MSI or Micro-Star International has produced the MSI Wind (standing for Wi-fi network device), a contender to the Asus Eee PC 900, as well as pioneering a 10 inch netbook. It builds on many flaws in the old Asus such as a larger keyboard and faster Intel Atom processor. The extra weight on the 6-cell version is noticeable, around 1.2kg, not as much as the HP 2133 mini-note. It also hits the shelves at a fantastic £320 RRP which matches the smaller Asus Eee PC 901 - our #1 mini laptop.
The MSI Wind doesn't have the metallic finish of the HP mini-note or the awe-factor of an Apple, but it's a pretty little laptop. Smooth curves, clear cut interface, large screen and a variety of colours, 'Noble Red', 'Angel White', 'Empire Black', 'Romantic Pink' and 'Wind for love'.
The large keyboard is a major plus, with plenty of space between keys. It isn't quite as good as the HP 2133 mini-note which boasts a 92% full size keyboard and the 'Fn' key is located at the bottom-left hand side of the screen which is frustrating for Ctrl-key users.
The 10 inch anti-glare screen is another plus, and although more bulky than 8.9 inch models such as the Asus Eee PC 901 or Acer Aspire One it represents excellent value for money. It comes with a 1024x600 resolution which isn't staggering, but good enough to function.
The touchpad however, is unhelpfully small, a mere 54mm across. Compared to the keyboard, it looks out of place. This means you cannot scroll nearly as easily which is especially handy for internet browsing. Other features include a 1.3 megapixel webcam, microphone, 3 USB ports, D-Sub for an external monitor or projector.
Another oversight is the connectivity which only includes 802.11b/g wifi and bluetooth. The lack of integrated 3G means your restricted to online activity at home, hotspots or with a USB dongle - A dongle would be of limited expense.
Battery life is poor with a 3-cell battery, and the intensively used, it would struggle to work for more than 2 hours. The 6 cell battery is available (like on the newer Eee PCs), although the 3 cell battery would keep the weight a tidy one kilogram.
With the addition of a dongle and a larger battery, the Wind netbook, or 'MSI Wind Notebook' as they like to call it is very good value for money. Available at the same price as the smaller 8.9 inch Eee PC 901, but with the screen size of the Eee PC 1000 it is a definite contender in the netbook market.
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