Eee PC 1201N Seashell review

The Ion processor inside the 1201N is a GPU we've seen in several other netbooks, and can enable actual gameplay and enhanced video playback. As far as video is concerned, the 1201N can play high-definition video files far better than other Atom-based machines, and can even export 1080p video content. But streaming full-screen HD video from some sites proved choppy.

The gaming experience was much better than with the single-core Ion-toting IdeaPad S12 (note that the Ion version is unavailable in Europe). Unreal Tournament III, played at the native resolution, had a frame rate just shy of 30 frames per second, while, with the S12, native-res gameplay reached only 16.5fps. In terms of pure performance, the 1201N is the best Atom netbook currently around.

Unfortunately, the included six-cell battery in the 1201N didn't offer nearly the same usage between charges as the batteries in most single-core Atom netbooks without Ion processors. The extra processing power takes its toll. In our tests, the 1201N's battery lasted for 3 hours and 25 minutes of continuous video playback. That's about half of what we expect from netbooks nowadays, and it means you'd better keep a charger handy.

Conclusion
With a 12.1-inch screen and decent keyboard, plus its dual-core processor and Nvidia Ion graphics, the Asus Eee PC 1201N Seashell exceeded our standard netbook expectations. But the 1201N shouldn't be confused for a dual-core ultra-low-voltage thin-and-light laptop, either -- it still feels slow under heavy workloads (that said, though, most ULV thin-and-light laptops lack decent graphics capability).

Alas, the addition of a dual-core CPU and discrete GPU has a price: the 1201N's battery life is definitely its weakest link. On the other hand, for £400, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better-performing netbook that's this small.

Additional editing by Charles Kloet