HP Mini 1000 Netbook Review

The Netbook is the latest incarnation in the continuing miniaturization of the laptop. It reflects the increased demand for truly portable computing devices which enables users to perform many basic functions e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, web surfing and email.  The devices typically measure 10x5 inches and weigh in at 1 to 1.5 kg.  The best also offer battery life in excess of 5 hours between recharges.

HP recently introduced the HP Mini 1000 which was a great netbook offering.  It will shortly be enchanced with what has been termed MIE.  HP's new Mobile Internet Experience (MIE) offers the online content and applications you want with just one click. Using the intuitive desktop, you can access email, internet, pictures, video, and music faster and more easily than ever.  It features:

• Dashboard-style interface lets you personalize your Mini by adding favorite websites
• Applications automatically launch when you power on – and web pages stay live and dynamically update while connected
• Work and play comfortably on the near-full-size keyboard (92% of full size)
• Integrated HP MediaStyle provides quick access to photos, music & entertainment
• Chat face to face with the built-in HP Mini Webcam
• Snap an HP Mini Mobile Drive into the recessed port to add storage*
• Optional; Available with Solid State Drive (SSD) configurations only.

It is powered by Linux, the Intel Atom processor and measures just 10x5 inches with a keyboard that is 92% normal size.  1gb of RAM which can be expanded and a 60gb hard drive.  There's also an SD slot, VGA webcam, 802.11b/g, optional Bluetooth, Ethernet and dual USB plugs.

Where things get extra interesting is in choice of OS. You can go the standard XP route, or for $20 less you can go for HP's brand new Ubuntu-based Linux "experience," MIE, which reminds us not just a little of HP's TouchSmart interface. The XP version is available today starting at $399, with a 10.2-inch version costing more. The MIE version will land in January for a mere $379.

We think we've found the first netbook we'd score at 90%.  A superb second generation netbook from HP.