Lenovo Ideapad S10 - Expert Reviews

Review summary: It might not look like a major development, Lenovo announcing an incremental update to the IdeaPad S10, dubbed the IdeaPad S10 (High Capacity). However, it sends a message: Namely, that Lenovo takes netbooks seriously--and believes that it delivered a ...

Pros: Great software suite for a netbook Some smart nips and tucks

Cons: If only it had a bigger touchpad

Verdict: Not half bad considering that these updated machines start at $349 (our test unit, complete with a six-cell battery, sells for $409 as of May 11, 2009)

Review summary: Lenovo didn't waste any time launching its own netbook when ASUS, HP, and Acer first introduced theirs. That first version of the Lenovo IdeaPad S10 possessed many desirable netbook traits, including an ExpressCard slot and a 10-inch widescreen, that ...

Pros: ExpressCard slot. Different color options. Extended 52-Wh battery is included. Featherlight. Very good battery life. Decent performer. Linux preload is nice

Cons: 89 percent keyboard doesn't make the cut. Noisy mouse buttons. Tiny touchpad

Verdict: Although it's one of only two netbooks with an ExpressCard slot, and it now comes with several color options, the Lenovo IdeaPad S10 (Red) is already being outgrown and outclassed, in feature set and design, by its peers.

Pros: Improved battery life, includes quick-start interface

Cons: New battery adds thickness and weight ; some awkward keyboard compromises

Verdict: Lenovo fixes our main issue with the S10 Netbook by adding a larger six-cell battery.

Review summary: Like Fujitsu-Simens, Lenovo has a more business-orientated netbook in the Lenovo S10e, a sober-looking affair that majors on build solidity.

Verdict: Despite some inexcusable shortcomings such as tortuous mouse buttons and a reflective screen, we couldn’t help admiring the Lenovo S10e for its overall build quality which inspires confidence as you handle it. It also has a curiously workable ...

Review summary: I don't mind admitting I am a dinosaur when it comes to tech – I still use a camera that shoots real film and I really have a soft spot for tape-recorders that record on magnetic tape. That said, my job as a travel journalist is always evolving. I ...

Pros: Light, sturdy and small in size ; Decent-sized keyboard ; Useful applications

Cons: No Bluetooth ; Review machine failed to boot 3 times out of 4 ; Tiny power button. Not everyone has elfin fingers you know