Dell Inspiron iM1012-687OBK Mini 1012 10.1-Inch Obsidian Black Netbook - Up to 8 Hours 8 Minutes of Battery Life

by Dell

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 10.6 x 1.3 inches ; 3.2 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 5.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B00361G10S
• Item model number: iM1012-687OBK
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (25 customer reviews)
• Amazon Bestsellers Rank: #156 in Computer & Accessories (See Top 100 in Computer & Accessories)

  #36 in

  Computer & Accessories > Netbooks

• Date first available at Amazon.com: December 10, 2009

Product Description

Color: Black

Amazon.com Product Description

Dell Inspiron Mini 10: Jack of All Trades

The highly portable Dell Inspiron Mini 10 (model iM1012-687OBK) is everything you want in a mobile companion with easy Wi-Fi connectivity for on-the-go productivity, access to your favorite entertainment, and smooth video playback via the brightly colorful 10.1-inch screen. Redesigned for 2010, the Mini 10 now features a newly streamlined case with forward hinge design and it includes a textured, smudge-resistant palm rest and sculpted keys on the near-full-size keyboard. It also combines the power of the latest Intel Atom N450 processor (NM10 Express chipset) with a 6-cell battery for up to 6 hours of battery power.

The newly redesigned Dell Inspiron Mini 10 comes in a range of bright colors.

The new forward hinge design of the Mini 10 in Obsidian Black.

A new textured palm rest helps resist smudges.

The Mini 10 includes three USB ports, a VGA video output, and 3-in-1 memory card reader.

You'll be able to surf the Web, chat with friends (both via text and using the integrated 1.3-megapixel webcam), and upload on-the-go photos to blogs or social networking sites. Standard built-in Wi-Fi wireless connectivity means quick and easy Internet access to hotspots in the home, on campus, in a local coffee shop, or in the office. It comes in a range of colors, including this model's Obsidian Black.

It comes pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Starter operating system, which combines the latest in reliability and responsiveness with the familiarity and compatibility of Windows. It includes new Windows 7 features like Jump Lists to help you to better find and manage files, and connecting to printers and peripherals is easier than ever.

Note: This netbook does not come with an integrated optical drive; you can connect an optional external drive via one of the netbook's USB ports.

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Key Features

• Bright 10.1-inch widescreen display (1024 x 600) with a 16:9 aspect ratio that is designed to present websites without lots of left-right scrolling, as well as with a smoother line of sight
• 92 percent full-sized, spill-resistant keyboard with curved keys for easy typing.
• 1.66 GHz Intel Atom N450 processor (512 KB L2 cache, 667 MHz FSB) combines performance and energy efficiency to explore the Internet and stay connected while mobile.
• 160 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)
• 1 GB of RAM (800 MHz; 2 GB maximum capacity from single RAM slot)
• Integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3150 video processor with up to 384 MB dynamically allocated shared graphics memory
• 1.3-megapixel webcam integrated into the display bezel for easy video chats and conferencing
• 54g Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g)
• Three USB 2.0 ports
• VGA video output for connecting to an external monitor
• Stereo speakers with headphone and microphone jacks
• Fast Ethernet (10/100)
• 3-in-1 memory card reader compatible with Secure Digital (SD/SDHC), Multi-Media Card (MMC), and Memory Stick (MS/MS Pro) media
• Dell Remote Access enables you to easily access photos, music, movies and more on your home system using another Internet-connected computer. No more waiting until you get home to get the files you need.
• 2 GB of online storage with Box.net. enables you to keep important files online for easy access. Dell has partnered with Box.net to provide 2 GB of free Internet storage for every Inspiron Mini 10 customer. Store, access, collaborate and share any type of file through a secure, simple and intuitive web browser experience. Plus, you can purchase larger accounts to store more files.
• Dell DataSafe Online optional online backup service (additional charges applicable) offers data protection by enabling you to back up data to a safe, remote storage site using a broadband connection. Dell DataSafe Online is designed to be easy, flexible and secure. After setup, it will automatically back up data and help protect against software, hardware and catastrophic failure.
• Windows 7 Starter makes small notebook PCs easier to use because it puts less between you and what you want to do--less waiting, less clicking, less hassle connecting to networks. And Starter combines the latest in reliability and responsiveness with the familiarity and compatibility of Windows.
• Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
• Pre-loaded software includes Microsoft Works SE 9.0 for word processing and spreadsheet work.
• Up to 6 hours of battery life
• Dimensions: 10.5 x 7.8 x 1.3 inches (WxDxH)
• Weight: 3.1 pounds

What's in the box
This package includes the Dell Inspiron Mini 10 (iM1012-687OBK), 6-cell rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and printed documentation. It's backed by a 1-year limited warranty with mail-in service.

