The Dell Inspiron Mini 9 launches today – 8 a.m. Central – in the U.S., Japan and some European countries (check local listings). Starting price for the XP version – available now — is $399 USD. An Ubuntu Linux version will be available later, starting at $349 USD.
If you can wait until 6 a.m. Central tomorrow, Sept. 5, you’ll be able to get a Mini for only $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 (U.S. only).
In case you’re new to the Internet and therefore unaware of the deafening advance buzz, allow me to introduce this compact, take-it-everywhere Internet companion. Purpose-built to keep teens, tweens, travelers and “Tweeters” connected, the Mini is optimized for that “30-minute connection” experience – blogging, surfing, e-mailing, chatting, viewing photos, videos and music – you get the idea.
With a starting weight of 2.28 lbs., digital nomads will value the Mini’s durable design, with sealed keyboard and reliable solid state drive (SSD) memory storage. A bright 8.9‑inch glossy LED display (1024×600) presents most Web pages with no left-right scrolling, and the keypads are large and easy to navigate. Standard built-in Wi-Fi means quick and easy wireless Internet access.
An optional built-in webcam, bundled with Dell Video Chat, makes it easy to stay in touch using video chat, recording and sending video e-mails, or even PC-to-PC phone calls around the world. DVC even supports four-way calling. The built-in Bluetooth option provides easy wireless connections to enabled accessories, like stereo headphones, mouse, printer, etc.
Extending the Mini experience, Dell teamed up with Box.net to offer exclusive Web-based file storage, access and sharing to Mini users, including a free Basic plan with 2GB of remote storage space, expandable to 25GB. The Mini will include a direct link to a Dell-exclusive home page on Box.net, providing users an easy way to add incremental online storage space.
If past is prelude, the kind readers of this blog will have a lot of additional questions about this much-anticipated arrival. Enjoy learning more about the Mini, and let us know what you think.
Update: And speaking of additional details, here’s a vlog that features Brian Pitstick, who was part of Dell’s product team tasked with making the Mini 9 a reality.
September 4th, 2008 at 2:25 am
Great to finally see a launch! Will it be send out i Denmar/scandinavia too? If not today, can you say when??
September 4th, 2008 at 2:43 am
We don’t need japanese optimized keyboad and English keyboad is jast fine so release it now in Japan.
September 4th, 2008 at 2:45 am
When will it be available in Italy?
September 4th, 2008 at 2:46 am
Sorry, your post already mentioning Japan.
September 4th, 2008 at 3:09 am
Australia? Pretty please?
September 4th, 2008 at 3:09 am
[…] [Via Engadget|D2Dell] […]
September 4th, 2008 at 3:38 am
[…] 4: Direct2Dell — Dell’s official blog — says you can get the Mini for just with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330. Offer ends Tuesday, September 9th. Not […]
September 4th, 2008 at 3:49 am
Oh well… I was hoping for the $299 price.
No thanks Dell.
September 4th, 2008 at 4:18 am
I’ve ordered mine!!!!!!!!
September 4th, 2008 at 4:27 am
€399 on the Dell site in Ireland. Are you for real? I can get the Advent aka the Wind for €370, Acer Aspire one A150L for €306 or an ASUS 904HD for €343. Why would i spend all the extra cash for something so underspecced and overpriced?
September 4th, 2008 at 4:55 am
Declan,
I’m in Ireland too and totally agree with you. The price is ridiculous compared to the UK and US prices. It’s priced over €40 than the UK price! I saw the Advent in Dixons the other week and had a play around with it, the 10″ screen makes all the difference and it’s styling is fairly cool. And it comes with an 80Gb HDD!!
If this had a 10″ screen, 80Gb HDD and a dual core atom processor (all for the same price), I’d definitely get it but alas it doesn’t have any of those those things. When are dual core atoms coming out??
September 4th, 2008 at 5:16 am
I’m another disgusted Irish customer. I’m advising my girlfriend on buying a laptop at the moment and this kind of rip off from Dell really doesn’t make you too keen on buying anything from them.
September 4th, 2008 at 5:33 am
I’m sitting here typing on my Studio 15 that I bought less then a month ago. Any chance the $99 offer will be retroactive?
September 4th, 2008 at 6:14 am
[…] 4: Direct2Dell — Dell’s official blog — says you can get the Mini for just $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330. Offer ends Tuesday, September 9th. Not […]
September 4th, 2008 at 6:25 am
I ordered an XPS1330 that was shipped yesterday (ordered on the 28th of August), Im in Houston Texas. Is there any way that this will apply to the one that I just bought and havent even recieved yet????? Please say yes. Maybe if I refuse the package and reorder I can take advantage of the deal? I dont know, someone shed some light on my question.
September 4th, 2008 at 7:06 am
Would be good if you could do an equivalent deal for purchasers of a Studio 15 in other countries (like the UK, hint, hint). Will be interesting to see the reviews.
September 4th, 2008 at 7:07 am
Good grief, do we get to see anything besides a talking head???
September 4th, 2008 at 7:08 am
DELL 910:
3h battery life,
Underspecced ubuntu,
nearly 450$ price for a decent configuration,
and to top it off, not available in my location (Canada, 4 to 5h from New York, New York).
I’m buying an Aspire One ASAP. All this anticipation was fun while it lasted. Thanks Dell for reminding me why I usually don’t buy my gear on Dell.ca…
I guess in a way I gained something from all this hype: the rebate on the Aspire One that was applied on the netbook as a way to compete with the rumored 299$ price of the Dell 910 a couple of days ago…
September 4th, 2008 at 7:30 am
I was waiting to buy an Acer Aspire One, but no longer. Sorry Dell, but you can’t beat Acer’s price/features. An OPTIONAL webcam??? PUH-LEEZ!! And the Linux version will be available “later”. Could you be just a little more specific about how much later? And after tempting us with the pictures of the really cool red one, you give us black or white?? Strike 3, yer out.
September 4th, 2008 at 7:43 am
[…] via Dell Blog […]
September 4th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Very impressive, I’ve been waiting for these. Any chance one could get the 1GB version with Ubuntu, and not have to pay for the XP license? I think that would be a popular choice. I know I would MUCH prefer it.
September 4th, 2008 at 8:39 am
[…] Dell Mini 9 debuts, special offer for U.S. customers Published September 4, 2008 dell , gadgets , news Tags: 15, 9, dell, laptop, mini, netbook, notebook, studio “If you can wait until 6 a.m. Central tomorrow, Sept. 5, you’ll be able to get a Mini for only $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 (U.S. only).” (link) […]
September 4th, 2008 at 8:39 am
I bought the Studio 15 too and love it. Wish I could get in of the $99 deal ~
Might be time to buy one and sell on eBay!
September 4th, 2008 at 8:57 am
$99 is quite a price!
http://www.grand-rapids-michigan-web-design.info/
September 4th, 2008 at 8:58 am
It the price and the features werent’ such a disappointment I would be pissed that it wasn’t available to Canada. As it stands you can keep it.
And Dell, please stop trying to rip off the Irish.
September 4th, 2008 at 9:20 am
[…] will be available for $99 with the purchase of select systems, like Studio […]
September 4th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Another Irish thumbs down. Just to put it in context. $399 is approximately €275, yet the euro price is €399. You’re kidding right?
September 4th, 2008 at 9:42 am
[…] one with XP. Also as expected Box.net is bundled in with the system. In a nutshell, Dell’s Mini (see Dell’s blog) looks like a lot of netbooks such as the Asus eeePC. Some […]
September 4th, 2008 at 9:45 am
The Mini doesn’t have an optical drive. How are you supposed to load programs? It has USB ports but if you don’t have an external USB DVD/CD drive, it would seem you’re out of luck.
September 4th, 2008 at 10:02 am
[…] Today, Dell launched the much-anticipated Inspiron Mini 9 netbook (a.k.a. mini-note, ultra-note, or whatever we’re calling this category). Tomorrow, you’ll be able to score one for just with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530, or XPS M1330 notebook… […]
September 4th, 2008 at 10:08 am
[…] has launched a new netbook computer today that they are calling Dell Inspiron Mini. The laptop is a bare bones […]
September 4th, 2008 at 10:14 am
I JUST bought a Studio 15 days ago and missed out on this offer!
Any chance that I could get the same offer applied retroactively? I would totally pay $99 for a Mini 9 if given the chance, otherwise I’ll probably miss out on owning one.
September 4th, 2008 at 10:17 am
I was wondering which model comes with the 99$ deal and if its customizable and how would it be charged if it IS customized.
September 4th, 2008 at 10:17 am
[…] here’s the catch, according to Dell’s official blog: If you can wait until 6 a.m. Central tomorrow, Sept. 5, you’ll be able to get a Mini for only […]
September 4th, 2008 at 10:17 am
I want to know how I’ll reinstall my OS. A Dell chat support agent told me there was no way to do so, since an optical drive isn’t included. I don’t want to be stuck with a brick if my OS is corrupted! I’m most interested in the Ubuntu edition, so this is a bummer.
September 4th, 2008 at 10:19 am
Any news on the 12 inch version?
September 4th, 2008 at 10:19 am
[…] Your Blog >> Without Further Ado, Meet your New Best Friend […]
September 4th, 2008 at 10:38 am
pretty disappointing product asus eeepc is much more usefull than this mini 9 from dell
September 4th, 2008 at 11:06 am
According to Dell’s own press release (http://www.dell.com/content/topics/global.aspx/corp/pressoffice/en/2008/2008_09_04_rr_000?c=us&l=en&s=corp) this is supposed to be available in Canada today. When? Nothing on Dell.ca and the reps on the phone have no idea when or if it’s coming either, even though they have been telling customers up until yesterday that it will be available today.
To make up for this you could extend that $99 deal north of the border!
September 4th, 2008 at 11:12 am
[…] Check out the Dell blog for their perspective […]
September 4th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Just adding to the voices of discontent from IRELAND here.
399 Euro?! Give us a break!
I had waited so long & had expected 299 Euro. Also you deprive us of *any* color options (Black only) & *any* customisation options (XP with max specs only). Also not digging that 4 cell only.
Acer’s much better for price. Eees much better for specs. Either are better for options.
Bad Dell.
