Dell Inspiron Mini 12
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Average of 24 scores (from 28 reviews)
Reviews for the Dell Inspiron Mini 12
Netbook or not, that is the question. After all the notebooks on the market have steadily added on functions in the last few years, many users have often called into question the necessity of dozens of features, the upcoming netbooks have reconsidered this trend. Equipped with only the most important and basic functions, they found an enormous following. Dell has solved the frequent problem of the screens being to small and unworkable with a, let's say 12" netbook, even though the official nomenclature contradicts it.
Source: Bright Hub Archive.org version
I liked Dell Inspiron Mini 12, which is unmatched with any competitor for the time being. The screen size and the Dell-quality “touch’n’feel” is very satisfactory. The computer runs well with the XP Home Edition and especially Ubuntu Linux. I strongly recommend you to take a physical look at the netbook before you make the final purchasing decision, especially if screen size is not your top criterion.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 03/05/2010
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Fudzilla
Until a few weeks ago, the Mini 12 was the only Atom based notebook with a decent, 12-inch screen. However, Acer's Aspire One 751 has joined the club, and it offers an 11.6-inch 1366x768 screen, and identical CPU and 2GB of memory, 160GB of storage and XP for just over €400. Some reviewers have blasted its build quality, but since we haven't tried it out yet, we really can't say how it measures up to the Mini 12. Dell has recently announced it's pulling the Mini 9, and the Mini 12 will probably follow suite soon, and considering Intel's stance on 12-inch netbooks, we might not even see a successor. You can still get it in most markets, with prices starting at about $400. It's a bit cheaper than the Acer, but it's also not as well spec'd as the Acer either.
Preis 60, Ausstattung 50, Verarbeitung 50
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 06/11/2009
Rating: price: 60% features: 50%
Source: PC Authority Archive.org version
Dell might have turned up fashionably late to the netbook party, but the Inspiron Mini 9 is a model we're happy to recommend. The all-new Mini 12's most significant novelty is its screen size. Where other netbooks make do with native resolutions of just 1024 x 600, the Mini 12 stretches 1280 x 800 pixels across a bright, 12.1in display. In light of these deficiencies, even the presence of XP Home and a high-capacity battery would only elevate the Mini 12's score from a maudlin two to an unremarkable four. All in all, it's a terrible let-down.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 05/19/2009
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Bit-Tech Archive.org version
It’s fairly obvious that the Dell Inspiron Mini 12 isn’t one of the best netbooks we’ve seen in recent months, but there is a glimmer of hope for it. While the lower spec version of the Mini 12 does feel like a bit of a disappointment, a lot of the issues can be squashed by simply opting for the higher spec machine featuring the slightly faster CPU and adding the six-cell battery option on top. That does mean that Ubuntu 8.04 is out of the window unless you want to install it yourself, because the higher spec version of the Mini 12 only comes with Windows XP Home SP3 installed.
50, Preis 60, Leistung 40, Ausstattung 60, Verarbeitung 60, Ergonomie 40
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 05/07/2009
Rating: Total score: 50% price: 60% performance: 40% features: 60% workmanship: 60% ergonomy: 40%
Source: Reg Hardware Archive.org version
Knock £80 of the price of the Linux-based Mini 12 and replace – or give the option of replacing - the HDD with an SDD and the 12 would come closer to the top of our netbook 'must have' list. As it stands, nice bit of kit though it is, we can't shake the feeling that it's just too expensive and too conservative. Nor, to be honest, will we ever be wholly convinced that a fragile – and in this case slow - HDD is the storage medium of choice for an SCC rather than a drop-it-while-running-and-no-harm-done SSD. Still, we tip our cap to Dell for still offering a standard Linux OS when so many other SCC makers seem to be putting all their balls onto Bill Gates' green
75, Preis 40
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 03/16/2009
Rating: Total score: 75% price: 40%
Source: Comp Reviews Archive.org version
Dell's Inspiron Mini 12 was the first netbook computer to feature an LCD panel more commonly associated with full sized ultraportable laptops. This gives it larger overall dimensions that make it much easier to work with compared to traditional netbooks and the large battery gives it some good battery life. The problem is that the system is built around components that are actually slower than your average netbook giving it less than stellar performance and the hard drives are downright small compared to today's netbooks.
