In the last four weeks after I got hold of an Asus Eee PC, it has become my tag along personal computing device. It has served me well and here are some of the nitty gritty details I’d like to share about it.
I’ll break them down to 10 things you need to know about the Eee PC:
1.) The Size. It’s so small and lightweight you won’t think you’re lugging a full-featured laptop. At 920 grams, it’s like carrying a 200-page hardbound pocketbook. For people who always need to have a laptop everywhere they go, the Eee PC will fit the bill 9 out of 10 times.
2.) The Choices. For a fairly new ultraportable device, you’d be surprised Asus offers a fair selection of models — the 2GB, 4Gb and 8GB models. Upgradeable RAM from 512MB to 1GB. Color options — white, black, pink, blue and green.
3.) The Design. Simple, clean, no-fancy design adds more points in the cutesy department. The matte texture of the chassis helps avoid grime and smudges. The black version is exceptionally elegant that others would think it’s a 100k sub-notebook.
4.) The Storage. The regular 4GB solid-state drive may be too lacking to many but that’s a limitation of the SSD technology and the cost and not the laptop itself. I’m sure once the 16GB and 32GB flash drives become more available and cheaper, Asus will follow suit. Besides, that doesn’t stop users from offloading large media files into external USB drives; the Eee PC has 3 ports for them.
5.) The OS. Though most of the models come loaded with the Xandros OS, newer ones are available in Windows XP. If not, you can always reformat and install XP or any other operating system you fancy. The 4/8GB models can be upgraded up to 2GB RAM but Xandros only supports 1GB. From my count, the system boots at 28 secs., restarts at 40 Secs., and shuts down in less than 7 secs.
6.) The Features. The 4GB model sports a 900 MHz Intel Celeron-M processor. Couple that with a 1GB DDR2 RAM and the rig runs quite fast. Three USB 2.0 ports, WiFi, a 0.3MP webcam, LAN port, built-in MMC/SD card reader, mic/headphone jack and external VGA port completes the range of features.
7.) The Display. The 7-inch (17.8cm, diagonal) TFT LCD display supports a native 800×480 pixel screen resolution which is a little odd since it often creates horizontal scroll-bars when browsing the net most of the time. The VGA port can be used to hook up to an external monitor and can effectively expand the screen to 1600×1280 pixels. Since the LED is backlit, display quality is fairly good and does not strain the user’s eye on prolonged use.
8.) The Durability. There are no mechanically moving parts in the Eee PC and the absence of an optical drive makes it less prone to shock. I’ve already dropped mine at the height of about 2 feet (while powered on) with no problems. The exterior coating also helps in preventing minor scratches and scrapes.
9.) Battery Life. Small devices tend to carry smaller battery sizes but the Eee PC can still squeeze more juice. Battery life of the entire Eee range is rated between 2:45 hours and 3:30 hours. My repeated use from full charge to full drain was just around 3 hours (Wifi was mostly on and running).
10.) The Downside. Nothing much really. The usual discomfort I’ve experienced is with the cramped keyboard. Obviously, what can you expect from a keyboard that is as wide as your hands placed side by side? Typing could be a bit awkward at first. The trackpad is also smaller and may take some time to get used to.
The Asus Eee PC is the first sub-20k laptop to ever be commercially available in the Philippines. IMO, the price is a huge factor for its apparent popularity and overall performance is best bang for the buck.
[tags]asustek eeepc, asus eeepc price, buy asus eeepc, 2g surf, 4g, 8g, 701, 900, 1001, release date[/tags]
YugaTech.com is the largest and longest-running technology site in the Philippines. Originally established in October 2002, the site was transformed into a full-fledged technology platform in 2005.
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Bakemono says:
Nice review, now if i only had the money. hehe. I think my mom would love this.
BrianB says:
The newly announced 8.9-incher is very expensive at almost $500. How the heck can they justify that?
sylv3rblade says:
I’ll probably get the 9″ version if it’s in a reasonable price range. The 7″ is good but it may kill my eyes =(
Joseph says:
Me too, I’m contemplating in waiting for the 9″ though I’ve been itching to buy the available model anytime.
Dexter : Techathand.net says:
a nice review of the small pc..
Kiven says:
Waiting for the bigger screen version.
LiNTEK says:
Eee is nice for geeks…….. and nerds (LOL)
Ian says:
Aside from the small keyboard, one other peeve is the heat — it’s enough to cook your “crown jewels”. :p
HomeBasedJobs says:
I remember seeing last year a full sized NEO with a celeron processor, better memory larger HD, large screen and keyboard, etc that was priced at P20k.
