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This story was printed from CNET Asia.
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It seems Netbooks have started piquing consumer interest again, probably due to new entrants in the form of the AMD Neo-based HP Pavilion dv2 and Via Nano-powered Samsung NC20 challenging Intel Atom's dominance. The Acer Aspire One did particularly well in stores, with both the new 10.1-inch and older 8.9-inch models gaining popularity with buyers thanks to their low price tag. However, we expect another major shakeup in this niche category when the new Intel GN40 platform starts hitting the streets since Intel claims this will give Atom-based Netbooks the ability to play 720p high-definition videos smoothly.
Note: Results are based on readership as well as data collected from retail outlets (Active Notebooks, ALIF and MC2)
Outlook
Targeting the mobile entertainment market, the Aspire 4530 comes with AMD's dual-core processor and low-end Nvidia GeForce 9100M G video card for movie playback, though gaming may still be a little out of its reach.
Outlook
At just under S$1,000, this Acer offers great value with a decent feature set for the basic user. Equipped with Bluetooth, USB ports, Wi-Fi radio, built-in Webcam, DVD writer and even an HDMI port, this Extensa should satisfy all your surfing and productivity needs.
Outlook
Built for the budget crowd, the 14.1-inch Compaq Presario CQ40 is based on the Centrino 2 chipset with Intel's latest integrated graphics processor. The higher-end variant, the CQ45, costs a little more but will net you a discrete video card in the form of an Nvidia GeForce 9200M GS chip.
Outlook
For a powerful desktop replacement, this Aspire is surprisingly affordable despite being equipped with a strong multimedia entertainment suite and high-end Nvidia GeForce 9600M GT graphics card.
The good: Excellent battery life; improved keyboard; competitively priced.
The bad: Slightly faster Intel Atom CPU fails to impress; other Netbook makers have shown more innovation.
The bottom line: Asus practically invented the Netbook market, and the Eee PC 1000HE is an overdue overhaul that offers a new CPU and great battery life but misses some of the competition's bells and whistles.
The good: Secondary SD slot expands primary storage; slim and light form factor; inexpensive.
The bad: Limited 8GB SSD; poor battery life; no Bluetooth.
The bottom line: The Acer Aspire One may not be as feature-packed as the Eee PC 901, but the keyboard is certainly much better and could tip the scales in its favor.
The good: Laminated scratch-resistant body; discrete graphics card option; integrated Webcam; HP QuickPlay function; stylish touch-sensitive buttons.
The bad: Thick chassis; below-average battery life.
The bottom line: HP's entertainment notebook not only delivers in features, but also goes the extra mile with a redesigned chassis to appeal to those with unconventional tastes.
The good: Dual-mode tablet display; fun-looking design; decent port assortment for a 12-inch laptop.
The bad: Mediocre battery life; unimpressive performance; touchscreen response lags.
The bottom line: The HP TouchSmart tx2 tablet PC has the features, functions and price to convert consumer laptop users to tablet users. We just wish it could live a little longer away from an outlet.
Click here for a feature comparison table.
