When Nvidia decided to launch its own chipset (called Ion) that worked in tandem with the Intel Atom processor and brought more graphics horsepower to the netbook category, Lenovo wasted little time announcing a netbook that ran it. The problem was, though, it didn't ship with Nvidia's Ion chipset until now. The Lenovo IdeaPad S12 was made entirely of Intel or VIA parts, and after the launch of Windows 7 and watching competitors like the HP Mini 311 and Asus EeePC 1201HA make their moves, Lenovo is finally shipping the IdeaPad S12 (Ion) ($650 direct). Although 3GB of RAM, Windows 7 Home Premium (32-bit), and the ability to play back 1080p HD video (at low and high bit rates) make the S12 a very compelling netbook, its price isn't that far off from standard laptops with similar features. So why settle for an Atom processor?
Lenovo
http://www.lenovo.com
- Price as Tested: $650.00 Direct
- Type: General Purpose, Ultraportable, Value, Netbook
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
- Processor Name: Intel Atom N270
- Processor Speed: 1.6 GHz
- RAM: 3 GB
- Weight: 3.4 lb
- Screen Size: 12 inches
- Screen Size Type: widescreen
- Graphics Card: nVidia ION
- Storage Capacity: 320 GB
- Networking Options: 802.11a/g
- Primary Optical Drive: External
