Ports on the Eee PC are kept to a minimum, although you’ll find all the important ones included. There’s a 10/100 Ethernet adapter, and users can also connect to wireless networks using the integrated Wi-Fi card. Those who do connect the tiny Asus to the internet will be able to take advantage of a webcam built into the top of the screen surround. Three USB 2.0 sockets let you connect peripherals, and a VGA-out port lets you plug in an external display or projector.

Where most budget laptops are devoid of applications, the Asus has all you’re likely to need pre-installed. As with the operating system, the manufacturer has avoided costly programs such as Microsoft Office. Instead, it has installed Sun Microsystem’s free Open Office suite. Brilliantly (other manufacturers take note), this means you’ll have a machine you can use straight out of the box, without having to buy or install additional software.

In all then, the Eee PC looks set to transform the world of mobile computing. It offers the most usable interface we’ve seen so far on a device of this size, is portable enough to take with you everywhere you go, and costs half the price of a traditional budget laptop. What’s not to like?

Rating: 8/10

Stockist details: www.pcworld.co.uk  RRP £299.99 inc. VAT.