HP Mini 311
Manufacturer: HP Part number: VL838AV
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- HP's Mini 311 adds a larger, high-definition display and advanced graphics to a basic Netbook, while keeping the price very appealing. Once it starts shipping with Windows 7, this could become our favorite Netbook.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Best Computer retailer website five years running |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 11/24/2009 |
CNET editors' review
HP Mini 311 price range: $399.99
- Reviewed by: Dan Ackerman
- Reviewed on: 10/08/2009
- Released on: 10/09/2009
The good: Nvidia Ion graphics adds HD video and basic gaming functionality; reasonably priced; high-def display.
The bad: Annoying touch pad; streaming Flash video support for new Nvidia Ion graphics is spotty; $20 extra for a white lid, seriously?
The bottom line: HP's Mini 311 adds a larger, high-definition display and advanced graphics to a basic Netbook, while keeping the price very appealing. Once it starts shipping with Windows 7, this could become our favorite Netbook.
The Netbook wars have heated up, with PC makers adding upscale features such as larger HD displays and faster low-voltage CPUs to systems, in an effort for push prices up past the usual $299-$399 range.
We've seen HD Netbooks from Sony and others, usually with prices closer to $599, so we're excited to see HP's new Mini 311 packing in an 11.6-inch, 1,366x768 screen, as well as Nvidia's Ion graphics chip, all starting at $399. You're still stuck with the same Intel Atom N270 CPU, 1GB of RAM, and Windows XP, but that's typical for a $399 Netbook. Our review unit added the slightly faster Atom N280 CPU, an optional white lid design, 802.11n Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, for a total of $494.
The real payoff is in the Nvidia Ion, which, while not a true discrete GPU, offers enough power to play HD video files smoothly (a sticking point for Netbooks), as well as do some basic gaming. For nongraphics tasks, it won't affect performance much (and GPU support for Flash video, such as Hulu, is still a work in progress), but it does solve some of the frustrations associated with Netbooks, without driving up the price.
As much as the Mini 311 may be our new go-to Netbook, we'd be hard-pressed to suggest buying one of these right now, when Windows 7 comes out at the end of October. With Netbooks exempt from Microsoft's free upgrade offer, it makes more sense to wait a few weeks and get the new OS out of the box (which should also make it possible to get past the artificial 1GB of RAM limit on XP-powered Netbooks).
| Price as reviewed / Starting price | $494 / $399 |
| Processor | 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 |
| Memory | 1GB, 1066MHz DDR2 |
| Hard drive | 160GB 5,400rpm |
| Chipset | Nvidia MCP79 |
| Graphics | Nvidia Ion (integrated) |
| Operating System | Windows XP |
| Dimensions (WD) | 11.4 inches wide by 8 inches deep |
| Height | 1.2 inches |
| Screen size (diagonal) | 11.6 inches |
| System weight / Weight with AC adapter | 3.3 / 4.1 pounds |
| Category | Netbook |
With a high-resolution screen and better graphics packed into a standard-price Netbook, you'd be right to expect a little cost-cutting somewhere else. The Mini 311 is far from the flashiest-looking laptop out there, even among low-cost Netbooks. Most of the chassis is a dull, generic, gray plastic, with either a black or a white lid with a subtle swirl pattern. The white version, which we had, costs an extra $20 for no particularly good reason, and the very faint gray swirls on it actually made it look a bit dingy from a distance. On the plus side, the system itself feels sturdy enough, and there was no flex in the lid when we pulled it open and shut.
The keys on the keyboard have the same slightly scalloped shape and wide faces that we've seen on HP's other Netbooks, such as the Mini 110. It's a design we approve of, but in this particular case, the keys themselves felt a little loose and wiggly when typing. Likewise, the touch pad did not impress. Made of the same material as the rest of the wrist rest, it offered too much resistance to our fingers. There's a legitimate reason most laptop touch pads have a distinct, slick surface. We also had to go into the control panel to crank up the pointer speed--perhaps the default settings were created with an older 1,024x600 Netbook in mind. Two sliverlike mouse buttons under the touch pad also felt cheap and insubstantial.
