Netbooks Showdown (Asus Eee Vs Dell Mini Vs Toshiba Mini)

In this article, we are going to make a quick comparison between three of the most popular 10.1-inch netbook models today (Jan 2010). They are the Asus Eee PC 1005PE, the Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 and the Toshiba Mini NB205-N230. Each of these netbooks will be rated on various key features.

1. Processor Speed: Generally, most netbooks in the market either have a 1.6Ghz Atom N270, 1.66Ghz Atom N280 or the new 1.66Ghz Intel Atom N450 processor. Among these three netbook models, only the Asus 1005HE comes with the new (energy efficient) N450 processor. The Dell netbook comes with either a N280 or N270 processor. The Toshiba model has a N280 processor.

2. Storage: Both the Toshiba Mini and the Asus model comes with a bigger 250GB hard drive. The Dell netbook has a 160GB hard drive. Asus ups the ante with an option to make use of their 500GB Asus WebStorage feature.

3. Features: Connectivity wise, the Asus netbook has the best set of features among these three models with a 802.11b/g/n wi-fi and Bluetooth 2.1. For the Dell model, you will have the option of choosing these features on the website. The Toshiba model has its very unique sleep-and-charge feature.

4. Design: Among the three models, I would say that the Toshiba Mini's design is the most distinctive with its matte casing. The Asus has a glossy casing and sports its signature 'seashell' design. As design is largely a matter of taste, you just have take a look at these three models yourself. Keyboard wise, I love the chiclet keys on the Toshiba and Asus model.

5. Battery Life: Asus once again wins hands down in this category. The Asus 1005PE can last 14 hours at one go. The Toshiba mini has a 9-hour battery life while the Dell netbook can last up to about 8 hours.

6. Price: It will come as no surprise that the Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 is the most affordable among these three. As it is considered an 'entry-level' netbook, it is currently priced at just around $297. The Toshiba mini is selling for around $317 while you can get an Asus 1005PE for approximately $368.

Although it may seem that the Asus 1005PE is the clearly best netbook, the slight differences in price, design and specs among these three netbooks may make them very appealing to different consumer groups. I personally just love the Asus 1005PE for its mind-boggling battery life.