Asus Eee PC Sales

Lately, the computer industry has decided to shift its focus to a slightly younger demographic. No, it's not those technology-loving college kids, or even those teenagers with infinite knowledge of the Internet. Instead it's middle-school kids - ages six through 12.

The world's largest PC manufacturer, HP, recently announced the release of its new Mini-Note PC laptop - a small, rugged, light and cheap computer designed primarily for children. More likely than not, HP's decision to produce the Mini-Note is a direct result of the success of Asus's Eee computer. Since its initial release last year, Asus's Eee PC has become a top seller. The miniature device with a 7-inch screen (referred to by the company as a "super mobile Internet device" rather than laptop) carved its own niche by taking aim at middle-school children. But, as is the case with any invention that finds unexpected success, the crop of imitators are now beginning to trickle into the marketplace.

Still, HP is certainly the biggest company to jump into the mini-notebook market thus far. The Mini-Note has a larger (9-inch) screen and a sleek and sturdy anodized aluminum shell. For additional durability, The Mini-Note incorporates HP 3D DriveGuard, which sends a signal to shut down the hard drive upon sudden movement or shock (like being dropped).

Both Dell and Apple provide more computers to schools then HP, putting the company in a distant third. Along with the Mini-Note, this initiative is intended to help put the HP name on the minds of educators.

By gearing the Mini-Note specifically to middle-school children, HP hopes to boost their share of the education market and, hopefully, experience the same success as Asus. Either way, both products will face stiff competition in the coming months as more companies attempt to cash-in on the mini-laptop craze.

Though not yet available in stores, the HP Mini-Note is available for purchase at the HP Web site.

The Efficiency of Small Laptops

In today's competitive business market it is imperative that you bring your office with you when traveling near and far for important meetings and transactions.

These small laptops are also great for students to have access to all their class work no matter where they are.

Most of us have flown on an airplane and sat next to an annoying passenger who is trying to balance their huge laptop on the tiny tray in front of them. You may have a long jaunt to your job or college classes on board the local community transportation network with lots of time to get some business or schoolwork done.

What will you primarily use it for? How much memory or speed will you need? Is it important for you to have a large screen and beefy speakers? I have listed a few small laptops below as an example of what is out there and how much they cost.

ASUS Eee PC 904HA

This computer made the list of small laptops because it is the best value at $350. It is a little heavier than the other small laptops and does not have a DVD drive. It does have a 160GB hard drive and three USB ports, so you can store movies easily.

This baby is perfect for the person on the go. They are moderately priced at just under $800. It is very thin, only other in the small laptops category that is thinner is the MacAir.

If you are looking for small laptops that are heavy duty this is the one.

Apple MacBook MB061LL/B

It has a larger screen size, not great for travel but some people prefer the larger screen size. At $970 it is also not the cheapest in the small laptops category.

Before you make a final decision, do some price comparisons online or look in the local paper. Talk to someone you know who may already own a small, portable computer to see how satisfied they are with the performance and travel-ability.

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