Asus Eee PC 1201HAB Refurbished Netbook Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this product as a gift for someone special and although the new owner isn't tech-savvy I'm sure it will be quite as amazing as I feel it is.

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Powered by a 1.33GHz Intel Atom Z520 processor and 1GB of DDR2 memory, this is a next-generation Netbook with a 12.1-inch widescreen display and Intel GMA 500 with 224MB of Shared video Graphics memory. The screen is capable with a 1366 x 768 resolution. The Asus Eee PC 1201HAB Refurbished Netbook also features a 160GB hard drive and integrated 802.11b/g wireless. Built-in stereo completes your Asus mobile entertainment center. so you can avoid the clutter of wires. The Asus Eee PC 1201HAB Refurbished Netbook has a media card reader, and is powered by the Windows XP Home operating system.

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Eeepc 1015PE Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got my 1015PE at the Big Box chain that has the yellow pricetag for a sign, so mine is a bit different from some of the models seen online. Most notably, the retail chain's version has no Bluetooth, has the Atom N450 CPU (1.66GHz), and it comes with a smaller hard drive (160GB). The price is lower, too, but only because they cut those features.
That being said, everything else is the same, and it's a great little netbook. It's sufficiently speedy with 1GB RAM, but I went ahead and ordered a 2GB SODIMM to boost it up a bit. The Atom CPU really impressed me, though. I was expecting a low-end system, and what I got was a system that could handle a lot more than I'd give it credit for.
The keyboard is nice. It's a little small, but then what did I expect? This is a netbook. The chicklet keys remind me of my Mac-owning days, and I'm glad some of those Mac-isms were adopted by PC laptops. The feel is great, and the keys are very responsive. I only wish they were back-lit!
The screen is clear and crisp. Despite the quality of the screen, it's still small and I wouldn't recommend a 10.1" netbook to people with poor vision. For them, I'd definitely say a 15" or bigger would be a better idea. However, if you're OK with smaller fonts and icons, then go for it.
It does last a long time on battery power, but I didn't measure it. I do know that the long times they claim are when it's running the built-in ExpressGate operating system, and not in Windows. ExpressGate is great if all you need are some basic things like checking email, web browsing, or playing simple games. When in Windows, you can expect to get about half as much battery power as in ExpressGate.
The Eee PC is suitably small and lightweight. Even in a case or sleeve, it's not a chore to carry around, providing you don't bring the AC adapter or a mouse with you, of course.
The touchpad is acceptable. I'm not a huge fan of them in the first place, but this one feels good, and it's not too sensitive, so you can type and not have an accidental brush of your palm move the cursor or accidentally click on the screen.
The outer case feels nice. It's not glossy, and I love that it's not. No fingerprint magnet (Apple could learn something, here!) and no worries about regular use causing scuffs or scratches. This is a computer you can use without kid gloves. Although it can still be damaged, it's not as dainty as those with shiny plastic/polycarbonate. It's not as scratch-prone as those made from aluminum. The only problem I have with the outer case is that it's not designed for easy access to the hard drive, so swapping it out isn't an option the average user will consider. For this reason, I highly suggest that anyone who isn't tech-savvy enough to mess with lots of screws, tabs, wires, cables, and components makes sure they get the netbook that has the amount of storage they really feel they need. Don't cheap out on storage space if you're not willing to get your hands dirty. I actually DID go through the upgrade process, and while I'm grateful for the boost in storage space (500GB), I really wish it had been easier to achieve.
Finally, a word about ASUS: I like them. I trust them, for the most part. They've always done right by me, and that's why my last notebook was an ASUS, and my gaming rig's motherboard is an ASUS. They have good drivers, good support, and a good user community if you look around online. If you want a computer that will continue to get some decent support from the company, then ASUS is a good choice. They make some really nice exclusive software for their PCs, and they use quality parts. I consider them a lot more reliable and acceptable than Dell, HP, or Acer. They're on par with Sony and Samsung (but I think a bit more friendly and more accessible than Sony).
In summary, the Eee PC 1015PE "Seashell" is a great netbook for anyone who is looking to replace a mid-power laptop with something smaller. A great many users would be perfectly happy only ever using ExpressGate OS or Windows Starter. For those who demand more, you can run just about any OS on this computer if you're the tinkering type. Various Linux builds run great on this netbook, and I've even heard of people getting Apple's OS X on it (though I never tried it and can't confirm it). It's simple yet versatile, and it's made with travel and usability in mind. Windows 7 Home Premium works well once you do the Anytime Upgrade from Starter (which I did) and grab the 2GB RAM upgrade.
It's a great buy. It gets four stars from me instead of five only because I would have preferred a simple way for the user to swap the hard drive; The closed case costs them a star. If you're not the tinkering type, though, you can consider this a five-star product. For me, as a supplement to my desktop rig, the Atom N450 CPU in the 1015PE was enough to do the job and serve my needs.