The centrally located, easy-to-use Dell Support Center application offers provides personalized support resources. Conveniently located on your PC's desktop with quick links to service, support and system resources. You'll be able to keep your system up-to-date and running efficiently through automated fixes for common configuration issues.

The Dell Inspiron Mini 1012.

Product Description

The Inspiron Mini 10 has best in class industrial design with integrated battery design in an adorable drift design. The combination of processor and battery technology delivers long battery life to keep the computer running from dawn to dusk. The netbook also has options that could keep you entertained with smooth watching of high definition video on a high definition screen.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

176 of 181 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Truly the Best Netbook on the Market, March 16, 2010

By	S. Showalter "purefusion" (Ohio, USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Dell Inspiron iM1012-687OBK Mini 1012 10.1-Inch Obsidian Black Netbook - Up to 8 Hours 8 Minutes of Battery Life (Personal Computers)

I've not been a fan of that many netbooks out there, but this little guy really blew me away. I got to compare this netbook up against netbooks from ASUS, Acer, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and Gateway (a pretty exhaustive line-up). There was a sharp contrast between Dell's Mini 10 series and netbooks made by the other companies. To me, the buying decision really came down to comfort and ingenuity of its design. I find others choosing this model mostly for the same reasons.

===== It's Comfortable =====
This thing is a dream to use. Most netbooks are unusable to me. What stings me most with netbooks is the keyboard. I'm used to the low-profile, "chiclet-style" scissor-switch keyboards that are (or at least used to be) most common in laptops, and in fact I love them. I'm referring to the type of keys that are flat and flush with the palm rest, and have a little flange or lip on the edges (where the space is between the keys). To see exactly what I mean, check out the close ups here on the right (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00361G10S?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8#productDescription). These types of keyboards make typing a breeze, as they won't inflict wrist strain due to tall keys or keys that require more force to press.

===== It's Innovative =====
The touch pad is small, yet clever, allowing you to press down on the bottom-left/bottom-right corners of the pad to left-click/right-click (respectively), rather than wasting space by implementing separate buttons. The touch pad is also very touchable, as its texture and finish is matte, rather than glossy, making it much more conducive to swiping your fingers across than most of the other netbooks I laid fingers on. Most netbooks' touch pads were glossy, making your skin shear and resist the dragging gestures. I find such a feeling to be nearly as annoying as fingernails on a chalkboard! The other netbooks were also noticeably covered in oily smudges and finger grease, both inside the track pad and also on the wrist rest. Instant turn off for me on anything but the Dell! The Mini 10 on the other hand was smudge free, thanks to their use of an oil-resistant softly-textured palm-rest.

===== It's Brilliant =====
The display is crisp and bright, and it isn't too shabby outside either, though I recommend using full brightness when being used outdoors. My only complaint about the screen is its native resolution is a bit low for my tastes, which I hope isn't just a personal preference. I'd rather see more on the screen than to see things big and close up. However, this is par for netbooks anyway. You should look into this Sony (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PII4HW?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8) if you absolutely must have a higher definition display while maintaining the small form factor of a netbook.

===== It's Media Friendly =====
The built in HD media excellerator and the 9:16 ratio widescreen 10.1" display is great for watching hi-def movies on the go, with one very important exception: you must have an external DVD (or Blu-Ray) drive. I recommend this Samsung (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002C1BBU8?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8) which sports a sexy look, on par with the Dell 's own appeal, without sacrificing functionality. Video playback is generally smooth and very few hiccups in playback have been experienced.

===== It's Stylish =====
You wont mind being seen with one of these, especially given the choice of colors, you can't go wrong in customizing. Dell really puts their feet forward in coming through on their philosophy of customization. Some people buy netbooks for the look. If you're one of these vain PC users, you'll rest easy knowing you've got one sexy looking netbook! I chose the white, personally.

===== It's Capable =====
The Dell Mini isn't exactly your run of the mill netbook. Sure, it can do what the others do, and I've typically used it for writing and surfing the Web (after all, surfing was the original presmise of the netbook, hense the name). Just be sure to keep your browser tabs to a minimum and not install too many Firefox extensions, and you'll be fine. But it plays media, including Web videos, Flash sites and Flash games, at a decent pace. As long as you aren't trying to multi-task by running several other programs at once, you should be just fine.

Windows 7 starters is an ideal OS for the netbook, and it even outperforms XP in several areas, so you can't go wrong in using it. The memory card reader is an added bonus. I didn't think it would be all that useful, but it is a life-saver when traveling.

===== Processor and Battery =====
The Dell Mini 1012 features the Intel Atom N450, a 64-bit-capable single-core processor supporting 2GB max ram. It supports Hyper Threading, so mild (but not wild) multi-tasking is possible, within reason. Try not to run more than two apps simultaneously for best performance and battery life. Intel Speedstep Technology is also built in, helping you save battery life. We averaged about 7-8 hours compared to the boasted 9.5 using the 60WHr 6 cell battery.

