cord comes away quickly without pulling your expensive laptop off the desk. It's little touches like this which put Apple ahead of the competition.

The high quality 13" widescreen display really makes a difference when you're using your computer for viewing movies, and the in built DVD player has been updated a lot in the last few years to add more options and make it more user friendly.

The keyboard is well laid out and feels nice when you type. I like the separation of the individual keys, which seems to reduce errors when i'm typing at full speed.

When I first got hold of the laptop, there were a few issues that I wasn't entirely happy with - firstly, in specific applications, it occasionally wouldn't let you input any numbers, and secondly, it would not wake from sleep effectively. However, I downloaded the latest firmware update from Apple (which is free), and the problem was sorted.

There is a fairly good range of software which comes with the Macbook, but you do have to pay a little extra if you want a decent word processor (office), design programme (Photoshop) etc.

The battery life is pretty good and certainly better than any other laptop I have owned. Even though Apple claim it's 3 hours - I find I can get around 2 and a half hours from a full charge, when i'm browsing the net.

I highly recommend the Macbook, not only for it's speed and good looks, but also for its overall useability.

This particular model cost £829 directly from the Apple store - however, with their credit options, you get purchase one for £28 per moth.