Sony drops an eco-friendly netbook: the W Series Eco 212AX

Tom on January 08, 2010

Some would say that Sony represents the archetypal Japanese technology company: big, powerful, rich, and largely uncaring about the environment. Sony are looking to change this image today, though, with the introduction of a new model of their recent W-Series netbook line, in the form of the Sony Vaio W Eco Edition 212AX.

The Eco Edition moves away from the older, standard W-Series netbook with the introduction of environmentally-friendly packaging made from recycled plastic bottles – which is apparently reusable (for what, we ask?) – plus a chassis that is made of 23% recycled plastic. Don’t worry about flimsiness, though – Sony’s sure the Eco Edition retains their trademark build quality.

Just to remind users that they are in fact using an environmentally-friendly computer, the Eco Edition 212AX is offered in a friendly white and light lime green colour combination. While this should appeal to younger or eco-conscious users, it may be a turnoff for otherwise professional or power users.

Apart from the feel-good eco features, though, the Vaio W Eco Edition 212AX offers some really useful tech, as well. There’s a nice 10.1-inch LED backlit display, which cuts down on power use but also improves lighting, and a generous 250 GB hard drive – no standard SSDs here unlike its big brother, the Vaio Z.

The Vaio W 212AX will include Windows 7 Starter Edition, and it will weigh in at around 1.17 kg (2.6 lb) with the standard battery. While it’s available for pre-sale at Sony Style stores in the USA, you’ll also find it online retailing for US$480.