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ASUS Eee PC 1002HA 10-Inch Netbook (1.6 GHz Intel Atom Processor, 1 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, 10 GB Eee Storage, XP Home) Brushed Aluminized Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Fantastic aesthetics; the aluminum construction makes everything else out there look cheap. I have tried most every netbook, I mean literally have purchased them and tried them and this is the one that I carry. I also own the Eee 1000H, which does have a slightly brighter screen, but I gave it to my wife...
The Elantech trackpad is of a multi-touch/multi-gesture design and it just plain works. The mouse button is a single rocker design with short travel and a definite but light click and it oozes quality.
The BIOS includes a "boot booster" function (tied to a itty-bitty hdd partition), which helps the computer to boot significantly faster than any other brand out there (all new ASUS models appear to have this).
The keyboard is large enough to make touch-typing easy and for me the weird right shift button placement is not an issue as I am a left shift person (it is proportional to the rest of the keyboard).
The palm-rest is just big enough to allow most people to actually rest their hands on it when typing, which is much more comfortable than the half-on / half-off method necessary for most netbooks (although the Eee 1000H is even more comfortable).
Battery life is about 3 to 3.25 hours. Not class leading for sure (Samsung wins here) BUT the battery fits flush to the bottom of the computer which keeps the ENTIRE computer nice and thin. Once you look at a couple of netbooks, you'll see why the big barrel shaped batteries they use generally ruin otherwise beautiful aesthetics.
Some people will not like the power cord, SD slot, monitor out, kensington lock slot and ethernet port being on the back as opposed to the sides, but I love it because everything is out of the way (esp if you choose to use an external mouse).
Speakers are very good, but the Eee 900HA and the Eee1000H (Dolby) are better. I use earphones though, so its a non-issue.
Haven't tried the webcam so I can't offer much except to say its there.
The bloatware is within reason and is easily removed. The recovery DVD includes a bootable Norton Ghost recovery image and also includes the individual drivers, which are accessible from windows (if you have an external DVD drive).
I swapped the 160GB 5400RPM Seagate drive for an 80GB Intel X25M SSD drive and i just couldn't be happier. It boots from power switch to ready to use in 40-45 seconds (fully software equipped), runs Office 2007, plays movies stutter free and surfs the Internet all without complaint or issue. I would not recommend to anyone to spend the $500-600 for the Intel SSD drive though. It is faster, but NOT that much faster and the machine felt plenty peppy before.
The charger is of the two cords and a brick design (like everybody else). Fortunately, you can hit the very popular auction site out there and purchase a new ASUS branded wall charger for an Eee 900 (the original 900), which has the exact same specs as the one that comes with this and saves probably 1/2 the space. All for $20-25.
Anyway, I highly recommend this model, it is the best out there right now. Below are my experiences with other models in its class.
The Samsung NC-10 is ok, but nothing special and certainly not (IMO) worth the extensive press it has gotten. It is not user friendly from an upgrade standpoint (i.e. no bottom access to the hdd) and the chrome trim detracts from an otherwise classy finish (I tried the blue model). The recovery software consists of discs, which, DO NOT restore it to its factory configuration. Battery life is crazy long (5 to 6 hours)
The MSI wind is perhaps the PERFECT size, but its horrible construction leaves me bewildered as to why it is so popular. The hinges are so weak that the screen literally shakes as you type. I googled for answers and found that it is a common problem for these machines. I packed mine up after 5 minutes and sent it back. I can't imagine trying to watch a movie on it while bouncing around on an airplane.
The ASUS Eee 900HA is a great machine and even better for my frequent travel than this one (its quite a bit more compact), but the 8.9" screen makes for lots of vertical and horizontal scrolling and the keys are just too small. It is beautiful though and the size vs. features vs. price absolutely beats everything else out there (the 1002HA included). But only if you can live with the small screen and keyboard.
The HP mini 1000 is fantastic in every way, but its storage is too limited when you opt for the built in flash memory and its WAY too slow when you opt for the 4200 rpm 60GB drive. Worse is the fact that they used a legacy PATA (ZIF) connection on the hard drive, which rules out the use of the ultra fast Intel X18M SSD hdd. Very poor thinking on the part of HP. This one could have been the best out there.
The Lenovo S10 is very business like and is built very well. I eagerly anticipated this. It is marred ONLY by its ridiculously loud CPU fan. On top of the fan noise, the computer constantly "throttles" the fan making it sound as if the computer is going to take off at any minute. Again, a google search of the reviews out there revealed that mine was not an isolated case. Shame too, cus this one is ultra nice and has Lenovo's business/professional looks and build quality to go with it.
The Acer Aspire One is a nice netbook. Its deficiency lies mainly in its size/shape and the nightmare it takes to upgrade even the memory. I had the 3-cell 120GB model and found that its size was perfect for carry, but lousy for typing as it was too thick to rest your hands on a flat surface comfortably while typing (forget the palm rest, its almost non-existent). If you can find a good typing position, the keyboard is very nice with great feedback and feel. A complete dis-assembly is required for upgrading either the memory or the hdd (as in it voids the warranty)and if you choose to anyway, you'll find that the memory can only be bumped up to 1.5GB as there is 512MB built in to the machine. The power source is a "brick" design like everyone else, but seems to be larger than the others.
Good luck if you are shopping for a netbook and Happy Holidays.

