Issue 25 & 26
Last week we introduced the netbook phenomenon and shared the basics of what they are and what they do. This week let’s look at the two models I recently purchased and tested and consider the pros and cons of each, as well as their quality and usability.
The two models in questions are the Dell Vostro A90 ($295) and the Acer Aspire One ZG5 ($350). The Vostro is on the lower end of the Dell models, so far as power and features are concerned. And the Aspire is toward the upper end of the Acer line. I stuck with the smallest units they make (8.9 inch screens), although most companies also offer 10-inch and 12-inch screen models for a little higher price.
The Dell is smaller and somewhat lighter than the Acer. It comes with the Linux operating system (which I like) and has a number of programs and games built in. The wireless and wired internet are easy to use and the webcam (included) works well. You can easily use the built-in word processor, spreadsheet and presentation software and even save your work in formats that are compatible with their Microsoft counterparts (Word, Excel and Powerpoint). It has the new solid-state hard drive which is small in capacity (8 or 16 Gigabytes), but which is very fast and is sufficient for most people unless they are storing large quantities of photos or movies.
One of the advantages of this system is that there are no moving parts, so the battery, although very small and lightweight, can last 3 to 4 hours without recharging. Another advantage is that you don’t need to worry about viruses with the Linux system. Possible disadvantages are learning to use Linux (not hard, but takes a little getting used to) and, on both units, the smaller screen and keyboard. All in all – even though it is cheaper, this is the unit the kids want me to keep.
The Acer has the advantage (or at least the difference) of having Microsoft XP operating system built in and it has a standard 160 Gigabyte hard drive. The Acer’s keyboard is slightly larger than the Dell version and the keys are in a more familiar arrangement (which my college daughter likes). The drawback to having the larger size, XP and the hard drive is that the battery will likely only last around 2 hours – less if you are doing a lot of hard-drive-intensive work (listening to music, watching videos, etc.)
Both units have decent webcams built in, USB ports and VGA outputs (to hook up to an external monitor) and even card slots that read my memory sticks from the camera. All in all, I am very pleased with both units. Prices generally range from $275 to $450 (depending on size, power and features), plus the cost of any external add-ons (such as hard drives, CD/DVDs and floppy drives).
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 27 years (locally with Musicomp & Bits ‘N’ Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions, you can reach him at 668-7118.