Sony have updated their VAIO M netbook to include the latest Intel Atom processor. Currently the netbook features an Intel Atom N450 processor but, the newer model will feature the Intel Atom N470 processor, which increases the CPU from 1.66GHz to 1.86GHz. None of the other specs appear to have changed. It will still feature a 10.1 inch display with the standard netbook resolution of 1024×600, 1GB RAM and a 250GB hard drive. It will also be available in white, blue or pink and will retail for $399. Will you be picking up the VAIO M with it’s updated processor, or do you wish Sony had done more, like include the impressive 1366×768 resolution as found on their VAIO W line?

If Sony’s original netbook was too overpriced for you, then the good news is, Sony are releasing a new netbook model at a lower price of £300. While still not really a budget netbook it does make owning a VAIO netbook more realistic. The VAIO M is due to be launched at the end of the month in the UK for £300. Tesco currently have the netbook listed on their website and their new catalogue, with an end of March release date. The netbook is available in both white and black but, Tesco are charging an extra £30 for the white model.

After finally seeing the Sony Vaio netbook in the flesh, I fell in love with it immediately. The VAIO W netbook has been released in two varients, the W11S1E and the W12S1E. The difference between the two are the hard drive size, operating system, battery and price, while the rest of the specs remain the same. The W11S1E has a 160GB hard drive, Windows XP and is available for £300 with a 3 cell battery, giving 2.5 hours battery life. While the W12S1E is equipped with Windows 7 Starter, 250GB HDD, a 6 cell battery providing 7.5 hours battery life and retails for £350. So naturally, I went with the W12S1E. Both models are hard to find in most shops within the UK, with only one store in my area having the netbook (W12S1E) on display. Both models are available in white, pink and tan/brown. Although Argos also lists the W12S1E available in charcoal.

Other specs of the netbook include an Intel Atom N280 processor, 10.1 inch display, with an impressive screen resolution of 1366×768, which really does make a difference, 1GB RAM, web camera and an SD and Memory Stick card reader. Connectivity wise, it features WiFi b/g/n and bluetooth.

You can view my unboxing photos of the netbook after the break.