Conclusion:
The bottom line is that the entire series of ASUS EEE PC netbooks are pretty cool, fun, and easy to use; and the refurbished EEE PC 4G 701 netbook is no different. If you are looking for a low cost, light weight device to keep you connected when you are away from your main computer, this is a great option.
Geeks.com lists the refurbished ASUS EEE PC 4G 701 netbook for $244.99, and it must be a popular item since it seems to go in and out of stock quite often. The price is definitely attractive, as looking around the Internet shows that you could expect to pay $100 or more extra for a new unit. I wouldn't necessarily recommend considering that though, as browsing the selection of laptops / notebooks at Geeks.com shows that there are other new and refurbished units to choose from. $295 gets you an upgrade to a refurbished unit with an 8.9" screen, double the memory, quadruple the disk space, and Windows XP pre-installed. For about $40 more than that you can choose from a couple different brand new units with similar specifications.
On the downside, there were a few things to consider. The first was that the packaging was less than impressive, and after seeing the state of the outer packaging and the retail box, I feared that the netbook itself would look shabby and worn. Luckily that wasn't case, as everything inside the box could pass for new. Next, I was hoping to find an expansion slot to allow the installation of one more SSD to increase the storage capacity, but unfortunately this model did not include that feature. As it is, I can still use a USB attached drive or an SDHC card for more space, but having it internal and completely out of the way would have been nice. And finally, there is the issue of warranty coverage. You are saving money by going with a refurbished unit, but you have to be comfortable with the fact that the warranty is only 90 days long. You can buy an "Square Trade" extended warranty from Geeks.com, but then the price isn't quite as appealing.
Given everything that the ASUS EEE PC 4G 701 netbook can do, it earns the Bigbruin.com awards of "Recommended" and "Great Idea".
 
Pros:
» Attractively priced
» Fun and easy to use
» Handles all of the basics with ease
» Wired and wireless network connectivity for easy online communication
» Highly accessorizable
» Active user base develops upgrades, modifications, and software changes
» Netbook and accessories could pass as new
Cons:
» Packaging was less than impressive
» 90-day warranty
» No expansion slot for an extra SSD (solid state drive)
Special thanks to Geeks.com for providing the ASUS EEE PC 4G 701 Netbook to Bigbruin.com for review!
Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.
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