MSI Plans Pentium Chips for X-Slim Laptops to Better Challenge MacBook Air

MSI is expected to further expand its lineup of X-Slim portable computer systems with the addition of a new Pentium-powered model that will allow the motherboard maker to better compete with Apple's ultra-thin MacBook Air. The company is said to be developing an upgraded version of the X320 netbook, which has been showcased at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, last week. The new model is expected to cost over $1000, but the exact price tag is yet to be unveiled, when the company officially launches the new model.

 

MSI introduced its first ultra-portable, thin laptop at CES in Las Vegas, as part of its new X-Slim series of portable computer systems. The showcased model was based on a 1.33GHz Intel Z530 Atom microprocessor and was featured with a 13.4-inch screen. The entire system is said to weigh just 1.3Kg, close to the weight of some netbooks currently available on the market.

 

The Atom-based X320 netbook is expected to come out with a price tag lower than US$1000, as it will probably target the high-end netbook market, which is where it will compete with ASUS' sleek S101 netbook. A Pentium-powered X-Slim laptop is expected to cost over US$1000, according to Vincent Sung, assistant vice president of notebook research and development at MSI. However, the higher price tag will enable MSI's X-Slim laptop to better compete with Apple's MacBook Air.

 

MSI went further with the design of its new X-Slim X320 laptop, offering a portable computer system that is only 1.98-centimeters at its thickest point. It can offer a choice of batteries, ranging from a 4-cell to an 8-cell one, which can provide the netbook with up to 10-hours of run time.

 

Details on when MSI will launch its new Pentium-powered X-Slim laptops are yet to become available.