Even though the 1201NL is on it’s way to being made available without an OS [Update: The 1201NL will come with Windows 7, but with an N270 processor instead of a N330], Phoronix couldn’t wait and decided to replace Windows 7 Starter on a 1201N.  It took them a little while to get all of the drivers installed but they were able to make the transition to Ubuntu.

After benchmarking it against a Samsung NC10 you discover that the N330 with ION processor has some obvious advantages when playing games but in certain instances the older Atom processors are faster than the dual core N330.

Here were their closing thoughts:

It is a pity that ASUS does not offer a 1201N model with Linux pre-installed, but for now, they are continuing their love affair with Microsoft Windows 7. Installing Linux on this Eee PC isn’t too troublesome besides having to deal with getting the 802.11 b/g/n WiFi adapter to work and then needing to either install the Nouveau or NVIDIA proprietary graphics driver to take better advantage of the ION. What’s also to love about the ASUS 1201N besides the performance is the 1366 x 768 12″ display and the full size keyboard while the weight for this netbook is just about 1.4 kilograms.

At $500 USD the ASUS 1201N-PU17-BK is actually not a bad deal in comparison to other ION-equipped netbooks.

If you’re looking to pick up a 1201N of your own, check out our 1201N stock tracker.

1. Linux Fanboys Fear Windows 7

2. What’s The Difference: 1201N vs. 1201PN

3. Asus 1201NL ION Netbook Lands In France, Goes On Sale

4. Asus 1201NL Get Priced At 349 Euros

5. Asus 1201NL Ditches Perks To Provide Savings