Mini 10 arrives in Dell's netbook line-up

 

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By Benny Har-Even

Posted on 23 Feb 2009 at 19:37

Dell's new-found enthusiasm for netbooks has been emphasised once more with the release of a third model - the Inspiron Mini 10.

This machine squeezes in between the Inspiron Mini 9 and the Mini 12, but brings a widescreen display to the party. The 10.1in screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio, and offers a resolution of 1,024 x 576.

The spec actually offers slightly fewer pixels than the 1,024 x 600 pixels of its siblings, but is the sacrifice users will have be make to get a video-friendly 16:9 aspect ratio display.

Other features are a keyboard that's 92% the size of the full-size version and an HDMI output.

Business users who deal with larger files will be pleased to see that faster 802.11 draft-n wireless is available on top of 802.11b/g.

The Windows XP OS is helped along with 1GB of RAM, though some users may be put off by the fact that the memory can't be upgraded. Meanwhile, fixed storage comes from a choice of 120GB and 160GB hard drives. The CPU will also be a choice of Z520 and Z530 processors.

The laptop features a webcam and weighs in at 1.3Kg.

If Windows XP doesn't appeal, a Linux version powered by Ubuntu 8.04 is said to be available as an option at a later date. Also potentially on the way are a 2GB version and built-in GPS and mobile broadband.

Buyers can choose from a range of colours, including black, pink, red, blue and green and white.

The Mini 10 will be available from Dell on 26 February for £299 including VAT and delivery.