60, Leistung 40, Mobilität 80
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 02/26/2009
Rating: Total score: 60% performance: 40% mobility: 80%
Source: vnunet.com Archive.org version
Dell's new Inspiron Mini 12 is something of an oddity in that it doesn't seem to quite know what it wants to be: it's the size of a notebook, designed like an ultra-portable and specced like a netbook. The slim form factor makes it look very appealing, and it will slip easily into a normal briefcase or large handbag. Weighing just 1.25kg means that it shouldn't be a burden to carry around. The glossy lid looks impressive but does pick up fingerprints and smudges very easily. The power adaptor weighs a respectable 150g, but the plug is built into the transformer which can make it tricky when trying to charge from a power strip or recessed socket. The large screen and comfortable keyboard mean that doing an entire day's work on Dell's Inspiron Mini 12 netbook won't cause any undue strain. But the poor battery life could prove prohibitive for business users.
60, Preis 40, Leistung 60, Ausstattung 60, Display 80, Mobilität 40
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 02/06/2009
Rating: Total score: 60% price: 40% performance: 60% features: 60% display: 80% mobility: 40%
Source: vnunet.com Archive.org version
For some time Dell stayed out of the burgeoning mini notebook market, but at the end of 2008 the company unveiled its first model, the Inspiron Mini 9. That was a 9in model in the vein of the Asus, Acer and MSI computers we'd seen previously. The new Inspiron Mini 12 is a slightly different proposition. It has a 12in screen, making it similar in size to the smaller full-size notebooks, but it's extremely thin and extremely light, with no optical drive, which helps reduce size and weight. In fact, given its dimensions and weight, its closest relative is the Apple Macbook Air, although, while fairly stylish, the Mini 12 doesn't match the Macbook Air in terms of looks. This low-cost alternative to the Macbook Air is light and portable, but has enough power for web, email and office tasks.
100, Mobilität 90, Ergonomie 80
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 02/03/2009
Rating: Total score: 100% mobility: 90% ergonomy: 80%
Source: CNet Archive.org version
The Mini 12 might appeal to users who want a netbook with a slightly larger display. We'd think twice about buying the Ubuntu version, however -- it's simply too slow. The Vista model is noticeably quicker, but we can think of half a dozen other netbooks that offer better features and value for money. We'd suggest you start with the stylish, but slightly more expensive, Eee PC S101 and the much cheaper MSI Wind.
6.6 von 10
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/27/2009
Rating: Total score: 66%
Source: IT Reviewed Archive.org version
It seems that the popularity of the Internet on-the-go and social networking sites like Twitter, MySpace and Facebook, we’re all looking for gadgets that let us stay communicated 24/7. The problem with a laptop is that they’re generally too large, heavy and pricey to take everywhere with us. In addition, battery live isn’t that great. That’s where netbooks come in. Netbooks are smaller and more portable than laptops - the screen sizes range from 7- to 12 inches - and they tend to use lower power processors such as Intel’s Atom or Via’s C7 in order to maximise battery life. Could have been good, but it isn’t.
Mobilität mäßig, Display gut, Verarbeitung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/27/2009
Rating: display: 80% mobility: 60% workmanship: 40%
Source: vnunet.com Archive.org version
The Dell Inspiron Mini 12 serves as the successor to the company's first netbook, the Mini 9, sporting a larger screen and more powerful specs. The Dell Mini 12 is a slim, light and attractive device, however it suffers with a poor battery life and something of an identity crisis.
