New Dell Vostro V130

It looks a bit thicker (going by the side comparison shots, not including the battery) Although it seems big plus points are a back-lit keyboard and fingerprint reader.
In Germany it starts at 539 Euro, back-lit keyboard is 30 Euro, now if that can carry over to here, that will be good. V130's in the Outlet still go for £300 for the Celeron, and £400ish for the i3. So if you can get a V131 with Backlit keyboard, 2nd gen i3, HD3000 graphics, 4GB, 320GB 7200rpm for £600 that would be a good deal. Just have to make do with chicklet keyboard.

EDIT

£499 for i3, 2GB, 320GB 7200rpm, Backlit Keyboard etc. Another £100 for 3 yr warranty, so £600 overall.

 

New Vostro V131 Laptop Details | Dell UK

 

General layout (power socket, heat vent, sd card slot etc) look very similar locations on the new Inspiron 13z, and chicklet keyboad (looks identical). Even the trackpad looks the same.

http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/dell-intros-slimmed-down-inspiron-13z-and-14z-laptops-with-alumi/

and V131 review here-
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2390893,00.asp

 

New Vostro 131 now available from Dell USA

New Vostro V131 Laptop Details | Dell

 

It was there on Dell about at least a week ago for me...

 

L13 and V13(0) follow a fine streamlined design. but that battery life is just not workable. and V131 is just not the same level with its appearance.

IdeaPad U300 https://www.lenovo.com/products/us/laptop/ideapad/u-series/u300 is the only other one so far where someone gave an extra inch of thought to how the thing should look.

there probably isn't any choice looks+battery wise other than to just monitor the ultrabooks, right? no clamshell forms for me (includes the MBA), please.

 

I have a Latitude 13 and Vostro V131. I'd say the V131 is "close enough." I'm certainly pleased at the crazy battery life, and I have even gamed on it (League of Legends). Even did some hardcore typing on my last flight at night and the backlit keyboard was pleasing.

Anyone want to buy a Latitude 13?