Digital Trends

The Gateway 450 XL is a mixed bag. On one hand you have a system with a large display, good performance and great external styling. On the other hand you have a lot of overlooked features. We would have liked to have seen better styling inside the notebook to match the outside, a rear cover to protect the back ports, external audio controls, and a larger battery pack. There is nothing wrong with the 450 XL, but a little more thought and polish could have made this system a serious contender for our editors choice award. If you are in the market for a sub $2000 notebook, you will want to take a look at the Gateway 450 XL as it offers tremendous value for the price.