That Intel Core i3-2310M CPU won't win any awards for performance, but it gets the job done. Even with many browser windows and tabs open, I didn't feel any response time lag. The PC WorldBench 6 score of 101 is about right for this class of CPU running Windows 7. Battery life came in at nearly 4 hours--not bad for a four-cell battery.

Audio quality was a pleasant surprise, probably due to the included Beats Audio software processing. You wouldn't describe audio playback as neutral, but it's pleasing enough and quite good for a low-priced business unit, albeit not particularly loud.

HP supplies its usual suite of system management and security tools, which can ease the job of IT managers, provided the right server-based tools are in use. The unit also includes Norton Internet Security and Microsoft Office trialware.

Overall, the HP ProBook 5330m offers few frills, but what it does include is well executed. So if you do need a no-frills unit, this compact, near-$800 unit from HP will bear closer scrutiny.