September 4th, 2008 at 11:19 am
[…] today introduced a new mini-notebook called Dell Inspiron Mini that weighs just over a kg, runs on Ubuntu Linux or […]
September 4th, 2008 at 11:23 am
[…] ultra-note, or whatever we’re calling this category). Tomorrow, you’ll be able to score one for just $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530, or XPS M1330 notebook… Sphere: Related Content Author Comments […]
September 4th, 2008 at 11:36 am
I was wanting one of these for school, but school started already. I went with a Thinkpad SL. To the comments above me, I wouldn’t consider a no-name like Asus, Wind, whatever, at any price.
September 4th, 2008 at 11:50 am
WHERE IS CANADA ?????????
The press release says US, Canada, Japan and select European countries…
September 4th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
ok someone is not with it for dell.ca… you can buy a mini 9 sleeve (http://accessories.dell.com/sna/products/Carrying_Cases/productdetail.aspx?c=ca&l=en&cs=cadhs1&sku=A2000216) but you cant buy the mini 9… go figure…
September 4th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
You have a mistake on your Dell Mini website. It says I can get the Mini with Ubuntu, or else “upgrade” to Windows XP. I’m not sure how swapping to an ancient, crippled OS is an “upgrade” to anything besides the price.
Quit being such cowards, Dell. You have such potential to endear yourselves to the Linux community but you keep screwing it up with mealy-mouthed hedges like this. Quit being afraid of Microsoft. Giving consumers a real choice will give you *more* leverage with Redmond, even if they threaten you in the short term.
The future of computing belongs to the likes of Google and Linux, not Microsoft. I would think that being in an industry with such small profit margins as yours would make you more eager to get rid of the Microsoft Tax once and for all.
September 4th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Where does the deal show up? Is it a coupon code or does it show up during checkout?
September 4th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
RTFM lol just gotta wait till tomorrow.
September 4th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Mr. Petsit, thanks for your clear speech.
I apologize for my rather harsh words in advance. I am a fan of Dell and I want Dell to be successful.
I think it would be best for you to focus on management than video presentations. You made this exciting product line appear as dull, boring, slow, unappealing as any other netbooks. Oh, also you had so much time-wasting filler like “umm”, “what I’m going to talk about is…” You could have used some professional help. If you rehearsed more, people could have literally saved so much time aggregately.
Mr. Petsit, please focus on what you do best.
If you have to do it again (I hope not), watch few of Steve Jobs’ and practice a little more. Or, maybe you could learn to deligate.
Thanks for your hard work.
September 4th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Where’s the love of small business? Add the offer to the latitudes.
September 4th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
[…] Mini 9 doesn’t appeal, how about picking up the netbook for just $99? That’s the latest deal on offer from the company, but as you’d expect there’s a catch: you can only take […]
September 4th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
What happened to the “Red” colored one. With only black or white available & a glossy screen I’m a no sale too.
Plus, I agree the hype was much more fun that the actual product.. Besides the base model being overpriced I cannot believe Dell also stuck with a freaking battery that only lasts for 3 hrs..!!!
September 4th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
[…] I like it. Per Dell’s blog, you can add the new Inspiron Mini 9 netbook for $99 when you purchase one of three full-size, big […]
September 4th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
[…] Checkout: Without Further Ado, Meet Your New Best Friend […]
September 4th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
[…] [Direct2Dell] Posted September 4th, 2008 by admin This entry was posted on Thursday, September 4th, 2008 at 1:28 pm and is filed under Gadgets. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site. […]
September 4th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Every piece of equipment I’ve bought from Dell has worked perfectly; never needed support; and I could pick the features that were important to me. I’ve loved every Dell product I’ve ever owned. But I have to say, the horrendously poor communication plan for the Mini 9 has me wondering what the heck is going on down there in Texas.
After its existence was “accidentally” leaked by Mr. Dell himself, you’ve allowed completely false rumours to persist, and made no comment about the product when asked by media. Your reps were among those who where supplying false release information when called.
When a press release is made, the information is inaccurate. The Mini is not available in Canada today. We poor slobs have to wait another three days - information Dell reps didn’t even have until late in the day today.
I do “get” the fact that you wanted to try to keep the entry price and size/weight down hence the XP over Vista, the smaller battery, no optical drive, specs that don’t hold up to the other netbooks available, etc. But if you’re going to announce the availability of Linux, then make it available at launch, or at least be very clear in your releases when these options will be available.
Why only release it in black and white? Dell has been able to offer products in a beautiful array of colours (as illustrated by the photos of the red one that were leaked) that would have made this Mini really eye catching. Will the colour selection eventually expand? And why in the world would you charge extra for white? It’s white for heaven’s sake…
Honestly, had you taken this bull by the horns and controlled the information better; been clear and upfront about release dates; and managed the expectations of your potential customers; you could have really come through this with a lot of respect and a whole audience willing to wait for your product.
All I have is frustration and disappointment. Is that really how you want your customers to feel?
September 4th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
[…] If you can wait until 6 a.m. Central tomorrow, Sept. 5, you’ll be able to get a Mini for only $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 (U.S. only). ~ YourBlog […]
September 4th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
There is nothing unique about the Mini 9 vs. other 8.9″ Atom-based netbooks other than the “Dell” logo and that it uses Ubuntu instead of some other Linux distro. All the features implied in the video as being unique to the Mini 9 (small size, 8.9″ screen, SSD storage, free cloud storage, easy-mode interface) have already been implemented in existing products by Asus and others. The only truly unique feature that was mentioned in the leaked Dell presentation from June, Blacktop, is a no-show in the released product. This instant-on feature would have made the Mini 9 a truly a standout product (and worth the few extra dollars over the Aspire one) vs. yet another me-too Eee PC wannabe.
September 4th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
[…] – Dell blog) If you like this post, please share it with […]
September 4th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Wow, I’ve been waiting for this for months and I’ve got to say, I’m underwhelmed.
$449 for XP, 1.6GHz, 1GB RAM, 16GB HD, no webcam and plain old black??
Walmart.com is selling Acer Aspire Ones with XP, the same processor, same amount of RAM, 120GB hard drives, and webcams for $399, AND they’re BLUE.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10238325
Where is the pretty red shell from Michael Dell’s prototype? Where is the low price? I thought you were going to release something better than anything on the market, but this is just average.
I hope a lower price and more colors are coming in the near future.
September 4th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
[…] Today, Dell launched the much-anticipated Inspiron Mini 9 netbook (a.k.a. mini-note, ultra-note, or whatever we’re calling this category). Tomorrow, you’ll be able to score one for just $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530, or XPS M1330 notebook… […]
September 4th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Why isn’t it available in Canada!?!? I need this for lectures (which have already started!) Acer Aspire one it is…
September 4th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
As usual Canada gets left high and dry. If we have to wait a day (hopefully friday) and we get the $99 deal, then I’ll be just as pleased, because that is a great idea for people who are already getting a full fledged laptop but perhaps want a little one, or a gift for someone.
September 4th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
[…] systems, I have to believe that they’ll perform at a decent speed which means faster SSD. The Direct2Dell blog says that the Mini 9 has a starting weight of 2.28-pounds which is lighter than many others in this space, but when I hear “starting weight”, I […]
September 4th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
How about retroactively offering the $99 deal to customers like me who previously bought the XPS 1330 or 1530 with the Nvidia 8400GSM graphics, so that when our GPU melts down, at least we’ll have SOMETHING to work on.
And I’m not joking.
September 4th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
.
A netbook should have a builtin 3G support for both linux and XP
It doesnt even address the security risk of losing your netbook and compromising valuable information.
.
September 5th, 2008 at 1:54 am
Are the keys full size? When’s the half price model coming out? Available at BestBuy?
September 5th, 2008 at 2:56 am
Great, another US-centric offer. I don’t suppose Dell, the global company, will consider making this offer available in other parts of the global economy in which it operates?!?
September 5th, 2008 at 5:09 am
Another from ireland here, seems we are getting screwed again . No options stupid price , but even after this I was going to buy but to see the deal that the states get and we dont ,there is no way I am buying. It is ridiculous seeing that the factory is 2 miles away and we dont get the really good deals…….
September 5th, 2008 at 5:33 am
I’m usually pretty critical of most things Dell does, but this is a knockout. Cheap as dirt, but it still has Atom and some pretty sexy styling. Spartacus approves.
September 5th, 2008 at 5:40 am
@Frank Fitz
I just heard on the radio this morning that they may be closing their plant in Ireland, maybe we’ll start to get some decent deals from Dell when they’re shipping them in from India.
Dell are looking for a €120 premium in Ireland compared to America. Disgusting. I’m never buying Dell again.
September 5th, 2008 at 6:20 am
Okay. I stayed up half the night so I had time to do the necessary research before my ~2k purchase, and then the other half and to avoid shortages and prevent oversleeping for work.
It’s now 6:20 CST. Where the hell is the deal? I heard you put it up too early yesterday and then took it back down…is reading the big and the little hands too complex?
September 5th, 2008 at 6:25 am
It looks like they may be closing the Irish plant as part of a worldwide cost reduction thing. But thats a side issue. The main thing is, they must think that us “Paddys” have no knowledge of the internet beyond .ie domains otherwise they wouldn’t try to scalp us so much. I’d love to hear the excuse for the massive price difference, probably some vague “labour costs” mumble mumble “tax rates” mumble mumble..
Its unfortunate as I do like the look and size of the device and the layout of the keyboard. Battery life is not so much of an issue for me.
September 5th, 2008 at 6:37 am
[…] is currently having a offer: If you buy a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 notebook, you can get the Inspiron Mini 9 for only […]
September 5th, 2008 at 6:41 am
How do you get the special?
September 5th, 2008 at 6:47 am
Im a little peeved myself, Waiting for the deal, got up at 4am to configure it how I wanted then no deal?? Maybe going w/ a Asus or MSI soon if it doesnt come up, Just sold my laptop lastnight so I need another.
September 5th, 2008 at 6:49 am
Its time,, How do you get the deal? Has anyone had any luck?
September 5th, 2008 at 6:50 am
Added my notebook to my shopping cart.. uh, now how do we get the $99 mini?
September 5th, 2008 at 6:56 am
Still no deal????
September 5th, 2008 at 6:56 am
So about this $99 deal with studio/XPS laptops…. We are waiting. I am waiting. Guess Dell really doesn’t want my business after all.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:04 am
Still no $99 deal. Maybe they meant 6am PST? Maybe?
