Hands-On with the MSI U200

We can’t say it too many times – 12-inches could very well be the new 10-inches. Joining Lenovo, Samsung and Dell with its first 12-inch netbook / notebook  is MSI. While it was at last year’s Computex that MSI introduced the first 10-inch netbook, this year it is rolling out a 12-inch laptop that could be as big of a hit.

The U200is extremely compact for a 12-inch notebook and, to the eye, appeared thinner and smaller than its closest competitor the Samsung NC20 ($509.97). The chassis is reminiscent of the MSI Wind U100 with its rounded edges (it will be available in black and white in the U.S.).

Under the lid is a glossy (maybe too glossy), edge-to-edge glass 12-inch display. The screen gives the system a more premium look than any of the other Winds we have seen. Underneath is a full size keyboard which was void of any flex and below it was a good-sized touchpad with dedicated right and left mouse buttons.

Rather than use an Intel Atom processor inside the U200 or a Via Nano chip like the Samsung NC20 uses, MSI is using Intel’s ULV platform. Most likely it will use the 1.2-GHz Intel Core 2 Solo SU3500 processor and be coupled with 2GB of RAM and a 250GB The storage device that holds your OS, programs, and data.
Learn Morehard drive. It will run Windows Vista at first, but MSI tells us Windows 7 ($74.99) will be available on it as soon as October. MSI also anticipates that it will get over five hours of battery life with its Lithium Polymer battery.

The MSI U200 should hit the U.S. market in the next month or two. Pricing is still being determined but will be between $499 and $699. Check out our video and pictures below.