Ping ernunnos and gizka (and anyone else with an opinion):
So my PPC Powerbook is about to be maybe orphaned by Apple and I’m thinking that a netbook would really be all I need for school. I like having the computer with me, but dang it really adds a lot of weight to my backpack.
I think I remember you guys talking about getting netbooks at one point – how do you like them, and do you have any recommendations or warnings?
ernunnos
If you don’t need the small size of a 9″ screen, get a 10″ model. That extra inch makes a big difference in the keyboard. Also, look for a keyboard that doesn’t have the up-arrow directly left of the right shift key. It’s the only thing I don’t really like about my Eee.
jenbooks
Good advice! The keyboard is really important, I think.
So I was able to get my hands on an Asus (10″, not sure what model #) and I found that the keyboard bugged me somehow.
I’ve decided on the Acer Aspire One – the keyboard feels really good to me, small, but workable. The arrow keys don’t bug me.
It’s working on installing itself right now, sigh.
I’ve heard a rumor that OSX can be put on some of these – wonder if I could manage it.
I know, I know, Linux. OSX is as close as I’ve been able to get, much to ‘s chagrin.
punk_apple
I got the Dell Inspiron Mini 9, and I like it. That is what I wanted for when I don’t want to travel with the full size laptop.
It’s nice and tiny, but it takes a few days to get used to the keyboard.
I tested all the netbooks I could get my paws on and some I didn’t like at ll – I think the Asus were on this category.
Some of my friends got MSI Wind (and most of them made them a hackintosh) and those seem quite nice as well, including the usability of the keyboard.
But I see now there are a few models with 10″ screen that may give the extra ” for the keyboard.
punk_apple
Oh btw just noticed – Dell is dropping the 9″ base price to $ 249
http://www.liliputing.com/2009/02/dell-inspiron-mini-base-price-falls-to-249.html
gizka
I love Asus Eee netbook! I don’t believe I’ve ever received more value for my money. It isn’t the most powerful PC I’ve ever owned but it makes a great e-mail machine and also is good for doing my creative writing on … it comes with a variety of open source software installed.
I’ve used my Asus with several different external monitors and I’ve never had a problem. Ditto for several different USB keyboard and mice.
If you want something to take notes in class with, the Asus isn’t a bad way to go; though the keyboard may take a little getting used to. The letters are decently sized but the other keys are a bit small.
melly_girl
Mini recommendation
I purchased a Mini not too long ago. When it comes to being portable, the mini has it down pat. Here are the things that I really had to put into my mind:
1. Do I mind not having a CD/DVD ROM/Writer on the PC?
2. Depending upon the manufacturer, you can get a small
hard drive (HP and Dell) or a regular sized one (Lenovo,
Asus, and others).
3. Can you deal with the small keyboard? The one thing
that drives me up the freaking wall is the keyboard,
but I could get one of those cool Logitech keyboards
designed for laptops.
In general, I think a mini would be perfect for toting to school. They are very light weight and even my mother considered getting one. She begged out of it when the total order on a Dell Mini was $486.