The debate between netbook and notebook might have found some middle ground with the ASUS Eee PC 1201N. I just caught the LAPTOP Magazine hands on with this device and that’s the impression I came away with. Why is that? Mainly because the 1201N offers specs closer to a notebook, but has the price and size near to a netbook. The $499 price tag competes well with many high-end netbooks and offers:
- Microsoft Windows 7 Premium
- 12.1 inch display with 1366 x 768 resolution
- Intel Atom 330 dual core processor
- 2GB of RAM
- Nvidia ION graphics
- Hard drive of 250GB (plus 500GB online storage)
- VGA, HDMI, 3 USB 2.0, Ethernet, headphone and microphone port
- Memory card slot
- 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
- 11.7 x 8.2 x 1.3 inches
- 3.2 pounds weight
LAPTOP hasn’t done a battery test yet, but ASUS expects five hours with their Super Hybrid Engine. The notebook is patterned after the Eee PC 1005 / 1008 models, also known as Seashell, so it’s based on the thin, wedge-shaped design of those netbooks. Although this is just a first look, I’m intrigued and impressed — and looking forward to the detailed review that’s sure to be coming.

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