The 11.6-inch wide-screen LED display is one of the Mini 311's highlights, with a 1,366x768 native resolution. We've seen this on a handful of other Netbooks, from the Sony Vaio W to the Asus Eee PC 1101. It's still very readable, and provides enough screen real estate that going back to a lower-resolution Netbook display feels positively claustrophobic in comparison. While the screen was glossy, we were actually more distracted by the even glossier black plastic screen bezel.
| HP Mini 311 | Average for category [Netbook] | |
| Video | VGA-out, HDMI | VGA |
| Audio | Stereo speakers, single headphone/microphone jack | headphone/microphone jacks |
| Data | 3 USB 2.0, SD card reader | 2 USB 2.0, SD card reader |
| Expansion | None | None |
| Networking | Ethernet, 802.11g Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Optical drive | None | None |
The HP Mini 311 includes a standard set of connections for a $399 Netbook (entry-level models under $300 may be tempted to drop one of the USB ports or HDMI output). Still, extras such as 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth will cost extra. While not as customizable as Dell's Netbook line (curiously also named "Mini"), there are options for the CPU, networking, and mobile broadband.
At tasks which are not graphics-intensive, the Intel Atom N280 CPU performed as expected, roughly matching other Netbooks. As always, we consider Atom-powered systems to be fine for basic tasks such as Web surfing, e-mail, and office tasks, and even basic Photoshop work--as long as your expectations are kept realistic.
Putting the Nvidia Ion to the test, we did the unthinkable, loading up a handful of full-fledged PC games on a Netbook. Most Netbooks can barely handle casual games such as Plants vs. Zombies, to say nothing of full 3D graphics. Despite the hype, this is definitely not going to be your main PC gaming rig, but Unreal Tournament still managed to get 23.2 frames per second at 800x600, which is borderline acceptable. Tweaking the settings could likely squeeze a little more out of that game. We also installed Call of Duty 4, and during a particularly intensive firefight sequence, we ran into some stuttering at the same 800x600 resolution, but overall found it to be fairly playable (although your definition of playable may vary).
The major triumph for Netbooks is still to be useful all-around devices, and as the Nvidia Ion shares much of its DNA with the GeForce 9400 graphics found in the 13-inch MacBook (which is excellent for an integrated graphics solution), the real bottleneck to achieving this goal is the 1GB of RAM and the single-core Atom CPU. We'd be very interested in seeing how the same gaming tests run under Windows 7 with double the RAM.
We also fully expect to see road warriors hacking away at World of Warcraft on the HP Mini 311 at airport departure gates and in coffee shops. In fact, HP should just paint a giant WoW logo on the back of this thing and sell it as a $400 portable Warcraft machine.
Video playback was excellent, and our test 720p WMV file ran flawlessly--something no other Netbook has been able to do. Web-based video is a bit of a different story, but an updated version of Flash (reportedly available in November) will let streaming Web video take advantage of the GPU. For right now, Hulu on-demand content ran decently as-is, but not radically better than other Netbooks.
 Juice box |
|
| Mainstream (Avg watts/hour) | |
| Off (60%) | 0.36 |
| Sleep (10%) | 0.67 |
| Idle (25%) | 9.27 |
| Load (05%) | 18.38 |
| Raw kWh Number | 30.83 |
| Annual Energy Cost | $3.50 |
Another pleasant surprise was that the HP Mini 311 ran for 5 hours and 20 minutes on our video playback battery drain test, using the included six-cell battery (which sits nicely flush with the system). That makes the Mini 311 especially appealing for watching videos and gaming on long trips.
HP includes an industry-standard, one-year, parts-and-labor warranty with the system. Upgrading to a three-year plan will cost an extra $179, which includes accidental damage protection--although that's still nearly 50-percent of the entry price for the system. Support is accessible through a 24-7 toll-free phone line, an online knowledge base, and driver downloads.
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
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(Longer bars indicate better performance)
Find out more about how we test laptops.
HP Mini 311
Windows XP Home SP3; 1.66GHz Intel Atom N280; 1024MB DDR3 SDRAM 1066MHz; 512MB (Shared) Nvidia Ion LE; 160GB Seagate 5400rpm
Gateway LT3103u
Windows Vista Home Basic SP1; 1.2GHz AMD Athlon 64 L110; 2048MB DDR2 SDRAM 667MHz; 384MB (Shared) ATI Mobility Radeon X1270; 250GB Seagate 5400rpm
Dell Inspiron Mini 10
Windows XP Home Edition SP3; 1.6GHz Intel Atom Z530; 1024MB DDR2 SDRAM 533MHz; 256MB (Shared) Mobile Intel GMA 950; 160GB Western Digital 5400rpm
Lenovo Ideapad S12
Windows XP Home SP3; 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270; 1024MB DDR2 SDRAM 533MHz; 128MB (Shared) Mobile Intel GMA 950; 160GB Hitachi 5400rpm
Asus Eee PC 1101HA
Windows XP Home Edition SP3; 1.33GHz Intel Atom Z520; 1024MB DDR2 SDRAM 533MHz; 256MB (Shared) Mobile Intel GMA 500; 160GB Hitachi 5400rpm
Sony Vaio W
Windows XP Home Edition SP3; 1.66GHz Intel Atom N280; 1024MB DDR2 SDRAM 533MHz; 128MB (Shared) Mobile Intel GMA 950; 160GB Toshiba 5400rpm
User reviews
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Best Netbook Ever!
