Sony VAIO X

Battery Life

Aside from its svelte dimensions, one of the other defining features of the VAIO X is its endurance. Sony claims that, with the extended battery, the netbook can get up to 14 hours of runtime (with its standard battery, Sony says to expect just 3 hours). In our LAPTOP Battery Test, the extended battery saw 9 hours and 49 minutes over Wi-Fi (and with GPS and 3G turned off). That blows past the netbook average of 6:10 (for six-cell batteries), and just beats out the runtime of the Toshiba mini NB205-N210 (9:41).

We will update this review with our 3G results, as well as the endurance with the four-cell battery.

Configurations

Aside from the black model we received, Sony also offers the same configuration in Champagne Gold; a less expensive model ($1,299) has a smaller 64GB SSD, but only comes in black. Fortunately, both versions come with both the standard and extended batteries.

Software and Support

In addition to Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium, the VAIO X comes preloaded with a 30-day trial of Norton Internet Security 2009, Microsoft Works, a 90-day trial of AOL, the full version of Microsoft Streets and Trips, and a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007; this last one is peculiar, since we don’t envision many students buying this netbook.

Sony backs the VAIO X with a one-year limited warranty and 24/7 toll-free telephone assistance. To see how Sony fared on our annual Tech Support Showdown, click here.

Verdict

Sony’s VAIO X is so light and stylish, this product is practically in a class by itself. For $1,499, you’re getting a system that not only lasts longer than all other netbooks, but it sets a new standard for portability. Additionally, the built-in 3G and GPS ensures that users will be connected wherever they go. However, for an 11-inch system, we were disappointed in this machine’s small keyboard and touchpad. If you have the cash, the VAIO X’s industrial design will definitely turn heads, but you’ll sacrifice ergonomic comfort.