MSI Wind U115 netbook computer

MSI's U115 is the first netbook to use hybrid storage, where both a standard hard disk and a solid-state disk (SSD) are included. Windows XP is installed on the SSD, which consumes less power than the hard disk. Setting the U115 to its ‘Eco Mode’ switches off the hard disk, extending the battery life considerably.

MSI’s original Wind U100 model was a great, good-value mini-notebook computer, thanks to its combination of a low-powered Intel Atom processor, 160GB hard disk, 10.2in screen and Windows XP operating system.

This specification has become a standard for such netbooks, as other manufacturers such as Medion and Advent released their own versions of the Wind.

The Wind U115 can access the fastest wired and wireless networks. MSI has also opted for another Intel Atom processor that consumes even less power than the previous one.

The new components help extend battery life even further, but the U115’s computing performance is nearly identical to its predecessor’s. The processor runs at the same speed and the U115 has the same 1GB of memory, which can be upgraded.

The large battery lasted a lot longer on a single charge of power than most computers we’ve tested. During our battery tests, it lasted for more than 12 hours when Eco Mode was enabled. Even when we ran a more strenuous test that drained the battery much faster, and with Eco Mode turned off, the U115 still lasted over seven hours.

On the outside the U115 looks very similar to its predecessor. It has three USB ports, a memory card reader, VGA and audio outputs and the network socket.

The keyboard layout is identical to the U100’s, including the positioning of the Function key in the lower left-hand corner. This is where the Ctrl key is on a standard keyboard, which prompted complaints from U100 owners that it caused typing errors.

It also has the same styling, with a silver and grey case that looks bland compared to Samsung or HP models. The keyboard is functional, but others we’ve seen have more space, making typing easier.

The additional hardware means the price of the U115 has risen to £450, which is more than any similar computer. Other models such as the Asus Eee PC 1000HE cost less, look more stylish and last more than eight hours on a single charge of power.

Unless you need the extra-long battery life, a cheaper model will work as well as the Wind U115, including the original MSI Wind U100.