As expected, Dell has rolled out a new option for Dell Inspiron Mini 10 netbooks: WiMAX. Starting today, you can configure the Mini 10 with an Intel Centrino 802.11n + WiMAX 6250 card for an extra $60 over the base price of the netbook.
Unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be an easy way to get 802.11n without WiMAX. The standard wireless card that ships with the Dell Mini 10 is an 802.11g card.
The rest of the netbook’s specs remain unchanged. The base model comes with a 1.66GHz Intel Atom N450 CPU, 10.1 inch, 1024 x 600 pixel display, 1.3MP webcam, 1GB of RAM, 160GB hard drive, and 3 cell, 28WHr battery. The Dell Inspiron Mini 10 runs Windows 7 Starter Edition.
You can also configure the Mini 10 with a 3G modem for $125, which makes the WiMAX option look like a bargain — if there’s a 4G WiMAX provider in your region.
The Inspiron Mini 10 is available from Dell.com for a starting price of $279.
I’ve been looking at Dell’s site since this story was posted. There’s still no hint of a WiMax option for the Mini 10. The only Wifi card is the 1397, and there’s no mention of WiMax or the Intel 6250 chipset.
Dell offerings seem a little pricey, just like the rest of their line. I can get better specs from MSI and Asus for around that price.