Sony VAIO VGN-Z11WN/B 13.1in Notebook Review

Sony has, for some time now, been considered the kings of the ultra-portable notebook. It's a reputation it has fostered for many years and one that was solidified, in our minds at least, when we gave our 2007 Best Notebook award to the much coveted Sony VAIO TZ. Yet, even now the VAIO TZ is starting to look a little old-hat given the plethora of new contenders, like the Lenovo ThinkPad X300, hitting the market. Clearly Sony hasn't been resting on its laurels, however, since the VAIO TT Series (review coming soon) has arrived to replace the TZ and Sony has also been busy revising the rest of its range, replacing the 13.3 inch SZ with today's target, the Z Series.

Sony VAIO X Series

The netbook has all but put paid to the need for an expensive ultraportable if you need laptop to take everywhere, but few models are that much to look at. ASUS certainly made an impression with its S101 and Seashell Eee PCs, but Sony created the biggest splash with its featherweight VAIO P Series. Sadly, that netbook was simply too small to be used properly, so now it’s trying again with something of more sensible proportions. The VAIO X Series’ 11.1in screen and wide keyboard are much more in keeping with the acceptable ergonomics of the best netbooks, but by combining them with the same razor-thin profile as the P Series, Sony has created a netbook that’s only a fraction thicker than the iPhone 3GS.

Sony VAIO W

Processor: 1.66GHz Intel Atom N280
Memory: 1GB RAM
Storage: 160GB hard drive
Optical Drive: None
Screen: 10.1 inches (1,366x768 native resolution)
Graphics: Integrated Intel GMA 950
Weight: 2.6 pounds
Dimensions (HWD): 1.3x10.5x7.1 inches
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition