Acer, the third largest personal computer vendor in the world, has reduced pricing of its Aspire One netbooks that come with either Linux or Microsoft Windows. The price drop may trigger a price war on the market of already inexpensive personal computers. But Acer, which is trying hard to replicate the success of Asus Eee PC, thinks that lower pricing just opens doors to new users.

“The Aspire one is a breakthrough product that meets the connectivity needs of both students and mobile professionals. By increasing the value of our mobile Internet device lineup, Acer is opening the Aspire one experience to a whole new base of users,” said Kristin Markworth, senior manager of notebook product marketing for Acer America.

Acer Aspire One comes with 8.9” screen with 1024x600 resolution and is based on Intel Atom N270 (1.60GHz) processor as well as Intel 945GMS and ICH7-M core-logic with integrated graphics core. The notebooks are equipped with 512MB or 1GB (Windows XP version only, model AOA150-1570) of PC2-5300 (DDR2 667MHz) memory, 8GB solid state drive (Linux version, model AOA110-1722), 120GB hard disk drive (Windows XP version, model AOA150-1570), memory card reader, 1.3MP webcam, Ethernet controller, Wi-Fi controller, Bluetooth controller, audio outputs, USB ports and so on. The weight of the machine starts at about 1Kg (2.2 pounds).

From now on, the model AOA110-1722 with Linpus Linux Lite costs $329 (down from $379), whereas the model AOA150-1570 with Windows XP costs $349 (down from about $600).

In addition, Acer introduced the Aspire One model AOA150-1447, which offers a six-cell battery, 160GB internal hard drive and Windows XP Home with prices beginning at $399.

The Aspire One is available in blue and white and the range of colors will be expanded later this year with two new soft, warm tones: brown and pink. Besides, versions with embedded WiMAX and 3G will be available later this year.

Considerably price drop ahead of the back-to-school season, when demand increases substantially, can cause price war between companies like Acer, Asustek Computer, MicroStar International and other suppliers offering netbooks. Price war on the market where profit margins are already very thin may cause a lot of trouble for the manufacturers, but the consumers should definitely benefit from such situation.