(IDG) -- The Dell Latitude CPi D266XT takes the top spot on the power chart this month, as the Texas-based mail-order computer maker gains notebook market share. In the first quarter of 1998, Dell surpassed IBM as the number three supplier of portables in the United States, according to market research firm International Data Corporation. Top-notch performance, solid but not extravagant features, and good support policies--all at a reasonable price--have contributed to the growing popularity of Dell's notebooks.

Among the ten notebooks we tested this month, the Gateway Solo 9100LS--a fully loaded desktop alternative that weighs 9.6 pounds--captures the number five position on the power chart. The Pentium II-266powered notebook comes with a spacious 14.1-inch screen and an optional DVD-ROM drive.

On the budget side, two new notebooks leap onto the chart. The light Acer Extensa 367D, our Best Buy for September, gives you plenty of battery power for the road. It's also nicely priced at $1499. The other new arrival on the budget chart, the Dell Latitude CP M200SD, is an even lighter traveler and has a longer battery life. But you'll pay $700 more for the Dell.

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