Two months after Intel launched its dual-core Atom N550 CPUs, we still haven't seen a huge number of netbooks featuring the new, more capable silicon. Now, though, ASUS is finally jumping in with both feet by launching a trio of systems based on the chips.
The most interesting of the set is easily the 1015PN. Not only does it benefit from the dual-core 1.5GHz processor, but it is equipped with an NVIDIA Ion 2 chipset to take care of the graphical duties. As well as providing a lot more graphical oomph, the latest generation chip is equipped with Optimus, meaning that you can still squeeze out a netbook-standard 9.5 hours of usage when the GPU is powered down.
Otherwise, the netbook is standard fare, even down to the disappointing - though unsurprising - 1,024x600px resolution.
Also launched this week are the less inspiring 1015PEM and 1018P. The former appears to be essentially the same as the 1015PN save for the chipset, which is swapped for the typical Intel silicon, though it still gets the dual-core Atom CPU.
The 1018P, while the same on the inside, will bring a touch of class to the netbook market with an all aluminium chassis. This will manage to shrink down the casing while giving the netbook a much higher quality feel than most other systems of this size.
Both netbooks will also feature USB 3.0 and a stated battery life of 11.5 hours.
The 1015PEM and 1018P are available now from major retailers and e-tailers for £279 and £349 respectively, including VAT. The 1015PN is not generally available yet in the UK, though it is selling in the US for $430 (£335 inc VAT). However, Amazon has a listing from a third-party retailer in the UK offering the netbook now for £341, suggesting that it may be arriving soon.
