Netbooks are all the rage these days, but most of these micro-laptops are too fragile and too underpowered to bring along for serious photo assignments. The new HP Mini 5101, however, is an exception to the rule.

For starters, the Mini 5101's 10-inch display comes wrapped in an anodized aluminum enclosure to prevent it from damage, while the computer itself has a tough but lightweight metal chassis with a magnesium base to help it stand up to a few bumps and bruises. For those who complain that netbooks are difficult to type on, the HP Mini 5101 has a spill-resistant QWERTY-style keyboard that's 95 percent of full size.

The starting weight of this netbook is just 2.6 pounds but that doesn't mean it's a lightweight on performance. The Mini 5101 uses Intel's low-power-consuming Atom processor and can be fitted with up to 2 gb of memory and up to a 320 gb hard drive. There's also a 2-megapixel Web cam built-in; three USB ports; one memory card slot (SD); and an option module for adding 3G Internet connectivity. The display is available in either WSVGA or HD resolutions.

Best of all for style hounds, the HP Mini 5101 looks great, with an attractive black-brushed finish that'll appeal to students and professionals alike.

Cost: $449 (base model) Further information: www.hp.com