Asus Eee PC 4G-X, Windows XP Unboxing Preview

We performed these test runs with the system plugged into it's AC adaptor for best performance. As you can see, the Eee PC is no match for the likes of a standard Core 2-based notebook or its memory subsystem, which was to be expected.  With its integrated 512MB of memory and fast Solid State Hard Drive, the Eee PC is able to run Windows XP just fine however and our first-pass experience was a relatively satisfying one.

Perhaps the one strength of the Eee PC it its internal 4G Silicon Motion Solid State Disk and its ability to read data at a flat 33MB/sec across the entire volume.  As we see here, the drive is actually faily snappy comparatively speaking, versus a high speed 2GB SD drive from Kingston and even versus some 2.5" notebook drives, like the Hitachi TravelStar 75GB drive noted in the reference numbers above.

That about does it for our early quick-take preview of the new Asus Eee PC 4G-X ultra-portable with Windows XP.   With an expected MSRP of $399, we think the Asus Eee PC is a stand-out product in the world of affordable, ultra-portable notebooks.  With its included software bundle for general use and office applications, along with its 4G SD card and mouse upgrades, its actually a solid value for end users not comfortable delving into the world of Linux distros.  We'll be diving deeper into Windows XP-based Eee PC performance and functionality in the weeks ahead, so stick around.  In the mean time, if you're so inclined, Eee PCs with Windows XP will be hitting store shelves any day, so you can check one out for yourself.