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Netbook Eee PC 1002HA offers even more options to users for unique user experiences. Featuring up to 5 hours of battery life, built in high speed connectivity and exclusive 10GB file-encrypted Eee Storage with easy accessibility makes it the ideal traveling companion for outdoor activities. The large 10" display provides comfortable viewing, and a large keyboard makes for easier typing and relaxing usage. Built-in camera ensures users stay in touch with the important ones. User friendly XP pre-loaded. ZBD Guaranteed for best quality LCD. Content includes Eee PC, battery, AC Adapter, Sleeve Case, Manual and Recovery CD.

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ASUS Eee PC 1008HA Seashell 10.1-Inch Pearl Black Netbook - 6 Hour Battery Life Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is my third eee pc. I started with the original 4G with 7" screen. I wanted more storage and a screen that filled the form factor so I then moved up to the 9" 900HA. At the time of the 900HA, I opted for reduced weight over increased size and chose the lighter weight 900HA over the larger but heavier 100x series. I learned my mistake, though, because the more I used the 900HA, the more annoying the typing errors due to the smaller keyboard became. You might not think a diagonal inch could make such a difference, but it does. Since getting the 900HA, I've gotten two 1000HAs for my sons and recommended the 1000HA to my sister and all three of them love them. Still, the increased weight kept me from taking the plunge for a 10" netbook myself, that is, until the 1008HA came along.
As with everything, the 1008HA comes with pluses and minuses.
The biggest plus is the weight: 2lbs 5 oz. compared to 2lbs 7.5 oz for the 900HA and 3lbs 4 oz for the 1000HA (and 3 lbs 5 oz for the latest 1000HA with chicklet keyboard).
Another plus is the Atom N280 processor which, while not a barn burner, is noticeably faster than the N270 in other models.
There is also Bluetooth and 820.11n wireless, but those are of no real interest to me since I don't have an 802.11n router (but perhaps I should start thinking of one!).
The only clear minus for me is the port covers which make it inconvenient to connect things. They would be particularly inconvenient if I wanted to keep the teeny (1/4" extension) USB receiver from a Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks (Black) plugged in permanently. Unfortunately, Logitech does not make a Bluetooth version of the VX nano.
Then there are two things that are a positive or negative depending on your point of view.
The first is the nonremovable battery. If the battery were to die, it would have to be returned to Asus for service. I tell myself that by the time this happens I would probably be wanting to replace the machine. The reason I view it as a positive and not an outright negative is that the Li-polymer battery, which can be molded however the manufacturer wishes, helps give the 1008HA its reduced weight. Asus will shortly be introducing the 1005HA, which has a replaceable battery but is otherwise identical to the 1008HA. However, 1005HA's weight will be back up in the 3 lb 2 oz range.
The second is the glare screen. It can take some getting used to. I don't have any problems with my appearance, but if I wanted my face for wallpaper, I'd have taken my picture an uploaded it. However, so far I haven't found the adjustment to be difficult. The biggest surprise was that outdoors the glare screen on the 1008HA turned out to be easier to read than the matte screen on my 900HA! The trick was to have the screen facing the sun, but at an angle so that the sun was not reflecting in my eyes. With the back of the screen toward the sun, the 1008HA's screen is unreadable, but the 900HA's screen was no great shakes either.
I won't paint a pretty picture. I spent two days debating whether to keep the 1008HA or return it for what is now a considerably cheaper 1000HA, but I found myself getting used to the glare screen, felt I could easily live with the port covers, and decided to keep the 1008HA because of its reduced weight.


