I didn't really have any intentions of purchasing a netbook since I already have a 12.1" laptop (HP TX1000), but my laptop is showing signs of dying and this little doo-dad was on sale at $230. I plan on purchasing a 15"~ laptop once the 12.1" laptop dies as this is not a laptop-replacement for power users (no CD/DVD drive for starters).
First I have to say the design is very nice. The black and silver looks premium and sophisticated, but not gaudy. The inside is a little more basic looking, but the silver hinges and reflective frame around the screen give it some pizazz (although the sticker residue did NOT come off nicely and I ended up leaving light surface scratches when removing)
The track pad is pretty small compared to a normal sized trackpad on a laptop, but is very usable. Only takes a minute to adapt. The side scroller works very smoothly (unlike some other laptops I've tried). The button on the bottom acts as a rocker from side to side for your left and right click.
Weight and thinness are certainly commendable, but you can get the measurements from most product descriptions to see how this compares to others. In my comparisons, I found this one above average (but not best-of-the-best).
Performance is nothing short of remarkable. VERY FAST (but only for basic tasks). Opening internet explorer, browsing around the computer, etc. makes you believe you have a supercomputer, but once you try to play HD video on Youtube, you definitely reach the limitations of the system (regular Youtube videos work fine, even full-screen).
The 0.3 megapixel web cam doesn't seem like much compared to the 1.3 megapixels of other netbooks/notebooks, but this is definitely enough for webconferencing and making fun videos for yourself. It's not like you're taking pictures with it.
Even with only a 10.1" screen, the text is very readable without going to a lower resolution and then not being able to fit everything on the screen. Very pleased in this respect as it was a concern for me.
The laptop screen is difficult to open though... maybe there's a technique to it, but it's completely flush on all sides except where the chrome gateway logo strip is in the center. Also, the sound is not loud at all. Full blast volume is 60% of what you'd expect, so be sure to bring portable speakers or headphones...
As far as connectivity, it gives you everything you need. Everything is on the sides (rather than the back or front) for easy access without getting in the way. There's a network connection, VGA (monitor) port, USB port, mic and speaker ports on the left side and the power cord, two usb ports and a multi-function card reader on the right.
Overall this netbook really impressed me. It is definitely going to be grabbed more often than my 12.1" laptop for its lightweight portability, quietness, and lack of heat - all without sacrificing speed for simple tasks. I only hope this netbook surprises me with reliability in the years to come.
Update/Edit:
Today I put in iTunes and was able to get the sound up to par by maxing out both Windows Sound and iTunes. I was able to do the same with Windows Media PlayerGet more detail about Gateway LT2022u 10.1-Inch Black Netbook - Up to 3 Hours of Battery Life.