For 2k more, go for a full sized laptop.
entrepreneur opportunity says:
Hi Abe,
Where did you buy it? just curious and contemplating to buy that if I have the money.
Apol says:
I’ve got my asus eee pc yesterday. I’m having problem with wifi connection. kainis!
Rico Zuniga says:
I’ll definitely grab the 9″ version as soon as it comes out.
I saw one of these during one of my trips to cyberzone. I generally liked it but the low screen resolution and the awkward placement of the speakers turned me off.
BrianB says:
Abe,
This is better than the 8.9-inch Eee PC I believe and cheaper:
http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/06/g10il-the-eee-pc-killer-from-ecs-is-actually-killer/
jhay says:
Until the 9-inch model comes out, I’m going to stick to my plan of getting a dLSR. :P
Leojay says:
Hi to Everyone!
I’ve been constantly following this blog, I love this site, it keeps me updated. BTW, I am from the south, may I ask anybody, who can give me information or website where can I buy this EEE PC at lowest price, in metro Manila, Davao, or Cagayan de Oro City? Thanks in advance.
elmer valenzuela says:
no cd-dvd rom drive…
toots ople says:
hi yuga! what do you think about the more pricey Fujitsu laptop that’s even smaller than Asus’? hope you can do a similar review. thanks!
Abe Olandres says:
@sylverblade, joseph, kiven — IMO, the 9-inche version might cost around Php35,000? Still interested?
@Ian – yes, I forgot to point out that one too.
@ entrep – I got mine at Complink in Mall of Asia.
Abe Olandres says:
@toots — will check it out.
@Rico — the 9-inch will cost like a regular laptop.
Mike Lopez says:
The only thing stopping me from buying this is the 800×480 screen resolution.
dos22 says:
Which is the better color, white or black? Ganda sana ng white, but is it prone to discoloration after prolonged use?
minor says:
off the topic:
aXXo is back
ash says:
it’s the best so far by ultra-portability. the 8.9″ might have extra features compare to this one but it would also probably be heavier.
btw, Ubuntu Mobile might be the best competitor for Xandros.
http://www.allabouteeepc.com/ubuntu-mobile-os-on-asus-eee-pc/
vance says:
well, does who loved the first gen asus eee then you will love the newer version.
According to engadget, there would be a 9″ version, a larger capacity version; 8Gb, 12Gb and 20Gb, the 12 and 20Gb will have a linux os while the 8Gb will come with a windows OS.
Plus a rumor that a WiMax and HSDPA-enabled will also be out before the year ends.. cross your fingers.. hehe
price starts at $500 usd
vance says:
Forgot to add, the newer models will also be using intel Atom procies..
Abe Olandres says:
If the $199 7-inch Eee is Php20k, then the $500 9-inch will be Php50k?
vance says:
well the price will surely go down when it is release and will all still have to wait for it.
$450 to $500 without taxes = if converted thats about P20,500 to P25,000 so cheap parin and if reaches are shore hopefully 5k difference lang for taxes and such..
50k might be the price of 20Gb 9″ or 7″ with linux OS and atom procie.
BrianB says:
ance, it’s not about taxes. Have you noticed Nokia phones are cheaper here compared to the U.S.? It’s market forces. Walang masyadong bumibili nang laptops kaya mahal.
vance says:
@brianb hmm possible din, if they lower down the prices of the laptops then will buy them here rather buying them in the us.. But does not actually apply toa ll Apple computers are quite cheaper in the US pero pagdating dito almost 10k angadditional the reason daw is that the taxes that comes with it according to Laptop sellers.
We are the texting capital so phone do tend to be cheaper here hehehe..
JP says:
finally, i was able to find a good review of this gadget. care to share how much did you buy it, how much it is priced now, and where to buy it cheaper? i was considering to cut my expenses just to have it.
thank you. and will bookmark this page.
Abe Olandres says:
@JP – Php19,899 at zero percent interest for 12 months at Complink @ Mall of Asia.
vance says:
PC Corner? or was it PC express.. I think PC Corner kasi sila yung one of the largest Notebook seller sa manila and selling it for 18K 4Gb of course cash. Credit Card tend to be alot expensive para karin nagbayad ng interest rate.
Try Cooltoyz n laptop king.
zillionpark says:
Yes ,the battery is strong enough.
it have two types one contain 4 cells with a capacity of 5200 mAh,and the other with a capacity more the 6000 mAh.also in the market there is a replacement battery for Asus eee pc with a capacity of 4400 mAh ,see:
http://www.canada-batteries.ca/asus-eee-pc-battery.htm
vance says:
Globe is bundling this with a phoneline and DSL..
joelmreyes says:
just bought an eeepc and i love it!
rochelle says:
puwede ba installan ng photoshop yan?
