At $299, the Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook is one of the least expensive Netbooks currently available. While it may be one of the cheapest in price, the Mini 10v performs better than expected for a mini laptop.
Mini 10v Netbook Specifications
Dell Mini 10v is customizable, but a basic 10v includes:
- 1.6-GHz Intel Atom N270 processor
- Windows XP Home Edition SP3
- 1 GB of RAM
- Integrated Intel 945 GSE UMA Graphics Media Accelerator
- Glossy 10.1-inch screen
- 160 GB hard drive
- Wi-Fi 802.11 g - half mini-card
- Bluetooth internal mini-card
- Built-in 1.3MP webcam
- 3-cell battery
- 2.86 lbs.
Design and Display
The Mini 10v comes in a basic black glossy coating; however, for $40 more, the Mini 10v is available in blue, green, pink, red, and white. The glossy coating makes for a sleek appearance; however, as with any glossy coating, fingerprints are a problem.
The Dell Mini 10v is compact and lightweight, weighing only 2.86 pounds, making it ultra-transportable. The keyboard is 92 percent the size of a traditional laptop, so the keyboard is quite comfortable and easy to use. The touchpad incorporates both the left and right mouse buttons and is somewhat sensitive to the touch. Users may experience difficulty with the cursor jumping on the screen when first using the touchpad.
Although the Dell Inspiron Mini 10v has a glossy screen, there is no problem with glare. With the set resolution of 1024 X 576 and the measurements of the screen, some users may experience difficulty seeing text on websites and when creating documents. If the resolution is adjusted, however, web pages and documents do not fit on the screen and users must scroll left and right to read and the Start menu cannot display all programs.
Audio and Video
The Dell Mini 10v comes with a built-in 1.3MP webcam and users can easily take snapshots or video record and immediately email or upload to Photobucket with one click. Snapshots and video are grainy and of low quality. The built-in speakers are sufficient for normal use.
Performance and Battery Life
Startup and shutdown with Windows XP is relatively quick, approximately 45 seconds startup and 32 seconds shutdown. There are no issues with having multiple programs open at once and no noticeable sluggishness while playing video clips with other programs open. The 3-cell battery lasts for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. The AC adapter is compact and includes a Velcro strap.
Software and Warranty
Dell’s Mini 10v comes with Microsoft Works Suite and Dell Video Chat powered by Sightspeed, a 30-day trial of Norton Internet Security, and a standard warranty of one-year parts and labor and 24/7 free phone service.
Overall Impression
Dell's Mini 10v is worth the $299 price tag. The Mini 10v is sleek, lightweight, and ultra-portable and performs extremely well. The only real downside is the touchpad; however, the awkwardness of the touchpad can be overcome with regular, frequent use.
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