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A mere one inch slim and 2.4 pounds light, the uber-stylish Eee PC 1008HA Seashell is ultra portable and easy to use. Eee PC 1008HA is so light and compact, you can take it anywhere with you. Dressed in a sparkling pearlescent "shell" casing that gives it a captivating sheen, the Eee PC 1008HA Seashell is beautiful inside and out. The Eee PC 1008HA offers great user comfort and convenience with its 92% scaled keyboard, multi-touch touchpad and instant key (for quick access to Wi-Fi and the touchpad lock). Furthermore, its 10.1-inch LED-backlit display in its compact chassis will allow you to work or travel in absolute comfort for hours on end. Its generous and convenient 170GB ASUS Hybrid Storage will enable you to store, share and access your important data anytime, anywhere. Get noticed today with the ultra-slim Eee PC 1008HA Seashell.


Key Features
Elegantly beautiful seashell-inspired design
Ultra portable in a stylish 1 inch slim and 2.4 lbs light shell
Spacious 170GB Hybrid Storage for convenient storage on-the-go
Large 10.1-inch LED-backlit screen & ergonomic keyboard for comfortable usage
Easy mobile wireless connectivity with built-in 802.11n (draft 2.4GHz n) and Bluetooth V2.1
Enjoy 6 hours* of unplugged all-day computing with ASUS Super Hybrid Engine

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Ultra-Slim, Ultra-Chic
Large LED Backlit Screen for Comfortable Viewing
Ergonomic Keyboard and Multi-touch Touchpad
Flexible Connectivity with Eee PC 1008HA
Super Hybrid Engine for Extended Battery Life
Convenient ASUS Hybrid Storage and Power Efficient Intel® Atom™ N280 Processor
Quick Recovery with Just One Key
It's Better with Windows™
Warranty
Flawless Display Guarantee and 1 Year Warranty from ASUS Eee PC 1008HA Seashell comes with ASUS\'s Zero Bright Dot Flawless Display Guarantee and 1 year of Eee PC warranty. If the purchaser discovers one defective bright dot within 30 days of purchase, ASUS will replace the panel without cost to the purchaser.
What's in the Box
Eee PC 1008HA Seashell (Black)
Travel Sleeve
Power Adapter
User Manual
Warranty Card
Recovery DVD / Support CD
Specifications
Operating System: Genuine Microsoft Windows XP
Display: 10.1-inch 1024x600 LED-Backlit Widescreen LCD (Color-Shine/Glossy Screen Technology)
Intel CPU: Intel Atom N280
Wireless Data Network: WLAN: 802.11b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) & Bluetooth V2.1 + EDR
Memory: 1GB DDR-2 (Memory size is upgradable to 2GB but memory slot is not easily accessible due to ultra-slim design. ASUS does not recommend end-users to attempt the upgrade themselves.)
Hybrid Storage: 160GB HDD + 10GB Eee Online Storage**
Camera: 1.3M Pixels
Audio: SRS Surround Sound Speakers, High-Definition Audio CODEC, Digital Array Microphones
Storage Cards: 2-in-1 MMC, SD(SDHC) flash card slot
Input/Output: 1 x miniVGA port for external monitor (with external converter for D-sub 15-pin), 2 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x LAN RJ-45, 2 x audio jacks: Headphone & Mic-in
Battery: 6 hours*, slim and eco-friendly Li-Polymer battery†
Dimensions: 10.32 (W) x 7.01 (D) x 1.01 (H) inches
Weight: 2.43 lbs
Color: Black *Operation lifetime subject to product model, normal usage conditions and configurations. **Eee Storage service is complimentary for the first 18 months. Please register account information for 6 months extension (depend on country) - All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. - Product may not be exactly as shown in images. - Operation lifetime subject to product model, normal usage conditions and configurations. † To recharge using the AC power adapter, power plug must be fully pushed into the power socket on the Eee PC until it clicks firmly into place.

