February 4, 2012

Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 10.1-Inch Netbook Review

Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 The Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 10.1-inch netbook is the newest addition to the Dell Inspiron family and offers a good range of features and performance. The Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 is an improved version with Windows 7 of the original Dell Inspiron Mini 10v which came with Windows XP. It handles everyday computing tasks with ease and looks good while doing them.

The 10.1-inch widescreen display surface with a 16:9 aspect ratio is bright, sharp and vibrant, and perfect to present websites without lots of left-right scrolling. However be prepared to deal with the glare and the regular cleaning to remove smudges and finger prints off the screen.

The Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 includes standard features such as 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, which allows for quick access when logging onto networks or hotspots, internal Bluetooth 2.0+ EDR technology which allows for use of bluetooth capable devices, and a 1.3 megapixel built-in webcam. The input/output features include: 1 full size VGA output connection for external monitor; 3 USB ports (2 USB and 1 power USB); 2 audio jacks (1 for head phone and 1 for mic); and MMC/ SD(SDHC) card reader. Other great features on this model include an Intel Atom N270 processor, 1GB RAM, 160GB hard drive, a 6-cell Lithium Ion battery that provides 8 hours of battery life and Microsoft Windows 7 Starter.

The keyboard is very easy to use because it is 92% the size of a traditional laptop keyboard. This allows for the user to type comfortably for a long period of time. It also has a multi-touch track pad which provides the user an easier time navigating whatever is on display. With the multi-track feature the user can use two fingers together or apart simultaneously to quickly and easily scroll through the display.

However, the Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 doesn’t have regular left and right click mouse buttons instead it is integrated into the trackpad bottom left and right corners. This means that, unless you’re absolutely precise, when you touch the bottom left corner to click, the touchpad will also register the touch as mouse movement. It will slightly change the position of the cursor, guaranteeing that you will regularly miss whatever you were trying to click. It can be very, very frustrating.

We are all multi-tasking these days and are often grabbing a quick bite to eat or gulping a drink as we are working on our computer or checking our e-mail. How many times have we almost spilled, or actually spilled something, on the keyboard? A great feature of this product is the keyboard is said to be spill-resistant. I would not intentionally test out this feature, but hopeful it will work if needed.

Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 Specification

  • Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Starter
  • Display: 10.1″ Glossy Display (1024 x 576 Resolution max)
  • Processor : Intel Atom Processor N270 (1.6GHz)
  • Graphics: Integrated Intel Media Accelerator Graphics
  • Memory: 1GB DDR2 RAM (easily self upgrade RAM to 2GB)
  • Storage: 160GB 5400RPM Hard Drive
  • Camera: 1.3M Pixels
  • Wireless Data Network: WLAN: Wireless 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, internal Bluetooth 2.0+ EDR technology
  • Audio: Integrated Audio
  • Media Card Reader; Wireless 802.11b/g Mini Card
  • Input/Output: 1 x VGA connector, 3 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x LAN RJ-45, 10/100 Ethernet, 2 x audio jacks(Headphone & Mic-in)
  • Optical Drive : No Optical Drive (optional external optical drive can be connected via one of the USB ports)
  • Battery: Li-Ion battery (Up to 8 Hours 8 Minutes of Battery Life)
  • Dimensions:10.3 x 1.1 x 7.2 inches
  • Weight:3.2 pounds

Upgrading Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 Memory from 1GB to 2GB

Take note of the following;

  • The netbook comes with only 1 slot and it is populated by a 1GB memory module
  • That means you have to remove the 1GB RAM module to insert the new 2GB RAM module
  • Make sure you purchase the right memory module – a 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM notebook memory module (667MHz or 800MHz)
  • Installing the memory is a snap. You just need a tiny Philips screwdriver to remove one screw from back cover. Once unscrewed slide the door towards the screw and lift up gently. Pop out the old, pop in the new, replace the cover and boot it back up (Follow the steps outlined in easily self upgrade RAM)

Software Included with Dell Inspiron Mini 1011

Dell provides a variety of service offerings and add-on options to help ensure that the Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 is easy to use and maintain optimal performance, including:

  • online backup service for data protection called DataSafe Online from Dell, this feature allows the customer to backup data to a safe, remote storage site in case of loss or damage to your netbook.
  • Dell Support Center to quickly access Dell service and support from an icon on your desktop that provides automated fixes, software upgrades and tools to help keep your system up-to-date and running efficiently.
  • DellConnect Remote Assistance allows Dell experts help diagnose and solve PC problems via an Internet connection.
  • Microsoft Works 9 which does not include MS Word is included in the box and you have the option to upgrade to Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 edition if needed. The color option is limited to obsidian black for the moment.

User Reviews

The Dell Inspiron Mini 1011 may be small but is a wonderfully balanced system and is a good traveling buddy to stay connected to the web, check email, browse a few sites. If you are looking for a great small compact netbook with all the features of a much more expensive unit then this is the netbook for you.

Pros

  • Light weight
  • Multi-touch track pad
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Glossy display which collects smudges and fingerprints
  • Mouse buttons can be difficult to use at times

Where to Buy Dell Inspiron Mini 1011

We found Amazon.com to have the best prices on all netbook computers including the Dell Inspiron Mini 1011. Click on the links below to visit the product website for additional information and special offers. You can also compare prices from the numerous retailers by clicking on the More Prices link.

Website: Click to Visit Product Website
Customer Reviews: Read Customer Reviews
List Price: $335.99
Amazon Price: $659.00 Buy From Amazon
More Prices: Compare Prices From Other Retailers

Optional Upgrades

Crucial CT25664AC667 2GB 667MHz 200-pin SODIMM DDR2 Memory Module

Website: Click to Visit Product Website
Customer Reviews: Read Customer Reviews
List Price: $31.99
Amazon Price: $22.95 Buy From Amazon
More Prices: Compare Prices From Other Retailers

Microsoft Windows 7 Anytime Upgrade [Starter to Home Premium]
Website: Click to Visit Product Website
Customer Reviews: Read Customer Reviews
List Price: $79.95
Amazon Price: $65.48 Buy From Amazon
More Prices: Compare Prices From Other Retailers

Microsoft Office Home & Student 2010 [Disc Version]
Website: Click to Visit Product Website
Customer Reviews: Read Customer Reviews
List Price: $149.99
Amazon Price: $141.00 Buy From Amazon
More Prices: Compare Prices From Other Retailers

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Dell Inspiron Mini 1012 10.1-inch Netbook Review
Dell Inspiron Mini 10 with Integrated TV Tuner 10.1-Inch Netbook
Dell Inspiron iM10V-2734 Mini 10v Netbook Review

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