Are 10-inch netbooks too small for you? Do you find 15-inch notebooks too big? Then perhaps something in between would suit your taste. We take a look at the new 12-inch notebook from Medion and see what it has in store for users.
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This notebook does not sport the general specifications found in netbooks (like an Atom processor, 1GB of RAM, and 160GB of HDD). Instead, the S2211 uses an Intel Core Two Duo T4200 processor running at 2.0-Ghz, has 4GB of RAM, and has 320GB of storage space. The unit makes do without a dedicated video card but instead uses Intel’s Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD.
The unit has a built-in DVD burner, three USB ports, an Ethernet port, D-Sub out, 4-in-1 memory card reader, ExpressCard slot, and an HDMI out for easy HDTV hookup. The S2211 also has draft-N Wi-Fi, which means that it can quickly transfer files when connected to a Draft-N router.
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Like any other Medion computer, the S2211 comes with Windows Vista Home Premium (with Service Pack 1), Microsoft Works 9, Office 2007 Home and Student (Trial), Corel Draw Essentials Edition 3, Corel Media One, Bullguard Security (90-day trial), PowerDirector 7, PowerProducer 5, PowerDVD 7, and MediaShow pre-loaded on the notebook.
Since the S2211 does not have a dedicated video card, it will not be able to play graphic intensive games. Our 3DMark03 test shows just that, with the S2211 only getting a score of 2302. What is good about this notebook though is its widescreen capability, allowing us to watch movies without having to squint.
Because Medion has included an 8-cell battery with the package, this notebook will definitely go the distance. In our movie playback test (with audio and brightness set to max), the unit lasted for 186 minutes (a little over 3 hours). This is very good considering other notebooks out in the market only lasts for 80-100 minutes.
Users who want an able notebook that can handle home and office tasks should take a look at Medion’s 12-inch offering. This in-between notebook can get basic jobs done and can last for quite some time before running out of juice. It is a great alternative for users who don’t want to lug along a heavy 15-incher. The S2211 will be on sale starting March 26, 2009 with an RRP of $1,249.
See page over for product specifications and final rating.
Medion Akoya S2211 Specifications:
– Intel Pentium processor T4200 (2.0 GHz, 1 MB L2 Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
– Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD based on PCI-Express technology with digital HDMI audio/video output
– 320 GB hard drive
– 12.1-inch TFT Widescreen Display with 1280 x 800 pixel (16:10 format)
– Wireless LAN 802.11b/g Draft-n (802.11 b/g compatible)
– 4 GB DDR2 SDRAM memory
– Integrated 1.3 megapixel webcam and microphone
– Extended life 8 cell battery
– Integrated multi card reader (SD/MMC/MS)
– 8x Multi-Standard DVD-/CD-burner with DVD-RAM and Dual Layer support
– Stereo loudspeakers built-in
– Gigabit Ethernet LAN (10/100/1000 Mbit/s)
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Medion Akoya S2211 | $1249 | 
| www.aldi.com.au
For: Small profile; Light weight; Noteworthy specifications; 8-cell battery included; Long battery life
Against: Glossy screen prone to glare; No dedicated video card; Heat vent located on the right (not good for users who are right-handed as it gets hot)
Conclusion: A 12-inch notebook good for home or office users.
