Acer Aspire One AOA110-1995 8.9-Inch Seashell White Netbook - 2.5 Hour Battery Life Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As other reviews have said, the initial setup process is SLOW. Be patient, and put the laptop aside until it is done. Once the install was done, then the ubiquitous Windows Updates (28 in all for me), take their pound of flesh, er, time. Once it finally is ready for you, it boots and runs reasonably well. After a few days of use, I removed the McAfee antivirus 60 day trial that was included with the PC and installed Avast! free antivirus instead. Response is noticeably quicker with this lightweight antivirus compared to the bloated McAfee.

Overall, the laptop is great value and very convenient size. Performance is about what you would expect with such a slow processor, but it's quite useful for web browsing (I use Firefox) and lightweight word processing. It wouldn't suit many people as their only PC, but for those trips when you want to pack lightly, or a day on the road or at a remote office, it's great. The 16 Gbytes of memory in the hard-drive-free version doesn't sound like much, but the installed applications take much less than half of this, so it's pretty reasonable unless you want to load a huge Itunes library or lots of videos.

For it's intended application as a super-portable web browser, it's a perfect fit.

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Product Description:
A great choice for students, this affordable ultra-lightweight Acer Aspire One (AOA110-1995) weighs just over 2 pounds and includes the familiar Windows XP operating system and 16 GB of storage--an 8 GB internal NAND flash memory drive and an included 8 GB SDHC memory card. It has a vibrant 8.9-inch CrystalBrite WSVGA LED backlit display, integrated webcam for easy video chatting, and Intel's latest mobile processor--the Atom. Offering a cool seashell white chassis, the netbook's smooth surface is comfortable to touch, and it's accented with distinctive details, such as the attractive orange hinge ring.



A great choice for students, it comes with Windows XP Home, 16 GB of total storage, and a 3-cell battery for up to 2.5 hours of battery life.

Weighing just 2.17 pounds, the stylish Acer Aspire One goes anywhere with you. Designed especially for mobile devices, the 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor uses a brand new design structure new hafnium-infused circuitry, which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors to conserve energy and gives you more time away from the wall outlet--up to 2.5 hours with the included 3-cell battery. Other features include 1 GB of installed RAM (1.5 GB maximum), 54g Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g), multi-format memory card reader, multiple USB ports, and built-in email, web browsing, and digital media applications.
It comes preinstalled with the Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system, which offers more experienced users an enhanced and innovative experience that incorporates Windows Live features like Windows Live Messenger for instant messaging and Windows Live Mail for consolidated email accounts on your desktop.
Processor
The Intel Atom processor uses a brand new design structure that packs in 47 million transistors into a single chip sized at just 22mm (0.87 inches), and it uses just 2.5 watts of power--less than 1/10 of the 35 watts used by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor--for excellent battery management. This 1.6 GHz Atom N270 processor also includes a power-optimized front side bus of 533 MHz for faster data transfer on demanding mobile applications and a 512 KB L2 cache (which temporarily stores data).
Storage
This version of the Aspire One comes with 8 GB of NAND flash memory solid-state drive (SSD), which is adequate for students and those who want to use the laptop primarily as an email and web surfing device. Faster and more reliable, flash memory provides a rapid boot-up and quicker access to applications while improving battery life. Flash memory is also more reliable than hard disk memory, mainly because there are no moving parts. Since data is written to stationary flash memory instead of a spinning hard disk, you have less risk of hardware problems with the hard disk when you're on the move. It's an ideal feature for a travel notebook where knocks and sudden movements are par for the course.
In addition, this Aspire Onecomes with an 8 GB Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) memory card--great for storing digital media. The Asprire One has one dedicated SD memory card slot for the included SDHC card as well as a second multi-in-one card reader that's compatible with five different types of memory cards--Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO and xD-Picture Card--for maximum flexibility. The additional SD card slot seamlessly integrates with the internal NAND flash module as an added storage device. The ability to have both a multi-in-1 card reader and a SD card reader at the same time allows you to download photos from the multi-in-1 to share with others and store to the SD card as an internal storage device simultaneously.
Memory
The 1 GB of installed RAM (512 MB onboard memory and one 512 MB DIMM, 533 MHz)can be expanded to a maximum of 1.5 GB of RAM,
DVD/CD Drive
Because of its size, the Aspire One does not come with an integrated optical drive, but optional CD/DVD read/write drives can be connected to the laptop via one of the three USB ports, enabling you to create your music mixes, burn movies to DVD, and more.
Connectivity
This Acer Aspire One notebook has an integrated 54g wireless LAN (Acer InviLink) that's compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g networks and offers Acer's SignalUp technology for enhanced antenna efficiency. This notebook provides the following connections:

3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
Secure Digital (SD) card reader, also compatible with MultiMedia cards (MMCs)
Multi-in-one card reader supports SD, MMC, Memory Stick/Memory Stick PRO, and XD Picture Cards
1 VGA monitor port
1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
RJ-45 port for 10/100 Fast Ethernet connection
56K modem port (V.90)

Screen, Video and Audio
The 8.9-inch screen has a WSVGA resolution (1024 x 600) and support for up a 262K color depth. Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950, which uses shared video memory with the main memory. Acer's CrystalBrite display technology guarantees the best possible visual experience by preventing the diffusion of surrounding light and internal ray. Compared to normal TFT LCDs, Acer CrystalBrite technology is able to read color coordinates more accurately, thus minimizing distortion and creating high-fidelity colors in all environments.
This notebook includes an integrated audio card with Microsoft DirectSound compatibility, and it includes two stereo speakers.
What's in the Box
This package contains the Acer Aspire One notebook PC (AOA110-1995; LU.S040B.235), rechargeable 3-cell lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase.

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Samsung N150 10.1-Inch Netbook (Blue) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered the Samsung N150 after much research and have not been disappointed. The main reasons for my choice were: 1. Matte screen, which I prefer over the glossy screens of other netbooks I've seen in stores, 2. Battery life, 3. Matte blue finish of cover doesn't show fingerprints, 4. Positive reviews of keyboard, 5. Super-quiet fan. And so far, all of these features have lived up to my hopes. Other nice features: silky smooth operation of lid hinges, and the built-in webcam and microphone.

One downside as noted by a previous reviewer: the initial setup of the hard drive and software takes a LONG time (one hour, more or less). From what I've read, there are other netbooks out there with much shorter setup times. Fortunately, you only have to go through setup once with this netbook. Be patient, and you'll get through it fine. Just don't expect to be doing useful work until the day after your box comes in the mail.

Another negative is that the processor seems relatively slow (compared to desktop PCs or full-size laptops) at some operations like booting, doing data transfer, and unpacking/installing software. This is just because of the processor, which has been optimized for low power usage. And I imagine that other netbooks have the same shortcoming, so it's no particular knock against the N150. It's the price all netbooks pay for being small and power-stingy.

Having said that, once the Samsung gets itself booted and ready to go, it does fine at web browsing, email, word processing, and video watching. I was able to watch a streaming Netflix video with no problems. Speakers are decent, but a battery-powered iPod speaker like an Altec Lansing iM237 plugged into the headphone jack gives a much better and louder sound.

Suggestions:

1. Allow at least one hour for initial setup. Be patient.

2. Either turn off the automatic "Windows Update" in the control panel, or change the frequency of updates from "every day" to "one day per week." The automatic update hogs the processor each time it runs, and you'll be wondering why the netbook is running so slowly every morning.

3. In the Start menu, type "Task Manager" in the search box and put a shortcut for the Task Manager in your Start menu or on your taskbar. Get familiar with the Task Manager because it shows you CPU usage, memory usage, and what processes are running in the background. When the blue "hard disk" light starts flashing and the netbook slows down, the Task Manager will tell you why.

4. In the Start menu, type "gadgets" in the search box, and install the "CPU" gadget on your desktop. The large dial gives a constant readout of CPU usage, and the small dial a readout of RAM usage. Another good tool for monitoring the CPU workload. When the needle is pegged in the red zone (e.g. at startup) you're not going to get much done. Wait til the needle drops out of the red zone before trying to do any other CPU-intensive tasks.

5. Forget the installed McAfee antivirus program and download the free "Microsoft Security Essentials". It's free and it works great. Saved my other laptop from numerous attacks. Also download the free "Malwarebytes" program.

6. Forget the MS Office "trial" software and download the free Open Office, which works just like MS Office and can open MS Office files, and an save in MS Office format. (Open Office also plays better with this netbook than the included MS Works package. I downloaded Open Office and then uninstalled both MS Office and MS Works.)

