Joined on 09/19/09
Works great with Kubuntu
Pros: Works well with Kubuntu (which I far prefer to Ubuntu and which is easy to install). Has webcam and built-in mic (for Skype, etc.), VGA connection for external monitor, HDMI connection for external monitor. Works well with Kubuntu (which I far prefer to Ubuntu and which is easy to install). This is one of the better inexpensive netbooks for me.
Cons: Requires an external CD/DVD USB drive (I use the LG Slim DVD Writer with it).
Does not work in Linux
Pros: Works in Windows XP, Vista. Acceptable light balancing. Built-in mic cancels feedback well on a notebook. Works in Skype. Webcam has an intrinsic clicking noise, which is filtered by Windows drivers.
Cons: Although video works in Linux, the audio is not filtered and the clicking noise appears. Logitech does not support Linux for this webcam. Do not buy it if you are a Linux user.
Works well with Linux
Pros: Built -in webcam, mic. Generous hard drive, RAM. Works well with Kubuntu Linux Jaunty. 16:9 widescreen (slightly less desirable than 16:10, but good for movies). Intel graphics works ok with both Linux and games. Atheros wireless (B/G/N) works fine with Windows and Linux. Smooth, stylish, unobtrusive case.
Cons: Recovery disk overwrites entire hard drive and all data. Main keyboard and touchpad off to left (due to number pad on right). Buttons in odd positions due to same. Some buttons smaller due to same.
Overall Review: Once I figured out how to shrink the partition (from Internet advice, as the HP helpdesk (overseas) was absolutely clueless), create new partitions, and install 64-bit Kubuntu Linux, I was very happy with this laptop. All hardware works out of the box with Linux. This is a revised review from my earlier review.
Painful software pre-installed
Pros: Built-in webcam, wireless, large hard drive and RAM pre-installed
Cons: Windows Vista (32-bit) installed, pre-installed HP junkware, widescreen, touchpad buttons difficult to use, no volume control knob/buttons, Intel graphics
Overall Review: 15 hour startup process required to remove/adjust pre-installed spamware and spyware. Difficult to add/adjust partitions for Linux due to HP software. If you are a simple-minded consumer needing a basic laptop and are willing to accept MS Windows and HP programs, this is adequate. For power users, this computer is a frustrating experience.
Does not work in Linux
Pros: Works for Windows users (XP, Vista). Built-in microphone works well, has cancelling circuit so no feedback when used on notebook. Light levels acceptable.
Cons: Although video works in Linux, audio has an annoying click. The Windows driver for this product filters out the click, but there is no drive for Linux with a similar filter. Logitech does not support Linux for this webcam (or much in general). Do not buy this camera if you are a Linux user.