Computer companies have been trying to create “greener” laptops since, well, the day after they created the original laptop. But the evolution of the Netbook (smaller, more compact versions of the laptop computer) has presented a new challenge for computer companies looking to go green. Toshiba is one of the first to step up with their Toshiba Mini Notebook NB205, which starts at just $400 and, beginning this week, ships equipped with Windows 7. At less than three pounds, it features a 10.1” screen, a full-sized keyboard, a 160GB hard drive, an Intel processor, built-in WiFi, a Webcam and a range of five different colors to choose from. But best of all, the NB205 is ENERGY STAR-compliant and earned an EPEA Gold ranking (the best in the biz), which basically means you’re going greener by making your current laptop leaner. In other words, this notebook may be small—but it’s kind of a big deal.
Chris Yuscavage is the former lifestyle editor at VIBE and lives in Jersey City, N.J.