Nolivienne C. Ermitano says:
Hi, there!
Thanks for your informative assessment of the Asus Eee PC 701. I’m set to buy my own soon, and I should like to ask you some questions about the model before I proceed with my canvassing:
(1) Is it really necessary to upgrade the RAM from 512 KB to 1GB? When is upgrading (which carries additional cost) necessary at the outset?
(2) Is it true that there’s a problem interfacing the model with a webcam, as confided in me by some salespersons at Silicon Valley? How can this problem be addressed?
(3) Is it also true that the yahoo messenger can only be used if and only if the OS is changed?
(4) Would it be possible to install several applications in the model without compromising its speed and operating efficiency?
I’m asking all these questions as I intend to buy a 4 GB model. I’m still thinking about having its RAM upgraded and about its OS changed (if necessary to support yahoo messenger chatting) upon purchase.
I hope you’ll favor me with a prompt reply. Thanks again.
Rich says:
thanks po sa info…. i love laptops… im also planning to buy one… hehe
xxernan says:
Hi, will I be able to install programs such as Photoshop after reformatting it to XP?
JasonT says:
A few answers.
If you want a webcam buy the model with the one built in then no problems.
If you want to use YM you will need to remove Xandros and use WinXP. With Xandros you can use GAIM for messaging but can’t use the cam and its a real pain to get running.
I’ve been using my EEE for months with YM for video chat no problem, but using WinXP and 512MB ram. With Xandros could not make it work.
For appps it is no problem if you do it right. Do not install to the hard drive or it gets full very fast. Buy a 8gb (or larger) SD card and put in SD slot. Install programs on that and no problems. Got lots of programs on my 8Gb SD drive and all working great.
geocine says:
it’s quite a pain having no CD drive.. But you could always use ISO’s
TechSoulja.blogspot.com says:
i’ll buy one as soon i get hold of my salary!!! the price of the 4gb is only 15,500 pesos at NT Computers in megamall
blue_boor says:
I am surprised why ASUS EEE cannot make a bigger keyboard.
Some suggestions would be a foldable keyboard that splits in half when in storage, Much like the IBM keyboards of yesteryears or even the PALMTOP keyboard-like thingy. It was alot easier to type with those.
max says:
good idea! im going to try to give my father one of these .. for father’s day which is this week!
Anama says:
i’m loving my pink one. sometimes though, i have trouble with the keypad, it seems to lock up. it scrolls continuously out of the blue. could there be a virus on a linux os?
Stranger says:
It’s good!!!
junior says:
nindot jud kaau mga amigo.i wish I cud have one sooner
ronnie lim says:
asus eeepc900 is fine for its price and size. but whats the best laptop in the market interms of price, quality, clarity, size, features and durability? the best laptop that you can get for the best price and features?
alex says:
for sale eeepc 1000h
P22k
Specification:
Operating System: Genuine Windows® XP Home
Display: 10″
Intel CPU & Chipset: Intel Atom
Keyboard Size: 95% of Ordinary
Wireless Data Network: WLAN: 802.11 n
Bluetooth: YES
Memory: 1GB (DDR2)
Storage: HDD 80GB
Camera: 1.3M Pixel
Audio: Dolby Sound Room Certified (only support on XP OS) Stereo speaker
Digital Array Mic
Battery: 6 Cells, 4.2 ~ 7 hrs*
Weight: 1.45 kg
alexphilspe****@****.***
kryptoniangirl says:
im still looking for the asus eeepc 1000h PINK one. is there any possiblity that it’ll be available in the philippines? ive seen it on CNET i think.
Kristen says:
hi..is this made in china or japan??
Rover says:
I contest … the keyboard sucks and the service center takes ages to replace the keyboard … only for me to find out that this is indeed the problematic part of a taiwanese product!!!!
====================
8.) The Durability. There are no mechanically moving parts in the Eee PC and the absence of an optical drive makes it less prone to shock. I’ve already dropped mine at the height of about 2 feet (while powered on) with no problems. The exterior coating also helps in preventing minor scratches and scrapes
bobet cabahug says:
Hi.Where could I possibly buy an lcd for this kind of notebook here in Philippines?
Can I buy such in Cagayan?Or CEbu?I unintentionally broke my bro’s asus notebook lcd.
HOpe to hear a reply.
God bless!
jomer aquino says:
hello guys im here coz my Eee pc 2G surf keyboard is malfunctioning is there any of you know were i can find a store to buy a new keyboard??tnx guys need help by the way im in manila