Dell Inspiron Mini 10 Netbook With webConnect Coming To T-Mobile

Tweet

Today during CTIA Wireless, T-Mobile announced the upcoming availability of the webConnect compatible Inspiron Mini 10 netbook from Dell. This announcement also marks T-Mobile’s entry into the netbook market.

As for what customers can expect in terms of the netbook itself, the Dell Inspiron Mini 10 features a 10.1-inch WSVGA display with a resolution of 1024 x 600, a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N450 processor, 1GB of RAM, a 92% full keyboard, 1.3 megapixel webcam and is running Windows 7 Starter Edition. Other features include three USB ports, a VGA port, built in 5-in-1 card reader, stereo speakers and a 6 cell battery that can offer “up to” 8 hours of run time (or 11 hours on standby) all in a package that weighs in at around 3 pounds.

Moving on to the 3G portion of the announcement, the Inspiron Mini 10 netbook will come pre-installed with T-Mobile’s webConnect software which will allow users to stay connected while on the go using the T-Mobile 3G network. Additionally, the webConnect plan also gives customers access to the “thousands” of available T-Mobile HotSpot Network locations across the United States.

Customers interested in picking up the 3G capable Inspiron Mini 10 netbook have a few options available, they can place an order online or by calling the T-Mobile 1-800 sales line. The netbook will also be available in select retail locations. Unfortunately those select retail locations are limited to Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and Miami. Sales will begin as of tomorrow March 24, 2010. Price wise customers can expect to shell out $199.99. Of course that price tag comes along with the required two year agreement as well as the added monthly cost of the 3G connectivity.

But in the end the decision to purchase a 3G capable laptop comes down to the price. And in this case is a $199.99 price tag worth the two year commitment. Some may think yes, but I remind you that this same Dell Mini 10 netbook minus the 3G is priced at $299.99 with Dell. Personally I would opt to pay the $100 extra and pick up a MiFi with either Sprint or Verizon. Sure you may be spending the same monthly, but at least you can feel free to sell the netbook and upgrade when you want, not after two years is up.