Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review - 5.25/7
The Inspiron Mini 10v is Dell’s new version of its dissapointing 1010 model. Let’s look at the differences. The most noticeable is that the Z-series processor has been replaced with the more standard Atom N270. Another change is that the Mini 10v can be purchased with an Ubuntu operating system. Dell realised the folly of having a weak graphics chip and the upgraded 10v features a Intel 950 graphics accelerator. The VGA output has been included at the expense of the HDMI output. Oh and the price has come down significantly. All in all, the Mini 10v has addressed most of the problems we had with its predecessor.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review – Top Features
- Price – The previous model; the 1010 didn’t have that many things going for it AND was expensive. This one is quite an improvement and starts at $299 with the Windows 7 version at only $330.
- Ubuntu – At netbookreview, we’re not totally sold on Ubuntu yet, but we like the fact that its available as an option.
- Increased Graphics Performance – This doesn’t really count as a top feature, as its only an improvement on its previous model and not when compared to other netbooks.
- Battery Life – At 8+ hours, this slots in with the higher end performers when it comes to longevity.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review – Drawbacks and things to keep in mind
- Lower Resolution – The resolution is only 1024×576 which means you get into horizontal scrolling for certain websites. Downright annoying.
- Touchpad – This has been left the same as the old interfering pad with integrated mouse buttons. It is still a major annoyance.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review -Ratings
The Mini 1010 has a rating of 4. Let’s see how much better the 10v can score.
- Price and Value for money – 1.0 Star. We love products that give us value for our dollar. Dropping the price massively gives a fillip to the Mini 10v’s score.
- Speed and Performance – 0.75 Star. The score stays the same. The processor has been downgraded but the graphics chipset has been upgraded, causing a stalemate.
- Screen – 0.5 Star. – Quite a nice screen, the only problem being that some websites need a resolution of 1024×574 so that horizontal scrolling doesn’t come into play.
- Keyboard, Touchpad, Useability – 0.5 Star. The touchpad still draws a lot of points away from this netbook.
- Portability and Battery Life – 1.0 Star. We have no complaints on this front. It’s insanely light, and the battery lasts about a workday.
- Looks and Design – 0.75 Star. The Mini 10v is a solidly built netbook, with a decent design.
- Connectivity and Extensibility – 0.75 Star. The VGA port is back. The HDMI is gone, but then it never was much use anyways.
This gives the Mini 10v an improved overall rating of 5.5 out of 7 Stars.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review – Our Recommendation
The Mini 10v is definitely a significant improvement over the Mini 1010. The graphics card, increased battery life, decreased price and a few minor changes here and there have all pushed the 10v up to a respectably performing netbook. However some problems do remain, the biggest of which is the touchpad. In fact, if the Mini 10v has a halfway decent one, we’d have no problem recommending it. As it stands, the 10v is a solid netbook at a very reasonable price point with a design flaw. If you’re going to use a mouse, go right ahead and buy one.
The Mini 10v with Windows 7 Starter is available on amazon for $330.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10v Netbook Review – Technical Specifications
- OS: Windows 7 Starter
- CPU: Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz processor
- RAM: 1GB RAM (1GB extendable)
- Storage Space: 160GB SATA HDD (5400rpm)
- Screen: 10.1 inch, Integrated IGMA 950
- Connectivity: 3 USB ports, Ethernet jack, Headphone & microphone slot, VGAI, 3-in-1 card reader, 802.11b/g WLAN
- Battery: 6 cell Li-Ion battery
- Weight: 2.6 lbs
Filed under: Dell Netbook Review, Netbook
[...] Specs: 10.1″ Display, Intel Atom N270 Processor, 1 GB RAM, 160GB HDD, 8 hours of battery life. Read our review here. [...]
[...] The Dell Mini 1011 (or Mini 10v) is available on amazon for $329.99. Read our full review here. [...]
[...] Read our review here. [...]
I could live with the terrible touchpad . Just use a mouse most of the time. . However the horrible resolution in the display is unforgivable!!. Shame on you Shame!
[...] Read the full review here. [...]
@ turo62
Amen to that!!
[...] Read our review here. [...]
[...] A newer version of this model has been released. See review. [...]
[...] Read our review here. [...]
[...] Specs: Windows 7 Starter, Intel Atom N270, 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD, 8 hours battery (see review with full specs) [...]
[...] Read our review here. [...]