September 5th, 2008 at 7:05 am
Dell HQ is central so it should be central time.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:08 am
Hi Guys-
It’s Ellen here from Dell PR in Europe. As someone who lived in Ireland for 4 years, I’m very sensitive to the “Rip-off Ireland” phenomenon. However, the prices for the Mini are actually cost comparative between the US and Ireland.
Due to trade laws, Ireland prices must include VAT and delivery in all marketing communications - the net price of the Ireland offer is €304.96. In the US, because taxes vary from state to state, the price stated is exclusive of tax and shipping. Also, the two list prices are for different specifications. The $399 offer advertised on the US web site includes 512MB memory and an 8GB SSD. The €399 offer on the Ireland web site includes 1GB memory and a 16GB SSD. The configuration on the US web site with 1GB memory and 16GB SSD is $449, which is price comparative.
Hope that helps.
EllenatDell
September 5th, 2008 at 7:09 am
I guess I woke up early for no reason.. This is pretty lame when you are told by a Dell rep to come back at 6am… only to wait for hours and no deal.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:13 am
Is there a coupon code we need for the $99 inspiron mini?
September 5th, 2008 at 7:19 am
thats great, get people hyped about the deal and BOOM! nothing.. LOL
September 5th, 2008 at 7:23 am
What’s going on with this deal? Still waiting…
September 5th, 2008 at 7:28 am
We have a rep to tell us about the ireland issue, but none to address the lack of a deal? hmmmmmm?
September 5th, 2008 at 7:30 am
Dell is getting to be a bad taste in my mouth. I’ve been on the fence between it and an Asus eee 1000h. Shamefully, the Lenovo IdeadPad S10 is now delayed to late-Oct/mid-November.
Whoever I pick will be being used as a sports blog for this coming hockey season. Dell seems to really not want my business. I am not getting a warm, fuzzy feeling from them lately.
If a deal is announced here, it BETTER be on the site. Period.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:30 am
I’m pretty sure this $99 deal was nothing more than a hype gimmick
September 5th, 2008 at 7:31 am
This is just going to be another one of those deals where you pay FULL PRICE for the big laptop, then you get the Mini 9 for $99.
In the end, it will probably be cheaper (or about the same price) if we buy the big laptop on one of their other -$300 off (or more) discount offers & paid FULL RETAIL PRICE for the Mini 9.
We pay for it one way or the other. Just like the BOGO deal they had a few weeks ago. (Or was that months?)
I’m not complaining mind you, $349 is pocket change these days, I can’t even fill my tank on my Hummer with $349 these days!
September 5th, 2008 at 7:44 am
the part i am upset about is that they did offer this deal for a short time yesterday and some people got the laptop but then the stopped running it.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:47 am
I actually saw the deal last night while i was checking possible laptop configs for my sister. The mini was listed as an accessory for the studio 15 i was lookign at. I didn’t see if the other discount of $300 still applied…. but there does appear to be some type of deal regarding the mini. It was for the base mini, but allowed upgrades to it’s components (not os though)… now here it is 7:45 central, my sister has made up her mind about the config she wants me to get her, and I haven’t seen the deal again. I’ve cleared cookies and history, and tried from different PCs with no more luck… Hopefully later??? I’d love to hear from someone who gets it to work..- but they probably don’t feel like posting at that point!
September 5th, 2008 at 7:48 am
No wonder Dell isnt doing too well compared to other companies.
September 5th, 2008 at 7:49 am
http://bensbargains.net/deal/76923/
This may explain the $99 deal a little. No guarantees.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:02 am
*cough*
sloppy . .. .
*cough*
:: Waits to read fine print on deal/scam/gimmick ::
September 5th, 2008 at 8:03 am
it can’t be expired!
unless i’m reading it wrongly… this is what the article says … “If you can wait until 6 a.m. Central tomorrow, Sept. 5, you’ll be able to get a Mini for only $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 (U.S. only).”
therefore, this should run from 6am CST Sept 5 to 6am CST Sept 9. how in the world did anyone see the deal on Sept 4th, is beyond me. this seems like false advertising.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:07 am
jonnyb– I did the same and went ahead and cancelled my Inspiron I ordered Sat. and configured a Studio15 and configured the mini right in the order like you mentioned. When I looked at my order this morning, the mini is gone, only the Studio 15 is in the list. Sump’ins up.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Where the hell is this deal and where the hell is Dell with their excuses?
September 5th, 2008 at 8:11 am
Thanks for the site, I wondered where to look.
As far as “no guarantees” goes, that’s not acceptable if you’re going to advertise it like this, with a very specific start time and location. In fact, it’s complete and utter crap.
It was suggested on other sites that they should just say “the morning of” if they can’t guarantee a time. Perhaps Lenovo or Asus can sell them a computer that can automate the process for them?
I understand shortages, but first they should let us know what’s going on and second it’s the first 2 hours of the deal on the first day…if they’re out that’s exceptionally poor planning. Hey Dell, “deafening advance buzz” is a GOOD thing, not something to swat dead. So is “further ado,” except when it concerns your failure to deliver something simple.*
*Sorry, I guess I’m cranky because I didn’t get any sleep last night. Ask me why.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:19 am
I’m going back to bed. This is nuts, if it were for real & I miss it… I’ll just buy one from one of those dumb ebay resellers, some of them will probably sell one for $149 & think they made $50 profit!!
September 5th, 2008 at 8:26 am
As a European customer I have a question, which I request to be answered by a Dell official:
Will there be just this one “high-end-version” available in Europe or will the Europeans be granted the same right and freedom to choose as the U.S.Americans?
Goodness, I listened to much to McCains speech on CNN yesterday…
To be serious: will I have the option to “customize” the Dell Mini in Europe?
September 5th, 2008 at 8:32 am
For anyone having difficulty finding the promo page, the full URL is:
http://www.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/sale_laptops?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
There’s a “Dell 3-Day Laptop Sale” banner at the top of the page. Click “Learn more” and it will open a page with the E-value codes
September 5th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Well it’s nice that they bump up the price an extra $300-$400 on those systems to make up for it. LOL!!
September 5th, 2008 at 8:41 am
I’m with Dell on the phone right now and they confirmed the discount.
However, the price on the Studio 15 is jacked up to over $1k, so it’s cheaper to buy the mini 9 separate.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:41 am
Another Dell ripoff. You have to pay almost $1,000 for a Dell Studio that is normally $749 and for that you get a 1.86 processor rather than the $749 machine’s 2.00 processor. So really it is the same thing as the $749 processor and a Mini for full price. Save your money
September 5th, 2008 at 8:42 am
typical miscommunication from the product team and the sales team — the sales team don’t have a clue about this. i just got off dell customer suppoer and someone did however confer with his manager…
here is the direct link:
http://www.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/sale_laptops?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
just note, that this is for the US only. it seems that it is not for all the models, it is just for specific Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330.
supposedly, the sales team doesn’t know who this person that wrote it is… so it a case of denying accountability, lack of communication OR false advertising.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:44 am
$99 deal ONLY WORKS with ’select’ OVERPRICED full size laptops.
Better to go the Walmart route (or get a MacBook Air and run XP, Ubuntu and OS X).
Move along…nothing interesting here…
September 5th, 2008 at 8:52 am
are you kidding me??? Someone at Dell needs to send out a memo detailing who can publish what to the internet. there was ABSOLUTELY NO mention of “only specific models” of the Studio 15 or XPS 1530/1330 until today.
Dell just went from hero to zero, and lost TWO potential double-sales. I have a studio 15 in my cart for $699 that is specced equal or better than the “promo” version, which is over $300 more - say, isn’t that about how much I would “save” getting the mini? Christ.
You ALMOST had it dell. Offering the $99 deal on ANY Studio 15 would have moved a TON of the mini 9s. Good luck now.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:53 am
oh you can only get the $99 mini with Ubuntu… not interested. Might as well just spend the $500 for the mini by itself.
September 5th, 2008 at 8:54 am
$99 deal ONLY WORKS with ’select’ OVERPRICED full size laptops.
Of course, what did anyone expect anyways?
Just what I said before a few posts back.
Now I’m really going back to bed!
September 5th, 2008 at 9:00 am
I am thoroughly disappointed… a studio 15 laptop that was listed at $694 less than 24hrs. ago is now $1,098 ($404 increase - $503 if you purchase the optional $349 910u) is just sad. It would be less $ to purchase both items separately. WHAT A RIPOFF - SHAME ON YOU DELL!
Description
Studio 15
Date & Time: September 04,2008 1:46 PM CST
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
Studio 15 Qty 1
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T5750 (2.00GHz/667Mhz FSB/2MB cache), Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium Edition SP1 Unit Price $994.00
Save $300 off this Dell Studio 15 Laptop!
Limited Time Offer!
- $300.00
Catalog Number: 29 DNDOUM1
Module Description Show Details
Studio 15 Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T5750 (2.00GHz/667Mhz FSB/2MB cache)
Operating System Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium Edition SP1
System Color Option Midnight Blue
Memory 3GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2
Built-in Keyboard Options Standard Keyboard (included in the price)
LCD Panel Glossy, widescreen 15.4 inch display (1280×800)
Video Card 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3450
Hard Drive Size: 250GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM)
Adobe Software Adobe® Acrobat® Reader 8.1
Combo or DVD+RW Drive 8X Slot Load CD / DVD Burner (Dual Layer DVD+/-R Drive)
Sound Card High Definition Audio 2.0
Wireless Networking Cards Dell 1397 Wireless-G Card
Camera Module Integrated 2.0M Pixel Webcam
Office Productivity Software (Pre-Installed) Microsoft Works
Anti-Virus/Security Suite (Pre-installed) No Security
Battery Options 56 Whr Lithium Ion Battery (6 cell)
Hardware Support Services 1Yr Ltd Hardware Warranty, InHome Service after Remote Diagnosis
Datasafe Dell Online Backup 2GB for 1 year
Dial-Up Internet Access No ISP requested
Dell Recycling Free Recycling Kit
Special Offer Staples Coupon Book
LCD and Camera Glossy, widescreen 15.4 LCD (1280×800) w/ 2.0M pixel Camera
Processor Branding Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor
Labels Windows Vista™ Premium
Finger Print Reader Module NO FINGER PRINT READER
Sub total:$694.00
Additional Discounts and Coupons
Free Ground Shipping on Notebooks over $799!
Limited Time Offer!
Sub Total $694.00
Shipping & Handling $39.00
Shipping Discount -$39.00
Tax $48.58
State Environmental Fee –
Total $742.58
Dell Preferred Account Low Monthly Payments!
Dell Preferred Account As low as $23/month*
September 5th, 2008 at 9:05 am
I am adding the XPS machines from the 3-day sale link and there is no option for $99 Inspiron 9 anywhere. WTF dell?
September 5th, 2008 at 9:06 am
Wow, I can’t believe the absolute blatant ripoff. I priced out a faster Studio 15 yesterday. $699. I go in today, find that the $99 deal works only for a configuration that is slower and $349 more expensive. Some deal…
September 5th, 2008 at 9:12 am
I just chatted with a dell rep. They say, “As for now we are currently communicating with our marketing department about this promotion. The best thing that I can do for now is to set up a call for you right after we get more detailed information about this Inspiron Mini. I hope you understand.” They promised to call me once the deal is active.
Sounds like they haven’t finalized the deal yet. Strangely, last night I was able to configure a Studio like ican’tbelievedellwoulddothis (above) with the $99 Ubuntu Mini 9.
Let’s hope they get this figured out!
September 5th, 2008 at 9:16 am
oh, my bad. i see they are “throwing in” an “integrated Sound Blaster® Audigy™ Advanced HD Software Edition” instead of the paltry “Sound Card High Definition Audio 2.0″ for $404 - WOW!
September 5th, 2008 at 9:16 am
I really can’t believe that Dell would affect its reputation by a junk offer!!!
There must be something unclear because even a dump-sales department in the worse company on the universe will never do such stupid lie which will disappoint the customers and harmfully lose in the long-term.
Good Job Dell
September 5th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Now the link posted doesn’t even work with at least the 1330….
September 5th, 2008 at 9:19 am
I will join the comments stating that if the $99 Mini offer was extended to desktops, I would order today. I already have a perfectly good 15″ laptop, don’t need another one. But a more capable desktop WOULD be of benefit.
And for what it’s worth, I talked to a few other people that were of the same opinion.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:22 am
I just got off a chat with a rep and got the exact response that Matthew did — word for word. Here’s to hoping Dell gets it together soon!
September 5th, 2008 at 9:23 am
You had me at Mini…=P
guess it’s, “Dude! You’re NOT getting a Dell”
What a ripoff, poorly planned, executed, and typical Dell it seems like.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:26 am
Fantastically poor communication here Dell. If this isn’t somehow resolved to reflect the original offer I will go from telling everyone I know how great this deal is to telling everyone how Dell is now a bait-and-switch company.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:28 am
I still don’t see the mini in the cart even upto entering credit card info- are people to believe that they need to click “Purchase” before they even see this thing and any options they may allow for it?
Definately looks like it would have been a better deal yesterday- and even then, not much of a deal… Think I’ll Pass- thanks Dell.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:29 am
The first time it worked and I got a configuration page for the Mini. I went back to change something and have not been able to get that page back. Anyone else?
So I wonder if they decided not to tell us that they’re taking off the Mini while they get it settled with marketing, or if there’s something wrong with the site. I’ve tried different browsers. If there were an Olympic medal for fubaring deals….
Call me not amused. If they don’t get it together ASAP they can forget the $1800 1530 I’m ready to shell out for.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:31 am
I also chatted online with Dell support. Chap name of Hans was at least understanding. He also promised that someone would call me. I did more research, and yes - you can price the EXACT same studio 15 for $699. So add a full-price mini 9 to that and you get…. $1048!
With the e-value code, you get the studio 15 for $999 and the mini 9 for $99… which is… $1098??!?
This “promo” is a hype-machine that actually ends up costing you $50… You could get the mini 9 + studio 15 cheaper by purchasing them separately. Caveat Emptor indeed! (buyer beware)
September 5th, 2008 at 9:32 am
FYI… Studio 15 @ $699
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&l=en&cs=19&kc=&oc=DNDOUM1
September 5th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Here is the SAME laptop for $699 (+$2 to plant a tree)
https://ecomm2.dell.com/dellstore/basket.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&itemtype=&cart_id=1000329504418&toEmail=ecomm@dell.com
again - IT IS CHEAPER TO BUY THESE 2 ITEMS SEPARATELY!
September 5th, 2008 at 9:40 am
I chatted with a rep last night and specifically asked if the promo would apply to a $699 Studio 15 and he checked and said YES.
And yes, I kept a copy of the chat transcript. Now, it’s not working. What’s going on?
September 5th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Actually if you price out the Studio 15 that they are offering for the special it is $999 but if you price that out regulary with all the upgrades that they are giving you it would be $1283, they are giving the 3yr warranty, 3 years of Mcafee, the entire system is upgraded from the regular price one of $649 and they are still giving you almost 280 dollars off of that and then the mini 9 for $99 bucks. I’m not sure but that sounds like a deal to me if your willing to spend for 2 laptops, it would be roughly $1100 bucks for an upgraded Studio15 and the new mini9. I see what your saying about not being able to get the $649 version of the studio15 but it still seems like a good deal to me.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:51 am
@Seems Like a Value
Well, the system is the same. I’m not interested in 3 yr warranties (I’ll replace it before then anyway) or in McAfee, so that’s just junk to me. The hardware is EXACTLY THE SAME, and that’s what matters to most people, including me. Tacking on a bunch of stuff I didn’t want anyway and charging me for it is not a deal.
Besides, more than one person, including me, was specifically told the promo would apply to the lower priced Studio 15s. This is really bad PR.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:08 am
This is the typical Dell consumer bait-and-switch. They advertise huge % or $$$ discounts, but they jack up the starting price so that the discounted price is the same as the regular price.
The most interesting thing is that you can still spec out a Studio 15 for $799 with the exact same features as the $999 version except you cant select the $99 mini.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:10 am
geesh people… did you really expect dell to give out a $350 laptop for $99 if you buy a $700 laptop? doesnt make business sense…
better to wait for a coupon…
September 5th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Yes, I did, because a Dell representative told me that the promo WOULD apply. I even emailed him the link to the laptop I’d specked — for $749 by the time I did my add-ons.
Maybe I’m crazy, but when a company tells me they’ll give me a certain price, I expect them to do it.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Normally it is expected the salespeople don’t lie and that a promotion promotes both the customer and the business’ interest. I suppose you don’t think loss leaders make business sense either?
Anyway, a lot of us are will to pay more than twice that for our XPS systems, and we got screwed over too.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Well, I just spent $950 on a upgraded Studio 15 last week, so I think I deserve a Mini 9 for $99. It will be just about the same price if I buy them both separate. ($700 and $350) C’mon dell, make us like your service!
September 5th, 2008 at 10:19 am
I chatted with a Dell rep online this morning and received the same reply as the posters above. I shall await their call. I was shocked that they jacked up the prices like that and made it all seem like it was a fantastic deal. Maybe they will get it together in a few hours and make this right for people..
September 5th, 2008 at 10:19 am
better wait for a coupon? haha! They will royally screw you with that one too.. as soon as you would apply it, “We’re sorry, this coupon or discount code will no apply to this item. Please check the coupon or apply another.” This is most of the reason I am done with Dell at home, my home office, and my 900k budget at my full time job will no longer see Dell PO’s. I’m done with the scammer tactics.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:21 am
I won’t say it’s cheaper to buy separate but I can definitely get the features I want at same prices… I’m going that route… I’ve been waiting for Asus to get the EEE right… Dell beat them w/ the Mini 9.
If the Mini 9 is on par with all the other Dell computers I’ve had (several desktops and laptops), I’m going to be very happy… well, actually, my girlfriend will be happy because I expect her to nab the Mini and use it for travel (flight attendant).
Now to figure out what laptop I really want for myself.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:22 am
So, where is the deal? I can’t find it anywhere on the Dell site.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:23 am
door number 1, door number 2 or door number 3 - which will you choose?
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&l=en&cs=19&kc=&oc=DNDOUM1
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&l=en&cs=19&kc=&oc=DNDOUM2
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&l=en&cs=19&kc=&oc=DNDOUM3
notice that 2 and 3 include the mini but their configs are somewhat different. dell has been changing the options around all morning. one has the dual core T2390 while the other has a core 2 duo T5750 (and other minor option changes) with a ~$50 difference between the two. furthermore, $699 is the going rate currently for a core 2 duo like option 1 above. a little over a week ago best buy had an inspiron with almost the exact same config, less the radeon HD 3450 for $599 - reg. $699. in the end there really is no $99 deal for the mini as dell promised.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:23 am
PS - those of you claim you were duped obviously haven’t followed how coupons and discounts tend to work in the retail sales world…. you always start w/ the MSRP and work from there… almost never start w/ an item already on sale and add an extra discount to it. Get real.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:23 am
i was on dell’s website and they are running a promotion where you can buy an xps or inspiron 15 laptop and get one of the new inspiron mini’s for 99
11:23:01 AM BE_Rep_Mario As for now we are currently communicating with our marketing department about this promotion. The best thing that I can do for now is to set up a call for you right after we get more detailed information about this Inspiron Mini. I hope you understand
Well there it is they responded right back to be about this as soon as I brought it up.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:24 am
I agree with others. After investigating the “deal” and the possible options, you’re probably better off to just buy a mini and whatever else you want separately.
My time has been wasted and am left with a lower customer opinion of Dell.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:28 am
dellsucks, that is the exact same reply I received as well. regardless of how promos work, it is rediculous to get a lesser laptop for the money with the “deal” than you would if you purchased indivudually.
Dell, if you are reading this — you have LOTS of people ready to buy.. release this deal to the masses like you should have and you could have one seriously great day in business!
September 5th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Well, not only is the $99 offer is no longer available, but my Studio 15 order from yesterday was changed so that the Mini 9 was stripped off. All of this with no notice! That’s not exactly instilling any confidence in ordering from Dell.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Bill, I hope they still give you that Flip Ultra camcorder.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:35 am
@Mike- How about you get real?
There are quite a few retailers who allow you to take discounts off the sales price.
Where are you shopping?
September 5th, 2008 at 10:38 am
I second K. I worked at a national retail chain that did it regularly. Clearly you have not spent sufficient time in the retail sales world, Mike.
Dell, thanks for making my switch to Toshiba painless. Satellite, here I come!
September 5th, 2008 at 10:47 am
It must be great to make a promise online and have every IT rag pick it up as a huge positive spin news story…
… and then to go back on that promise and have it go largely unnoticed. Sweet!
The good news is I have a spare $900+ for lunch today, or to buy a Compaq and an EEEpc over on NewEgg. Also, I’ll get exactly what was promised, and I won’t have to wait for it to be manufactured.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Hey Dell Team,
The above mentioned deal, buy a Studio or XPS laptop and get a Mini 9 for $99 is not working.
I would love to take advantage of the offer, but can’t find a method of prompting the discount. I have configured and added Studio/XPS systems and added a Mini 9 to cart…and see no discount reflected.
What am I missing?
September 5th, 2008 at 10:48 am
I feel that if Dell sold the these with the double discounts indicated yesterday they would take a loss. They would however get a huge quantity of these on the streets quickly whcih would become quickly apperent to everyone else sitting at Starbucks. I think they should still do it. Fix the sale, and take a temporary loss- sell more mini’s in the near future because of it- It would give them a much better market position in a shorter amount of time for these “net book” things… If they don’t fix teh sale by Sunday night, I’ll probably just try to find a good deal on a laptop under $1k, and not worry whether it’s a dell…
September 5th, 2008 at 10:57 am
If they would be taking a loss then they should not have made the offer. Taking a loss is not justification to bait and switch customers.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:57 am
I agree with everyone here. I think its ridiculous that Dell would try to change the terms of a promotion once they have baited everyone in. I was debating between a Dell and a HP and decided to go by the way of Dell due to the promotion. However, after this I think the choice is pretty easy.
September 5th, 2008 at 11:05 am
I give up.
Between this shafting and the coupon that a-a-almost made it worthwhile that expired just as I was checking out, Dell will have to find a new sucker to assault. I can only think of one other company that’s pissed me off this much through idiocy, pointless obstacles, wasting a great deal of my time, incompetence, and dishonesty.
Here’re good places to start for other defectors:
http://www.notebookreview.com/
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Notebook-Laptop-Reviews-and-News.48.0.html
September 5th, 2008 at 11:06 am
How disappointing. After reading about it first, then not finding it on the website this am then raising the price of XPS to cover 99 Deal. HP mini-note here I come
September 5th, 2008 at 11:10 am
where’s the $99 deal. i can’t find it…
September 5th, 2008 at 11:12 am
While I realize that Dell cannot reasonably be expected to make offers that would result in a large loss (such as offering a $350 computer for $100, with a $700 purchase), and I appreciate that Dell already operates on very thin margins, it’s no excuse for treating their customers like a used car salesman.
If Dell cannot afford the offer… then don’t make the offer. It’s very simple.
Furthermore, while having the full power of Ubuntu Linux is important to ME, it is NOT to the majority of people who would be buying these machines. In that case, there is nothing stopping them from turning around and purchasing the Acer Aspire One… which can be had for $400 with a 6-cell battery, 160GB hard drive, and 1GB of RAM.
So price-wise Dell has already started in a very poor position, since a usable version of the Mini 9 costs $520. At $400… I would have already placed an order… but now I get to wait another couple of months, in which case I might as well wait for the second batch of Lenovo Ideapad S10s… which have much better specs for a lower price. I don’t think we are asking too much from Dell - just something to make their system competitive on the market - either better specs, or better prices… or at least comparable specs or prices. We ARE their customers, after all.
I’ve bought 3 laptops from Dell myself, and have advised many others to purchase Dell laptops. But if Dell no longer wants to remain competitive, they will likely lose me as a customer.
September 5th, 2008 at 11:12 am
Well, Dell has been doing things like this for some time now, if you follow the bargain sites.
The real point is that the “great unwashed masses” out there won’t know what these laptops were selling for yesterday, so they will think this really is a deal.
Dell, have you no shame?
And, this really isn’t “OUR BLOG” is it? Unless we’re all idiots!
September 5th, 2008 at 11:14 am
@Jeremy
You could probably install Linux (or Windows) without an optional drive on these, see below for Linux.
http://www.pcmech.com/article/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-with-no-optical-drive/
September 5th, 2008 at 11:18 am
[…] The Eee PC’s main defense against the Inspiron Mini 9 is definitely the cheaper price, $399 vs $474. Not if you will buy Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330 laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 (U.S. only) because the Inspiron will only cost $99. […]
September 5th, 2008 at 11:21 am
I bought the dell mini over the AA1. To buy an acer one has to be either a) a dult, b) a dult.
Has anyone tried to use acer for customer service/support? I called about the acer aspire one 160gb/6 cell version. I had to talk to 5 different customer service agents who had no idea what that product was even though it’s on the site and when i talk to some “high up guy”, he had no idea where acer ships its products off to, transfered to one other guy that said he thinks walmart, best buy and circuit city…and when i asked him about the fan noise of the AA1 he said “Let me check Laptop Mag really quick”. Could you imagine if one had technical problems with there computer!
Dell is reliable with customer service, and support. It’s like having Verizon. You know you are f*cked with Sprint who will constantly over-charge you and not help at all.
For everyone interested in getting a netbook. Be realistic. If you’re like me…you already own a serious laptop, and this is just a light option for writing college papers and surfing the internet at a local coffee shop/bookstore.
If you plan on writing a dissertation on a netbook…save up and get a normal laptop. Everyone needs to stop complaining, my God!
September 5th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Voicing agreement with other frustrated buyers. I got transferred between five different sales reps this morning until finally reaching one who knew about the special offer. Apparently they call it the 3-Day Deal internally, so that’s what to ask for when on the phone with a rep.
I purchased a new XPS m1530, maxed out, on Wednesday evening. Thursday morning I find out about the $99 deal, so called them today to check it out. Once I finally got the information from the rep that only specific configurations (re: the ones closer to retail price with less discounts pre-applied) were available for the $99 deal I went online and configured another m1530 with the exact specs of the one I just ordered. I also maxed out the Mini 9 which added around $150 to the overall price.
The new laptop with the “$99″ Mini costs $415 more than my previously ordered laptop. It could be said that I would get the laptop for the same price and the maxed out Mini 9 for only $415 which brings the price to a level comparable to other netbooks. I prefer to take a more curmudgeonly attitude and say it’s an extremely deceptive marketing tactic that makes this loyal Dell customer (this is my 5th laptop this year) very upset.
As an additional note, the $99 deal is not compatible with the employee purchase program or any other corporate discounts. It is only available through the Home segment of the Dell website.
September 5th, 2008 at 11:55 am
It seems to me that the “deal” is just as expensive…mainly due to the change from a 1 year warranty to a 3 year warranty on the larger laptop which is evidently required for the $99 Mini. In other words, this deal is if you buy a laptop and mini at the same time…you get 2 extra years on your laptop’s warranty. That is a plus…but only if you really need both a laptop and a mini.
September 5th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I still can’t find the deal on Dell’s website…what gives?
September 5th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Well.
Now that i’ve found out that us comsumers in Ireland are “only” getting ripped off by €35, being declined the option to customise the mini AND that the $99 deal should be re-worded “Buy a very specific laptop and a Mini with Ubuntu and get 2 years warranty free” i’m pissed off/disappointed in Dell in a whole different way!
September 5th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
I’m trying to figure out if…
The surprise I seem to see in other posts is fake
or
if this many people are new to the way Dell does this stuff.
It has to be one or the other.
September 5th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Reposting for those that missed JayatDell’s note above.
The direct link for the $99 deal is:
http://www.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/sale_laptops?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
September 5th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Ah…and a little clarification for everyone; this does not include XPS or Studio 15 systems with Ubuntu pre-loaded. However if you purchase with the Windows (Vista FTW!) system, you can add the Mini with Linux. Too many stipulations for purchasing….the blog entry was far too vague. Next time be a little more specific. Digging through the Dell site for info on this is like hunting for some elusive prey. I would have made the purchase if it was more flexible.
September 5th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
DONT BE FOOLED!!!
The Studio 15 is on sale for $749 right now but you cant GET THE $99 Mini with this You have to pay FULL PRICE FOR THE Studio 15 then you get the mini for $99
So it comes out to exactly the same price!!!
DONT BE FOOLED !!!!
September 5th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
[…] size, and to sweeten the deal even more you can grab the Dell Inspiron Mini 9 for just $99 when you purchase a select laptop in the […]
September 5th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
I’m so glad I went ahead and got the AA1 instead of holding out for a Mini.
September 5th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
Submitted this to Engadget, and they’ve now published a story debunking this “Deal”.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/05/doing-the-math-on-that-99-inspiron-mini-deal/
Matt
September 5th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
door number 1, door number 2 or door number 3 - which will you choose?
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndoum1
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndoum2
http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=dndoum3
it is very sad that dell is playing games with their *potential* customers by increasing the price of their notebooks to make it seem like they are giving us some sort of “special” deal. how deceitful of them to offer the new mini for a claimed $99 with the purchase of a dell notebook when all they are really doing is increasing the price to compensate. the current going rate for a core 2 duo/3gb/dvd-rw dl/250gb/15.4″ wxga w/webcam/802.11b/g etc. is right at $699 - even best buy is selling one of dell’s inspiron notebooks with the same/similar config for $699. (last week BB had this same inspiron notebook for $599)
i was all set this morning to shell out $800 for both which would have been a fair deal based on current pricing - $1,100 is a ripoff. it’s not even the $ so much as it is the principal of what dell’s marketing dept. is doing. come on dell - stop acting like used car salesmen! be straight with people or don’t make the offer in the first place. it would be the same price or less to buy these separately and you would in turn have better config options for both the notebook and the mini.
so it is with a saddened heart, and left having to choose between the 3 doors that dell is offering, that i will choose none of them and will be looking to take my 6+ years of buying-only-from-dell (business and personal) business elsewhere.
September 5th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
[…] http://yourblog.direct2dell.com/2008/09/04/without-further-ado-meet-your-new-best-friend/ […]
September 5th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Too expensive. I already bought Asus EEE 1000h which has better specs
September 5th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Well I tried to configure it since early this morning but it doesn’t work. There is no $99.00 Mini Dell. I tried to max out the configuration of Studio 15 to more than $2200. No such deal.
September 5th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Probably it is another false rumor by Dell just as the released date of Aug 22nd. Whistle blower, anybody?
September 5th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Alright to everyone who keeps saying there is no deal or where is the deal
when you add any one of the laptops on this page to your cart along with it comes a dell mini 9 so stop saying there is no deal or you cant find it
http://www.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/sale_laptops?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
September 5th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Actually, now that I click on my own link, I can’t find it.
September 5th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
read the posts,
Yeah, but that page has the overinflated prices that force you to purchase a 3-year extended warranty.
September 5th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
lol nice to whoever posted that one after me……right thats what the whole thing here is about not to mention on other sites just pointing it out to the people tha are saying no such deals exist.
There are lotsa people out there that alays buy the warranties and this is a great deal for them. Sure it was leaked they would allow you to purchase with any inspiron 15 or xps but if you actually read on the dell site where it states the deal it says …..with the purchase a select studio or xps laptop…..so they are not stating there that it is any xps or studio but only a select few
September 5th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
This is a super SHADY bait and switch…Dell sucks
September 5th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Wow, I wasn’t looking at the price listed until you guys mentioned it. But yes buying a Studio 15 at the current sale price of $749 and adding on a mini 9 at its current price of $349 nets the same price as their supposed “$99 deal”
September 5th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
I already tried it before with 3 yrs extended warranty. Again, no such deal. I configured 4 XPS laptops + 1 Studio 15 laptop on my cart. Nope, nada.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
I had a better deal with Studio 15 laptop without the so called $99 mini Dell last week.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
You are missing the point if you think that Dell has the right to limit the “deal” to specific configurations.
If a business advertises a $300 discount on a product (here the Mini), then a consumer expects to save $300 and relies on that discount to make a purchase decision. But here, there is no $300 savings because a customer to buy a product (Studio 15) that RIGHT NOW is $300 cheaper if you buy it WITHOUT the Mini.
When I woke up this morning the ONLY reason I was going to buy a Studio 15 was to get the Mini for $99. I realized it was a scam, but most people who dont know how Dell manipulates their prices wouldnt know that. So a person who ONLY wants a Mini would be paying the same price they normally would ($399).
September 5th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Technically, there is no $99 deal. It is just another marketing / ads to attract people to buy their products. I am disappointed with Dell.
I can always get Dell coupons from other website (which Dell wouldn’t advertise to you directly).
September 5th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Dell, we are not dumb people and most of us can at least do some simple arithmetic.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I will sell my mini 9 for $2000 to the first buyer.
What ?! .. . .. If Dell can bloat prices, why can’t I do it as well ?
.
.
ok..ok…I will sell it for $2300, last offer! (shipping and handling for $3k)
call me!
September 5th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Ok, we can save some money. That’s true. So I retract my previous posts (coz’ I am so extremely frustrated with Dell at the time of writing) However we are force to buy more expensive laptop (including 3 yrs warranty). I already own two Dell Inspiron Laptops and one Dell 530 Desktop and .. 3 computer I built myself + my Asus EEE 1000h. I don’t need another laptop so I have to pass.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Beside, this mini Dell specs couldn’t not even compete with MSI Wind and Asus EEE.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Don’t forget Acer One and the incoming netbook with a better spec.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
We were told it was $299 which turn out to be false.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
I retract my earlier statement about this deal not being available in the employee purchase program segment. Check the Fall Deals page there. The Studio 15 offered on that page has the $99 Mini 9 offered.
Oddly enough, the Mini 9 offered there starts with Windows XP and the 8GB harddrive, while the Mini 9 offered on the Home segment is the base Ubuntu version.
September 5th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
If people feel they were misled, I suggest folks submit a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission at: https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/FTC_Wizard.aspx?Lang=en
September 5th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
By law, I guess it’s okay for them to use this marketing style. We just have to read the fine print. However, at first glance you will feel like you are getting a good deal. The good deal is mainly coming from the 3 yrs warranty instead of 1 yr if you configured it separately.
September 5th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
The thing that irks me is that the Mini 9 deal *only* is available if you buy a Windows Vista laptop! But the only Mini you can choose is running Ubuntu! So you end up with one Windows laptop and one Ubuntu. You can’t do Ubuntu + Ubuntu or Windows + Windows. What’s up with that?? (Personally, I want straight Linux, but I understand many folks would rather go straight windows)
September 5th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
I am absolutely livid at this scam. I seriously hope this was a miscommunication on Dell’s part and not an intentional scam. I canceled my order for the mini, and as luck would have it, the desktop I had just bought a few weeks ago was within the 21 day return period. Guess what? I got an RA# to return it based solely on principle. Not like it’s a lot of money to Dell, but they just lost over $2000 from me. Good thing that I work in IT for a very large university where we order Dell desktops/laptops/servers. The director hasn’t been to satisfied with Dell’s customer service lately, so it shouldn’t be a problem to get us switched to HP or IBM. I’m expecting some sort of public apology or explanation, or I can see a lot of people turning away from Dell because of this.
September 5th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Makes you wonder why they would make this offer available only for 3 days. Initially I thought it would be to get Minis in the hands of as many people as possible in the first 3 days to create a lot of hype and a lot of word of mouth marketing. Surely Dell can take a small hit based on that. Now they got a bunch of disappointed individuals who would have had proudly shown off two of Dell’s laptops to anybody that talked to them for the next two weeks. Way to screw up a golden opportunity.
September 5th, 2008 at 10:40 pm
I used to be a Dell fan until they played me with a battery of my inspiron. I bought it some day in january and the next year february the battery went completely dead. I called the Customer Service and they denied any responsability on this battery.
Now they come with this “Offer” there you have to buy a very expensive laptop with a higher than normal price, and a plan protection. Come ON Dell, do you think we are suckers!!!!
You cannot honor your offer, please just leave us alone. Do not try to play us.
Attn Angry Customer with a fair complain.
September 5th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
Although I realize legally even if Dell ran an ad that said “free laptops” they could still choose not to honor it. There was never a contract and thus nothing to honor. So for those claiming they are going against there word, that might be the case, but legally doesn’t mean anything… of course they will probably anger customers which might be worse.
OR potential customers like me. School is starting up and having entered the business school it’s time to face reality: my Mac can’t cut it. So I was looking into Dell computers and this deal happened to surface during my browsing. I was excited to spend the extra $99 on top of the base Studio 15 laptop ($699); only to find Dell’s blog was not specific enough in stating the $99 deal was limited to certain configurations.
When I initially saw the deal, I thought what a good idea to push their new product out and have people rave about it and show it off (as I would have done by taking notes on it in class). However, with the new stipulations, it’s clear their marketing department is really not interesting in marketing… I bet the marketing department let the accounting department head this one: they just shifted around the numbers–Dell makes the same profit. Sometimes you need to sell at a lose to get some initial publicity. I for one can say I was going to rave about both my new Dell computer and the new netbook… but not anymore.
Dear Dell: feel free to change your mind and give me a free netbook to help push it’s publicity.
-TM
September 6th, 2008 at 6:20 am
It’s there you just have to look.
http://www.dell.com/content/topics/segtopic.aspx/catalog_seasonal_2?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
The mini is an option on the $649 Studio 15.
Bare minimum specs on both machines brings the total to $748. It’s in my cart now.
September 6th, 2008 at 10:25 am
Thanks for the link, just ordered, lets just hope they don’t drop the mini like they did with others.
September 6th, 2008 at 11:10 am
I waited for this until the end of August and gave up.
http://wombatdiet.net/2008/09/05/asus-eee-pc-1000-with-ubuntu-chrome-an-inflection-point/
Very happy with the Asus 1000 PC which I consider superior.
Does Dell have something against plain English?
“if you are in a mobile scenario” ?
translation: if you’re traveling ?
September 6th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
This deal is a sham. The links dell provided today on the website adds an additional $300 to the price of the studio 15, xps 1330 etc. The only links you can use add a 3 year service Contract to the products. Even though this blog has the incorrect links to the “Deals” Dell will not honor the configured prices if you build from the above links.
September 6th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
DDR,
Please tell me step-by-step how to get the Mini with the $649 Studio 15. I tried looking on your link and found the laptop, but no banner ad that stated the mini for $99. Then I tried configuring the Studio 15 to see if the deal was an add on, no luck. Finally I tried just adding the Studio 15 and the Mini into one cart to see if that would net the savings… no luck. PLEASE tell me specifically how you did it.
Thanks,
TM
September 6th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I used the link to buy the $749 Studio 15 and the $99 Mini, but as I was checking out it said the item was no longer valid. So now Dell doesnt even honor what it advertises.
September 6th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Looks like dell shut that link down, I get they will gank my order from me with out telling me seeing as I have only received the acknowledge email and not the confirm email from them yet.
September 6th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
[…] read a post on Direct2Dell on the Mini. I have been anticipating this ever since I first saw the pictures of a red version of this that […]
September 6th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
Sorry TM, Dell killed it shortly after I posted. I had one saved to my wishlist and one in my cart and both got wiped out.7zgcf
September 6th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
Dell, come on…this is A SHADY BAIT and SWITCH…..do it right!
September 7th, 2008 at 12:22 am
Why only the Ubuntu version? And why only with these marked up laptops?
September 7th, 2008 at 1:14 am
Kathy…just my opinion, but Ubuntu is the better deal. Windows XP is fading fast…
September 7th, 2008 at 7:04 am
No BryanSD, may be a better deal on it’s own but any XP user can get it without paying. The reverse is not so. Therefore it is not financially a better deal. I also agree that it’s weird to force an Ubuntu/XP combo rather than XP/XP or Ubuntu/Ubuntu
Furthermore “fading fast” could mean any number of things, but the ones coming to mind aren’t clear cut if even remotely true. It’s a solid OS and something like 70% of businesses have not switched to Vista.
Lastly, Ubuntu is less user-friendly than XP, at least as far as those who are only familiar with XP may have trouble with some of the different methods of doing things. I’m pretty good with computers but I couldn’t even get a dual-boot set up because of a particular bug that took several hours of research and reinstalling to work around. Then it completely fubared my entire XP installation after an improper shut down. Wtf? So, I guess it’s a better deal if you want to trade a decent operating system for another ostensibly decent operating system that’s harder to troubleshoot and is buggy on particular machines and drive configurations. I still have it on the spare machine but have meaning to chuck it…
September 7th, 2008 at 8:14 am
BryanSD,
My daughter has a laptop with Ubuntu and it has proven to be much, much better than Vista but I want (need) XP because I want to run software on it that is only compatible with XP. I don’t want to mess with workarounds or tweaks; I just want to install it and have it run. It’s as simple as that. If I didn’t have specific software I wanted to run, I would go with Ubuntu.
