If you look at the computer notebook market, you'll realize that a lot has changed. Most new notebooks these days are dominated by the Intel Pentium M processor. This CPU allows notebooks to be designed thin and light due to its low power and high performance.
If you're a wireless network fan, you'll also realize that most notebooks have wireless network support by default. Many laptops also have a much wider screen to allow enjoyment of multimedia and games.
Here's a personal scoop of the top 5 thin and light notebooks out in the market right now.
Toshiba Satellite M45-S3511
Powered by an Intel Pentium M 740 (1.73 GHz) processor and 512 MB of RAM, the Toshiba Satellite M45-S3511 is well suited for both home and office use. It also comes with a widescreen display, a speedy 8x DVD+/-RW burner and a huge 100 GB hard drive. A very nice notebook that is highly recommended.
Gateway M460XL
The Gateway M460XL is powered by an Intel Pentium M 750 (1.8 GHz) processor and 512 MB of RAM. The battery is very long-lasting and there's also a modular bay for adding an extra hard drive, a floppy drive, a CD-RW or DVD drive. You also get a 8x DVD+/-RW burner and a 80 GB hard drive.
Sony VAIO T240P/L
The Sony VAIO T240P/L notebook comes with an Intel Pentium M 1.2 GHz processor, 512 MB RAM and an Intel 855GME graphics core. Its long battery life will help keep you working for hours. There's a big 60 GB hard drive, but only a CD-ROM / DVD-ROM combo drive and a small 10.6 inch screen. Despite these shortcomings, however, you get a top quality brand name notebook that looks slim and sexy to boot.
Asus V6V
The Asus V6V laptop features a fast Intel Pentium M 1.86 GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM and an ATI Mobility Radeon X600 graphics processor. This makes it great for high performance graphics and games, especially with the included 4x DVD+/-R burner and a 60 GB hard drive.

HP Compaq nc4010
The HP Compaq nc4010 notebook comes with an Intel Pentium M 725 (1.6 GHz) processor, 512 MB of RAM and an ATI RADEON IGP 350M graphics processor. The downsides of this laptop are the small 12.1 inch viewable screen size, the lack of an optical drive a small 40 GB hard disk. However, its price is hard to beat and one of the lowest in this list.
Conclusion
Whew! That's a whole lot of notebooks for you to look at. Try to keep the above thin and light notebooks in mind when you're out shopping for one. Compare other models you find against these to help you make a better purchase decision. Good luck!
About the Author
Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on building computers. Visit his website at http://www.build-your-own-computers.com for tips and tricks on assembling a PC, as well as buying good computer components.