Four Reasons the Asus Eee PC is Great for Writers

If there's one tool that's essential to most writers - especially bloggers and Web writers - it's a computer. Word-processing software allows us to format and compose our thoughts almost as fast as we think them, and the Internet offers a world of research and distribution possibilities. Most writers I know love their laptops and the mobility they afford them. But what if there was a computer even better for writers than the standard laptop?

Enter the Asus Eee PC. Here are four compelling reasons to consider this small wonder as your next writing gear purchase.

It's the Ultimate in Portability
These featherweight laptops are members of a rising computer sub-genre called UMPCs, or Ultra Mobile Personal Computers. The Eee PC is the size of a hardback book, and weighs less than two pounds. This makes it perfect for toting to your next meeting, stashing in a backpack on your vacation, or just grabbing and going to the coffeehouse for some caffeine inspired creativity. It's so small that if you already have a messenger bag or moderately sized purse, there's no need to carry an extra bag for your computer.

It's Surprisingly Usable
Most people have two concerns when it comes the Eee PC: the physical limitations of the device (can you actually type on this thing?) and the default operating system (Linux). In my experience, neither of these issues are major. The keyboard can be cramped during extended typing sessions for those with larger hands, but for most people it should only take a day or two to become completely used to the smaller-than-standard size. As far the Linux operating system goes, Asus has done a fantastic job of making it so simple that anyone can use the Eee PC with practically no learning curve. Asus also includes a friendly and helpful manual. Overall, it's the sort of machine you can hand to just about anyone, and provide a minimum of tech support. The user interface is simple, charming, and easy to use.

It's Filled with Features
The Asus Eee PC line includes several models with varying hardware features (like an integrated web cam or extra hard drive storage), however every Eee PC comes with an integrated SD card reader, audio in and out ports, 3 USB ports, VGA out (to connect to an external monitor or projector), a standard LAN port for wired internet access, and a great WiFi card for wireless connectivity. In addition, the default operating system comes with hundreds of dollars worth of fantastic software that is especially useful for professional writers or writing enthusiasts--like the entire OpenOffice.Org pro-quality office suite, the Firefox web browser, quick links to Google Docs, and a fully featured Personal Information Manager.

It's Beautifully Affordable
At Newegg.com, the lowest end Eee PC model (still very useful as mobile writing and Internet device) is only $299, putting it within the reach of nearly anyone looking for a secondary computer for writing.

Keep in mind the Asus Eee PC is not a full fledged laptop, though it comes delightfully close. There's no CD/DVD drive, only a fairly small amount of hard drive storage space, and the screen only measures 7" diagonally. Despite these limitations, the added portability, ease of use, and versatility make this my favorite electronic purchase ever.