When is a netbook not a netbook? PC makers have been looking to expand the definition of these systems by outfitting them with larger screens and bigger batteries, but one constant has remained: a low-powered processor that limits their use to surfing the Web, checking e-mail, editing documents, and watching standard-def video. Then along comes Nvidia’s Ion, a graphics processor that will allow netbook users to go from merely consuming media to creating it. The HP Mini 311 ($399) is the first Ion-based netbook to hit the U.S. market, and we’re impressed by its ability to deliver high-def video playback, better gameplay, and faster video editing. Even better, you get the long endurance we’ve come to expect from this category.
Design
The Mini 311 combines elements from several of HP’s larger notebooks: its black lid (also available in white) bears HP’s Swirl pattern. A black speaker grille unobtrusively lines the front edge of the chassis, and the silver deck, keyboard, and touchpad remind us of the company’s Pavilion Series.
Measuring 11.4 x 8.0 x 1.2 inches, the Mini 311 is roughly the same size as the Acer Aspire 751h and the MSI Wind U210. We were glad to see that HP’s battery is well-integrated with the chassis, and doesn’t jut out the back. With a weight of 3.2 pounds, the 311 isn’t much heavier than other 12-inch netbooks, which weigh around 3 pounds.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The 311’s square silver keys practically abut each other, and are slightly indented to provide a resting place for your fingers. Typing on the keys was comfortable, and we were up to our normal speed almost immediately. Despite the keys’ smooth surface, our fingers did not slip.
Below, the silver touchpad is amply sized for an 11-inch netbook. At 3.3 x 1.5 inches, it’s almost the same size as that on the Toshiba mini NB205. Unlike the NB205, however, the 311’s touchpad has too much friction, an issue we’ve had with other HP notebooks. The two mouse buttons are also decently sized, but we found them to be slightly stiff to press towards the outer edges.
Display and Audio
The 11.6-inch display on the 311 has a resolution of 1366 x 768, which makes it easier to view Web pages and documents without having to scroll. The glossy display has excellent horizontal viewing angles; we could see the screen clearly from nearly 90 degrees to either side, though tilting the screen forward resulted in a rather quick image reversal.
Along the front edge of the system is a black speaker grille that hides Altec Lansing stereo speakers; they provide better sound than we’re used to from netbooks. While listening to Oasis’ “Live Forever,” sound was on the tinny side, but we heard much more bass than is typical of systems this size. Still, they were adequately loud; we could hear them from a few feet away without straining.
Ports and Webcam
There’s no surprises when it comes to the port selection on the Mini 311. On the left side is a USB and HDMI port; on the right is Ethernet, VGA, two USB, headphones, and a 3-in-1 memory card reader.