Some owners have reported that replacing the 1GB RAM stick with 2 GB RAM improves performance. Before going that route, I tried the Windows ReadyBoost feature, which Microsoft says will improve performance in some operations. Exactly which operations is not clear, and when I tried using ReadyBoost with a 4GB USB emory stick, I wasn't able to discern any difference.

All in all, the Samsung is a competent netbook in a nice package. Two thumbs up.

Update: After upgrading to 2 GB RAM and having used this netbook for a couple of weeks, I like it even better. Upgrading the RAM definitely helped performance. And the matte screen is definitely better than the glossies, and the keyboard is much better than my friend's Asus eeePC keyboard. The trackpad is just too small for more than occasional emergency use, though, so I use an iHome mid-size wireless optical mouse, which I love and highly recommend. Being freed from the tiny trackpad and the marginal 1 GB RAM makes this little machine a pleasure to use.

PS--If you do install Microsoft Security Essentials, be sure to follow their instructions for uninstalling other antivirus programs first (in this case, McAfee). I apparently failed to do so, and eventually noticed an oscillation in CPU usage as shown by the Task Manager when the CPU should have been idle. A Google search suggested a conflict between two competing antivirus programs. I went back and uninstalled McAfee by using the "appwiz.cpl" command per instructions on the Microsoft Security Essentials site, and problem solved.

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Product Description:
Delivering high style while ensuring you have less to carry whie staying within your budget, the Samsung N150 netbook PC in blue features a 10.1-inch LED-backlit display, the latest Intel Atom N450 processor, Windows 7 Starter operating system, and up to 7 hours of battery life. This impressive battery-powered performance is possible because overall power consumption is reduced by the energy efficient LED display, optimized processing performance and Samsung's proprietary Enhanced Battery Life solution.
Great for writing e-mail and getting work done while on the go, it sports a 93 percent full-size keyboard for easy typing as well as a webcam for staying in contact via video chats. With the integrated Wireless-N Wi-Fi, you'll be able to connect to the Internet at home or at hotspots throughout town. Other features include a 160 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM, a 3-in-1 memory card reader, and three USB 2.0 ports.


The Samsung N150 in blue with a 10.1-inch LCD screen, 93 percent full-size keyboard, and up to 7 hours of battery life.
Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

Key Features

Ultra Mobility
The N150's 6-cell battery delivers up to 7 hours of power to keep you running all day long. That means you can keep sending emails and uploading photos without worrying about being shut down. And an energy efficient LED display and optimized processing technology adds to its long-lasting performance.
Simple Data Sharing
With a host of advanced connectivity tools, including a 3-in-1 memory card reader and three USB 2.0 ports (one of them chargeable), you can easily move data from your digital camera, camcorder, MP3 player or PDA straight to your netbook.
Digital LiveCam
Incorporate cool video effects into your webcam chats with Live YouCam. Liven up your chats with 'virtual' hats and masks or choose one of 12 3D avatars to mimic your facial movements. Once you're done, easily upload your video to YouTube and Facebook. And workaholics can use the Live YouCam to share PowerPoint files and capture desktop videos for quick do-it-yourself demos and tutorials. Gesture User-Interface
A convenient gesture user-interface lets you scroll, pinch-zoom in / out, and rotate via touchpad.
Fast Connectivity
The N150 incorporates advanced communication technologies, including a Wireless-N (802.11b/g/n) connectivity to provide high-speed access to the Internet and your data anytime, anywhere. Easy Resolution Manager
See the whole picture on your netbook with Samsung's Easy Resolution Manager. If your program or game supports a higher resolution you can easily upgrade to 1024 x 768 to see more details, crisper images and bolder colors. TCO Certified
This netbook has been awarded the leading environmental and usability standard--TCO 3.0 certification--and is ECO RoHS compliant. As well as being ergonomically designed for optimum ease of use and performance, Samsung netbooks are also completely mercury free and consume significantly less power thanks to their LED backlit displays. Their ultra-lightweight, robust and compact design also offers other "green" advantages, as less power is used in the manufacture and usage phases of their product life.

