MSI Wind (Windows XP)

Laptop Mag ^ | 6/3/08 | Joanna Stern

[msnpatriot]

This 10-inch mini-notebook has good computing punch and impressive endurance.

In order to achieve their diminutive size, weight, and price, most mini-notebooks come with compromises: the screen or keyboard is too small, the processor is too slow, or the battery life is too short. That’s why the MSI Wind NB is breath of fresh air. This 2.6-pound system boasts a relatively large 10-inch screen and a full-size keyboard and Intel’s zippy new 1.6-GHz Atom processor (overclockable with a touch of a button). Plus, the MSI Wind NB lasts more than 5 hours on a charge. At $499, no other mini-notebook offers more for your money.

[msnpatriot]

For the laptop computer experts out there, what do you think of this mini-laptop with 10" screen?

Supposed to have a larger keyboard too. What do you think of the features for the money?

[upchuck]

Nice notebook.

But, IMHO, the Lenovo ThinkPad is by far the best notebook out there. Industrial strength, built for business, a real workhorse.

[mkjessup]

I’m not a laptop expert by any means, but I believe the old saying still applies: “you get what you pay for”.

If you’re happy with XP, the MSI Wind is too, as it will not support Vista.

The limited number of reviews are generally as glowing as the one from laptopmag.com, MSI builds some fine components although years ago they got caught up in the bum capacitor scandal which forced them to replace or repair a whole bunch of motherboards but that was then, this is now.

The only question I would have is how MSI would handle a service claim if you (for example) dropped this little rascal and had to call MSI up and say “I broke Wind”. ;)

[Cacique]

bump for later

[wastedyears]

Here’s my placemarker to link to somebody, and to say how cool this thing looks.

[BurbankKarl]

Dell is introducing a mini notebook also around the same price...60 gb flash drive

http://gizmodo.com/393815/exclusive-dell-mini-inspiron-their-first-mini-laptop

http://yourblog.direct2dell.com/2008/05/28/something-from-dell-at-d6/

[oprahstheantichrist]

Me too.

[Redcloak]

But, IMHO, the Lenovo ThinkPad is by far the best notebook out there. Industrial strength, built for business, a real workhorse.

<stirring_pot>

I guess it will do if you're OK with a CHICOM computer.

</stirring_pot>

: ) 

[paudio]

It's a good computer. There's a new niche of laptop called ‘netbook’, which basically is designed to be ultra portable, primarily for casual use (word processor, excel, and so on) and for the internet. It started with Asus eee which is very popular. The difference between this new group of netbook and the existing ultra-mobile notebook is in price. The former is usually less than $500, while the later is about $2000. MSI Wind uses the new Intel Atom which is designed for this purpose: it's not that powerful, but will allows about 5-6 hrs of use.

[goldstategop]

I considered it but I went with the HP Mininote. The Via C 7 processor can run well under Linux. The small screen makes it just perfect for my needs.

[goldstategop]

They're all made in Asia. The emerging Netbook market has introduced new computing devices that have a real operating system, low weight and a dimunitive form factor. Power user workhorses though they aren't .

[Kath]

I considered it but bought th 8 inch HP 2133. It had Visa Professional on it. It wasn’t equipped to handle it. It was so slow I could not bear it. I dump Visa and put XP on and the computer is great. I am a dog show handler and it goes with me for business purposes. I could not be happier with it since changing out Visa for XP. The keyboard was designed to stretch the entire length of the computer so there is not much difference between it and a normal keyboard.

[Kath]

Opps, I ment Vista.

[msnpatriot]

Yes, what got my attention on this mini labtop is the 10” screen and long battery life.

In it’s size class and price range using XP it seems to be a good solution for someone who goes portable and wireless frequently, or travels.

***MSI Wind uses the new Intel Atom which is designed for this purpose: it’s not that powerful, but will allows about 5-6 hrs of use.***

[upchuck]

Thanks for stirring the pot :)

I suspect the MSI notebook is also made in Asia someplace.

[Redcloak]

I suspect the MSI notebook is also made in Asia someplace.

MSI, makers of fine motherboards too, is located in Taiwan. (We just replaced a blown MoBo with a board from MSI.) 

[McGruff]

Sounds interesting and I bookmarked that site for future reference.

Note to other poster. Wear pot holders when stirring up pots around here.

[Slicksadick]

[Publius6961]

BUMP!

[AppyPappy]

Laptop = runs hot, not expandable, small screen, easily stolen. Buy a desktop and get a Palm Pilot.