That said, Meh. is absolutely right as well. XP is not on it’s way out but I really hope Vista is. Every new student who rotates through our lab has Vista on their laptop and it is driving me insane. We have run into a number of minor bugs with Vista that are just fricking annoying but the biggest one is that Vista will not run any of our essential analysis software, even in compatibility mode! Since some of the laptop components don’t seem to have XP drivers, we have tried buying a license for XP Pro and installing it inside virtual machine but our analysis software won’t run without a USB dongle and you can’t do that with virtual machine. We then consider partitioning the drive so they can run both XP and Vista but the majority of them don’t like Vista and don’t want to keep it — they WANT us to wipe it off and do a clean install of XP Pro. That should tell Dell and Microsoft that they need to back off of the Vista and extend XP until they have something BETTER, not just something different!
I also agree with Meh. that it’s better to get the XP on the Mini, then install Ubuntu or Mint or whatever Linux version you want that’s free. Better value.
September 7th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
So did anyone who was promised a call ever receive one? sales was supposed to be consulting with marketing to see what the *hek* went awry with this “promotion”… And am i mistaken, or is this promotion gone already (ahead of the 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 deadline)? yet another lie?
September 7th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Okay, so I want one at the $99 special price…but since the Ubuntu version isn’t available yet, and the sale price is only good until 6:00 on 09/09, what do I do?
(That’s actually a rhetorical question, as I always install Linux myself after wiping the M$ crap off of each new computer. But I’m tired of being forced to buy M$ garbage preinstalled…so I just thought I’d throw this out there.)
September 7th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
so im adding the studio 15 and the mini 9 to the cart
customized and all
but it wont compute through the cart to give it to me for $99
give it to me for $99 dang it!
September 7th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Meh:
I definitely meant to it to mean a number of things when I said “fading fast”. I’m not a Vista fan (and I have not allowed Vista to be installed on any of the systems in my office). But the fact is that Microsoft’s support for XP is quickly diminishing. Plus there is a shift in the market for the demand (and drivers) to change from 32 bit to 64 bit operating system (most dual core PCs are 64 bit). This shift is what is expected to finally push XP out and Vista in mainstream.
Whether XP is a good operating system or not wasn’t my point. My point was that XP really doesn’t have a future while Ubuntu (as well as most linux distributions, the Mac, and Vista) does.
Kathy:
I too thought about buying the Mini with Windows XP and installing linux later. Here is my question to anyone that knows, with no optical drive…how would one install Linux or reload Windows XP on this system? I can think of some ways, but I wonder what Dell recommends?
September 7th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
You borrow an external CD/DVD from someone (I happen to have one at work I can use).. Or, if you google around, there are some that claim to have XP on a thumb drive or instructions to make one. You could probably adapt the instructions to create an Ubuntu installation thumb drive.
September 7th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Hey, will this deal be offered in Canada soontime? ’cause I am waiting to buy an XPS1530.
September 7th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
ok, so the promo still exists but the deadline has changed apparently. it end tomorrow, ahead of the 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 deadline originally promised… geez.
September 8th, 2008 at 2:56 am
Well, damn. I might as well add to the noise here; I need a laptop and I need a netbook for a gift, so the combination deal seemed attractive. I was disappointed enough to find the “select models” limitation ruled out any Ubuntu laptops, but confirming that the prices were jacked up really did ruin it — I didn’t need further proof that Dell pricing is forever fickle (are the Linux machines ever priced competitively with the Windows machines ‘after discount’?), but I got it.
I hope this was to scare the competition over the BOM, but even then, it backfired.
September 8th, 2008 at 3:01 am
P.S.: I don’t know if anyone said it, but Ubuntu will be including some utilities to create bootable USB sticks from ISOs in 8.10. However, since Dell’s particular image for the 9 is customized in various ways (some implementation of the “Netbook Remix” or “MID” version) it will be up to Dell to provide the image to permit an exact reinstall.
September 8th, 2008 at 3:53 am
I living in Niet Nam. I see the informmation about Dell buy a laptop mini 9 with cost $99 sothat I want to know how buy it and I can have a mini 9 with $99.
September 8th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Has anyone actually received a response from Dell regarding this scam? I know many, including me, were promised a ‘call back’ when there was more information available. We are now past the deadline for the promotion, and I have received no call back. Does that mean I missed out on the ‘promotion’, or was it a clever way to worm their way out of a scam by letting the timer expire? I am expecting to see some kind of response or I will definitely lead a mass reporting to the FTC about this. Perhaps this is not illegal per se, but it is definitely deceptive. Come on Dell, what do you have to say about all this? Silence will not get you out of this one? Face the music, or we go to the FTC.
September 8th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Bryan, from what I have heard, and I don’t know if this will pan out, Dell will offer the Ubuntu image for free as a download on the support site. You just have to DL it to a flash drive and boot to it. I do not know if you will need to put in a service tag of a system that shipped with Ubuntu or if it will be available to anyone. I personally ordered a Mini with XP because I wanted it two weeks earlier, and knowing this, am hoping that I can DL the Ubuntu image later and switch to it.
September 8th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Hey I tried taking advantage of the Mini 9 for $99 deal, no such luck. When I chatted with a sales rep he said it was a ‘while supplies last deal’ - that’s not what your blog says…what gives?
September 8th, 2008 at 11:04 pm
I ordered one. Maybe if it gets a larger SSD and possibly more RAM, I will order a couple more.
September 8th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
@Island Guy
I tried the same thing.
When I first took a look at the deal last Friday, there was a section to add-on the Mini 9, similar to how you would addon a mouse or printer; that section is gone now.
Indeed Dell, what gives? Did Sales tell Marketing about the deal, “forget” that it was a “Limited Time Offer”? I quote (from above), “…you’ll be able to get a Mini for only $99 with the purchase of a Studio 15…laptop through 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9…” I don’t see anywhere that remotely eludes to “while supplies last.”; not even a asterisk.
September 9th, 2008 at 8:13 am
I had a Studeo 15 and Mini configured and saved the cart Sunday night, 9/7, planning to discuss with my husband and order 9/8. This promotion ended a full day early because the discount was removed from my cart when I looked at it the morning of 9/8. This is really shady dealings. I contacted Dell customer support but I doubt anything will be done to correct the problem.
September 9th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
There is now a glowing “customer review” on the mini 9 page at dell.ca. The thing is it claims to be a customer review of the Ubuntu version but how is that even possible if the Linux version isn’t expected to ship until Ocotober according to Dell’s own info? To make matters worse the Ubuntu isn’t even available for pre-order from Dell.ca. There’s just a single (somewhat configurable version) with no rebates like in the US.
So, either Dell was able to start shipping some of it’s Ubuntu version immediately, or, this is a bogus customer review. Given the shenanigans described above over the $99 offer it makes me wonder.
September 9th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
MDK: Thanks for bringing this to our attention. While we encourage customer reviews on our products, since the Ubuntu version of the Mini is not shipping yet anywhere in the world, this cannot be a legitimate customer review for that system and we will be taking it down.
September 9th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
So nice of you to show your face Jay, but what’s up with these repeated selective responses??? I know you guys see all the other feedback and questions (on this page AND the other “updated” post), not just the last post… so where’s our answers? Is dell just gonna excercise the silent treatment and hope it fades… Well I’ll keep posting til we got some answers and then i’ll start sending emails to exec emails freely available on the Web… My point is, you’ve gotta face up to your recent marketing sham!
BTW everyone, the Acer aspire One and MSI wind have the same or better configs and are at a CORRECT price point (about $50 less than dell). I started seriously researching those after dell irked me with this “promo”… i’m gonna look more into the Asus one too, then make a decision that will NOT involve a dell purchase. Those of you still in the market should do the same!
September 9th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
I think I’ll wait a bit now and see what other colors come out. I was ready to buy Monday morning when I went to my saved cart and discovered the missing discounts. I don’t need the Studio 15. I was getting it for my son’s 18th birthday. Now I’ve even had time to rethink that and he’s commented that he wants a GPS anyway.
September 10th, 2008 at 10:30 am
that Dell will continue to ignore everything they dont’ like.
That does make it all the more humorous that these posts stay here. I guess Dell could have deleted them by now, but that makes it worse for them.
So, the big griefs are:
1) Why tell us that if we buy a Studio 15, which sold for $699 the day you tell us, and we’ll get a Mini 9 for $99, only to raise the price of the Studio 15 to $999 in order to get the mini for $99? Cmon, we’re computer users. We can do math here.
2) Why does Dell continue to treat its customers like we are idiots? See #1 above.
3) Why announce a program special like this and then not tell anyone in sales about it? Doh!
4) Why put the special ONLINE a day earlier than you said you were going to do, and then cancel all the orders that appeared to be correctly entered?
Bottom line?
Point #2 is how Dell customers are viewed!
September 10th, 2008 at 11:45 am
Hello,
Does anyone know when red will be a color option?
This is the only thing holding me back.
Thanks!
September 12th, 2008 at 7:17 am
hey, seen this one ? 12 inch netbook rumoured 6th of october
http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/12/tesco-leaks-dell-e-slim-specs-running-ubunto-october-6th-la/
September 12th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Andy: We’ve known about the e-slim coming, but whether your link is to the e-slim or not who knows. To tell you the truth, I’m tired of rumors. It would be nice if Dell actually used these blogs to give us some truthful news without having to rely so much on on the tech rumor blogs. I find it very strange that information gets leaked elsewhere…and their is no confirmation in these blogs until after the product is already known and sometimes not even until it has been released. What’s the point of these blogs?
September 12th, 2008 at 11:57 am
Hi BryanSD,
Thanks for taking the time to drop by Your Blog from time to time. Dealing with rumor and speculation is a slippery slope, not very productive, and can lead to a lot of customer frustration and in some cases not helpful to companies that operate in a highly competitive industry. Many companies, Dell included, have a general practice of not commenting on rumor and speculation. As for the point of this blog, its all about people helping people use personal technology — from personal productivity and gaming to photography, music, film, etc. We also try to cover major new products when they are announced. Elaboration can be found here: http://yourblog.direct2dell.com/terms-conditions/
September 12th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Well, I just bought a Mini 9 in Alpine White, tricked out with the 1.3 camera and bluetooth. They quoted me a fair price and I bit. It says it won’t ship until 9/29 but I bet it ships earlier than that. I’m excited!
