Bigger than netbook

11-12.x inch computer

optical drive

Im thinking HP, Lenovo, Acer, Asus, Zepto, Toshiba, Sony

Toshiba R400 and R500 ruled out - too expensive

Any recommendations?

Would prefer something still sold new, although I do like some of the second hand ones this time Im looking for something new

Normal day-to-day needs? No "hard" gaming? ...

Lenovo would be my choice in the 11-12" area, if the price is right comparing to other mentioned brands.

cheers ...

Yes, would you go x60/x40 models or the x200 or is there an even better one?

No, separate dedicated graphics card not necessary. Optical drive not necessary but preferred.

The HPs look good.

I like the Toshiba U205s but they seem to be available used only.

The Sony 11 inch is good, but flimsy screen and way too expensive.

The new ASUS or Dells look ok too, but not sure about build quality and specs.

Also like the Panasonics, but seem to be expensive.

With the Lenovos, did the Chinese get all the IBM tech and tooling when they bought it? If so, wouldnt IBM be as sturdy as the Toshibas/Japanese made?

Have not seen a bad Lenovo comp since IBM gave up on it (a shame), and it has been nothing but better products and supports.

cheers ...

Hard to find many selections cheaper than the toshibas. What about this one:

MSI VR220-033US
12.1" WXGA TFT-LCD Display 1280*800
2.16 GHz Intel Dual-Core T3400 Processor
2 GB RAM,
250 GB Hard Drive, Vista Premium
Built-in DVD Super Multi
Built-in Gigabit Ethernet LAN and Modem Module
Built-in 802.11b/g/n WLAN Card
Bluetooth V2.0+EDR
Built-in 1.3M Pixels Webcam and Mic
3-in-1 Card Reader, SD/MMC/MS
D-Sub X 1 USB2.0 Port X 3 Mic-in Port X 1 Headphone Output X 1 LAN Port X 1 8 Cell Battery
Protective Bag

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...g=pc-laptop-20

MSI is good, I have the 1st generation of it, with an AMD x64 cpu, still running strong.

cheers ...