The stylish MSI Wind U100 mini notebook is both compact and usable
- Connect to the Internet anywhere.
- Comfortable full sized keyboard.
- Lightweight and highly portable.
- Easy to use operating system.
- Watch films & videos.
A very affordable mini-notebook
The Wind U100 is the latest release from Micro-Star International (MSI). This stylish mini-notebook is available in glossy white or blue, and with a choice of either Linux or Windows XP® operating system.
And if you’d prefer a black and silver one, it’s available from PC World branded as the Advent 4211.
Compact, portable and eminently usable
The first thing you’ll notice when you get this little notebook in your hands is how easy it is to use. Because the chassis is a couple of centimetres wider than some mini-notebooks, there’s room for a full sized keyboard. That means it’s a lot more comfortable for extended periods of use, especially for adults.
However, the bigger chassis doesn’t come at the expense of added bulk; the Wind weighs just 1.2kg. The MSI Wind is designed for people on the go.
Power for life on the move
The Intel® Atom processor runs at 1.6GHz. The Wind includes a button to overclock or underclock (speed up or slow down) the processor depending on your computing needs.
When you’re plugged into the mains you can overclock the processor if you need more processing power. And while you’re running on battery power, you can underclock it if you need longer battery life.
Bright and vivid 10" widescreen display
When it comes to mini-notebook screens, the MSI Wind has one of the best. The deep blacks and bright vivid colours make it a joy to use. Watching films is a pleasure.
The 1024 x 600 resolution and 10" diagonal width make it more usable than smaller screens. Web pages display in full without the need to scroll horizontally. The matte finish makes it ideal for outdoor use.
There’s also a magnification feature you can use to magnify the screen when you’re working with documents or looking at photos.
Easy to use for beginners
The SUSE Linux operating system provides an easy-to-use icon-based interface for novice computer users. For example, connecting to the Internet or launching the media player takes just one click.
The Windows XP® Home model will offer familiarity if you’re already used to the Windows operating system.
Connect and chat anywhere
With 802.11b/g Wi-Fi you can connect to the Internet whether at home or away. And with Bluetooth you can connect wirelessly to your mobile phone or printer.
The built-in 1.3 Megapixel Webcam, microphone and stereo speakers mean you can video chat with colleagues, friends, or family.
Usability at a bargain price
The MSI Wind is a great quality mini-notebook small enough to fit in a briefcase or handbag. It’s arguably the most stylish mini-notebook, also. With a 10" screen and full sized keyboard it’s designed to be usable, not just portable.
The Wind U100 is undoubtedly a bargain. And if you buy it from PC World as the Advent 4211, you’ll save another fifty quid.
Key features
- Ergonomically designed adult size keyboard for less fatigue.
- Processor power and battery life to meet your needs.
- A bright screen that’s great for watching movies.
- 80GB of HDD storage space.
- Webcam for video chats.
| Operating System | Genuine Windows XP® Home or SUSE Linux |
| Display | 10" 1024 x 600 |
| Intel CPU & Chipset | Intel Atom 1.6GHz N270 |
| Wireless Data Network | WLAN 802.11b/g and Bluetooth |
| Memory | 1GB (DDR2) |
| HDD Storage | 80GB HDD |
| Webcam | 1.3M Pixel |
| Audio | Dual channel stereo speakers |
| Battery | 3 Cells, 3–5 hours* |
| Weight | 1.15 kg (2.3 lbs) |
| Colours | White, Blue, Black (Advent 4211) |
* Actual battery life is subject to normal usage, configuration, and model type.