ASUS was one of the first companies to release a netbook, and their EEE series of netbook became the standard that many other manufacturers tried to match. We're going to take a look at the ASUS EEE PC 701SD, a "classic" netbook being sold as a refurb by Geeks.com.

While the EEE line-up is now a few years old, it is still extremely popular. Newer models might offer better specifications, but they will also come with higher price tags that will put them in the ball park with some cheap laptops. If you are just looking for something that is really portable and inexpensive, perhaps an older model is what you really need.



Before taking a closer look at the unit provided for review, let's take a quick look at the features and specifications as taken from the product page on the Geeks.com website.

Features and Specifications:

"Featuring an Intel Celeron M 900 MHz processor and 512 MB of DDR2 RAM, this portable companion gives you enough power to get crucial tasks done on-the-run. Experience shock-proof computing with the 8 GB solid-state disk internal storage capacity with an additional 10 GB of Eee online storage. Navigate through the netbook with ease using the ASUS customized version of Linux pre-installed.

The 7.0-inch LCD display with LED backlight gives you a crisp, clear view of the images and text on the screen, while the built-in speakers allow you to enjoy online videos and music, as well. Upload the pictures from your MMC or SD memory cards with the 2-in-1 card reader. Better yet, email them to your friends by connecting online via 802.11b/g wireless LAN or integrated Fast Ethernet."

General Features:

  » Black color
  » Asus customized Linux operating system
  » Intel Celeron M 353 900 MHz processor
  » 8 GB SSD (Solid-State Disk) internal storage capacity
  » 10 GB online Eee storage
  » 512 MB DDR2 SDRAM
  » No optical drive
  » Integrated Intel UMA graphics
  » Integrated high definition audio with built-in speakers
  » 802.11b/g wireless LAN
  » Integrated 10/100 Fast Ethernet
  » Built-in 0.3 megapixel webcam and microphone
  » Keyboard with touchpad
  » Built-in memory card reader
  » 7.0-inch LCD display with LED backlight (800 x 480 resolution)
  » Warranty: 1 Year

Supported Media:

  » MultiMedia Card (MMC)
  » Secure Digital (SD)

I/O Ports:

  » Three (3) USB 2.0
  » One (1) 15-pin VGA
  » One (1) RJ-45 Ethernet
  » One (1) Microphone
  » One (1) Headphone

Unit Dimensions:

  » 1.0 x 8.75 x 6.25-inches (H x W x D, approximate)
  » Weight: 2 lbs