Holiday Tech Buying Guide (washingtonpost.com)

FAST FORWARD
How to Choose a Winning Computer
By Rob Pegoraro
Buying a computer should be easy -- almost anything sold today should competently handle most chores. But it's not, since so many companies market essentially the same machine.
• New Gadgets Pose a Problem
• All Reviews from Fast Forward

INTERNET CALLING
Talk Is Cheaper

It's leading-edge and, so far, inexpensive. What's the deal with VoIP?

- Holly J. Morris

• Comparing Paid VoIP Services

Personal computers What differentiates PCs is the software and support each maker offers. The top five: • Dell • HP • Gateway • Apple • Sony • Interactive Guide to Laptop Computers
DVD PLAYERS Let's Get Digital Understanding confusing array of features, formats is the key. • Holiday DVDs \| Chat	TELEVISION Primal Screens If you just can't wait for prices to drop, please spend wisely. • Guide to HDTV
VIDEO GAMES Console Yourself Which platform? First, ask which games will be played on it. • 2004 Game Reviews	Digital Cameras The Big Picture As megapixels balloon, it's now possible to buy too much digital camera. • Memories Reborn
Digital Music Sound Advice Choosing where the music files come from is at least as important as choosing a player. • Portable XM Set	Handheld Devices Highly Organized Shopping lists or shopping sites? Your choice depends on how the device will be used.
Extras Stocking Stuffers Shopping for someone who has all the gadgets already? They can still accessorize.	Duds Don't Believe Hype Buzz-laden products you should feel free to cross off your holiday shopping list.

Rob Pegoraro hosted four online discussions to answer readers' questions about holiday gadgetry. The transcripts are below.
• Nov. 22 • Dec. 6
• Dec. 13 • Dec. 20

More Guides and Reviews:
• Wireless Service
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Guide to Online Shopping:
• The Sites Before Christmas
• Online Shopping Toolkit