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ASUS Eee PC 1005HA-VU1X-WT 10.1-Inch White Netbook - 8.5 Hour Battery Life Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First day with it but I love it. At first I was going to install my own XP so I didnt have to deal with all the extra's Asus put in XP. But if I did that I would loose the original XP that came with it since they do not give you a full version XP CD but just a recover CD. So I just typed msconfig under START/RUN, went to startup, unchecked all the marks. Then uninstalled all the programs I did not want in the control panel. Wow does it haul now. Zero lag. Feels like I'm using my desktop and I havent even installed the 2GB's of RAM yet. The fit and finish is A+. I LOVE the white as there is NO finger prints. Oh and the recover CD and/or the F9 key does work perfectly as I have tested it. It puts it back as if you just took it out of the box. So you really do not need the external CD drive. Battery life is great. I've been working on the netbook all night with full brightness on and its still at 3 hours left. AMAZING! The keyboard/mouse works great also. I see why this new ASUS model and the one above it is getting high marks. Theres none better.. I've had others.. this is it. I would also like to add and this is a HUGE plus over the glossy screen of the 1005HA-PU1X-BK model, this model has a MATTE screen.. which means no glare!! Others are buying the 1005HA-PU1X-BK but I just cant stand the glossy screen along with the glossy black finger print hungry finish. I will take the lesser option one because just the little things make a huge difference. What good is a laptop if you cant ever go outside in the light because the screen has so much glare. Stick with this one.. its FAST and still does what the other models do.

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The 10.1-inch Eee PC 1005HA-V Seashell shines as the ideal netbook for the traveler looking to have it all. Utilizing ASUS' exclusive Super Hybrid Engine, the Eee PC 1005HA-V boasts an astounding 8.5 hours of uninterrupted battery life so you can work on important documents and surf the Web longer than ever before. Inspired from the sea shell's contour shape, you will appreciate the attention to detail and eye-catching beauty that makes the Eee PC 1005HA-V a true work of art. Dressed in a sparkling pearlescent "shell" casing that gives it a captivating sheen, the Eee PC 1005HA Seashell is beautiful inside and out. The Eee PC 1005HA-V offers great user comfort and convenience with its 92% scaled keyboard, multi-touch touchpad and instant key (for quick access to touchpad-lock). The 10.1-inch LED-backlit display and sleek chassis will allow you to work or travel in absolute comfort for hours on end. The generous 160GB hard disk drive storage will enable you to easily store and access your important data. Miles ahead of its competition, the Eee PC 1005HA-V provides leading-class performance and superior portability liberating you from wall chargers and bringing you into the future of mobility.


Key Features

Stunning looks and convenient mobility with seashell design weighing a mere 2.8 lbs
Large 10.1-inch LED-backlit screen, ergonomic keyboard and multitouch touchpad for extra comfort and convenience
8.5 hours of unplugged all-day computing with ASUS' exclusive Super Hybrid Engine
Easy mobile wireless connectivity via built-in Wi-Fi 802.11n (draft 2.4GHz n)
ASUS Eee Docking utility to enhance the user experience
Built-in webcam and microphone for simple and clear communication
Spacious 160GB* HDD storage for convenient storage on-the-go

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Stunning Looks with Seashell Design
8.5 Hours of All-Day Computing and Unplugged Freedom
Large LED Backlit Screen for Comfortable Viewing
Ergonomic Keyboard and Multi-touch Touchpad

