I would perhaps keep this review small and sweet - just like this machine. The specs of the machine are listed on: I bought this machine 8 months ago when it was launched and paid 22, 000 for a non windows XP machine. Since then the price has gone down and during specials it went down to 14550/- Now it is around 19, 000.
To find out as to where to buy from is easy as the list is given for each city on the web site. The prices are not available on the web site and is a big let down since lot of these machines or netbooks, as these are poularly called, are available in the market. Dell, HP, Toshiba, asus, HCL have all launched their netbooks since. I did a good research before I settled on this machine because of easy availability, good colour choice and no wait periods.
This machine comes with 8.9 inches screen, a bit small. That has been rectified in the aspire next model ie One D150. One should go for a 10 inch screen.
The size is just right and the weight is exceptional - very easy to carry.
Battery - 3 cell is not very good and hardly last 100 minutes!
The audio quality is poor and when one uses skype, the sound is barely audible and one has to keep the netbook near the ear making the camera defunct.
USB and two card slots are a bonus.
The processor works fine and the netbook is zippy.
Long workers on a computer will find adjusting to the small keypad difficult - I found so. One gets used to it, but if you toggle your work between a larger laptop or a desktop, then adjusting is more difficult.
The webcam stopped working after a few days and the machine had to be taken to a service centre. Complain registration is through a special number, which does not work after 6 PM and on weekday! Otherwise the response time, and the repair time was good - indicating a good aftersale service. The seller washes his hands after the sale and the onus is on you to take the machine to the service centre in your city after the complaint is lodged telephonically and a number is given
There was a problem with the bios which had to be updated with phone support.
Quality of web cam is ok.
One should not buy a machine with Linpus Linux software, though it is cheaper by Rs. 2000. I say this because the installation of firefox, skype etc needs an advanced user of Linux on the Linpus software. But one can use Mepis or other good Linux on it and then there are no problems. I used Mepis and it worked very well.
I use a portable external dvd writer with it.
This machine is very good for travellers, but one should go for 6 cell battery.
All in all, go for it because of good specs, low price and good after sale service, but choose the machine with XP and 10 inch screen. Audio may be a problem. I recommend 6 cell battery. Acar charger should be provided with these netbooks!