MSRP- $420
Best Features- Stylish design; many configurations available; HD screen
Worst Features- Poor battery life; hard to use track pad; can get expensive fast
Conclusion- As more people start to look at mini netbooks for portable computing options, HP has introduced a netbook that operates more like a notebook. This portable machine can be a good option for many, but it also has some drawbacks.
HP has always been good about staying ahead of the curve with their options, and the HP Mini 5103 review reveals that this is no exception. There are several reasons you may want to consider this powerful little netbook.
Click here to get the Mini 5103 N455 for only $418
HP Mini 5103 Review Specs
There are so many configurations available that it’s hard to do a basic HP Mini 5103 review and include specs. However, the very basic system that starts at $399 will include at least an Intel Atom 1.5 GHz processor, 2GB memory, an 80GB hard drive, a 4 cell battery, and the HP Mobile Broadband built in. You can upgrade most of these features. The hard drive can be upgraded from 80GB to 320GB, the processor can be upgraded from the 1.5 to a 1.83. The battery can be upgraded to a 6-cell, and the wireless options can be upgraded to include the Broadcom Wi-Fi finder and Bluetooth capability.
HP Mini 5103 Review Pros
One of the biggest positive aspects is the fact that this can be a low cost HP Mini netbook if you choose the base configuration. While you will find cheaper netbooks, this one functions more closely to a full sized notebook than most other ones on the market.
The base resolution of 1,240 X 600 is adequate, and you can upgrade to a High Definition resolution of 1.366 X 768 for less than $30. It’s hard to find mini netbooks that have an HD option, so this is a nice surprise.
The keyboard is set in to the casing, making it flush. This is actually very comfortable to type on, and it saves space. It’s not quite full sized, but it’s not a cramped keyboard like you’ll find on many other smaller laptops.
The included webcam is surprising as well. This better than average webcam is perfect to Skype on. The speakers are also very good for a netbook this size. You’ll still get a slightly tinny sound when they are turned up loud, but they are much better than speakers you will find in other computers of this size.
HP Mini 5103 Review Cons
HP came along way with this netbook, but it isn’t perfect.
There is no HDMI output. Ths would have been nice to see, especially since some of the other options, including the cheapest HP netbook options in other models do have this.
This isn’t designed for business person. While the style and configuration make it look like a good solution for portable computing for the executive, for the price there are better options out there.
There is a touch screen option available, but it’s not really worth the money. The touch sensitivity is quick, but the included Windows 7 isn’t really designed to allow you to take full advantage of it.
Along the same lines, you can’t get an HD touch screen. You’ll have to choose one or other. It would have been nice to see an option for both.
Adding all of the extras if you custom order an HP Mini 5103 can quickly double the price. While HP does offer the upgrades at reasonable costs ($25 to upgrade to 2GB RAM, $50 for the touch screen, etc), after you add everything that you want in this netbook can cost just as much, if not more, than some of 15 inch laptops on the market.
Bottom Line
The bottom line for this HP Mini 5103 review is that it’s not a bad choice. Students and people who just want mobile computing options but don’t need to run demanding software can get by with the cheapest HP netbook configuration. If you need something more demanding, it may be worth it, but you may also be able to find comparable netbooks for less.
Click here to get the Mini 5103 N455 for only $418
