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- Easy-to-use Linux OS
- Useful software
- Rugged build quality
- Lots of configuration options
- Only solid-state drive available
- No extended-life battery
- Poor keyboard
Reviewers say that the more upscale configurations of the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 netbook have some significant shortfalls compared to its competition, including an awful keyboard, the lack of an extended-life battery, no option for a traditional hard drive and so-so value. However, here's a case where the base version (*Est. $350) shines. That's because critics say that its Ubuntu Linux operating system is sleek and easy to use, with some adding that it offers the most user-friendly interface available. Couple that with useful software and rugged construction and you have a good first computer for a youngster -- or anyone else. If you are interested in a Windows XP system instead, the Acer Aspire One (*Est. $50) costs a little less when upgraded with a long-life battery and a 160 GB hard drive, and has a far more pleasant-to-use keyboard.
Few reviewers rave over the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 netbook when configured with Windows XP Home, but things look a bit rosier for those who saw this netbook in its base version, running Linux, including Laptop Magazine and NotebookReview.com. Other worthwhile reviews can be seen at PCMag.com and CNET. Dell's site includes a ton of user reviews for the Mini 9, though comments for its various configurations are intermingled.
| Dell Inspiron mini 9-Inch (Intel® Atom Processor 1.6 Ghz , 1 GB DDR2 at 533MHz, 8GB Solid State Drive, Genuine Windows® XP Home Edition) Black | |
(15 reviews) |
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Our Sources
1. Laptop MagazineDetails/Subscribe
Laptop Magazine's Joanna Stern finds lots of flaws in the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 in this detailed critical review. However, she raves about the Linux operating system used, saying it is the "most consumer-friendly interface we have seen," and recommends the Mini 9 over other options.
Review: Dell Inspiron Mini 9 (Linux), Joanna Stern, Sept. 4, 2008
Reviewer Jerry Jackson puts the Linux OS version of the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 through its paces and comes away with mixed emotions. He calls it a "great" netbook, but also notes several flaws. High points are its Linux interface and useful pre-loaded software.
Review: Dell Inspiron Mini 9 Review, Jerry Jackson, Sept. 4, 2008
This review is far less detailed than the ones at Laptop Magazine and NotebookReview.com, but does cover the essentials. Cisco Cheng's evaluation Dell Inspiron Mini 9 runs the Windows XP Home OS. He compares it to other mini laptops and says it comes up short.
Review: Dell Inspiron Mini 9, Cisco Cheng, Sept. 4, 2008
4. CNET
CNET's review of the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 is on the short side, but does include the results of some benchmarking against other contenders in this category. Despite meeting some criteria for what CNET defines as "the perfect netbook," reviewer Dan Ackerman says that it fails to really distinguish itself from the competition.
Review: Dell Inspiron Mini 9, Dan Ackerman, Updated March 10, 2010
5. Dell.comDetails/Subscribe
Dell's own website is the best place to read owner feedback about the Inspiron Mini 9. Credibility is enhanced by a fair number of negative comments, but most seem reasonably pleased.
Review: Dell Inspiron Mini 9 Reviews, Contributors to Dell.com
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Acer Aspire One 722-BZ197 Netbook - Black
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