Netbooks are still burning up the computer sales charts as consumers continue to buy the small machines for their low price tags and portability. Most major computer makers now offer a netbook, but Apple still holding out.

Earlier this year, Sony announced its VAIO P “not-a-netbook” with a slightly elevated price tag compared to the competition. Today, Sony has announced a new VAIO W computer that it will actually admit is a netbook.

The VAIO W makes do with the same old hardware expected from a netbook; namely a 160GB HDD, 1GB of RAM, Windows XP, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, VGA out, a webcam, and a memory card reader. The keyboard is smallish at 87% full-size and the stock 3-cell battery promises three hours of run time while an optional 6-cell battery should double that run time figure.

The only feature of the VAIO W netbook to set it apart from the unwashed netbook masses is that the 10.1-inch LED backlit screen has a resolution of 1366 x 768. The higher screen resolution is a nice way to separate the VAIO W from its peers; a not so nice way to do the same thing is the VAIO W's price. The netbook will retail for about $500 making it considerably more expensive than netbooks with similar hardware.

"The W Series lets you quickly look something up online whether searching for a recipe in the kitchen or relaxing on your recliner- there's no need to trudge upstairs to your office," said Mike Abary, senior vice president of the VAIO business group at Sony. "And it's sturdy enough for the kids to use, making it perfect for every member of the family."

Sony will offer the netbook in pink, white, or brown colors. The system is Energy Star 5.0 compliant and uses a mercury-free LCD. Sony is offering the machine for pre-order today and it will officially start shipping next month.