by 98markviii on October 9, 2009
Pros: Sleek, great performance, AMAZING display, awesome battery life, very sturdy, runs Windows 7 flawlessly, 2 slots for DDR3 memory.
Cons: Everything stated in the Cnet article is true. Touchpad can get a little annoying, the white lid can look dirty because the design has random spots in it (19 to be exact). Also, HP did not offer a case/sleeve for this netbook when I purchased it.
Summary: I think the HP Mini 311 is easily the best netbook on the market. I had originally decided to hold off on purchasing a netbook because they could only run ...
Summary: I think the HP Mini 311 is easily the best netbook on the market. I had originally decided to hold off on purchasing a netbook because they could only run Windows XP, had low resolutions, small solid state hard drives and provided mediocre performance. After a lot of research I discovered the HP Mini 311 and knew it was the netbook for me, the perfect compromise. I waited a month and ordered mine the first day it was available on the HP website. It arrived yesterday and I couldn?t be more pleased. I really think this netbook should be in a class of it?s own. What I find particularly interesting is that there are two slots for DDR3 RAM. Most netbooks only have one slot meaning you can really only afford to install 2 GB of memory, max. I ordered a 2 GB stick of DDR3 ram from newegg.com for $33 with free shipping. I installed the RAM (couldn?t be easier) and then installed Windows 7. Now I have what I believe to be a perfect computer, running 3 GB of RAM.
When purchasing a new computer you really need to sit back and think about what you are going to be using it for. Gamers need a high performance dual core machine while others who do no more than take notes in class and surf the web just need a basic netbook. The HP Mini 311 combines the functionality of both into one device which allows it to not only be portable, but powerful. This computer was designed for people like me. I do not play any graphics intensive games, but I do enjoy HD content. I also appreciate long battery life, and a sexy design. The options I chose to customize my computer with were the white lid, upgraded processor, wireless G w/ Bluetooth and a second 6-cell battery for 50% off. I would highly recommend the second battery because it is a great deal at $50, and now your new laptop can run twice as long while on the go.
All in all, this is a great computer for an affordable price. The screen size is great and the keys are larger than the competitions. Buying new pieces of technology can be hard because you know that within a month all the other competing products will be released. If you keep following the best devices on the market you will end up very confused and empty handed because technology changes so quickly. If you want a safe reliable bet, just purchase the Mini 311. Despite what others have said about HP I find their products to be outstanding. My 4 year old HP Livestrong edition laptop still works perfectly. If you decide to wait for Windows 7 to be released that?s fine too. But keep in mind it is going to be a $70 upgrade. If you happen to be a college student then you are in luck. Microsoft is going to be offering Windows 7 to college students for $30. So, you might as well buy the computer now and install 7 when it is released.
I hope this review was helpful and good luck with your purchase decision.5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The best netbook out on the market.
Pros: Ion Graphics Card(With added 3gb ddr 3 ram most games are playable on the netbook).
Looks Amazing
Keyboard is beautiful
HD display it second to none
HDMI 720p/1080p movies look fantastic
Everything about the computer is nearly flawlessCons: Battery length is not as good as the Toshiba(due to the graphics card)
Touch pad is epically-uber sensitive(turn of and get a mouse)
Black Screen attracts finger print.Summary: The best Netbook Out PERIOD.
Summary: The best Netbook Out PERIOD.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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excellent product for the money
Pros: HP brand, reliable even in consumer
Cons: Glossy screen
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Crash'd 3 times in less than 30days
by lindee36 on November 23, 2009
Pros: Great size for on the go
Cons: After one week of ownership the dreaded blue screen rear'd its ugly head...this past week, has done it twice...took it back...super sensative touch pad that will adjust your attitude is a jiff...low battery life
Summary: Not sure if I just got a lemon or what...it was like breaking up, I wanted to like you but.....
Summary: Not sure if I just got a lemon or what...it was like breaking up, I wanted to like you but.....
