Overview: Acer Aspire One

Our Acer Aspire One specifications:

• 1.6GHz Intel Atom Processor
• 8.9" WSVGA glossy LED backlit display
• 802.11b/g Wireless
• 120GB 2.5" 5400RPM Hitachi Hard Drive (with SDHC storage expansion slot)
• 3-Cell 23Wh battery
• Size: 9.75" x 6.625" x 1.28"
• Weight: 2lb 5.0oz

Heat and Noise

Nearly all of the Intel Atom-based netbooks fall into the reasonably warm while running category, and the Acer Aspire One is no different. Under normal conditions such as surfing the web, typing a document, or chatting on an instant messaging client, surface temperatures stay within reasonable levels. The keyboard maintains a temperature a bit above room temperature and the bottom is slightly warmer.

Noise is the one category where the Aspire One stands out, and not in a good way. Almost as soon as the netbook is turned on the cooling fans starts at a low droning speed. It barely moves any air out of the device, but it is louder than fans found in full-size notebooks. As the Aspire One warms up and needs more cooling the fan speed increases to a very annoying level. It stands out in a busy office setting and in a quiet classroom would get even the teacher's attention.

Battery

In our initial testing the Acer Aspire One lasts for roughly 3 hours with backlight at 60% brightness and wireless enabled. This is with the 3-cell battery which consumers will find available in most Intel Atom devices right now. Hopefully manufacturers start to offer 6-cell battery alternatives soon, as the additional parts cost is minimal, and it doubles the battery life into the 6 hours range.