3 von 5, Mobilität schlecht
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/26/2009
Rating: Total score: 60% mobility: 40%
Source: Pocket Lint Archive.org version
Overall, it’s difficult to see the Mini 12 as value for money. The specifications are disappointing at this price point, and the 12-inch display also means users are more likely to consider buying a proper laptop. While the big display may confuse matters, however, it’s also this machine’s saving grace. It allows for a larger and more comfortable interface, and the quality of the screen makes it a valid proposition for those wanting to work longer hours. Just consider your needs carefully, however, as despite the size, it’s still a netbook.
7 von 10, Mobilität mäßig, Ergonomie gut, Preis gut
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/26/2009
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 80% mobility: 60% ergonomy: 80%
Source: PC Mag Archive.org version
If there was any question that the gap between ultraportables and netbooks is ever-shrinking, Dell's newest model answers in the affirmative. Though it's definitely a netbook (determined by its undersize keyboard and Intel Atom platform), the Dell Inspiron Mini 12 ($524 direct) is the only model of its kind with a 12-inch screen—a compelling size for multitasking. Sure, the Dell Inspiron Mini 12 is expensive relative to other netbooks, but it's the only one with a 12-inch screen.
4 von 5, Display gut, Mobilität gut, Leistung schlecht, Preis schlecht
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 01/23/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 40% performance: 40% display: 80% mobility: 80%
Source: Techradar Archive.org version
At least the Dell Inspiron Mini 12 has its niche. It's a netbook with a big screen, netbook being the operative word. There's a chasm of performance between it and the proper laptops hovering at around the same price, and that's a trend that's set to continue as the netbook market eats further into that of its more established brethren. You're an enthusiast – this is a fine machine, but you may as well save some money and grab an equally capable N270. You can thank us later.
4 von 5, Display gut
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 01/22/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% display: 80%
Source: Mobile Computer Archive.org version
The Dell Inspiron Mini 12 is an interesting take on the netbook idea, but not that interesting and we suspect other manufacturers will launch better models in 2009.
3 von 6, Display gut, Mobilität gut
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/21/2009
Rating: Total score: 50% display: 80% mobility: 80%
Source: Computer Shopper Archive.org version
Depending on how you look at it, the Dell Inpiron Mini 12 is either a large, pricey netbook or an affordable but underpowered ultraportable. Filling a niche within a niche, our $624 configuration is the right choice if a typical netbook screen is too small but you don’t need the performance—or want the high price—of a full-featured ultraportable. At around an inch thick, the Mini 12 is certainly thin enough to be considered a netbook. But its 12.1-inch screen makes for a larger chassis (11.8 x 9.0 inches) than most other netbooks; it simply doesn’t have the toss-it-in-your-bag-and-go air of 10-inch models like the ASUS Eee PC line, HP Mini-Note 2133, and Samsung NC10. Filling a niche within a niche, the Dell Inspiron Mini 12 is for netbook buyers who want a larger screen but not the cost—or performance—of a full-fledged ultraportable.
8 von 10, Display exzellent, Mobilität sehr gut
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% display: 95% mobility: 90%
Source: Laptop Mag Archive.org version
The Dell Inspiron Mini 12 certainly breaks new ground by offering a bigger screen than any other netbook without adding much weight, and you’ll get very good endurance with the six-cell battery. But while we applaud Dell’s efforts to make Vista easier to use with its flashy dock, the Mini 12 doesn’t have the right hardware to handle this OS. Plus, the 12-inch screen costs a premium; its price of $654 is about $150 more than the 10-inch Samsung NC10 ($499), which offers better performance, a bigger hard drive, and longer battery life. We suggest that buyers hold off until next month when Dell offers the Mini 12 with Windows XP or its customized Ubuntu Linux operating system.