Flexible Connectivity with Eee PC 1005HA
Built-in Webcam and Microphone and Power Efficient Intel Atom N270 Processor
Quick Recovery with Just One Key
Warranty
1 Year Warranty and Flawless Display Guarantee from ASUS Users can rest easy with the Eee PC 1005HA-V Seashell's 1 year warranty and ASUS\' Zero Bright Dot Flawless Display Guarantee. If the purchaser discovers one defective bright dot within 30 days of purchase, ASUS will replace the panel with no cost to the purchaser.
What's in the Box
Eee PC 1005HA-V Seashell (White)
Power Adapter
User Manual
Warranty Card
Recovery DVD / Support CD
Specifications
Operating System: Genuine Microsoft Windows XP Home
Display: 10.1-inch 1024x600 LED-Backlit Widescreen LCD (matte screen)
Intel CPU: Intel Atom N270
Wireless Data Network: WLAN: 802.11b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n)
Memory: 1GB DDR-2 (Memory size is upgradable to 2GB)
Hybrid Storage: 160GB* HDD
Camera: 0.3M Pixels
Audio: Stereo Speakers, High-Definition Audio CODEC, Built-in Microphone
Storage Cards: 2-in-1 MMC, SD(SDHC) flash card slot
Input/Output: 1 x VGA connector, 3 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x LAN RJ-45, 2 x audio jacks: Headphone & Mic-in
Battery: 8.5 hours** Li-Ion battery†
Dimensions: 10.31 (W) x 7.01 (D) x 1.02~1.44 (H) inches
Weight: 2.81 lbs (with battery)
Color: White *Hard drive capacity without operating system.**Operation lifetime subject to product model, normal usage conditions and configurations. - All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. - Product may not be exactly as shown in images. † To recharge using the AC power adapter, power plug must be fully pushed into the power socket on the Eee PC until it clicks firmly into place.

