Sony Vaio E-Series VPC-EJ1Z1E review

Typing on the EJ1Z1E was a mixed experience. Even with a separate numeric keypad, the QWERTY keyboard still uses full-size keys and even leaves some room at either side of the tray, unlike other laptops where the keys are practically falling off the edge of the chassis. The keys weren’t particularly satisfying, however, with very little spring back after each press. We could still type at full speed, but occasionally had too double check if a key press had been recognised. Thankfully the touchpad was much better, its textured plastic finish providing just enough resistance to make cursor movement very smooth. The buttons below it also had little travel, but made firm clicks when pressed.

Beyond the four USB ports, connectivity was slightly disappointing; audio in and out, HDMI, VGA and two card reader slots are about average for a 17in laptop, but we were hoping for at least one USB3 port, and a Blu-ray drive rather than simply a DVD writer.

Considering it costs £1,000, the EJ1Z1E isn’t particularly powerful in either 2D or 3D applications. This is mainly due to the mid-range Core i5 processor; we were slightly disappointed that it didn’t include a Core i7 chip, as we’ve seen many laptops at this price with more powerful hardware. These components make more sense in a less expensive 15in laptop, not in this 17in model. Even though we love Sony’s design there are more powerful laptops, such as the MSI GE620, which cost hundreds of pounds less.