Lenovo IdeaPad S10

This Intel Atom based netbook won’t be breaking any speed records, but it performed more than adequately for normal activities. Windows startup took less than 30 seconds and internet browsing, word processing, and even photo editing tasks were downright “snappy.” While the 3D graphics benchmark numbers aren’t particularly impressive, it’s important to keep in mind that netbooks are not designed for playing computer games. The S10 and similar netbooks are mobile internet portals and productivity tools for getting some quick work done without needing to carry a giant laptop.

Is the Lenovo IdeaPad S10 the best netbook currently on the market and the best value for your dollar? Well, the answer isn’t simple, particularly considering the way that new netbooks seem to arrive every week. The S10 does several things right that we wish more manufacturers did with their netbooks.

First, Lenovo was smart enough to realize and ExpressCard slot is important if you want to make a netbook useful. The ExpressCard slot gives you the option of adding more USB ports, Firewire, eSATA, or any number of other ports to the S10. More importantly, the ExpressCard slot makes it easy to add a broadband modem to the S10 so that you can stay connected to the internet anywhere with cell phone reception.

Second, the S10 has built-in Bluetooth. Frankly, we’re amazed that every netbook doesn’t come with built-in Bluetooth since it allows you to connect devices to the netbook without using one of the USB ports.

Last, but certainly not least the S10 combines the surprisingly capable Intel Atom processor with a standard hard drive. While budget SSDs are nice, most consumers can’t get over the limited storage capacity of SSDs and that is why hard drives still have a place in netbooks.

On the other hand, the S10 still suffers from some of the same limitations as other netbooks: relatively high temperatures, small battery, and a cramped screen and keyboard.

Ultimately, the Lenovo IdeaPad S10 is a great ultra-portable laptop priced below $500. However, if you’re willing to put up with a bulkier notebook then it’s still possible to find a computer with more features and performance for almost the same price on sale.