Best Laptops Under $500-3
The Cute, Ultra-Mobile One: Asus eeePC
The Asus eeePC is an all-white, paperback-sized, subnotebook PC with solid state (read: shock-resistant and energy-efficient) that runs on a custom version of the Linux operating system (which operates pretty much like Windows and Mac and will look familiar to anyone who has used Windows or Mac computers).
What we like: This lil' thing boots up in about ten seconds, so no more waiting around for all those annoying startup programs to install on most Windows or Mac computers. The eeePC has pretty much everything you'd need for basic computing: word processing/spreadsheet programs, Skype, Instant Messenger software, and Mozilla Firefox (for Web surfing). It also has music, photo, and video managers, which come in handy when you transfer media files off of an SD card (thanks to a built-in memory card reader). The eeePC also has built-in Wi-Fi as well as an Ethernet port (for wired connections) and a generous three USB ports (for mobile broadband modems or other peripherals). The built-in stereo speakers on either side of the 7-inch screen emit surprisingly defined, robust sound.
What we don't: Though QWERTY-based, the keyboard is a bit small for truly extended computing or long documents, and the touchpad can be tiring after mousing around for a few minutes (so you'll want an external mouse). In order to save power and keep the size small, Asus omitted the CD/DVD drive on the eeePC, so forget ripping any CDs. Also, battery life was surprisingly low in our experience (only about 3 hours). Despite the fast startup, the computer's speed in general can be slow at times when opening programs and the like.
Who it's for: Mobile professionals who don't want to spend $2,000 on a MacBook Air and need something bigger than a BlackBerry for responding to e-mails or writing of office docs on the fly. Students and kids who need a starter computer that won't break the band.
Verdict: It's the most affordable mini-PC on the market today, at least until the Everex Cloudbook actually hits stores. We recommend it to anyone who needs to stay in touch with the office or do basic computing on the go, but doesn't want to break their back or tire their arms out by carrying a heavier computer around with them.
Price: $400 (4-gigabyte) (8-gigabyte version available for $800).
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Rhonda Riggs @ Mar 1st 2008 6:42PM
I think these "lil" laptops are just way too cool. I can see me getting one in the very near future for my jewlery biz! Perfect to take on the go
Bob Closkey @ Mar 3rd 2008 8:25AM
All of your information has not told me where to acquire the ASUS eeePC---unless, of course, I missed it somewhere along the way--Would appreciate having this information--Thanks
PJ @ Mar 7th 2008 9:11PM
I had been searching where I could acquire this item. www.bestbuy.com has this available for purchase it seems. I also noticed, in person, that our local BJ's has the 2GB version on hand for sale at the price of $299.
Maria @ Mar 25th 2008 8:34PM
I am typing this reply from my asus laptop and I LOVE IT! I purchased mine from J&R Music World when I was in NY on a business trip. It is small but for what i use it for, responding to emails and surfing the web..IT IS PERFECT!
Kristi @ Apr 10th 2008 7:18PM
I got mine last week from Amazon. I'm a student it is a perfect size for my backpac so small and light. I love it!
PeterHenry @ Apr 14th 2008 10:01AM
Many different variations of the eeePC. Check out NewEgg. Also works fine with a "light" version of XP, see nLite. Replace memory with 2 gig, add 4 gig SD card to hold data. Great travel PC...