July 7th, 2009
Sony announces $499 Vaio W netbook
Andrew wrote about the arrival of the 99 cent netbook yesterday and today we hear about the $499 netbook from Sony. The 99 cent netbook really is the much pricier model because you have to combine that with a whopping $60/month data access fee (you do get wireless data access from a carrier too). While the new Sony model is a bit expensive for a netbook today, it is actually the lowest price Sony laptop available. Sony previously launched their Vaio P ultra portable notebook, but that was priced at $899 and had a rather unique form factor.
The Sony Vaio W has the following specifications:
- 10.1 inch 1366×768 LED backlit display
- 160GB hard drive
- 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor
- 1GB RAM
- Windows XP operating system
- Bluetooth
- 802.11 b/g/n WiFi
- VGA out port
- Two USB ports
- Ethernet port
- Integrated webcam
- MemoryStick/SD card reader (of course)
- 3-cell battery good for reported three hours
The keyboard is listed as 86% full size. While Sony is known for high quality products, I am not sure the price will be competitive given that there are so many other high quality alternatives available in 2nd, 3rd, and more generation from ASUS, MSI, and others.
The Sony Vaio W should be available in August for $499 and available in pink, white, and brown. Thanks to Engadget for the press release and press image.
Matthew Miller is an avid mobile device enthusiast who works during the day as a professional naval architect in Seattle. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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