Berlin - The new Akoya Mini E1210 notebook is unlikely to replace desktop PCs soon. However, reviewers say it is ideal to be used by people on the move. 

The 10-inch device is good for writing and mailing while out and about, said Peter Knaak, a computer expert with the Berlin-based consumer affairs group Stiftung Warentest. 

The release of smaller computers like the E1210 have also broken a vicious circle in computer retailing. Until recently, compact but powerful notebooks were always very expensive. 

"Now there are decent devices for a good price." 

The E1210 retails for 399 euros (626.27 dollars) and runs on a 1.6 Gigahertz Atom Processor from Intel. It comes with an 80 GB hard drive and a WLAN receiver. 

"The one thing missing from the mini computer is a DVD drive," said Knaak. But it comes with three USB 2.0 ports, an ethernet connection and a memory card reader. It comes with Windows XP pre-installed. 

To make it more mobile, some hardware had to be left out of the notebook, meaning users will unlikely be able to play 3-D video games. On the other hand, the pre-installed microphone and webcam make the notebook perfect for video chats or internet telephoning. (dpa)