MSI Wind Netbook

MSI Wind Netbook—A 10-inch mini notebook that packs a punch and has impressive endurance

Does the idea of having a computer with you on your next trip seem appealing, but the reality of hauling around some 5-8 pound goliath of a computer sound like a bit daunting of a task? However, with the alternative being not having access to the internet (*gasp) and not being able to upload those travel photos or email your family and coworkers, you probably take out 2 outfits and shove your laptop in the bag. If you are like me (you travel a lot and you’re “frugal”), then you will do pretty much anything to avoid having to pay that checked bag fee on your next flight—including (but not limited to) hoarding those miniature hotel shampoo bottles to pack for your next trip, unsuccessfully trying to squeeze lotion into a 3 oz. container and taking out that pair of really cute heels to make room for your laptop. Well, for those of you out there who regularly find themselves faced with these issues it seems that all of your problems are over (well, not really, since there will still be checked bag fees and that stupid 3 oz. liquid rule).

Netbooks came bursting onto the scene in 2007 and have quickly been getting a whole of attention—and for goof reason. These “mini notebooks” are absolutely perfect for people on the go who want to stay connected, but don’t really need to haul around their laptop with a 16 inch screen and advanced programs so they can stay on top of emails when traveling. The MSI Wind is one of these netbooks and it’s amazingly high performance processor, 10 inch screen and super compact size has been making travelers and flashpackers jump for joy. The MSI Wind is not only relatively powerful, it’s easy to use, can fit in your purse, has a memory card reader (so you can directly upload those pics from your vacation), and is CHEAPER than many comprabable models.

>> Want to know more about Netbooks? Check out the Best Netbooks for Traveling

The quick & dirty:
Where you can get one:
MSI Wind $430

Why it Rocks:

10 inch monitor
Intel Atom 1.6GHz processor
3 USB ports
Full-sized keyboard
3-cell, long lasting battery
2.6 pounds
1.3 Megapixel webcam
160 GB Hard Drive
6-cell battery, 5 hour battery life
Memory Card Reader
Mic and Headphone jacks

Seat-of-the-pants-rating: 9 out of 10

When it comes to netbooks, the MSI Wind seems to kick some major ass. Not only does it have a simple, easy-to-tote design (that comes in several different colors for the fashionistas out there), but it also has a surprising large 10 inch screen, an almost full sized keyboard and weighs only 2.6 pounds. It’s important to remember that in order to achieve their diminutive size, weight and price, all netbooks must make some sacrifices—but the MSI Wind seems to have very few of these standard drawbacks. In fact, not only does the Wind have a relatively large screen at 10 inches, it has a full-sized keyboard and a zippy Intel processing system. The thing has also been highly ranked for having great battery life (an essential when on the go) and is a lot cheaper than the Sony Vaio or Lenovo IdeaPad—making the size to performance ratio for the Wind look pretty damn good.

Looking to Buy? Check out these sites:
MSI Wind $430