Like you guys I was tempted before but passed because the P series has netbook specs yet requires a really steep premium over what netbooks cost. I found that premium just too great, given the specs, for a secondary (or tertiary) machine.

But if the price gets down to iPad/netbook range, then suddenly it becomes compelling device, at least for me. Still just typical netbook specs I suppose (some of its specs like battery life are unimpressive even in the netbook category), but you do get the cool form factor (tiny, and I like the oblong shape), nice build quality, good display (bright & sharp—Sony just seems to offer better screens than most) AND there’s an attached keyboard.

From my Sony U to Samsung Q, I’ve always wanted to use my ultra-portable for mobile blogging, but through trying those devices I’ve discovered that for efficiently creating content I inevitably end up wanting a keyboard, AND I like that keyboard to be attached so that it’s not an additional to carry around, and it needs to allow me to touch type. The P does all this, so, now that the used ones are affordable, I’m giving the P a try. So far, so good!

I’m congratulating myself that I got it for half or even a third of what I might have spent for a new, tricked-out one, AND that I’m also “saving” by buying it instead of an iPad while getting something similar in terms of portability but more useful b/c its a full PC with a keyboard. My wife alas recognizes these rationalizations for what they are.

. . . I see a new P model may be announced soon . . . uh oh, the itch may return. Time to rev up the rationalization engine again?