September 13th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
strange how its take 2+weeks to ship
BUT it OKAY!!!!
cerruent laptop can still survive till than,
i wanted to change my black order into the white, since everyone in my family has a black, and the heat it gets from sun is crazy, BUT doing that change will require me to cancel order and redo again, so i have to wait longer, so sticking with my black order and getting it on the 22nd, shipping on 19
=] but yea, hopfully ship earlier, doesnt matter, im expecting it b4 the 23rd, 22nd is good, earlier would be awesome, earlier would be good to get my 2GB RAM in on the same day to put it in =] AWESOME!!! can’t wait….!!!!!!!!
SO when is everyone else’s mini 9 coming?
September 14th, 2008 at 10:43 am
Dinh,
When we ordered my daughter’s Inspiron 1525 several months back, it came in about a week earlier than expected. This could be different since it’s a new product. Has anyone here ordered and received yet?
Will these take 2GB RAM? I hadn’t researched that yet so I will be watching this blog. Please post when you get yours and whether the 2GB RAM works.
I am so excited! Don’t let me down Dell.
September 14th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
from a review of the mini 9
yes it is possible to upgrade to a 2gb ram
this site shows you in pcitures, step by step and also shows a video of the guy putting the memory in
http://www.laptopmag.com/advice/how-to/dell-mini-ram.aspx?step=0
and the memory they used was:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145172
but id prefer to purchase these:
http://www.crucial.com/store/partspecs.aspx?IMODULE=CT25664AC667
but hey trying to give u more option =]
ima use the mini for few days see how it does on speed, and ill sure to upgrade it for the extra punch, i cold let you know when i do
and thank you for replying..if its a week earlier, than it’l be this week =]
but hey 8 more days is okay
have you ordered it yet Kathy?
September 15th, 2008 at 1:06 am
woohoo!! mine is going to be shipped 9/22!! hopefully earlier…
i bought it because its a dell… haha. even though there are slightly better netbooks and a bit cheaper.
its my fourth dell!, so dont let me down now!
September 15th, 2008 at 9:36 am
In spite of the fact that I think the lack of any customisation options for Europeans is *terrible*, I’m almost sold on it (simply because it just “looks” stylish).
One BIG question needs an answer though before I dive in (if anyone knows the 100% right answer to this then say it please.)
I’m wondering -
***how much video memory does this thing have?***
It uses an intel GMA 950 & 945PM/GS Express Chipset, so *in theory* it should be able to pull up to 224MB of video memory from the RAM. *Can it?*
I’m concerned that maybe Dell has “capped” the video memory to prevent people from using this to run high end programs/games. I’ve read that it can only have “Up to 8MB shared”!!! Which seems disasterously low. - So anyone care to shed some light on this for me?
September 15th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Dinh,
Yes, I ordered mine Friday the 12th. The approximate ship date is the 29th but I’m sure hoping they’ll be running early. I’ve already ordered http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001BY0W98 to protect it. I figure if I’m going with a white Mini, I might as well go all girley - ha ha. Please do let me know when yours comes in.
Kathy
September 18th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
Mine just shipped!!! now just waiting for the carrier to receive it tomo and give me a tracking number as i wait on it thru the dreadful no mail sunday and play with it on monday afternoon when the DHL Express guy come and hand over the BOX
September 19th, 2008 at 9:00 am
because they ship WinXP mini9 systems and make Ubuntu users wait another 3-4 weeks.
What’s up with that Dell? You run a $99 special ONLY providing Ubuntu, yet people who can buy through an EPP store get their Mini9 units shipped with WinXP earlier than the specials?
Oh, we’re all feeling VERY special. Thanks Dell.
September 19th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
I just got a notice that shipment of the Mini is delayed a week until 9/26! Should I jump ship and cancel? Seems like I’ve waited long enough…
September 19th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
I dunno, anyone else getting a delay?
mine have not changed yet, unless dell aren’t planning to announce it to buyers
but 26th shouldn’t be long, just exactly a week from now
September 19th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Mario - Where do you live? Seems like a lot of these have been shipped and received this week based on other blog entries. Dell is meeting or beating it’s shipping deadlines and everyone is really thrilled with the build quality, speed, brightness of the screen… I am just salivating thinking about getting mine.
September 20th, 2008 at 12:01 am
-Kathy
wow i wasnt aware anyone got theirs yet
where are these blog you read of Kathy? i’d like to see what the users have to share?
but yup waiting for it, mine is currently a state away, so i do hope they beat the delivery date of 22nd on monday, and get it tomo when the carrier drops off the box
its so close, i just wanna go to the place and pick it up myself =/
-Dinh
September 20th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Dinh,
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=294926&page=58
Earlier parts of the thread are people bemoaning having to wait so long but it gets interesting about here. Although, there are interesting links to articles etc. throughout the thread.
You’re so lucky! Please post when you get it. I hope mine ships early next week. It’s still in the build stage. Not due to ship until the 29th though so they’re not later or anything. I just have no patience at all!
September 22nd, 2008 at 8:10 am
Mine shipped on the 19th. Was scheduled to ship on the 22, so I am a little ahead.
September 22nd, 2008 at 8:12 am
Oh, it is out for delivery. Should have it today. Whoo-hoo!!!
September 22nd, 2008 at 1:33 pm
I GOT IT!!!
so yea, now i just need to open it, gettin pictures too, and as for the RAM
it wont come in til tomm so can’t do that upgrade yet, but still. excited!!!!
September 22nd, 2008 at 4:36 pm
Mine is at the house, I am at work. So I have to wait until I get home
September 23rd, 2008 at 7:32 am
AAARGH! Hope mine ships early. I’m going crazy reading about everyone else receiving theirs.
September 23rd, 2008 at 8:53 am
Oh, beautiful. Cool looking. The first thing my husband did was to start removing stuff (like Microsoft Works) and went with Firefox and Open Office. He played with it most of the night and gave it his approval (he is the geek in our house). Now I will play today. Just loving it.
September 23rd, 2008 at 12:39 pm
what other things would you recommend removing to get more space? only thing i got out so far was msn chat.
And Kathy, my ram is coming in today, UPS have not come yet, going to school now so won’t get to it until tonite, doing the upgrade tomm when im awake and ready =] and will post pic up asap after i get my wireless to work
September 23rd, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Dinh,
I am so jealous! I can’t help myself from calling every hour or so, hoping to hear something different than “build” . . . At least I won’t be just calling in sick the day it arrives; I really will be sick by then. Have fun!
September 23rd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
I called the status line to check on my order and found out it had been cancelled. I then went back to the confirmation e-mail and linked to the status page and found that my order had indeed been cancelled and reentered with today as the order date. My new ship date shows 10/20 with arrival on 10/21. I called to find out what the heck happened. Turns out they cancelled it and reentered it because the version of Acrobat Reader on the original order was not available. Wow. Something as simple as that and I could have downloaded it from the Adobe website myself because it’s free software. I am livid! They say they will have my order expedited and shipped asap and overnight but I don’t think it will happen and I don’t want one that is cobbled together to meet an unreasonable deadline. Crap! Guess I just have to wait. They had better do something to compensate.
September 24th, 2008 at 8:53 am
My husband removed Works and MSNchat that I know of for sure. I will check with him. We tried to take IE6 off, but it refused. You do need to go in and disable the automatic download of IE7. So far, I am loving it. I was afraid that it would be slow, but not really.
September 25th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Looks like Dell is going to try to expedite the order and get it shipped before 10/17. Sure hope it does. I was very disappointed. They’re trying to do right though. They seem to realize what a poor excuse that was to delay it this long. Still a fan.
October 1st, 2008 at 12:02 pm
well I am happy. I am living in Germany at the moment and ordered mine on the 26th of Sep and it\’s arriving tomorrow on the 2nd of Oct. Now that\’s what I call fast, although in Germany / Europe you only have the choice of two models a top model with XP (16GB SSD, 1.3 MP webcam, bluetooth, 1GB RAM) or Linux (8GB SSD, 0.3 MP webcam, 1GB Ram and bluetooth), so I assume they are pretty much pre-built….looking forward to UPS tomorrow…
October 1st, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Aaaaaargh! Mine’s still building and building and building and building . . . . . . .
October 2nd, 2008 at 11:46 am
Wait and wait and …
October 2nd, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Expedited generally means you get your Mini in a shorter period of time than others; in this case those who’s orders weren’t cancelled for a stupid software version problem - right? Not happening. I am still reading about people who ordered, their Mini spent about 4 days in building and 4 days in boxing, then were shipped. Some more recent orders are shipping even quicker. One I read today placed their first order on 9/23, which is when mine was cancelled. They got a ship notice on the 30th! Mine has been in build since 9/25. How is that expedited??!
October 6th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Dell doesn’t do much of anything, it seems, to make their customer’s happy. Lots of people ordered their Mini 9 back between 9/5 and 9/8 and their orders are still “In Production”.
Thanks Dell. We will have forgotten even ordering these before they arrive.
October 8th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Well, according to my customer service rep, mine is in the final stages of production and will ship in 2 or 3 business days. This morning, for the first time in what seems like forever, I heard something other than build on the phone status line; now it says boxing! I’d like to have it before the weekend but I’ll survive until Monday. I need some play time now!
October 20th, 2008 at 7:20 am
Finally shipped 10/12 and arrived 10/14. I couldn’t be happier with the unit itself. Quick, light — exactly what I wanted. Thanks!
October 20th, 2008 at 8:00 am
I notice that Dell had some bogus product reviews on their site before the mini was even delivered. Now I’m faced with the situation of having submitted an honest but critical review of my own last week and it’s nowhere to be found notwithstanding the fact that reviews dated two days later are up on the site.
Maybe there was a technical problem so I’ve tried again this morning. If that one fails to show up I’d like to here from Dell as to their criteria for screening reviews.
October 20th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
Well, Dell does it again! I was waiting for the Alpine White to become available in Australia. Original advice from Dell was that it was coming on 16 Oct. This date then got pushed out to 20 Oct. When I logged in yesterday, there it was, but the price has gone up by ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS! You guys have got to be kidding. Acer Aspire One, here I come. I like Dell, but not enough to pay $200 more. Another customer lost.
October 23rd, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Anvil:
Thanks for bringing our attention to your review submission. It appeared on the product site shortly after your comment here. http://reviews.dell.com/2341/31d3916e-8d67-43e1-9774-fa5b673d7a12/profile.htm
Customer reviews are moderated to ensure relevance to the topic, but not to filter or cherry-pick tone or rating. In that process, some submissions take a little longer to vet than others and do not necessarily appear in the order they were submitted.
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