3 Must Have Linux-powered Netbooks: I'm planning to acquire a small, ultra-lightweight, low-cost, and Linux-powered subnotebook before the end of the year. So, I began doing some research (used Google), and started my quest to find the perfect netbook.
Of the many netbooks currently available with Linux pre-installed, and also those that are soon to be released, I only have 3 favorites. And, if I were to buy today, I will definitely get either one of the three. I'll share to you my current list of must have Linux-powered netbooks.
Acer Aspire One
Just by looking at the photo (above), you will agree with me that this netbook is a certified head-turner. But, I didn't pick Aspire One for the cuteness-factor alone. Its all essential tech specs of 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor, 8 GB SSD or 120 GB HDD, up to 1 GB RAM, 8.9" display (1024x600 LED-backlit TFT LCD), 3 USB ports, Wireless LAN, and up to 6 hours of (reported) battery life are more than enough for my needs. It also has a built-in flash memory card reader, a 0.3 Megapixel Webcam, and of course, it can be pre-installed with a Fedora-based Linpus Linux.Asus Eee 1000 Series
The first time I saw the smoking hot Eee PC 700, I was thinking, if only the display is 2-3 inches bigger, I will buy one. About a year later, my wish came true. Asus launched the Eee PC 1000 series last June that features a 10 inch screen. It has also a much improved tech specs, utilizing a 1.6 GHz Intel Atom CPU, up to 80 GB HDD, up to 2 GB of DDR2 RAM, and has a rated battery life of 4-7 hours. It’s also Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capable, and to make typing more comfortable, its keyboard is 92% the size of generic notebooks.Dell E
This netbook is yet to be released but it’s already dubbed the Eee PC-killer. Correct me if I’m wrong, Dell E is going to be Dell’s first subnotebook line that is why my expectations are high. I’m really looking forward for its release as the list of features is quite impressive. According to Engadget, “…(with Dell E) you'll get an instant-on Linux distro running atop Intel's 1.6GHz Atom processor, a 1,024 x 600 display, 3x USB, a wee SSD, integrated webcam, WiFi, and more in a 0.82-1.22-inch thick sled weighing about 2.2-pounds.”Now, which one would you recommend?
Can't wait for the Dell E. Our hospital works with almost 95% Dell computers. We will see this on our desk soon....I'm so excited. I just hope the sell this with Linux preinstalled.
ReplyDeleteI have the original EeePC and I love it, especially after installing Debian Lenny onto it with a full KDE, which increased its productivity immensely.
ReplyDeleteBut please stop calling it a netbook, its a notebook. Netbook is for those who fear Linux and think that term will somehow make it different. These are full notebook computers, and only Microsoft wants you to believe otherwise.
Lenovo Ideapad S10 looks impressive too if you go into the unreleased stuff.
ReplyDeleteMSI Wind (not the desktop version of course) is also a winner.
Winner? Well I would say the Lenovo Ideapad S10 if you can wait. I have an old IBM Thinkpad T40 and the quality of the machine is great compared to my old (newer) laptop. I bought it used after my Dell Inspiron crapped out.
If you could deal with a little tinkering I would just skip the netbook and pick up an old Thinkpad X-series (X31,X41,X60,X61) If you spend some time shoping you can get one with all the accessories, so you have more features and power then a atom based new notebook. It will be only slightly bigger and hardly much heavier if any. Asus 1000 series I thought was 3.5 pounds. I think old 12" ultraportables are close to that. My 14" thin and light is only 4.5 pounds. (You need to install linux of course, which will work great on this old hardware)
If you still want something smaller and will wait maybe the Ideapad S10 which is 2.5 pounds. I am biased. I like IBM/Lenovo stuff now.
Or how about a Nokia N810. It is so small it is pocketable. It isn't a laptop it is a handheld. Just throwing out some ideas.
If you want small, why not get something for your pocket? If you got to carry it in a bag, like a laptop, why not just get a full size used one with a new battery?
I still haven't seen much confirmed info about the Dell yet, thanks for sharing. Just Engadget rumors.
ReplyDeleteThe Lenovo Ideapad S10 is available in other countries just not mine. Try lenovo.com to see if you can find it in yours.
Thanks all for the response.
ReplyDelete@mangz74: It will surely come with Linux. The question is, what distro they will use. My guess would still be Ubuntu.
@Greg: Thanks a lot for the suggestions. Lenovo S10 indeed looks good, and it's from a trusted brand. I'll surely inquire about it as soon as it's out.
I already have a laptop, a 15" Macbook Pro and installed Linux in it. I always bring it if I travel light, but if I have a lot to carry, I sometimes left it at home. So, I thought a netbook would be a perfect travel companion (macbook replacement) because it's small, yet powerful.
I'm thinking Acer Aspire One but a google check on the Linpus OS mentioned that it is a Fedora hack which begs the question of whether or not Mono is included by default or otherwise in the OS and apps. Is there a way to check this on the actual laptop when in the store, ie, perhaps via an x-term? TIA
ReplyDeleteWill not buy any netbook or laptop that comes with anything smelling of Novell, M$ and Intel. A previous post said used Thinkpad X-series are plentiful, will do that.
ReplyDeletehp mini 1000 with ubuntu-based MIE
ReplyDeletei got a asus 1005ah it is a great pc batery last almost all day long.
ReplyDeletethe bad thing about this one it has one antena wifi that means not very good signal. the wifi card has to conect two antenas but it can be added internaly one more but it has to be taken apart.
it is 10" pero 12" is much better