The Dell Mini 10v Netbook Computer: Get the Details Before You Buy

The Dell Mini 10v Netbook is a compact laptop computer that is the more economical version of the Dell Mini 10. Costing around $50 less than the Mini 10, the Dell Mini 10v offers basic functions of a Netbook computer and lacks some of the extra features you would find on the more expensive model. Nevertheless, the Dell Mini 10v is a good Netbook for the price.

With a glossy surface and round edges, the Dell Mini 10v is stylish and sleek yet functional and practical. The keyboard on the Dell Mini 10v is 92 percent of the size as a traditional, larger laptop computer keyboard making typing a breeze. Equipped with an Intel Atom Processor, the Dell Mini 10v operates on the Genuine Windows XP Home Edition and has 1 GB of memory. The Dell Mini 10v has a 10.1-inch display screen, which is a lower resolution in comparison to the Dell Mini 10 and will not provide high-definition viewing. The buttons for using the touchpad are located in the lower right and left corner of the letter-box style pad, which is not the most ideal location for the buttons.

The Dell Mini 10v lacks an HDMI port, unlike the Mini 10, resulting in only the standard VGA connector, SD card slot, and three USB ports. You can add Blue tooth to the Dell Mini 10v for about $25 and trade up to the 802.11n Wi-Fi for about $30 extra. Additional upgrades to the Dell Mini 10v are the faster Intel Atom N280 central processing unit for about $25 and a 160 GB hard drive also costing about $25. The standard 3-cell battery on the Dell Mini 10v can be upgraded to a 6-cell for around $30.

Overall, the Dell Mini 10v is a useful computer for basic functions such as surfing the web, word processing and viewing media. It performs equally, if not better, than other Netbooks in its class. The battery life on the Dell Mini 10v is about six hours with the 6-cell battery, which is fairly good for a Netbook computer. Lacking some of the more attractive features of the Dell Mini 10, it is really a matter of what you will be using the computer for when determining which one you will buy. The Dell Mini 10v is less expensive, but if you are looking for HD viewing or a faster processor, then perhaps it would be worth the extra money to buy the Dell Mini 10. For basic computer use on the go, the Dell Mini 10v would be ideal.