===== What I Loved =====
* Keyboard design - 92% full-size!
* Touch pad design - genius usability features
* Wrist rest - comfortable, remains clean/streak-free
* 3 USB ports - 2-left/1-right is dandy for using a USB mouse
* Windows 7 - Vista isn't optimized for netbooks, 7 is
* 9:16 ratio display - great for movies (see above for DVD solution)
* Keyboard + Touch pad design - seriously! It hits the mark spot-on!

===== Dissapointments =====
The things we would have liked to see were:
* 802.11n support - the future is here!
* 1024x600 resolution - would have preferred at least 1280x720
* 5400 RPM hard drive -would have liked a faster SSD (even if smaller)

I hope you've found this review to be helpful! :)

27 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars This is a good one, but they call it a netbook and not a notebook, for a reason, March 22, 2010

By	Andrea L. Polk (Southern Oregon) - See all my reviews (VINE VOICE)    (TOP 100 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Dell Inspiron iM1012-687OBK Mini 1012 10.1-Inch Obsidian Black Netbook - Up to 8 Hours 8 Minutes of Battery Life (Personal Computers)

Why 4 stars versus 5? The difference between 'I like it' and 'I love it'. I do like it! I like netbooks for web surfing and emailing, video chat via Skype and little else. Ideally the mini would have a DVD drive, more storage space, a better webcam and THEN I'd love it, but then it would probably be a notebook.

I purchased this item for my 12 year old daughter to access the internet to play online games (Disney's Club Penguin and Neopets), do basic research for reports and access her email. I wanted something that was ultra-portable, the right size for her small hands, possessing a brilliant display and a good battery life. I went to Dell first because I trust the brand. The Dell Inspiron Mini... did not disappoint.

What I like about it...

1. Great battery life with the 6-cell battery. Averages about 6 hours of solid use with the 6-cell. It does add to the thickness of the back of the unit, but it still fits easily into the case I purchased for it. Targus CityGear Netbook Case for up to 10.2 Inch Netbooks- Black and Grey TSM097US
2. The display is bright and clear.
3. The keyboard, while smaller than the full-sized one, is adequate and responsive.
4. The wireless connection is quick despite not being 'n-network' capable.
5. Trend Internet Security USB installed easily and uses very few resources, not bogging down the netbook.

What I wish was better...

1. Less heat! The bottom of the unit gets quite hot. I have to say this worries me. Longevity may be an issue.
2. The finish on the netbook is shiny. I wish it was more fingerprint resistant. I love the glossy black finish, but it does show every smudge.

What I'd love to see in the next generation of netbooks...

DVD drive, n-network ready and HDMI capabilities...with the same price point, battery life and mobility. Yes, I'm really talking about an ideal 'notebook' now, but can you blame me? I love the idea of a full-service mini notebook, and I'm sure we're headed in that direction with the Dell Inspiron Minis.

Mine came with Windows XP, not Windows 7, but I've used both and they seem equally zippy to me when accessing the Net. I am pleased with this purchase and would recommend it to anyone who would wants portability, speed and quality to access the internet, at a low price point.

I would not recommend purchasing this product if you have large hands, want to watch movies on your laptop (this could be done by purchasing this item: Samsung USB 2.0 8x DVD Writer External Optical Drive for Mac and PC SE-S084C/RSBN (Gloss Black), or wish to do video or photo editing; requiring more computing power - even with a proper amount of storage provided by a Patriot Memory Extreme Performance Xporter Magnum - USB flash drive - 64 GB - 210x - Hi-Speed USB or a Western Digital My Passport Essential SE 1 TB USB 2.0 Portable External Hard Drive WDBABM0010BBK-NESN (Midnight Black).

However, if you know that you want a 'netbook' and not a 'notebook'... and understand its limitations...the Dell Inspiron Mini is a good choice!

29 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Problem with touch screen click button, April 2, 2010

By	dg "dgriffit" (Columbus, OH) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dell Inspiron iM1012-687JGN Mini 1012 10.1-Inch Netbook (Personal Computers)

Just purchased this computer. I thought the touchscreen left and right click buttons would be helpful, but after using it, I found it to be a hindrance. The main problem is that you cannot use two hands to navigate as you can on a regular laptop mouse set-up. I often left click with my left index finger, and sweep with my right. This is particularly evident when you try to highlight text. When you press down on the left click button, and also finger over the touch pad to color the text, the mouse wants to navigate in both directions (for each finger) and makes it very difficult to try to get the pointer to hover over one spot.
Very frustrating, and a deal breaker in my case.

On a positive, I can say I absolutely love the keyboard. Quality wise, It is OK, and I do like how the ac plug comes straight out the back which helps prevent side pressures on the plug. It is also a beefy plug, unlike the Esus which has the small adapter pin. The ac adapter itself is as compact as it could be.

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