3.5 von 5, Display gut, Mobilität gut, Leistung schlecht
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/07/2008
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 40% display: 80% mobility: 80%
Foreign Reviews
Source: PC Welt DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 05/08/2009
Rating: Total score: 48% price: 40% performance: 48% features: 24% mobility: 56% ergonomy: 50%
Source: Notebookjournal DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 05/05/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% performance: 50% features: 20% display: 30% mobility: 40% workmanship: 70% ergonomy: 90%
Source: Chip.de - 6/09
Comparison, , Long, Date: 05/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 77% price: 70% performance: 75% features: 69% display: 73% mobility: 79% ergonomy: 81%
Source: Chip.de DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 04/09/2009
Rating: Total score: 77% performance: 75% features: 69% display: 73% mobility: 79% ergonomy: 81%
Source: ZDNet DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 04/03/2009
Rating: Total score: 74% performance: 60% features: 80% mobility: 30% ergonomy: 80%
Source: Tom's Hardware DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 02/04/2009
Rating: features: 60% workmanship: 80%
Source: c't - 3/09
Comparison, , Long, Date: 02/01/2009
Rating: performance: 40% features: 40% display: 70% mobility: 70% ergonomy: 80% emissions: 90%
Source: PC Go - 3/09
Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 02/01/2009
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 90% performance: 40% mobility: 80%
Source: Notebookcheck DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 12/19/2008
Rating: Total score: 86% performance: 35% display: 72% mobility: 84% workmanship: 88% ergonomy: 85% emissions: 94%
Source: Netzwelt DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/17/2008
Rating: mobility: 60% ergonomy: 80%
Source: Notebookjournal DE→EN Archive.org version
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/21/2008
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% performance: 50% features: 30% display: 30% mobility: 50% workmanship: 90% ergonomy: 90% emissions: 90%
Comment
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) 500: Integrated (onboard) graphics chip on the UL11L, US15L, and US15W chipsets with a licensed PowerVR SGX core. DirectX 10.1 support but because of low clock rates (100-200 MHz UL11L - US15) and only 4 shaders not suited for 3D games. The integrated video decoder accelerates the playback of HD videos (MPEG2, VC-1, AVC).
These graphics cards are not suited for Windows 3D games. Office and Internet surfing however is possible.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Graphics Cards and the corresponding Benchmark List.
Intel Atom: The Intel Atom series is a 64-Bit (not every model supports 64bit) microprocessor for cheap and small notebooks (so called netbooks), MIDs, or UMPCs. The speciality of the new architecture is the "in order" execution (instead of the usual and faster "out of order" execution). Therefore, the transistor count of the Atom series is much lower and, thus, cheaper to produce. Furthermore, the power consumption is very low. The performance per Megahertz is therfore worse than the old Pentium 3M (1,2 GHz on par with a 1.6 GHz Atom).
Z530:
Power saving version of the Atom N270 with additional Virtualization Support and more power saving techniques. The performance is equal to the N270 and therefore only suited for basic tasks.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Processsors.12.10":
This range of display format is largely the upper limit for tablets and the lower limit for subnotebooks.
The advantage of subnotebooks is that the entire laptop can be small in size and therefore easily portable. The tiny display has the added advantage of requiring little power, which further improves battery life and thus mobility. The disadvantage is that reading texts is exhausting for the eyes. High resolutions, which one is used to from a standard laptop, are almost not usable.
The same applies to tablets in this size range.
» To find out how fine a display is, see our DPI List.Dell: Dell is a U.S. manufacturer (based in Texas) of computer hardware founded in 1984 and is one of the largest international manufacturers in terms of both market share and notebook models. Its product line includes desktops, notebooks, storage systems, monitors, servers, printers, consumer electronics and peripherals. Dell offers laptops that are suitable for various applications, such as business laptops, gaming laptops, ultra portables and workstations. Dell's business laptops from the Latitude and Precision series are an option for professional users and businesses.
In 2023, Dell had an approximate 17% market share of global PC sales, ranking #3 after Lenovo and HP.
For gaming enthusiasts, Dell's Alienware brand is for gaming notebooks.
72.88%: This rating is poor. More than three quarters of the models are rated better. That is rather not a purchase recommendation. Even if verbal ratings in this area do not sound that bad ("sufficient" or "satisfactory"), they are usually euphemisms that disguise a classification as a below-average laptop.
» Further information can be found in our Notebook Purchase Guide.