HP pitches new netbook at professionals

 

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By Barry Collins

Posted on 24 Jun 2009 at 08:58

HP has extended its range of netbooks with a new model designed specifically for mobile professionals.

The HP Mini 5101 boasts a 10.1in LED display, and is clad in a smart aluminium and magnesium chassis.

We got our hands on the device very briefly at HP's press launch, and it feels impressively sturdy, although the metal casing makes it noticeably heavier than your average netbook.

Unlike the company's earlier netbooks, such as the HP 2133 Mini-Note, HP has wisely decided to reinstate the buttons beneath the trackpad, rather than awkwardly at each side. The well-spaced keyboard also makes it easier to tap out documents and emails on the move.

The Atom-powered Mini 5101 will come with either a conventional 7,200rpm hard disk, or an SSD with 80 or 120GB options.

The netbook also has four- or six-cell battery options, with HP claiming a maximum battery life of eight hours.

Unusually for netbooks, Bluetooth connectivity is provided alongside the normal Wi-Fi.

The device will go on sale in July. We're waiting for HP to confirm UK pricing, although the device will start from $449 in the US.