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Good laptop but could be better
by gachbash on November 19, 2009
Pros: 11.6" bright screen
High resolution 1366 x 768
Good speakers Altec Lansing stereo speakersCons: 1.45 kg - Too heavy for a mini
Noisy fan
No anti-glare. Glossy screen. Very annoying.
The touchpad is interfering when typing
Battery life when playing movies is 4 hours. For normal use - 5 hours
Tini labels on function keysSummary: The 311 is OK but check my CONS points before buying.
Mostly, 3 bad points: 1.45 kg, hissing fan, stupid glossy screen.Summary: The 311 is OK but check my CONS points before buying.
Mostly, 3 bad points: 1.45 kg, hissing fan, stupid glossy screen. -
I've been looking for a handy, classy laptop like this.
by mininetbook on November 11, 2009
Pros: i really like this model.classy but cheap.
Cons: Though it is classy, students would not want this kind of style. The corporate people would be more interested.
Summary: Thumbs up for this model.
more power,
harriet
http://www.mininetbook.bizSummary: Thumbs up for this model.
more power,
harriet
http://www.mininetbook.biz -
Hot little package!
by BadMister on November 9, 2009
Pros: Excellent all-in-one/jack-of-all-trades Netbook for field work, entertainment, cafe emailing/browsing, et al.
Cons: The touchpad is extra-wide, is the same material and flush with the bezel, so stray pinky fingers can cause unpredictable click-n-drags. Just bear in mind that you'll have to pay attention to those extra digits!
Summary: Subsidized through Verizon ($249 after mail-in rebate) you really can't go wrong with this portable do-it-all - especially if you planned to get a data plan anyway. Although on ...
Summary: Subsidized through Verizon ($249 after mail-in rebate) you really can't go wrong with this portable do-it-all - especially if you planned to get a data plan anyway. Although on the larger end of Netbook screen sizes, it's a bit cramped for my IT work, but in a pinch, it beats having to drive back to my office or home. With VGA and HDMI out for client presentations, 3 USB ports for accessories, and 11n/BT/WLAN built-in, it's not my "daily driver," but it can fill in for any purpose at any time.
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Brilliant machine, horrific touchpad, so so keyboard.
by TanjB on October 26, 2009
Pros: OK, so this machine has good graphic, jewel screen, battery beyond 4 hours (not quite sure where it ends, but I got at least that much active use), fair speed. You can upgrade memory to 3GB. It runs Win7. HP put all the drivers on web. Nice!
Cons: The touchpad is RIGHT UNDER YOUR HAND. It is not centered and not recessed. It will DRIVE YOU NUTS your hand keeps resting on it. HP lets get some ergonomic keyboards. Put a curve or V on that KB! The shiny cover is too slippery, hard to hold.
Summary: The best of an early crop, but it is time that HP and its competitors started thinking seriously about what it means for us all to be using these gadgets. ...
Summary: The best of an early crop, but it is time that HP and its competitors started thinking seriously about what it means for us all to be using these gadgets. Time to pay serious attention to ergonomics before millions of us have carpal pain from using them or just throw them in frustration from the touchpad.
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ok not great
by fewtube on November 15, 2009
Pros: nice lightweight design
Cons: atom processor needs some beefing up..doubt it will run win 7 smoothly
Summary: nice enough unit, but i'd rather wait for a unit that's better equipped for the windows, ion chip can only do so much.
Summary: nice enough unit, but i'd rather wait for a unit that's better equipped for the windows, ion chip can only do so much.
0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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sits in garage
by nlenarz on November 5, 2009
Pros: no redeeming qualities
Cons: the case came apart. when i checked, a screw was upright, not screwed in. the mic never worked, it would not read my pictures from the sd device. when i asked them to repair it they waited until it was out of warranty.
Summary: don't like because it requires a special mic and earphone. no warranty service if you are out of the country
Summary: don't like because it requires a special mic and earphone. no warranty service if you are out of the country
0 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: HP
- Part number: VL838AV
- Bottom Line: HP's Mini 311 adds a larger, high-definition display and advanced graphics to a basic Netbook, while keeping the price very appealing. Once it starts shipping with Windows 7, this could become our favorite Netbook.
General
- Notebook type Budget
RAM
- Technology DDR3 SDRAM
Storage
- Hard Drive 160 GB - 5400 rpm
- Hard drive type Standard
Sustainability
- Greenpeace policy rating (Sept 2009) 4.5
Manufacturer info
- HP
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse HP products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.hp.com
- Address:
3000 Hanover Street, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1185