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Toshiba Mini NB305-N410BN 10.1-Inch Java Brown Netbook - 11 Hours of Battery Life Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been in the market for a netbook for over a year now. I have spent many a hour pouring over reviews online, watching youtube unboxings and reviews, and actually doing a lot of hands on in retail stores with all of the options out there. I am thrilled to say that after only 24 hours with the Toshiba NB305-N410WH, I know that I waited for just the right one.
The reviews for its' predecessor (the NB205) had put that netbook on the top of most professional reviewers list. And, indeed in my own hands on tests, it was right at the top as well. My main concern was the battery that stuck out of the back on that model. I had come close to overlooking this drawback, as I was so pleased with the rest of the model. What kept me from it was a concern I had read from some reviews indicating that sometimes streaming video would skip or get stuck (a universal concern on most netbooks)either due to processor or graphics.
Here is why I LOVE this little fella:
* The battery issue has been totally adressed, and in fact, upgraded. They have redesigned it and no more ugly bulge of battery sticking out of the back. Plus, they now say it has an 11 hour battery. My test of this gave me around 9.5 hours doing very basic surfing and setup. Not quite 11 hours, but am still elated with 9.5 hours. I can now really feel comfortable about leaving the power cable at home for the day. (however, the power cable is actaully fairly small) (Update 1/21/10--In further testing of the battery life, I seem to now be averaging more like 7 hours under heavy usage, meaning video watching and constant use. I am still more than happy with that. Light usage will give you more like the 9.5 hours I mentioned.)
* I'm extremely happy with the performance. Everyone needs to keep in mind that netbooks have never been designed for processor intensive tasks, but this little guy rocks! The new "Pinetrail" Atom N450 platform seems to be a great fit for this netbook. The graphics engine is updated, as well. I have had absolutely no delays in any streaming video on YouTube or Netflix. (I did notice just a bit of stuttering in Hulu only when watching something full screen but this isn't an issue for me.) Surfing is snappy and responsive, just the way that I like it. For anyone that may have been on the fence about getting a netbook because they were concerned it might not perform, hop right off that fence and get the NB305. Seriously, I have a Macbook Pro and Dell laptop and this one has instantly become my "go to" for surfing on the couch or from bed. And, I know this will be the one I now take anywhere out of the house.
* The overall look and feel of the NB305 is truly "best in class". My big gripe with a ton of netbooks out there is their glossy covers-especially the black, but even other color glossy covers are fingerprint magnets. They just always look smudged and feel cheap to me. I got the textured white model and just love it. Even though I am sure it is all plastic, too, it just looks more expensive. The cover totally repels fingerprints and just "feels good". The keyboard and trackpad have received universal love in the previous model and I absolutely agree. The keyboard is extremely easy to type on. No issues at all for me there. The trackpad is truly a selling feature as it is multi-touch. I have this on my Macbook Pro and LOVE it on this netbook. I love being able to do the 2 finger scroll up and side to side. It really makes surfing the web a joy. (I now curse my Dell for not having this.) This model actually reduced it's weight to 2.6 lbs making it super easy to take with you. The bottom does heat up a bit but I never felt uncomfortable having it directly on my lap. (Update 2/20/10: Ok, there have been times when it has been uncomfortable on my lap. Especially if you are blocking the vents, which is easy to do when on your lap. I now just set it on the protective sleeve I bought for it and we're good to go.) This new model has sleeker look than previous models, a little more streamlined in the front. Overall, form factor gets a big A+.So, there are a couple areas for improvement, however, I don't think they are "deal breakers" given the other areas where the NB-305 excels:
1) The speakers are not great. Actually, they're pretty bad compared to my Mac and Dell. This is definitely an area to improve on, but have found this to be true of all the netbooks I have been able to hear. I'm not saying that you can't hear what you are watching, but I will plan on using earbuds for watching video or listening to music.
2) I'm a little bugged that these just come with Windows7 Starter and not Windows7 Home Premium. I feel a little "punked" into having to pay an extra $80 for the upgrade (which was extremely simple and fast, by the way. I was able to do it right online--no need for external optical drive). Some people will be fine with Windows7 Starter as it does allow you to do basic functions, but I ultimatley had to cave in and upgrade. You aren't able to personalize things in Windows7 Starter, which was a minor but grating flaw. (On a side note, I am really liking Windows7 Home Premium. This netbook handles it fine.)
3) I'm kinda concerned that this did not come with any restore cd's. Yes, I realize that this doesn't have a cd/dvd drive, but I guess I just like the comfort of having them if needed. I know that I should back up the system on my own, but I guess I just am not sure what happens if the OS crashes or hard drive has to be replaced. I think there must be new ways to restore, nowadays. I guess I will hopefully never cross that bridge.
4) (Update 2/20/10: It does get quite warm around the vents. This may or may not be an issue for you. I can deal with it.)
Overall, I think you can see that I am obviously extremely happy with this purchase. If you have been waiting to buy a netbook, I would give this one some serious thought. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!
(UPDATE 1/19/10: I did upgrade to 2GB of memory and would recommend it. I didn't really need to, but can't resist trying to upgrade my gadgets, and everything is just a little faster and I just watched Heros on Hulu full screen and didn't notice issues that I had before. I didn't even mind the speakers come to think of it--although the speakers are still the only weak link hardware wise. Installing the memory is a snap. You just need a tiny Philips screwdriver to remove one screw from back cover, pop out the old, pop in the new, replace the cover and boot it back up. It was recognized by the netbook with no problems. There is a video on YouTube on doing this to the NB205 model and the process is exactly the same for the NB305. Still very happy.)
(UPDATE 2/20/10: The type of memory that I got was the one that Amazon usually suggests: Crucial Technology CT25664AC800 2GB 200-pin SODIMM DDR2 PC2-6400 Memory Module.
I also purchased CaseCrown sleeve: CaseCrown Double Memory Foam Netbook Pouch (White Faux Suede) to Carry the Toshiba Mini NB305 10.1-inch Netbook Very happy with that, too. Fits like a glove and makes it super easy to transport the NB305 and feel it is very protected.
Overall, still extremely happy.)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Toshiba Mini NB305-N410BN 10.1-Inch Java Brown Netbook - 11 Hours of Battery Life


Toshiba Mini NB305: Sleeker Design and Improved Battery LifeWith a new sleeker design and up to 11 hours of battery life rating, the affordable, super-compact Toshiba Mini NB305 weighs less than 3 pounds, is small enough to throw in a purse or bag, and offers a brightly colorful 10.1-inch LED-backlit screen. It features a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing and a larger touchpad with Multi-Touch Control, which enables you to navigate documents, web pages and images more easily.
With up to 11 hours of battery life the Toshiba mini NB305 lets you go through an entire day of school, work or errands without worrying about a recharge.

Click here for more information about Toshiba Mini NB305-N410BN 10.1-Inch Java Brown Netbook - 11 Hours of Battery Life

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