Dell's netbook finally went on sale today and Ubuntu fans looking for some very portable Linux computing will want to consider the base model.

Starting at $349, Dell is offering the Inspiron Mini 9 with Mini OS (Ubuntu 8.04 in netbook guise). Though the specs are modest, even by netbook standards, Ubuntu's resource-light footprint should lend itself nicely to the task at hand. This model ships with a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, half-gig of RAM, and 4GB SSD.

For those that can't live without Windows, or were mourning XP's twilight, there's the top-of the line model that starts at $449. That much coin get you the following:

8.9-inch, 1024x600 LED backlit display
Intel Atom N270 Processor
1GB DDR2 16 GB
SSD
Windows XP Home
802.11g Wi-Fi
Integrated Intel 950 Graphics

Ports:

Three USB 2.0 ports
Ethernet 10/100 LAN
15-pin VGA video connector
1-line out, 1 Mic-in
3-in-1 Media Card Reader
AC adapter

For a little more, you can splurge on:

1.3 MP Webcam $10 (.3 MP Standard)
Bluetooth $20
White cover $25 (black standard)

You'll have a bit of a wait ahead of you, however. The earliest shipping date is 9/18/2008 as of this post. And you'll want to wait at least one more day before pulling the trigger. That is, if you're in the market for a non-ultraportable laptop.

Tomorrow, Dell will be running a promotion that will score you a Mini for just $99 if you buy a Studio 15, XPS M1530 or XPS M1330. The deal ends Tuesday, September 9, 6 a.m. Central.