[Xavier]

Chris- it really depends on which model you're talking about. Sony VAIO's are relatively expensive compared to Toshiba, Dell, HP,etc. even here in the U.S. for a few of reasons. Some of their lines are obviously luxury notebooks, with high-end features like Bllu-ray, carbon fiber lids, LEDs, etc. and are very expensive. Even Sony's mainstream notebooks can cost about $50-$150 more than comparably equipped notebooks. Sony makes some very nice computers, but overall it's not a brand for those on a tight budget. There are some great values/sales from time to time at SonyStyle.com and at their retail partners, but not nearly as often as with Dell and HP.