A slim, lightweight 13.3"
Obviously, a 13.3" notebook like the Timeline is going to be larger than some of the more diminutive netbooks on the market. This latest Aspire is hardly a heifer, though. Its footprint measures a generous 12.7" wide and 9" deep, but the Timeline is only about an inch thick. And it weighs just 3.5 lbs with the battery installed. Here's a look at how the system's size compares with my Eee PC 1000HA:

No doubt thanks to its more expansive keyboard and screen, the Timeline feels much larger than the Eee PC when in use. With the lid closed, though, it's really no more of a chore to carry than the average netbook. The Timeline's thin profile and relatively light weight nicely offset its larger dimensions, and when lugging the notebook in a briefcase or backpack, I can't tell the difference between it and my smaller Eee PC. Hipsters should know that the Timeline probably won't squeeze into those trendy man purses I've seen around town, though.

Of course, unlike some notebook makers, Acer doesn't seem to be trying to make the Timelines hip or cool. With the exception of a couple of shiny logos and some admittedly subtle LEDs, the exterior is entirely devoid of bling. Even the casing is conservative; Acer wraps the Timeline in pedestrian plastics dressed in muted shades of grey and black. This doesn't score many style points, but the matte finishes don't attract fingerprints or smudges like glossy ones would. I like that trade-off, and think that the Timeline looks quite grown-up as a result.

Overall, the Timeline feels reasonably solid and well-built. The screen hinge swings smoothly and feels just tight enough without so much as a hint of wobble. What little weight exists is nicely balanced between the front and rear of the system, as well. However, there's a decent amount of chassis flex that's easily visible if you hold the Timeline up by one of its front corners. The Timeline hardly feels flimsy, though, and I didn't notice any creaking or other indications of poor build quality.