Just because the once-hot netbook category is getting pushed aside by tablets, that doesn't mean consumers don't want a low-cost ultraportable that performs. And that's what HP has delivered with the new Pavilion dm1z, an 11-inch notebook featuring AMD's new Fusion processor. Starting at $449 ($479 as configured), this 3.4-pound machine blows past Atom-based netbooks while providing enough endurance to see you through the day. Add to that a stylish design, excellent audio, and a comfy keyboard, and you've got a superior take-anywhere laptop.
Design
Similar in design to the Pavilion dm3t, the Pavilion dm1z is easily one of the most attractive 11-inch systems on the market. The glossy black lid features HP's new Grid Imprint design, which looks attractive, but fingerprint smudges are still visible. The underside is also a glossy black; we prefer the rubberized finish of the dm3t, but that notebook has a higher starting price.Inside, the dm1z's black island-style keyboard and clickpad are offset by a silver deck and bezel; it's understated yet stylish. Measuring 11.4 x 8.4 x 0.8 x 1.2 inches and weighing 3.4 pounds, the dm1z is nearly the same size and weight as the Asus Eee PC 1215N. As with that supersized netbook, the dm1z fits easily into a messenger bag, and while noticeable, it didn't weigh us down.
Heat
Despite its small size, the dm1z is one of the coolest notebooks we've yet tested. Employing HP's CoolSense technology--first seen on the dm3t--the dm1z has HP's Thermal Assistant software, which automatically adjusts the fan speed if it senses the notebook is on a person's lap or on a table. After streaming a Hulu video at full screen for 15 minutes, the touchpad, G and H keys, and underside measured 76, 78, and 77 degrees, respectively. However, fan noise was noticeable in a quiet room, and we could feel it whirring when we had our hands on the palm rests.Keyboard and Touchpad
Like most other notebooks in HP's lineup, the dm1z has a chiclet-style keyboard that extends nearly to the edges of the chassis. Though the keys don't have as much travel as, say, the Envy 17, it was still a pleasure to type this review on the laptop. We were up to our usual typing rate in no time. HP thoughtfully reversed the function row keys; you don't have to press FN to adjust the volume or brightness.
Also like the Envy line, the dm1z's mouse buttons are integrated into the touchpad. This makes the overall size (3.3 x 2 inches) the same as the Eee PC 1215N, but that netbook has discrete buttons, making its touchpad feel much more spacious. In this case, though, HP integrated a small ridge to help define the two areas. Those who use two hands on a touchpad may find that the cursor jumps every now and then, but overall it works fairly well for this type of design.
Ports and Webcam
On the left side of the dm1z is an HDMI and a USB port. On the right are two more USB ports, VGA, a headphone/mic combo, and an SD card reader.
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