Dell Mini 1018 – new generation netbook, new features

Dell are currently planning to upgrade their 10 inch netbook lines with the latest generation hardware available right now from Intel, which includes processors with DDR3 memory support. The new device is called Dell Mini 1018 and comes as a successor of the Mini 1012 series.

Like with all such upgrades we’ve seen from other producers, there’s nothing different in terms of design and construction between the old 1012 and the new 1018. However, while the previous generation used a 2 color finishing, this new one is only available in complete black, but that’s probably only for the moment. Still glossy, of course.

Keyboard seems to be the same, 92% Full Size and island style. Palm rest area inherits the textured finish, but there’s a new trackpad, with separated click buttons, not integrated as before.

Dell Mini 1018 - an evolution

On the inside, there are some other changes: like I’ve said, the Dell Mini 1018 will bring Intel’s Atom N455 processor (1.66 GHz), with 1 GB of DDR3 memory and GMA 3150 Graphics. And like with all Dell notebooks, you’ll get lots of customization options, including various size storage drives, various batteries (3 Cell or 6 Cell – the best will offer around 7 hours of life) and extras like Bluetooth 3.0 or the Broadcom Crystal 3D accelerator for better multimedia capabilities.

Same bulky body, but there's a new trackpad

For now, this Dell Mini 1018 is not yet available in the States, but only in Europe. You can find more details about it on Dell’s site in UK and you can notice that prices start from 279 pounds. We’re waiting for it to cross the pond and that should happen very soon. Hopefully with a nice price and more colors to choose from. So stay tuned for updates.

Update: This Dell Mini is now available in the States, in a couple of different configuration options, with price starting from $299. Details in this other post.

All in all, the Mini 1018 is not a revolutionary product, but an expected evolution. Still, Dell worked out a couple of the problems of the previous generation, so expect this one to be quite popular, at least in the US.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Tags: DDR3 memory, Dell, Dell Mini, mainstream netbooks

Last updated: September 24, 2010 | Published: August 24th, 2010 | Add the first comment!