Key Specifications

10.1-inch LED-backlit display (1024 x 600) with anti-reflective coating fine-tunes movies and images with the sharpest details and boldest colors, with no mirror effect under bright lights or in sunny weather.
1.66 GHz Intel Atom N450 processor (512 KB L2 cache, 667 MHz FSB) combines performance and energy efficiency to explore the Internet and stay connected while mobile.
160 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)
1 GB of RAM (DDR2)
Intel GMA 3150 graphics
1.3-megapixel webcam integrated into the bezel
Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for ultra-fast connectivity to home and business networks.
Three USB 2.0 ports with one slot that charges your peripherals even if the netbook is in sleep mode.
3-in-1 memory card reader (SD, SDHC, MMC)
Fast Ethernet (10/100) for wired networking.
VGA video output for connecting to an external monitor.
Headphone jack as well as mic input
Kensington lock compatibility
Built-in stereo speakers (1.5 W x 2) with HD Audio and SRS 3D Sound Effect capabilities.
Windows 7 Starter makes small notebook PCs easier to use because it puts less between you and what you want to do--less waiting, less clicking, less hassle connecting to networks. And Starter combines the latest in reliability and responsiveness with the familiarity and compatibility of Windows.
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. A small notebook PC running Windows 7 Home Premium is even easier to use. The new taskbar and advanced navigation features make launching programs, opening files, managing windows, and getting around your PC faster and easier. Personalize your PC to be just the way you want it with helpful gadgets and desktop themes--even turn your desktop into a slideshow of your favorite photos. And you get the best entertainment experience on a PC. With Windows Media Center, you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV.
Up to 7 hours of battery life from standard 6-cell battery.
Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.4 x 1.37 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 2.73 pounds
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor

What's in the Box
This package contains the Samsung N150, 6-cell rechargeable battery, AC adapter, power cord, printed user manual

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Toshiba Mini NB305-N410BL 10.1-Inch Royal Blue Netbook - 11 Hours of Battery Life Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been in the market for a netbook for over a year now.I have spent many a hour pouring over reviews online, watching youtube unboxings and reviews, and actually doing a lot of hands on in retail stores with all of the options out there.I am thrilled to say that after only 24 hours with the Toshiba NB305-N410WH, I know that I waited for just the right one.

The reviews for its' predecessor (the NB205) had put that netbook on the top of most professional reviewers list.And, indeed in my own hands on tests, it was right at the top as well.My main concern was the battery that stuck out of the back on that model.I had come close to overlooking this drawback, as I was so pleased with the rest of the model.What kept me from it was a concern I had read from some reviews indicating that sometimes streaming video would skip or get stuck (a universal concern on most netbooks)either due to processor or graphics.

Here is why I LOVE this little fella:

* The battery issue has been totally adressed, and in fact, upgraded.They have redesigned it and no more ugly bulge of battery sticking out of the back.Plus, they now say it has an 11 hour battery.My test of this gave me around 9.5 hours doing very basic surfing and setup.Not quite 11 hours, but am still elated with 9.5 hours.I can now really feel comfortable about leaving the power cable at home for the day. (however, the power cable is actaully fairly small)(Update 1/21/10--In further testing of the battery life,I seem to now be averaging more like 7 hours under heavy usage, meaning video watching and constant use.I am still more than happy with that.Light usage will give you more like the 9.5 hours I mentioned.)

* I'm extremely happy with the performance.Everyone needs to keep in mind that netbooks have never been designed for processor intensive tasks, but this little guy rocks!The new "Pinetrail" Atom N450 platform seems to be a great fit for this netbook.The graphics engine is updated, as well.I have had absolutely no delays in any streaming video on YouTube or Netflix. (I did notice just a bit of stuttering in Hulu only when watching something full screen but this isn't an issue for me.)Surfing is snappy and responsive, just the way that I like it.For anyone that may have been on the fence about getting a netbook because they were concerned it might not perform, hop right off that fence and get the NB305.Seriously, I have a Macbook Pro and Dell laptop and this one has instantly become my "go to" for surfing on the couch or from bed.And, I know this will be the one I now take anywhere out of the house.

* The overall look and feel of the NB305 is truly "best in class".My big gripe with a ton of netbooks out there is their glossy covers-especially the black, but even other color glossy covers are fingerprint magnets.They just always look smudged and feel cheap to me.I got the textured white model and just love it.Even though I am sure it is all plastic, too, it just looks more expensive.The cover totally repels fingerprints and just "feels good".The keyboard and trackpad have received universal love in the previous model and I absolutely agree.The keyboard is extremely easy to type on.No issues at all for me there.The trackpad is truly a selling feature as it is multi-touch.I have this on my Macbook Pro and LOVE it on this netbook.I love being able to do the 2 finger scroll up and side to side.It really makes surfing the web a joy.(I now curse my Dell for not having this.) This model actually reduced it's weight to 2.6 lbs making it super easy to take with you.The bottom does heat up a bit but I never felt uncomfortable having it directly on my lap. (Update 2/20/10:Ok, there have been times when it has been uncomfortable on my lap.Especially if you are blocking the vents, which is easy to do when on your lap.I now just set it on the protective sleeve I bought for it and we're good to go.) This new model has sleeker look than previous models, a little more streamlined in the front.Overall, form factor gets a big A+.So, there are a couple areas for improvement, however, I don't think they are "deal breakers" given the other areas where the NB-305 excels:

1) The speakers are not great. Actually, they're pretty bad compared to my Mac and Dell.This is definitely an area to improve on, but have found this to be true of all the netbooks I have been able to hear.I'm not saying that you can't hear what you are watching, but I will plan on using earbuds for watching video or listening to music.
2) I'm a little bugged that these just come with Windows7 Starter and not Windows7 Home Premium.I feel a little "punked" into having to pay an extra $80 for the upgrade (which was extremely simple and fast, by the way.I was able to do it right online--no need for external optical drive).Some people will be fine with Windows7 Starter as it does allow you to do basic functions, but I ultimatley had to cave in and upgrade.You aren't able to personalize things in Windows7 Starter, which was a minor but grating flaw. (On a side note, I am really liking Windows7 Home Premium.This netbook handles it fine.)
3) I'm kinda concerned that this did not come with any restore cd's.Yes, I realize that this doesn't have a cd/dvd drive, but I guess I just like the comfort of having them if needed.I know that I should back up the system on my own, but I guess I just am not sure what happens if the OS crashes or hard drive has to be replaced.I think there must be new ways to restore, nowadays. I guess I will hopefully never cross that bridge.
4) (Update 2/20/10: It does get quite warm around the vents.This may or may not be an issue for you.I can deal with it.)

Overall, I think you can see that I am obviously extremely happy with this purchase.If you have been waiting to buy a netbook, I would give this one some serious thought.Two enthusiastic thumbs up!

(UPDATE 1/19/10:I did upgrade to 2GB of memory and would recommend it. I didn't really need to, but can't resist trying to upgrade my gadgets, and everything is just a little faster and I just watched Heros on Hulu full screen and didn't notice issues that I had before.I didn't even mind the speakers come to think of it--although the speakers are still the only weak link hardware wise. Installing the memory is a snap.You just need a tiny Philips screwdriver to remove one screw from back cover, pop out the old, pop in the new, replace the cover and boot it back up. It was recognized by the netbook with no problems.There is a video on YouTube on doing this to the NB205 model and the process is exactly the same for the NB305. Still very happy.)
(UPDATE 2/20/10:The type of memory that I got was the one that Amazon usually suggests: Crucial Technology CT25664AC800 2GB 200-pin SODIMM DDR2 PC2-6400 Memory Module.
I also purchased CaseCrown sleeve: CaseCrown Double Memory Foam Netbook Pouch (White Faux Suede) to Carry the Toshiba Mini NB305 10.1-inch NetbookVery happy with that, too.Fits like a glove and makes it super easy to transport the NB305 and feel it is very protected.
Overall, still extremely happy.)

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Product Description:

Toshiba Mini NB305: Sleeker Design and Improved Battery Life

With a new sleeker design and up to 11 hours of battery life rating, the affordable, super-compact Toshiba Mini NB305 weighs less than 3 pounds, is small enough to throw in a purse or bag, and offers a brightly colorful 10.1-inch LED-backlit screen. It features a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing and a larger touchpad with Multi-Touch Control, which enables you to navigate documents, web pages and images more easily.


With up to 11 hours of battery life the Toshiba mini NB305 lets you go through an entire day of school, work or errands without worrying about a recharge.

Get 13% OFF

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