Different Mini Laptops
Of all the laptops that have come to be sold, I really like the Mini laptops or another name is sub notebook. But no matter how you name them the are just basically small. When I say mini, sub or small I mean that the laptop is under 3 lbs and the screen is 12 inch or smaller. Not everyone likes the mini laptop. In fact you can tell that the trend for laptops of today are for large screens in the 17 inch range.
My whole problem with the larger screen is that the laptop becomes heavy. Even as heavy as some desktop computers. Why would you want to lug around a desktop for any extended period of time? When I put my laptop in my laptop carry case I do not expect to have a sore shoulder when I get to where I want to go.
One example of a mini laptop is the Dell Latitude CSx laptop. I am familiar with the PIII 500mhz version of this model. This model had a few weakness'. There were 2 clip on covers on either side of the laptop that hid the screen hinges. These covers would easily pop off and get lost. In addition, as with all of the dell latitude models the keyboard was always a problem. Either the keys stopped working or the mouse would go bad.
The Dell Latitude CSx did have some positive points as well. It was under the 3 lb weight limit and it had a 13 inch screen. Which is technically not a mini laptop as per my definition but the unit is still light enough to pass my test. Both of the drives, CDROM and floppy drives are external. This laptop uses the same drives as the Latitude CP and C series laptops. So replacements are abundant. All in all it is very nice lightweight mini laptop.
A true Mini laptop is the Dell Latitude L400 series laptop. I am familiar with the PIII 700mhz version and found these under the 3 lb weight and the screen is 12 inch. Making it a truly mini laptop. As usual the keyboard can be a problem but otherwise this is a reliable laptop. The CDROM and Floppy drives are both the same as for the CSx laptop I talked about earlier. This laptop could easily fit in your brief case so no extra carry case is needed. A great way to go thru the airport and have only one carry on.
Another great Mini laptop is the Dell Latitude C400 series laptop. I am familiar with the PIII 1.2 Ghz version. Needless to say Dell finally got it right with this laptop. However once again the keyboard can be a problem. Otherwise this is definitely my choice for the mini laptop I like the best. The 12 inch screen and weight are within specs and the processor is fast enough for today's software. I have run windows XP on this laptop and found no problems.
So if you are looking for a mini laptop try our favorite mini laptop dealer. They always have something in stock that will peak your interest.