The Mini 5101 from HP is a shrunken full size business class Laptop. Yes its aimed at the business traveler with a sturdy body and a bright 10.1-inch display.
Specifications:
CPU: 1.66-Ghz Intel N280
Operating System: Windows XP Home
RAM/Expandable to: 1GB/2GB
Hard Drive Size/speed: 160GB/7,200 rpm
Display Size/Resolution: 10.1 inches/1024 x 600
Optical Drive: none
Price as Reviewed: $425
HP Mini 5101 Features
When we first got this HP in our hands we got a bit exited because it is an important step for netbooks to address the business traveler. Well you don’t need to be an executive to buy this computer at least not if you look at the price which is $425 for the standard specification. I like that they have put effort into making this a sturdy computer that can take some beating, which would also make it a great second computer in a home with smaller kids. I guess you get a little added weight in order to achieve the robust construction, and it weighs in at 2.8 pounds which isn’t exactly heavy, nor light.
The keyboard is 95% of full size but with well separated keys that makes it easy to use although be prepared to reduce you typing speed a bit for accuracy. HP have coated the keys and thus claiming they are 50 times more resistant to visible wear. The Tocuhpad has a glossy surface which makes it a breeze to use although it is slightly smaller then I would have liked.
Performance is rather good on the HP Mini 5101 but as always forget any kind of gaming. It just amuses me with other reviewers runs 3D Mark benchmark on this computer. It’s like trying to dragrace an old Honda with a Ferrari, you just know nothing good can come of it.
Conclusion:
This was a pleasant experience from the unboxing to shutdown. With a good 8 hours of battery life and a very nice keyboard and screen I can really see this becoming a menace on airplanes from now on. In my opinion the HP Mini 5101 sets a new standard for Netbooks. It has one clear goal to be a reliable substitute Laptop and it does the job so well that you might forget about your regular laptop if you are away from it for too long.