Software and Warranty
Like many other netbooks, the Mini 1000 comes with Windows XP Home Basic preinstalled. However, a tailored version of Ubuntu will be available at a later date; HP is calling this operating system its Mobile Internet Experience (and you can learn more about it by watching our MIE hands-on video). The only other software preloaded on the Mini 1000 is HP’s webcam software and Microsoft Works Suite. The company backs the netbook with a one-year warranty and 24/7 toll-free technical support.
Verdict
Currently, more than ten mini-notebooks are available with identical 1.6-GHz Intel Atom processors and Windows XP Home operating systems. But the HP Mini’s stylish and seriously compact chassis, crisp and bright screen, and outstanding keyboard elevate it above most of its competitors and shake up the cookie-cutter netbook mold. However, those looking for a longer lasting system with a larger, faster hard drive for $50 less will prefer the $499 Samsung NC10 (which comes standard with a 6-cell battery). But those lusting after a stylish 10-inch netbook will be beyond satisfied with the the HP Mini 1000.
