HP Mini 110-1050NR 10.1-inch Netbook Laptop PC

Aug 24 2009 - HP's Mini 110 netbook is essentially a redesigned lower cost version of their Mini 1000 series netbook. It features a less impressive external shell and an inset screen but keeps the very well designed keyboard even if the trackpad buttons are in a bad location. The big feature is the built-in wireless networking for use with GSM or CDMA cellular networks. While the system does have a 6-cell battery, battery life isn't as good as the competition. At $450, it is kind of expensive but useful for those needing connectivity just about anywhere.

Aug 24 2009 - HP's Mini 1000 had some very attractive features that made it a very nice netbook, but the cost made it a little less attractive to many who could find less expensive options from other companies. The new Mini 110 series is essentially a lower cost version of their 1000 series that looks to redesign elements to reduce costs, but also add new features.

The big new feature is the inclusion of the Qualcomm Gobi cellular chip set. This allows the Mini 110 to connect into either CDMA or GSM cellular networks for network availability in locations where Wi-Fi just isn't available. Of course this feature does require contracts with cellular providers such as AT&T, Sprint or Verizon to use but it is quite useful for those that need it.

The display on the HP Mini 110 is a step up from many that are offered by most companies. Most systems now use glossy coated displays to allow for greater brightness and color. The drawback is that they produce a lot of glare that makes them nearly unusable outdoors. The Mini 110 uses an anti-glare screen that does a good job at preventing reflections and glare but still produces a very bright and colorful picture.

One of the biggest problems with the HP Mini 110 is its battery life. While it does come equipped with a 6-cell battery, it just doesn't have the running time of many competing systems. During video playback testing, the unit was able to play a video file for roughly four and a half hours, putting it well behind the leading ASUS Eee PC 1005HA. This is still quite good though compared to many netbooks that feature 3-cell batteries.

At $450, the HP Mini 110-1050NR might be a bit expensive for some, especially if they don't need the WWAN feature. If you need it, then it is a great buy, but there are better, less expensive alternatives if you do not.